Roku Announces 2017 Streaming Player Lineup

Roku has unveiled their fall-streaming hardware lineup after its successful IPO. As expected, they are going for smaller sizes and moving away from the streaming box model. Starting with the budget-focus offering Roku Express and Express Plus, for $29.99 and $39.99 respectively. These affordable devices feature a new chip, supposedly making it five-times more powerful than the 2016 models. Both are similar, however the “Plus” version is exclusively available only at Walmart. It will also have an analog component connection adapter for those still with CRT TVs that do not have an HDMI port.

Roku Sticks Go 4K

The Streaming Sticks also get upgraded processors. However, they now come with a remote control that has a microphone for voice search. This remote also allows for turning off the TV directly, as well as adjusting the volume. The setup is automatic, downloading the right IR codes to the remote during initial boot, which will allow for proper interaction with the TV model. Users can expect to pay a $10 premium on this device from the 2016 model, now at $50.

For those who want a 4K capable stick, the Streaming Stick Plus version is also available for $20 more at $70. Its hardware is capable of streaming 4K as well as HDR content up to 60 fps. It also comes with a remote as well, but has a USB power cable which can act as a Wi-Fi antenna.

For those who demand top of the line performance, the sizable Roku Ultra is also available. It is capable of HD, 4K, and 4K HDR playback stream up to 60 fps and is available at a new lower price of $99 USD. It includes an ethernet port so users can plug-it in to a router directly. Plus, it also comes with an SD card slot as well as a remote control. It is missing one key feature from the previous generation model which might be a deal breaker for some however. It lacks the optical out port.