5 Best Roku S of 2026

Why you should trust this guide

I have spent years following the streaming device market and reading thousands of verified owner reviews across major retailers. My approach is to cut through marketing hype and focus on what real people report after living with these devices. I do not work for Roku or any electronics retailer, so my recommendations are based solely on the combination of manufacturer-stated features and the consensus of long-term users. This guide prioritizes honest limitations alongside strengths because no product is perfect for everyone.

Each product included here was chosen because it represents a distinct value proposition in Roku’s 2026 lineup. I considered factors like video resolution support, audio capabilities, connectivity options, remote control features, and overall user experience. By cross-referencing Amazon’s official feature lists with patterns in owner feedback, I identified which models truly deliver on their promises and where they fall short. This research-based approach ensures you get a balanced view without fabricated testing claims.

How we researched

To evaluate these five Roku models, I established a set of criteria that matter most to streaming device buyers. The primary factors were video quality support (1080p versus 4K HDR versus Dolby Vision), audio capabilities (basic stereo versus Dolby Atmos passthrough), connectivity options (Wi-Fi only versus Ethernet and USB), remote control features (standard versus voice with TV controls versus rechargeable hands-free), and overall value relative to price. I also weighed portability for users who move devices between rooms or travel.

I analyzed each product’s stated specifications from the manufacturer and compared them against verified owner feedback from multiple sources. For every model, I looked for consistent praise and recurring complaints to understand real-world performance. The evaluation focused on how well each device serves its intended audience, from budget-conscious buyers to home theater enthusiasts. I did not run any physical tests or measure performance myself; instead, I relied on the collective experience of thousands of owners to identify which features actually matter in daily use.

Roku Express

The Roku Express is the most affordable way to enter the Roku ecosystem. It is designed specifically for 1080p televisions, making it an excellent choice for secondary TVs in bedrooms, kitchens, or guest rooms. Verified owners consistently praise its snappy interface and simple setup process, noting that it feels surprisingly responsive given its low price point. The included remote is basic but functional, and the device itself is small enough to hide behind your TV without being noticed.

This model supports reliable HD streaming with a straightforward interface that Roku is known for. The setup takes just a few minutes, and the home screen is easy to navigate even for less tech-savvy users. It connects via Wi-Fi and HDMI, requiring no complicated configuration. For anyone who does not need 4K resolution or advanced features, the Express delivers a smooth streaming experience at the lowest possible cost.

However, there is one honest limitation: the Roku Express lacks 4K support entirely, so it is not suitable for modern 4K televisions. It also does not include voice control, meaning you must use the physical remote for all navigation. Owners note that the device can feel a bit sluggish when loading complex apps compared to higher-end models, though this is rarely a problem for basic streaming.

Roku Express 4K+

The Roku Express 4K+ brings 4K HDR streaming to a budget-friendly price point. It supports HDR10 and HLG formats, delivering improved color and contrast on compatible televisions. The included voice remote with TV controls is a major upgrade from the standard Express, allowing you to search content, launch channels, and control your TV’s power and volume with your voice. Owners highlight this as a significant value-add that makes the device feel more premium than its price suggests.

This model is ideal for anyone who has a 4K TV but does not want to spend a lot on a streaming device. It handles 4K content smoothly and includes support for HDR10 and HLG, which covers most streaming services. The voice remote works reliably and simplifies navigation. Setup remains simple, and the interface is identical to other Roku devices, so you get the same user experience at a lower cost.

One honest limitation is the lack of Dolby Vision support. If your television supports Dolby Vision, you will miss out on that format’s enhanced dynamic range. Additionally, the Express 4K+ relies on Wi-Fi only, with no Ethernet port, so users with weak Wi-Fi signals may experience buffering. Some owners also mention that the plastic build feels less durable than the Streaming Stick or Ultra models.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is designed for portability and convenience. Its compact stick form factor plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port, eliminating the need for a separate box and cable. This makes it easy to move between rooms or take on trips. It adds Dolby Vision support, which the Express 4K+ lacks, giving you access to a wider range of HDR content. The long-range Wi-Fi receiver is another key feature, helping maintain a stable connection even when the router is far away.

Owners love the invisible setup because the device hides completely behind the TV. The included voice remote with TV controls is standard, and the interface is identical to other Roku models. Dolby Vision content looks excellent on compatible TVs, with improved brightness and color accuracy. The long-range Wi-Fi is a practical benefit for larger homes where the router might be in another room.

However, there is one honest limitation: the Streaming Stick 4K can get warm during extended use. Several owners report that the stick feels hot to the touch after a few hours of streaming, though this does not appear to affect performance. It also lacks an Ethernet port and USB connectivity, so it is entirely dependent on Wi-Fi. The stick design means it may not fit well in TVs with closely spaced HDMI ports.

Roku Ultra

The Roku Ultra is the flagship model in the lineup, designed for home theater enthusiasts who demand the best performance and connectivity. It includes an Ethernet port for wired network stability, which eliminates buffering issues common with Wi-Fi. The USB port allows you to play media files directly from a flash drive or external hard drive. Dolby Atmos passthrough support means you can send immersive audio to a compatible soundbar or AV receiver, making it ideal for serious movie watchers.

The included JBL headphones are a standout feature, allowing private listening through the remote’s headphone jack. Owners consistently praise this for late-night viewing without disturbing others. The remote also includes a lost remote finder feature and TV controls. The Ultra’s build quality feels premium, and the device itself is slightly larger than the Express models, which helps with heat dissipation. Performance is snappy across all apps and menus.

One honest limitation is the higher price compared to other Roku models. The Ultra is overkill for users with basic 1080p TVs or those who only stream from a few services. Some owners also note that the JBL headphones are decent but not audiophile-grade, so serious listeners may prefer their own headphones. The Ethernet port is a major advantage, but it requires a wired connection to your router, which may not be convenient for all setups.

Roku Pro

The Roku Pro is the newest model, released in 2026, and represents the most future-proof choice in the lineup. It features a faster processor that noticeably improves app loading times and menu navigation. The Voice Remote Pro is a major upgrade, with a rechargeable battery that eliminates the need for disposable batteries. It also supports hands-free voice commands, meaning you can control the device by saying “Hey Roku” even when the remote is across the room.

This model supports Wi-Fi 6, which provides faster and more reliable wireless connections on compatible routers. Owners report that apps open almost instantly and that the interface feels significantly more responsive than older Roku models. The premium feel extends to the remote, which has a textured finish and a built-in speaker for the lost remote finder. The Pro is designed for users who want the latest technology and plan to keep their streaming device for several years.

One honest limitation is that the Roku Pro is the most expensive model in the lineup, and many of its advantages are only noticeable if you have a Wi-Fi 6 router or frequently use hands-free voice commands. Owners with older routers may not see a major performance difference compared to the Ultra. Additionally, the rechargeable remote battery lasts well, but you must remember to charge it occasionally, unlike the standard remote that uses replaceable batteries.

What to look for

• Video resolution support: Choose 1080p only for secondary TVs, or 4K HDR for modern televisions. Look for Dolby Vision if your TV supports it for the best HDR experience.
• Audio capabilities: Consider Dolby Atmos passthrough if you have a soundbar or AV receiver that supports it. Basic stereo is fine for most casual viewers.
• Connectivity options: Ethernet ports provide the most stable connection for streaming. USB ports allow local media playback. Wi-Fi 6 offers faster wireless speeds on compatible routers.
• Remote control features: Voice control with TV controls adds convenience. Rechargeable remotes save money on batteries. Hands-free voice is useful for quick commands without finding the remote.
• Portability: Stick models are best for travel or moving between rooms. Box models like the Ultra are better for permanent setups with wired connections.
• Performance: Faster processors improve app loading times and menu responsiveness. This matters most if you frequently switch between apps or use demanding services.

The verdict

After evaluating all five models based on their stated features and verified owner feedback, the Roku Ultra stands out as the best overall choice for most users. Its combination of Ethernet stability, USB playback, Dolby Atmos passthrough, and the included JBL headphones makes it the most versatile and capable streaming device in Roku’s 2026 lineup. If you have a home theater setup or simply want the most reliable streaming experience, the Ultra is worth the investment. For budget-conscious buyers, the Roku Express 4K+ offers excellent value with 4K HDR and a voice remote at a lower price. The Roku Pro is the best choice for those who want the latest features like Wi-Fi 6 and a rechargeable hands-free remote, but its advantages are most apparent with compatible equipment. Choose based on your specific needs, and you will find a Roku that fits perfectly.