Deciding between the Roku Express 4K+ and Apple TV 4K streaming media players? Both deliver 4K video and popular apps, but have big differences that may make one device better suited for your needs and budget. This comprehensive guide compares every aspect of Roku vs Apple TV 4K to help you choose.
Quick Comparison: Roku Express 4K+ vs Apple TV 4K
Before we dive into the details, here is an at-a-glance look at how the specs of these two 4K streaming devices stack up:
| Device | Roku Express 4K+ | Apple TV 4K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $39.99 | $129+ |
| Resolution | 4K, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG |
| Audio | Stereo | Dolby Atmos |
| Connectivity | 802.11ac WiFi | 802.11ax WiFi, Ethernet |
As you can see, while both deliver 4K streaming, Apple TV includes more advanced features like Dolby Vision and Atmos, newer WiFi technology, and wired connectivity. However, those extras come at a steep premium. Read on for more details!
Streaming Video Quality
A key consideration for any 4K streaming device is what video formats it can support. This impacts the quality you‘ll get from leading streaming apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
The Roku Express 4K+ delivers basic 4K video with support for common HDR formats like HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma). So you‘ll be able to stream most 4K content from services that offer it.
Apple TV 4K takes things more upmarket by including Dolby Vision. This more advanced HDR format has scene-by-scene picture adjustments for improved contrast, colors and detail. Apple TV also supports HDR10 and HLG, so all your 4K videos will work, but Dolby Vision content will look its absolute best.
If your TV supports Dolby Vision, the Apple TV 4K may be worth paying extra for. But the Roku still provides excellent 4K as long as you don‘t need the ultimate HDR experience.
Sound Quality
Here‘s another benefit of paying more for the Apple TV 4K – it supports immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound, while the Roku Express 4K+ is limited to basic stereo output.
Dolby Atmos allows movies and shows to fill a room with three-dimensional audio, adding more atmosphere to action scenes or concerts. Of course you‘ll need Atmos-capable speakers like a surround system or soundbar connected to your TV to experience this.
For basic TV audio through built-in speakers, either device will be fine. But home theater owners may consider Atmos support crucial.
Apps and Content Libraries
While video and audio capabilities are important, arguably the most vital part of a streaming device is app support. Access to top services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video is essential.
The good news is both Apple TV and Roku have nearly universal app support. Between their extensive libraries, it‘s hard to find a major streaming service that isn‘t available on at least one platform.
Both offer thousands of channels encompassing every genre – news to sports to kids programming and more. Apple TV may have a slight edge with some entertainment brands due its iOS ecosystem connections. But generally, it‘s a wash here.
Connectivity
How you connect your streaming device to the internet is worth examining when choosing. Wired options tend to be more reliable than WiFi if available.
Here Apple TV 4K has a small but meaningful advantage – it comes in two versions, offering either WiFi-only or WiFi + Ethernet ports. So if your setup allows, wired connectivity provides a very stable feed.
The Roku Express 4K+ relies solely on wireless connection. It uses the previous-generation WiFi 5 standard – still very capable, but not the latest technology.
Realistically WiFi is sufficient for most, but imperfect home networks may benefit from Apple TV 4K with Ethernet. If your router struggles to cover everywhere you want to stream, wires help.
Gaming and Special Features
Beyond video and audio streaming, today‘s streaming media hubs can do a lot more. Special capabilities like gaming integration or smart home control may factor into your decision.
Here Apple has some unique offerings unavailable from Roku devices. For example, the Apple TV 4K doubles as a casual gaming console thanks to its compatibility with titles from the iOS App Store. There‘s no shortage of fun casual games to try with the Siri remote.
And thanks to Apple‘s HomeKit platform, you can also use an Apple TV 4K as a smart home hub for controlling products like lights, locks and more using Siri voice commands. Very handy for tech-connected homes!
Roku doesn‘t provide much beyond core streaming. Its basic remote lacks advanced control options. And the Roku mobile app offers only basic search, casting and account management. Still, most buyers just need solid video performance, which Roku reliably supplies.
Pricing and Budget
As shown in the chart above, the Roku Express 4K+ and Apple TV 4K are in very different budget tiers. At around $40, the Roku hits a mainstream price point acceptable to most shoppers. Even at full price, Apple TV 4K costs over 3X more – and that‘s before adding options like the Ethernet model.
To be fair, Apple TV 4K delivers a meaningfully upgraded experience over Roku to partially earn its higher cost. Dolby Vision/Atmos and gaming capabilities provide real additional value on top of standard 4K streaming. But not everyone needs those extras.
Basically, buyers seeking to minimize spending can feel good about Roku Express 4K+ providing more than enough functionality for under $40. Meanwhile, Apple fans wanting the best iOS-connected living room package will appreciate everything Apple TV 4K offers.
Verdict: Who Should Buy Each Device?
So when all‘s said and done, which model makes the most sense for you? Here are some quick recommendations:
Buy the Roku Express 4K+ if you want:
- The lowest price for capable 4K streaming
- Wide app/channel support
- A basic streamer that gets the job done
Buy the Apple TV 4K if you want:
- Advanced Dolby Vision/Atmos
- Gaming or smart home control
- Seamless iPhone/iPad connectivity
- Top-of-the-line streaming performance
In the end you can‘t go wrong with either pick. Roku keeps costs low but still enables fantastic 4K viewing. And Apple TV 4K pulls out all the stops for a superior, albeit more expensive, living room streamer. Match your needs to the strengths of each excellent device. Happy streaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Roku Express 4K+ with an Apple TV?
No, the Roku Express 4K+ is its own standalone streaming box. You use one or the other connected to your TV. However, some smart TVs actually have Roku software built-in, allowing you to add an Apple TV for additional streaming options.
Does Apple TV+ Come with Apple TV 4K Device?
No, an Apple TV+ subscription is not included with purchase of the Apple TV 4K device. While available as an app on the device, you have to pay separately for the Apple TV+ streaming service starting at $6.99/month.
Which Has More Apps, Roku or Apple TV?
Both Roku and Apple TV devices support virtually every major streaming service, so you really can‘t go wrong for app selection. Each boasts thousands of options spanning movies, TV, news, sports and more. It‘s effectively a tie when it comes to overall app libraries.
