Rokus continue to remain our favorite TV streaming devices. They're super easy to use and offer a wide array of streaming channels. Their displays aren't fancy, but they offer just what someone needs: quick, direct access to their favorite streaming services. However, figuring out which one to buy is not so easy.
There are currently four Roku streaming devices available, plus TVs, soundbars, and ones sold exclusively at certain retailers (not to mention older models still floating around places like Amazon). Rokus tend to have similar names and look nearly identical, with small changes happening every year or so, and it can be difficult to suss out the differences. We're here to help. If you're like us, you want the best Roku for the least amount of money. We've broken down the features on the ones we think you'll actually want to own, starting with the most basic model.
How Roku Differs From Other Streaming Services Even the best smart TVs benefit from a separate streaming device to accommodate all the apps you want in an easy-to-navigate interface. Roku is not the sleekest, but it's reliable and the easiest to set up and use. It includes Peacock and Max, which it was previously lacking, so it now connects to all the major streaming services. Because so many people use Roku, it typically gets quick app updates. My biggest gripe with Roku is that its search is not always accurate in pinpointing exactly which streaming services carry a particular title, especially whether it's free or not. If you have trouble using the built-in search, you can always use Google on your phone to find whether something is streaming somewhere you subscribe, but that's annoying. There are other options that we break down more in our Best Streaming Devices guide. Google Chromecast with Google TV for $100 is the best runner-up to consider if you don't like Roku. Unlike previous Chromecast models, it has an actual remote. I found this interface to be the best, making it super simple to browse across all streaming services at once.
is the best runner-up to consider if you don't like Roku. Unlike previous Chromecast models, it has an actual remote. I found this interface to be the best, making it super simple to browse across all streaming services at once. Apple TV for $130 is expensive, so it's best if you already buy movies and shows from Apple's library or subscribe to Apple TV+. But it does provide a nice viewing experience.
is expensive, so it's best if you already buy movies and shows from Apple's library or subscribe to Apple TV+. But it does provide a nice viewing experience. Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K for $50 and Stick 4K Max for $60 work well, but as you could probably guess, its menus are heavily geared toward Amazon Prime content.
Former WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano contributed to this guide.
Updated July 2025: We've updated this guide with the latest Roku streaming sticks and soundbars.