Selecting the best Roku device in 2018 required understanding a rapidly evolving market. That year, Roku updated its core streaming players with significant hardware improvements and introduced a new premium model. Consumers needed clear guidance to navigate the options, from budget-friendly sticks to powerful boxes capable of 4K playback.
The 2018 Roku Lineup Overview
By 2018, Roku offered a diverse range of devices catering to every budget and television type. The lineup included streaming sticks, enhanced sticks, and set-top boxes with varying capabilities. The primary goal for most users was to identify the best Roku device that matched their specific needs without overspending.
Key Models to Consider
Roku Express
The Roku Express remained the most affordable way to access the platform. It delivered solid 1080p performance and was ideal for users looking to upgrade an older TV. Its compact design and straightforward setup made it a reliable entry point for cord-cutters.
Roku Express+
The Roku Express+ built upon the standard model by adding a headphone jack and a microSD card slot. This expansion port allowed users to attach a hard drive for storing personal media, a significant advantage for those with large music or video libraries.
Roku Premiere and Premiere+
For the best Roku device experience in 2018, many users turned to the Premiere and Premiere+. These models supported high dynamic range (HDR) content, providing better contrast and color accuracy on compatible televisions. The Premiere+ distinguished itself with an included remote featuring a headphone jack and physical voice search button.
Performance and Interface Factors
Beyond specifications, the best Roku device in 2018 was defined by its user experience. All models ran the same intuitive interface, ensuring consistency regardless of the hardware. However, processing power varied, affecting load times for apps and menus. The higher-tier models handled 4K video buffers more efficiently, reducing interruptions during playback.
Connectivity and Future-Proofing
Connectivity was a major differentiator in 2018. While Wi-Fi was standard, the Roku Premiere and Premiere+ included a wired Ethernet port for a more stable connection. This was crucial for users with congested wireless networks or those who streamed bitrate-heavy 4K content. Choosing a model with robust connectivity ensured the device remained relevant as internet speeds increased.
Remote Control Considerations
The remote control played a vital role in determining the best Roku device for a household. The standard remote lacked voice search, requiring manual typing on the TV. Upgraded remotes included a voice search button and a dedicated headphone jack, features that significantly enhanced usability. Users who valued privacy or late-night viewing found these additions indispensable.
