When it comes to streaming devices in 2024, we're spoiled for choice. Today, I'll help you decide between two popular but very different approaches: the Apple TV 4K 64GB ($129) and the Roku Streambar ($129). While they're priced identically, they serve different needs in interesting ways.
Streaming devices have evolved far beyond simple Netflix boxes. Modern streamers handle gaming, smart home control, and even audio processing. The key is finding the right mix of features for your specific setup and needs.
Let's look at how these two devices approach streaming differently:
The Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) launched in late 2022, bringing the A15 Bionic chip - the same processor found in the iPhone 13 Pro. This was a significant upgrade from the A12 chip in the previous model, offering about 50% better CPU performance and 30% faster graphics. This extra power matters for gaming and future-proofing your purchase.
The Roku Streambar debuted in 2020 and has received regular software updates since then. While it hasn't had a hardware refresh, Roku's platform continues to evolve with new features and streaming service support.
The Apple TV's A15 Bionic chip makes everything feel instantaneous. Apps launch quickly, menus scroll smoothly, and there's enough power for serious gaming. Think of it as having a recent iPhone's brain powering your TV experience.
The Roku Streambar uses a simpler processor that's perfectly adequate for streaming but won't win any speed contests. It handles 4K content without issues but can occasionally show slight menu lag.
Both devices support 4K resolution (that's 3840 x 2160 pixels, or four times sharper than standard HD). However, they handle HDR (High Dynamic Range, which makes colors more vibrant and realistic) differently:
For movie enthusiasts with newer TVs, Dolby Vision support can make a noticeable difference in picture quality, especially in darker scenes.
This is where these devices take radically different approaches:
The Roku Streambar includes four built-in speakers that provide a significant upgrade over most TV speakers. It's particularly good at making dialogue clearer and providing wider sound dispersion than typical TV audio. You can later add Roku's wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers for a full surround system.
The Apple TV 4K has no speakers but supports high-end audio formats like Dolby Atmos. It works beautifully with existing sound systems, HomePods, or any HDMI-connected audio setup.
Here's where your decision gets interesting. Both devices cost $129, but they offer different types of value:
Let's look at some common situations:
The Roku Streambar shines here. Its compact design and built-in audio make it perfect for smaller spaces where a full audio system would be overkill. It's also great for apartments where mounting multiple speakers isn't practical.
The Apple TV 4K is often the better choice for home theaters. Its superior processing power and complete format support make it ideal for high-end setups. If you've invested in quality audio equipment, you'll appreciate its ability to pass through high-resolution audio formats without compromise.
If you're interested in gaming, the Apple TV 4K is the clear winner. It supports Apple Arcade games and can handle controller-based games with impressive graphics. The A15 chip provides enough power for mobile-quality gaming experiences on your TV.
Both devices offer smart home control, but approach it differently:
The Apple TV 4K serves as a HomeKit hub, enabling remote control of compatible smart devices and supporting the new Matter standard. It includes Thread networking, which helps create a more reliable smart home network.
The Roku Streambar works with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa but doesn't act as a smart home hub. It's more focused on voice control for content and basic TV functions.
Choose the Apple TV 4K if:
Choose the Roku Streambar if:
For most people, the Roku Streambar represents better immediate value, combining good streaming capabilities with significantly improved audio in one affordable package. However, if you're deep in the Apple ecosystem or want the most powerful streaming device available, the Apple TV 4K is worth the investment, especially considering its gaming capabilities and smart home features.
Remember, both devices will serve you well for basic streaming. The choice really comes down to your specific needs, existing equipment, and how you plan to use the device in your home entertainment setup.
| Apple TV 4K 64GB - $129 | Roku Streambar - $129 |
|---|---|
| Processor - Determines how fast apps load and how smooth gaming performs | |
| A15 Bionic (iPhone 13 Pro level performance) | Basic streaming processor (adequate for video) |
| Built-in Audio - Important if you don't have external speakers | |
| None (requires separate audio solution) | 4 integrated speakers with customizable sound modes |
| HDR Support - Affects color vibrancy and contrast on compatible TVs | |
| Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 (complete suite) | HDR10 only (basic support) |
| Smart Home Integration - Matters if you want to control other devices | |
| Full HomeKit hub with Thread networking | Basic voice control only |
| Gaming Capability - Critical for those wanting to play games | |
| Excellent (supports Apple Arcade, multiple controllers) | Limited (basic casual games only) |
| Audio Expandability - Important for future home theater growth | |
| Works with any HDMI audio system | Only compatible with Roku wireless speakers |
| Storage - Affects how many apps you can install | |
| 64GB (plenty for many apps and games) | No local storage (streaming only) |
| Ecosystem Lock-in - Consider your other devices | |
| Heavy Apple integration required for full features | Platform agnostic, works with any system |
| Setup Complexity - Important for less tech-savvy users | |
| More complex, multiple options to configure | Simple plug-and-play setup |
For pure streaming performance, the Apple TV 4K is superior with its A15 Bionic chip. However, the Roku Streambar offers good streaming capabilities while also including built-in audio, making it better value for many users.
Yes, the Apple TV 4K has no built-in speakers, so you'll need separate audio equipment. The Roku Streambar includes integrated speakers, making it an all-in-one solution.
Both devices support 4K HDR, but the Apple TV 4K offers superior HDR support with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HDR10. The Roku Streambar only supports basic HDR10.
The Apple TV 4K is generally better for dedicated home theaters due to its superior video processing and complete HDR format support. However, the Roku Streambar can be a good starting point for building a basic home theater system.
The Apple TV 4K fully supports Dolby Atmos when connected to compatible equipment. The Roku Streambar doesn't support Dolby Atmos through its built-in speakers but can pass through Atmos to compatible systems.
The Roku Streambar offers simpler plug-and-play setup with fewer options to configure. The Apple TV 4K has more features but requires more setup steps.
The Roku Streambar can be expanded with Roku's wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers. The Apple TV 4K works with any HDMI audio system, offering more flexibility.
The Apple TV 4K is significantly better for gaming with its powerful processor and Apple Arcade support. The Roku Streambar only supports basic casual games.
While the Apple TV 4K works standalone, you'll get the most value if you use other Apple devices. The Roku Streambar works equally well with any ecosystem.
The Roku Streambar is ideal for bedrooms due to its all-in-one design and built-in audio. The Apple TV 4K would require additional speakers.
Both devices can control basic TV functions like power and volume. The Apple TV 4K offers more comprehensive control through HDMI-CEC, while the Roku Streambar provides basic TV control through its remote.
Both devices cost $129, but the Apple TV 4K requires additional audio equipment. For home theater enthusiasts, the Apple TV's superior processing and format support make it worth the extra investment in audio equipment. The Roku Streambar is better for those wanting a simple, cost-effective solution.
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: appleosophy.com - costco.com - support.apple.com - slashgear.com - apple.com - ucsandiegobookstore.com - bestbuy.com - sellyourmac.com - youtube.com - apple.com - talk.tidbits.com - apple.com - abt.com - bestbuy.com - walmart.com - tomsguide.com - techradar.com - camelcamelcamel.com - cnet.com - odpbusiness.com - community.roku.com - staples.com - roku.com - roku.com - community.roku.com
