In this guide, well take a look at both platforms to identify the main differences.
The UI has a minimalist design thats perfect for people who are not that tech-savvy.
This makes Roku easy-to-use even for first-time users.
The channels you installed are listed on the home screen for easy access.
The menu is located on the left.
you’re able to use it to access theSearchfeature, go toSettings, or check your feed.
Android TVs UI and the home screen are dynamic.
The UI is highly customizable.
And this is something that power-users will love.
This list is visible on the top row of the home screen.
you’ve got the option to also change the order of your favorite apps.
But Roku does feature additional smaller channels that you wont find on Android TV.
As a matter of fact, Roku supports nearly 2,000 free and paid channels.
Carriage disputes
Roku seems to be more prone to carriage disputes than Android TV.
Roku and content providers entered some nasty carriage disputes in recent years.
The result was that important content providers pulled their apps.
As a quick reminder, HBO Max is still not available, and Peacock TV landed a bit late.
From this point of view, Android TV seems to be a much better choice.
But not all the features are supported.
Full voice-control is not available.
On the other hand, Android TV supports the full-fledged version of Google Assistant.
But that doesnt come as a surprise, does it?
Bluetooth
Android TV supports Bluetooth connections.
On the other hand, not all Roku TV devices support Bluetooth.
it’s possible for you to connect your Bluetooth speakers to your phone, and enable Mobile Private Listening.
you’ve got the option to then use your Bluetooth speakers to play audio from the Roku app.
Chromecast support
Android TV offers built-in support for Chromecast.
But Roku does not support Chromecast.
When you want to cast, simply fire up the TV HDMI input to the Chromecast.
When youre not casting, switch to the Roku HDMI input.
Updates
Roku TV gets updated more frequently than Android TV.
This is partly due to Rokus large public beta program.
This allows Roku to test future software features and channels on a large batch of users.
Gaming
As far as gaming is concerned, your options on Roku are a bit limited.
Thats why you should think twice before trying to run complex games on your rig.
Of course, playing Solitaire, Minesweeper, Snake and other similar games wont be a problem.
On the other hand, Android TV is more versatile in that area.
But its always best to simply purchase an Nvidia Shield TV for playing games on your TV.
Conclusion
When choosing between one platform over the other, your personal preferences will play an important role.
If you want a simpler platform, go to Roku.
Do you often stream YouTube or music (Spotify, SoundCloud, etc.)
