Google TV vs. Roku: Which Streaming Device is Better?

There’s nothing better than coming home from a boring workday to watch your favorite shows on the big screen. Streaming services and devices have completely changed the entertainment landscape with popular platforms like Google TV and Roku. Both offer huge libraries of content, but which one reigns supreme? In this Google TV vs Roku comparison, we’ll explain all the key differences and why one is better than the other.

It’s been a few years since Google TV was released, and many still consider it a refreshed version of Android TV, which is not true. Google TV was first introduced in the 4th generation Chromecast with Google TV. It’s an improved layer based on Android TV, similar to the Pixel UI on Android phones. Now, Google TV is the de facto interface that comes with new smart TVs.

Roku, on the other hand, boasts a distinct user interface that offers a casual yet powerful way to access content. Now let’s compare these interfaces and their strengths.

Google TV vs. Roku: User Interface and Experience

First, let’s discuss the things users will experience when they turn on their TVs. Both Google TV and Roku have beautiful interfaces, but we’d choose Google TV over Roku for its modern look. Both interfaces have come a long way, Google TV interface looks modern but at the same time a bit cluttered, while Roku’s user interface is much easier to use almost without having to learn.

Ultimately, the decision to choose the best interface of the two is largely based on the age group that will be using the TV. We think Google TV has the better user interface, but the Roku user interface will serve beginners or older users better because it is incredibly easy to use, so choose accordingly.

The various menus and tabs on Google TV are arranged horizontally; hence, you will often press buttons on the left and right to switch between the various menus, apps, and services on the interface. Roku takes a vertical approach, with categories on the left and channels belonging to those categories on the right. We find this to be a bit more old-fashioned but comfortable way to access content.

Roku hasn’t had an easy life when it comes to reliability. On the one hand, the user interface is arguably much more stable than Google TV, but Roku still has issues with Content Disputes and Channel Support Withdrawals. So far there have been no problems with Google TV.

Winner: Google TV and Roku are pretty close

Google TV vs. Roku: Recommendations

Recommendations are Google TV’s strong point because tracks the content you watch regardless of which apps you use. Roku can also recommend content, but it feels less personal. Roku’s suggestions are independent and neutral. While Google TV tends to push recommendations from its own services, like the Google TV app.

Both UIs let you turn off these recommendations if you don’t want them. Both UIs have ads, but Roku’s are a bit less intrusive. They don’t get in the way of navigating and choosing what to watch, which is not the case with Google TV.

Winner: Google TV for personalized suggestions

Applications and features

It’s a bit ironic that Roku beats Google TV in this regard, since one of Android’s biggest USPs is its app library. Well, not so with Google TV. Both platforms offer all the streaming apps like Netflix, Prime, Hulu, Tubi, etc., but Roku has more third-party offers.

Unfortunately for Roku, Google TV has the biggest trick up its sleeve, thanks to Android, and that’s sideloading. Sure, that’s for advanced users, but the fact that you can get a third-party app to watch more content via sideloading is a win in our books. You can sideload Kodi and similar apps to watch additional content. In terms of available apps, the answer for Roku vs Google TV is a tie.

When it comes to features, it’s not necessarily a tie. Roku supports voice control, which you can use to instantly play something or navigate. You can also control Roku with Google Home and Alexa. In addition, headphone mode is a great feature. You can connect headphones to Roku remote via the 3.5mm audio jack to listen to audio from your TV.

Google TV offers tighter integration with Google products and services. For example, you can seamlessly cast content using Android’s built-in casting feature, use the Google Assistant, connect a camera and view calls on your TV, and control smart home devices from your TV. This tighter integration gives Google TV the edge it needs to win this round.

Winner: Roku for better support for third-party devices, Google TV for advanced users

Google TV vs. Roku: The Viewing Experience

The streaming experience on both Google TV and Roku is more or less the same. Both platforms support up to 4k 60fps, but the ability to stream in high quality obviously depends on your hardware.

Chromecast with Google TV, as well as Roku support 4K with Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Digital, and Dolby Atmos. Both platforms support upscaling to 1080p, 4K from 720p, and 1080p.

Winner: Tie

Devices and prices

Roku has a wide range of streaming devices in its portfolio, including the Roku Express, Express 4K+, and Stick 4K. Then there’s the Roku Ultra and a number of Streambars. For most people, the Stick 4K and Express 4K+ are the devices they reach for most often. They’re both pretty much the same; so we recommend choosing the one that’s on sale.

Google TV for Chromecast has two versions on offer – an HD version and a 4K version. The latter is the one most people will be looking at and costs $50. For comparison, $10 more than Roku The Express 4K+, which is usually available for $40, but sometimes goes on sale for $30. So if you are budget-conscious and looking for a cheaper option, you can go for the Express 4K+ over the Chromecast.

But the best thing about Google TV is that you DON’T HAVE TO buy a Chromecast to experience it. Manufacturers like Realme, Xiaomi, and Onn have their own Google TV devices that you can just plug in and enjoy.

Winner: Year

Google TV vs Roku: Which is Better?

As we near the end of our Google TV vs. Roku comparison, the winner is, unsurprisingly, Google TV. A modern interface, personalized recommendations, customization options, and tighter ecosystem integration make Google TV the better platform. However, Roku puts up a strong fight with its user-friendly interface, affordable price, and wider device selection. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities.

What do you think about Google TV and Roku? Which one do you think is the better TV platform? Let us know in the comments below.