Whether you want to launch apps, play games, or just watch TV shows, we doubt that it’ll be enjoyable if your TV’s user interface is limited and slow. Fortunately, our tech-savvy team is here to help you avoid another TV shopping fail. We tested distinct features of Android TV vs. Roku TV to help you determine which smart TV platform will complete your viewing essentials.
Android TV or Roku?
Android Smart TV
- Multiple Streaming Channels
- Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant
- Voice Remote
- Bluetooth Support
Roku Smart TV
- Voice Controls: Google Assistant
- Mobile Private Listening
- Cable or Antenna Live TV
- Versatile Streaming Apps
Features of Android TV and Roku
User Interface
They may have a similar purpose, but Android TV and Roku’s interface feature completely different home screen displays. Upon closer look, our testers noticed that the Roku TV platform has a more straightforward and simplistic interface approach.
At first glance, you’ll see that Roku TV features all your favorite apps and channels via a menu list located at the left side of the home screen. Besides the feed with suggested content, users of this unit can access the featured free Roku channel and universal search functions without any hassle.
While both Roku TV and Android TV devices generate content recommendations, the latter has a more intuitive interface. With an up-to-date Google TV platform running on the Android TV box and smart TVs, it displays more accessible and navigation content.
And did you know that the Google TV platform now includes the Apple TV app? Through this, you’ll also be able to view all content you bought from Apple. We’ll discuss its app inclusions later on.
In this round of Android TV vs. Roku TV interface, Android TVs undoubtedly stood out more. Unlike the Roku platform, it isn’t too static as well. Although interface designs depend on personal preference, our tech-savvy experts applauded the aesthetics and liveliness of Android TV’s home screen.
Winner: Android TV
Streaming Platforms and Channels
When shopping for streaming devices like Roku and Android TVs, it’s crucial to check their access to different channels. Like most smart TVs in the market, both options offer fairly similar content channels.
Even if you’re just using streaming boxes like Roku Ultra or NVIDIA Shield TV, you can easily watch from streaming channels like Netflix, Hulu, Youtube, and Amazon Prime Video.
While Roku supports most streaming platforms, it actually faced more content carriage disputes than Android TVs. In fact, the unavailability of HBO Max and the late entrance of Peacock TV made its competitor the better option.
Winner: Android TV
Android vs. Roku Streaming
On top of these features, our team also rated the smoothness of streaming between Android and Roku. However, amid thorough testing, we deemed that the Android TV platform delivered a slightly faster and efficient streaming experience than its alternative. If you’re not a keen observer or an expert, it’s quite hard to catch the difference.
Connectivity Options
It doesn’t matter if you choose Android TV or Roku TV to watch Netflix or stream audio — it’s crucial for a streaming device to have great connectivity options. During the test, our team was delighted to find out that both TVs support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.
While it’s common for Android TV options to have Bluetooth features, don’t expect that all Roku TVs have it. Considering how many Roku devices need this function from Roku Smart Soundbar, Roku Streambar, its TV boxes, we suggest being selective when buying Roku TVs. In terms of connectivity, the Android TV platform wins by a slight margin.
Winner: Android TV
Voice Assistance
Nowadays, using your voice to control smart home devices is a modern trend meant for flexible living patterns [1]. While most Roku device options come with a great voice remote control with headphone jack options, its voice assistance can’t compare with Android TV’s full-scale voice search.
Although Roku TV indeed has compatibility with the likes of Google Assistant and Alexa, there are certain features it cannot access certain commands that Android TV can. From checking in with the weather and setting calendar events, Android TV can do all these because it has the full version of Google Assistant settings.
(Having audio difficulty with your Roku TV? You can check our tips to fix Roku television sound issues here)
Winner: Android TV
Hardware
The heart of this Roku vs. Android TV comparison ultimately leads to its hardware. While testing both platforms, it took us by surprise to know that a typical Roku player already has exclusive streaming selections like Ultra LT, Streaming Stick Plus, and Smart Soundbar. Its hardware also supports 4K HDR streaming.
On the other hand, Android TV options and NVIDIA Shield TV Pro also support 4K HDR streaming like its competitor. However, as power users like our team, you’d be pleased to know that its software also features Dolby Atmos, making its performance smoother and faster.
Winner: Android TV
Updates
In the duration of our tester’s evaluation, we took notice of the frequent updates of the Roku TV platform. Considering that Roku TV has a larger beta program than Android TV or NVIDIA Shield, it allows them to conduct testing and improve their features appropriately.
Winner: Roku TV
Apps
For app availability, the showdown of Android vs. Roku TV ultimately goes to the latter. Although we mentioned that the updated Android TV interface includes Apple apps, Roku TV still emerged superior for featuring a rough count of 2000 apps.
On the contrary, we also noticed the absence of the official twitch app on Roku TV, which Android TV has. On top of that, some apps available on the Roku TV platform are not official and can pass up as shady.
Despite that, there’s no denying the fact that our testers were able to access more apps on Roku TV than Android TV.
(Looking for more ways to enjoy your television? Well, you should locate where your smart television camera is to maximize your TV benefits)
Winner: Roku TV
Gaming
If you’re a gamer, you’d definitely choose Android TV and NVIDIA Shield TV Pro over Roku TV or Roku Ultra. Why? Because its hardware and platform are compatible with Stadia, which has 16GB internal storage.
Another feature we considered during the Google TV vs. Roku evaluation is its gaming selections. Delightfully for us, our testers found known titles under its belt like Final Fantasy IX and Asphalt 8: Airborne.
It would still win Android TV vs. other TV interfaces because the likes of Roku platforms aren’t developed with gaming in mind.
Winner: Android TV
Mobile Application
Both Android TV and Roku TV are accessible in a mobile application like the rest of the modern smart home appliances. What’s distinct about Android TV is its Chromecast support that its alternative doesn’t have.
However, some Roku TVs as screen mirroring functions that can substitute that feature. In addition to that, this hardware also has mobile private listening that redirects the TV audio to your phone via Bluetooth function.
Availability
There’s no short of availability in the market for both streaming options. During the search, our testers noted cheaper brands like TCL tend to equip their TV options with Roku while premium brands like Sony, Philips, and Sharp televisions have Android.
With the popularity of streaming applications, most smart TV manufacturers make it to the point of having their TVs integrated with either of these interfaces.
Pricing
Google TV vs. Roku TV can be a tricky subject to discuss. If we’re talking about actual TVs with built-in platforms, it would often depend on the brand. Although, it’s evident that Android TVs are generally more expensive than Roku TVs.
In fact, it’s also safe to say that Android TV vs. the majority of other TVs is costlier. The same pricing applies when buying streaming stick options. Its price range often fluctuates as well, giving Roku TV an advantage for its consistently lower retail price in the market.
FAQ
Is an Android TV worth it?
Yes, Android TV is worth it. Besides being able to watch movies and shows from popular channels like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, it also has a modern voice command function that’ll work well with other smart devices at home. It also suits gaming as you can conveniently download games and other apps on its interface.
Which is better, an Android TV or a set-up box?
If you’re going to choose between Android TV options vs. Roku set-up box, go for an Android TV that’ll save you space and money. With a TV already integrated with the OS and content selections of a set-up box, you wouldn’t need to worry about the compatibility of your television with an external device. It also offers more flexibility on the app and content you can access.
Overall Winner: Android TV
The side-by-side comparison of Android TV vs. Roku TV helped our streaming experts to hail Android TV as the better option to consider. While the affordable Roku TV featured more channels and apps, its accessible interface, voice command, and gaming compatibility proved that it’s versatile enough to satisfy your content streaming needs.
For similar topics, you can also check out the pages below:
