Disclosure: Our experts test apps for security before recommending them. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. See how it works.
FireStick and Roku are hot-trending streaming devices. According to credible figures, there is an even split in the streaming device market, with both devices holding about 40% of the market share.
Even if you already have a smart TV, the interfaces that these devices offer make a big difference. They optimize the process of switching between streaming platforms and searching for your favorite content.
In the following chart, we put the leading models from Amazon Fire TV and Roku head to head so that you can figure out which one will work out the best for you:
| FEATURE | ROKU ULTRA | AMAZON FIRE TV STICK 4K MAX |
|---|---|---|
| 4K and HDR Support | 🟰Yes | 🟰Yes |
| Voice Control | Yes | 🏆Yes (More Advanced) |
| App Availability | The Roku Channel | 🏆Amazon Appstore + Sideloading |
| Gaming | Basic | 🏆Advanced (Supports Xbox Cloud Gaming) |
| Software | Roku OS | 🏆Fire OS |
| Processor | ARM Cortex A55 | 🏆Quad-core 2.0GHz |
| Price Range | 🟰$29.99 to $139.99 | 🟰$33.98 to $129.99 |
| Storage | 4GB Internal Storage, 2GB RAM | 🏆16GB Internal Storage, 2GB RAM |
| Mobile App | 🟰Available for iOS and Android | 🟰Available for iOS and Android |
| Remote | 🏆Private Listening | No Private Listening |
Roku VS Fire TV Stick
When it comes to streaming devices, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick and Roku are leading options in the market.
If you want to figure out which device best fits your preferences, take a close look at what each one of them offers:
1. Price
The pricing of Roku and Amazon’s Fire TV Stick is more or less the same. Roku’s price range starts from $29.99 for basic models, extending up to $139.99 for advanced versions.
Amazon’s Fire TV Stick models are priced from $33.98 to $129.99, also reflecting a range from basic to more feature-rich options. However, you will likely see more deals and discounts on FireStick throughout the year.
2. App Availablity
Both Roku and Amazon FireStick feature some of the best streaming services, including Netflix, Peacock TV, Sling TV, and Hulu on the Roku Channel and Amazon Appstore.
However, FireStick takes a massive edge, thanks to the sideloading feature that lets you install third-party apps such as Cinema HD, SportsFire, and Stremio.
2. Gaming
The Amazon FireStick is a better option for gaming, especially after partnering with Microsoft for Xbox Cloud Gaming.
You can easily install the Xbox Game Pass app from the Amazon Appstore and stream high-quality games, including Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, and Minecraft.
In contrast, Roku does natively support Xbox Cloud Gaming or other similar high-end gaming services, limiting its gaming potential.
3. Voice Control
With Amazon FireStick’s voice control, users can perform several tasks beyond content searches, such as controlling smart home devices, checking the weather, setting reminders, and even playing music.
While Roku’s voice search provides accurate results for content discovery, it does not extend to other general queries.
4. Interface
The FireStick’s interface features a layout with personalized recommendations based on your viewing history. However, some users may find it a bit cluttered due to the prominent promotion of Amazon’s content.
As for Roku, it provides a neutral platform that supports a wide range of streaming services without favoring any specific provider. Although Roku includes some ads, they are relatively unobtrusive compared to FireStick.
5. Storage
FireStick is a clear winner in this category. Its latest model Amazon FireStick 4K Max 2nd Gen features significant upgrades over previous versions, offering 16GB of internal storage and 2GB of RAM.
On the other hand, the latest Roku device is the Roku Ultra is equipped with 4GB of internal storage and 2GB of RAM.
6. Remote
The remotes for both the Roku and the Amazon Fire TV Stick share many features, including a power button, volume controls, and a play/pause button.
On top of that, both of them have dedicated buttons for direct access to popular streaming services like Hulu and Netflix.
Talking about differences, the Roku remote offers a headphone jack for private listening. This feature is not available on the Fire Stick remote.
7. Processor
The MT8696 quad-core processor used in FireStick has an edge over the quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 used in Roku.
MT8696 quad-core processor is designed for high-performance applications like advanced streaming and cloud gaming, whereas the Cortex-A53 is more suited for lower-power tasks.
Other Devices vs Firestick
Listed below are some other devices we have compared to Fire TV Stick:
- Apple TV vs Fire TV Stick
- Cable vs Fire TV Stick
- Chromecast vs Fire TV Stick
- Smart TV vs Fire TV Stick
- Xiaomi MI TV vs Fire TV Stick
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a comprehensive breakdown of Ruko vs Fire TV Stick. When deciding between Roku and Amazon Fire TV Stick, think about what matters most to you in a streaming device.
Roku stands out with its vast selection of streaming services and user-friendly interface. It is ideal if you are looking for simplicity and a wide variety of content.
On the other hand, if you are already using Amazon services and like the idea of controlling your device with just your voice through Alexa, the Fire TV Stick could be the better fit.
At the end of the day, both devices support 4K content, so no matter which one you pick, you are set for some quality streaming time.
