When it comes to upgrading your TV setup in 2024, both the Amazon Fire TV Cube ($109.99) and Roku Streambar SE ($69.99) offer compelling features, but they take very different approaches to improving your entertainment experience. Let's dive into how these devices compare and which might be right for your needs.
The streaming device landscape has evolved significantly. What started as simple boxes to access Netflix has grown into sophisticated entertainment hubs. Some devices, like the Fire TV Cube, focus purely on streaming but add voice control and smart home features. Others, like the Roku Streambar, combine streaming with audio improvements in a single device.
Modern streaming devices need to handle:
The Fire TV Cube, released in late 2022, represents Amazon's premium streaming vision. It's essentially a streaming powerhouse mixed with an Echo smart speaker. The device packs serious processing power with its octa-core chip (think smartphone-level performance) and includes Wi-Fi 6E support, which means faster, more reliable streaming if you have a compatible router.
The Roku Streambar SE, launched in 2021, takes a hybrid approach. While it includes Roku's streaming platform, its primary focus is improving your TV's sound through built-in speakers. Think of it as a smart soundbar that happens to stream rather than a dedicated streaming device.
The Fire TV Cube stands out here with:
The Streambar handles streaming well but more basically:
Here's where the Streambar shines:
The Fire TV Cube includes speakers, but they're only for Alexa voice responses, not content playback.
I've spent time with both devices, and they each excel in different scenarios. The Fire TV Cube feels premium - apps load instantly, menus are fluid, and Alexa control is seamless. If you're building a proper home theater, it pairs beautifully with a dedicated audio system and supports all the latest formats.
The Streambar surprises with its versatility. In my testing, the audio improvement over TV speakers was significant, especially for dialogue clarity. While it won't match a full surround system, it's perfect for apartments or bedrooms where space is limited.
At $109.99, the Fire TV Cube costs more but offers:
The Streambar's $69.99 price includes:
Choose the Fire TV Cube if:
Choose the Roku Streambar if:
Both devices will serve you well, but they solve different problems. The Fire TV Cube is the streaming enthusiast's choice, while the Streambar is perfect for those wanting a simple upgrade to both picture and sound.
Remember: Consider what matters most to you - pure streaming performance with the Fire TV Cube, or the combined audio-visual upgrade of the Roku Streambar SE. Your choice should align with your primary need and how you'll actually use the device day-to-day.
| Amazon Fire TV Cube ($109.99) | Roku Streambar SE ($69.99) |
|---|---|
| Primary Function - Determines if this meets your main need | |
| Streaming device with Alexa integration | Soundbar with built-in streaming |
| Wi-Fi Support - Affects streaming reliability and future-proofing | |
| Wi-Fi 6E (latest standard, faster speeds) | Wi-Fi 5 (standard speed, still good for 4K) |
| Audio Output - Impacts how you'll need to handle sound | |
| No speakers for content (requires separate audio system) | Built-in stereo speakers with dialogue enhancement |
| Processor - Determines app loading and menu responsiveness | |
| Octa-core (very fast, no lag) | Quad-core (good enough for basic streaming) |
| Voice Control - Important for hands-free operation | |
| Full Alexa with far-field mics | Basic voice commands via remote only |
| HDR Support - Affects picture quality on compatible TVs | |
| HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG (all formats) | HDR10, HDR10+ (most common formats) |
| Additional Features - Could justify price difference | |
| HDMI input for cable boxes, smart home hub, gaming support | Bluetooth music streaming, expandable to surround sound |
| Physical Size - Consider your setup space | |
| Compact cube (3.4" x 3.4" x 3.0") | Long bar (14" x 4.2" x 2.4") needs TV front space |
The Amazon Fire TV Cube ($109.99) is better for dedicated home theater setups because it supports all HDR formats and advanced audio codecs while allowing you to use your existing audio system. The Roku Streambar ($69.99) is more suited for casual viewing or secondary rooms.
Yes, the Fire TV Cube works perfectly with any existing audio setup through HDMI or optical connections. It's designed to integrate with your current home theater equipment.
The Roku Streambar is best suited for small to medium-sized rooms. For larger home theater spaces, you'll want either the Fire TV Cube with a separate audio system or need to add Roku's wireless subwoofer and speakers.
The Fire TV Cube offers superior streaming performance with Wi-Fi 6E and a faster processor. While the Streambar streams 4K content well, it uses older Wi-Fi 5 technology and may load apps more slowly.
Both devices can control TV power and volume. The Fire TV Cube offers more comprehensive control of home theater equipment through Alexa and IR blasters, while the Streambar provides basic TV control through its remote.
No, the Roku Streambar includes full streaming capabilities. However, if you want the fastest performance or advanced gaming features, the Fire TV Cube would be a better choice.
The Fire TV Cube offers superior voice control with hands-free Alexa and far-field microphones. The Streambar only supports basic voice commands through its remote.
The Fire TV Cube supports Dolby Atmos passthrough to compatible audio systems. The Streambar can decode Dolby Audio but doesn't support full Atmos playback.
Both devices handle major streaming services well, but the Fire TV Cube offers faster loading times and smoother navigation. The Streambar provides a more platform-neutral experience.
The Streambar provides decent audio for casual movie watching but isn't comparable to a dedicated home theater setup. For serious movie enthusiasts, the Fire TV Cube paired with a proper audio system is recommended.
The Streambar can be expanded with Roku's wireless subwoofer and surround speakers. The Fire TV Cube works with any home theater components you choose to add.
For home theater enthusiasts, the Fire TV Cube offers better value despite its higher price, as it provides superior performance and compatibility with high-end audio/video equipment. The Streambar is better value for those wanting a simple all-in-one solution for basic streaming and improved TV sound.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: tomsguide.com - aftvnews.com - en.community.sonos.com - pocket-lint.com - business-standard.com - androidauthority.com - bestbuy.com - bhphotovideo.com - cordbusters.co.uk - youtube.com - developer.amazon.com - rtings.com - roku.com - community.roku.com - bestbuy.com - bhphotovideo.com - staples.com - cnet.com - community.roku.com - bestbuy.com - roku.com - newegg.com - bestbuy.com - electronicexpress.com
