Now that smart TVs have become standard in most homes, it has become easier for people to access streaming content. Roku is one of the most popular streaming devices nowadays, giving viewers more flexibility in streaming various types of content over the Internet. In this blog, you will learn what a Roku is, how to set it up, how much it costs, and more.
What Is Roku?
Roku is both a North American video streaming TV company and a digital player brand. This blog will focus on everything it does as a digital player.
The Roku streaming player has always focused on providing an extremely simple way, which allows users to stream TV shows, movies, variety shows, and other content over the Internet. It also offers free or ad-streaming services.
Unlike other streaming software, users can turn a Roku into a TV with an operating system by purchasing a range of TV hardware offered by the Roku company. On top of that, users can watch subscriptions to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
Main Features of Roku
As the most popular product, Roku offers many great features. We will introduce them to you one at a time next:
Compatible with multiple streaming platforms: Roku players not only offer free streaming content on their own but are also compatible with content from other streaming platforms. The content integrates directly into your Roku TV, eliminating the need for external streaming software and additional fees.
Device compatibility: Roku is not only compatible with different streaming media but also with different smart products. When your smart home is compatible with Roku, you can control your TV, phone, tablet, and more with simple commands.
Personalized settings: Your preferences in your Roku account are synced to all the devices you’ve logged into, ensuring consistency of playback across Roku-enabled devices. And Roku will customize recommendations based on what you’ve watched.
Easy setup: Setting up a Roku device is easy, even for the inexperienced, and Roku provides you with simple instructions. You can connect your Roku device via a USB or HDMI port on your device.
How Does Roku Work?
Roku works by linking to a TV and the Internet to stream content from a variety of online services. Once a user’s device is linked to a Roku account, the user accesses streaming apps directly through Roku, just like a TV channel.
Next, use the remote control or voice commands for the Roku to deliver streaming content in HD or 4K. Users can sign in to Roku through a Roku subscription service or an existing account using the streaming service.
Tip:
Using a VPN can help you use your Roku better if you are located in an area with restricted Roku access. LightningX VPN can unlock your regional restrictions, change your IP address, and access Roku’s online video resources.
It is not only compatible with Roku, but it can also access other unblocked websites including Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and more. It offers more than 2,000 servers in more than 50 regions and countries. You can switch the IP address as you want.
How Much Does Roku Cost?
Roku offers users different devices to fulfill different needs, and at the same time, these devices come at different price points.
Roku Ultra: $99.99. It supports 4K video in HDR format, including Dolby Vision. It also comes with the latest quad-core processor, Wi-Fi 6 support, an upgraded Voice Remote Pro, and USB-C charging.
Related: What’s the Difference Between Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6
Roku Express: $28.75. This device comes with a remote control and supports the highest HD streaming.
Roku Premiere: $31.95. It’s similar to Roku Express but supports streaming at higher frame rates.
Roku Streaming Stick+: $45.81. This device is smarter than the others, and it supports enhanced voice remote and long-range wireless capabilities. And you can connect it directly to your TV if it has an HDMI port.
Roku Ultra LT: $67.36. It offers an extended wireless range and an Ethernet port for a stable connection, but no HDMI cable is included.
Roku Smart Bar Speaker: $124.00. This device allows Bluetooth connectivity and more powerful speakers.
How to Set Roku Devices Up?
Setting up a Roku device is simple and requires a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Connect Roku to Your TV
Plug the Roku streaming stick or box into an HDMI port on your TV. If using a Roku TV, power it on. Then use the included power adapter and plug Roku into a wall outlet or a USB port on the TV to connect to power.
- Choose the Correct Input
Use your TV remote to switch to the HDMI input where Roku is connected.
- Pair the Roku Remote
Firstly, insert the batteries into the remote. Then press and hold the pairing button inside the battery compartment until the light blinks, if your remote doesn’t pair automatically.
- Connect to the Internet
Choose an available Wi-Fi and enter the password to connect to the Internet. Or you can connect it to an Ethernet.
Related: Ethernet vs. Wi-Fi: Battle of Network Connection
- Sign in to Your Roku Account
Follow the instructions to sign in to your Roku account. If you don’t have an account before, you can activate your Roku account on the Roku official website.
- Install Some Streaming Services
Search for the streaming services that you want to use on Roku and add them to your Roku home screen.
- Update and Restart Roku
After finishing installing, your Roku may require you to restart or update to complete the installation.
Types of the Roku Devices
Roku offers four main types of streaming media players:
Roku Box: It is a small standalone box that the user can place directly next to the TV or secure to the side with tape. This type is a plug-and-play device that connects to the TV via HDMI. It is further categorized into Roku Express, Roku Express 4K+, Roku Streaming Stick 4K, Roku Streaming Stick 4K+, and Roku Ultra.
Roku Streaming Stick: This category is connected via HDMI, too, but its adapter form factor means it can be hooked up to the back or side of the TV. It also comes with a voice remote with built-in Wi-Fi.
Roku Streambar: What sets it apart from the other categories is that it also comes with speakers, an add-on that creates a theater-like experience for the user. It is divided into three parts, Streambar, Streambar SE, and Streambar Pro.
Roku TV: It is a TV with a built-in Roku so that it no longer needs a streaming box or other external connections. The TV comes in multiple sizes and different video frame rate versions.
Final Words
Roku is a good playback tool, and this blog gives you detailed information about it. If you are still on the fence about purchasing it, this blog may help you decide sooner rather than later. Don’t worry if you’re in an area where Roku access is blocked, LightningX VPN can help you out.
