Roku today announced five new streaming media players, replacing and streamlining its entire lineup of products with versions it says offer better performance, convenience, and value.
“Our new streaming player line up provides performance, price, and features to meet our users’ needs so they can sit back, relax, and enjoy their TV viewing experience even more,” Roku general manager Chas Smith says in a canned statement.
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As you may recall, Roku similarly overhauled its entire lineup almost exactly a year ago That change was called “the biggest streaming player launch in Roku history.” But this while year’s new lineup looks is evolutionary, it looks just as impressive.
Here’s what Roku has on tap.
Roku Express. First introduced a year ago with a bargain $30 pricetag, the new Roku Express is five times faster than its predecessor but retains the same low price.
Roku Express+. Also new last year, the Roku Express+ is five times faster than its predecessor but it includes the same classic TV interfaces (composite and A/V) and low-ball $40 pricing.
Roku Streaming Stick. The new Roku Streaming Stick now features a quad-core processor, 802.11ac dual-band MIMO wireless, a voice remote, and HD streaming capabilities for just $50.
Roku Streaming Stick+. Identical to above but with 4K Ultra HD and HDR capabilities at 60 fps, the Roku Streaming Stick+ costs just $70. It also offers offers up to four times the wireless range than its predecessor to minimize buffering while streaming.
Roku Ultra. The only remaining “big” Roku player offers 4K/UHD and HDR streaming at 60 fps, an Ethernet port, a micro SD card slot, a new remote with a headphone jack, and a new low price of just $100; the previous version was $130.
The new lineup faces off against the new Apple TV 4K, which is now available, and the new Fire TV, which ships in late October. These Roku devices are available for pre-now directly from Roku, or from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and others. Availability begins next week, on October 8.