When it comes to choosing a streaming service there are lots of choices available for the users. Among these choices, we will compare Chromecast and Roku. On a practical sense, we can’t compare Roku vs Chromecast. Because both of them works on a different platform. So we will be comparing both the devices based on the common factors.
Before entering into the list, there are totally 6 Roku devices and two variants of Chromecast. We will be comparing all at once to see the individual advantages and disadvantages. And Roku Ultra is excluded from the list, since its a Set-top box type. The factors we will be using are cost, user interface, connection, picture quality, controls, content, and additional features.
Roku Vs Chromecast
Before proceeding to the comparison, take a look at the table below to get a fair idea about the various available Roku devices.
| DEVICE | Roku Express | Roku Express+ | Roku Streaming Stick | Roku Streaming Stick+ | Roku Premiere | Roku Premiere+ | Chromecast | Chromecast Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VOICE REMOTE | NO | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES | NO | NO |
| PICTURE QUALITY | Up to 1080p HD | 1080p HD, 4K UHD up to 2160p at 60fps, HDR10, HLG | Up to 1080p HD | 1080p HD, 4K UHD up to 2160p at 60fps, HDR10, HLG | 1080p HD, 4K UHD up to 2160p at 60fps, HDR10, HLG | 1080p HD, 4K UHD up to 2160p at 60fps, HDR10, HLG | Up to 1080p | 1080p HD, 4K UHD up to 2160p at 60fps. |
| COST | $30 | $77 | $50 | $60 | $40 | $90 | $35 | $69 |
The categorization of Roku is so simple. All the Plus devices support 4K. And other devices support 1080p HD. The cost of Roku devices ranges from $30 to $90. Both Roku and chromecast are closed device. Now let’s discuss a feature wise comparison.
Roku Vs Chromecast: Cost
When comparing the cost, the Roku offers a wide variety to choose from. Depending on your budget you can choose any of the devices. The basic chromecast cost around $35 and the Ultra version is around $70. If you are looking for a budget device, we highly recommend Roku Express or Roku Express Plus for Voice and 4K support. With Roku, you can get a basic 4K streaming player at $40. In the case of chromecast, the price is around $70.
Roku Vs Chromecast: Specification
Both the devices are closed when compared to specification. In that case, Amazon’s firestick is much better. The processor, RAM is not disclosed to the user. And for comparison purpose, we are considering a generic processor. These devices use a mobile processor, so all the component are embedded into one other. And this is the main reason, why the processor or the memory spec is not disclosed to the user. When judging based on the cost, chromecast should have a 1.7 GHz quad-core processor. In the case of Roku, it might be a 1.3 GHz quad-core processor. In terms of specification, all the devices are one and the same.
Roku Vs Chromecast: Streaming quality
The streaming quality offered by a streaming stick plays a vital role in determining its position in the market. The contents are offered in two different quality, 1080p, and 4K. All the base model supports up to 1080p. And all the Ultra and Plus versions supports 4K. Don’t rush to buy a device so soon. First, make sure whether 4K is available with your provider. And streaming in 4K nearly doubles the package cost. A normal Netflix subscription is about $7/month, whereas 4K subscription is around $14/month. And that too, not all the content are available in 4K.
More importantly, make sure that your TV is compatible with 4K. If your TV’s maximum resolution is in FHD, there is no point in buying 4K Streaming Stick.
Roku Vs Chromecast: Content
Roku has nearly half a million channels including the private channels. And with these channels, you can steam any of the contents. On the other hand, Chromecast doesn’t have such channels. To be frank, Chromecast is not a full-fledged streaming device.
Well, these are the major difference between Roku vs Chromecast. We conclude this article by saying ROKU is better than Chromecast in various aspects. What do you think of it? Leave your opinion on the comments section.