Everything to Know About Roku in 4K

Trying to figure out how to watch 4K content? We don't blame you. 4K TV shows and movies are the most detailed and crisp content that has ever been made. To get you ready, we'll tell you what you need and where you can find it so that you can start watching 4K content as soon as possible.  

What is 4K programming?

4k programming is TV programming that has been shot in an extremely high resolution. A 4K TV is one that has roughly 4 thousand horizontal pixels. When combined with the 2 thousand vertical pixels, a 4K TV is one that is able to provide a much higher resolution than yesterday's 'HD' TVs. So not only does the picture appear sharper and clearer on a 4K TV, but the color stratification is much more nuanced and varied as well. TV programming shot in 4K is able to take advantage of the next generation picture quality a 4K TV provides. 

What do I need to start streaming 4K content on Roku devices?

At minimum, you need an internet speed of at least 25 Mbps to stream content in 4K, but if you want to watch live 4K content (such as the Summer Olympics) you will need a higher speed of at least 50 Mbps. 

You will also need a 4K TV, an HDMI cable (if you are not watching from a smart TV), and a streaming service that offers 4K content. Even if you have the right internet speed and a 4K TV, this does not mean that everything you watch will be in 4K resolution. The program needs to have been shot with a high definition camera, and then provided in ultra high definition for the viewing public. 

Different streaming services advertise whether a title is in 4K in their own way. On Netflix, for example, 4K content will say 'Ultra HD 4K' underneath the title. If it does not say this, it is not in 4K. However, this does not mean it will not look good on your 4K TV. 4K programming simply looks better in regards to crispness and color depth.  

Which devices support 4K streaming?

New 4K streaming devices come out every year. Which one you should purchase depends on your budget and needs. Many people will be perfectly happy with a $30 4K streaming device, but if you want a few more bells and whistles, such as the ability to stream high definition games or search for content with a voice-activated digital assistant, then you may want to pay a little more. 

Here are some of the best 4K streaming devices on the market today. And you can also find out more in our comparison between Chromecast, Amazon Fire, and Roku streaming devices.

4K Devices

NVidia Shield Android TV Pro 4K HDR Streaming Media Player ($200)

Though pricey compared to other options, Nvidia Shield Android TV is essentially a mini-computer. Stream 4K content, play online games like Fortnite, and access built-in voice control comes with Dolby Vision. Comes with a voice-activated Google assistant, and, if you lose your remote, a button on the unit tells the remote to emit a locator sound. 

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device with Alexa Voice Remote ($50)

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port, meaning you could be watching 4K content simply after plugging it into your TV. It also comes with an Alexa Voice Remote, which allows you to launch streaming services such as HBO Max or Disney+ or search for content by simply speaking into your remote. If you have a home audio system, Fire TV Stick with 4K comes with Home Theater Audio with Dolby Atmos, making the sound more immersive and 3 dimensional.

Roku Express 4K+ ($30)

Roku's more affordable option, the Roku Express 4K+, still comes with a voice activated remote and the ability to stream live TV in 4K. Plus, if you have an iPhone, you can AirPlay your photos and videos right to your TV. Comes with one HDMI and USB port. Order from Roku, and you may get a free 30 day trial to Discovery+, as well as free shipping and a 30 day money back guarantee. 

Roku Ultra ($100)

The Roku Ultra comes with Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and Bluetooth. Built with a quad-core processor, it is one of the fastest 4K streaming devices on the market today. It also has a 50% greater range— meaning it can be farther from your router than previous models. If you lose your remote, you can press the button the player and your remote will play a sound to help you find it. Lastly, if you want to watch TV without waking anyone, there is a jack on the remote for you to plug your headphones into. Use your own or the ones provided with the Roku Ultra. Like other Roku devices you can also cast media to the Roku Ultra from your phone or tablet.

TiVo Stream 4K ($30)

With Tivo Stream 4K you do not need to switch between streaming apps like Peacock, Hulu, or Starz. The TiVo home screen incorporates all of your favorite apps/ streaming services on one screen. Browse, search, or continue watching all from the same place. Another handy feature is that it will recommend shows and movies based on your viewing habits regardless of where the recommendation is located— meaning if it determines that you like spy thrillers because of your watch history on Netflix, it may recommend another movie on another streaming service you have. It is so good that Time Magazine actually named it as one of 2020's best inventions. 

4K TVs

TCL 4K UDH Smart LED TV (Starts at $348)

TCL TVs have all but inundated the market, but there's a good reason for that. Their 4K TVs are both affordable and vibrant, regardless of which size you choose. Currently, you can purchase TCL's 4K UHD Smart LED TV in the following sizes:

• 43" 
• 50" 
• 55" 
• 65" 
• 75" 
• 85" 

Each TV comes with HDMI, USB, RF, compositie, and optical audio out ports, as well as a headphone jack, too. As a Roku TV, the home screen is simple and intuitive to use, and comes preinstalled with the most popular streaming apps, such as Vudu, Amazon Prime, and ESPN+.

Hisense 43-Inch Class R6090G Roku 4K UHD Smart TV with Alexa Compatibility (Starts at $379)

The Hisense 43-Inch Roku 4K TV can be controlled with either your iOS or Android smartphone, and can also be paired with an Alexa enabled device so that you can control your TV with your voice. Purchase it on Amazon and you can also roll in a soundbar with it, too, but the price will jump up to $438.70. If you're not a subscriber to Discovery+ already, you'll get a free 30 day trial when you register your Hisense TV. 

RCA Roku RTRU5527 55-Inch 4K UHD LED HDTV, 4 HDMI Ports ($522)

RCA's Roku 55-Inch 4K TV comes with both a built in Roku and a digital tuner. This means you can enjoy your favorite streaming services and watch local TV without anything extra plugged into any of the TV's ports. Wall mounting is also especially easy because the real panel of the TV comes with screw holes aligned to accept a Vesa TV mount.  

Which channels offer 4K streaming on Roku?

1. Netflix ($18 a month)

Each title that Netflix produces these days is shot in 4K, so if you're a fan of Netflix's original programming (Stranger Things, Tiger King, The Witcher, etc.) then you're going to enjoy it even more with your 4K TV. However, to watch content in 4K on Netflix you'll have to pay for a premium membership, which costs $18 a month. With a premium membership, you'll also be able to watch non-Netflix programming in 4K, too.

2. Youtube (Free)

A lot of content on Youtube is in 4K. In fact, you may have watched content on Youtube available in 4K and not known it. One simple way to find it is to search for it. Simply add 4K to any video search and you may get some hits. You can also click the gear button at the bottom to see what picture quality options there are. Another option is to Opt for a Youtube Premium membership ($12), and you'll get access to even more 4K content made specifically for Youtube.

3. Hulu ($6 a month)

Hulu has a host of TV shows and movies in content. Some of its 4K content is original content, while the rest originates from Network and cable TV. If you're an ESPN and Disney+ fan, you can purchase all three for $14 a month. Hulu Live TV also comes available in 4K, but it costs $65 a month. 

4. Amazon Prime ($9 a month)

For a monthly fee, you can watch Amazon Prime content, which is offered in 4K. However, you can also use it as a video rental/ purchase service without paying extra than the cost of the TV show or movie you want to watch. An Amazon Prime Video membership costs $9 a month, but if you also want access to free two-day shipping, the price bumps up to $13.00 a month or $119 a year.

5. VUDU (Free)

You can rent or purchase movies and TV shows on VUDU at no monthly cost. If you buy the movie, it's yours to keep forever and stream at any video quality you prefer—  provided you purchased the 4K option and your device supports 4K streaming. VUDU also offers a variety of free-with-ads content, much of which is blockbusters from years past.

Our final take

With a Roku 4K device or TV, you can watch a variety of on-demand 4K content. If possible, see the picture quality for yourself in a store to decide which device you purchase. Then, try out some streaming services via free trials to see what they offer. Many companies offer free 3, 7, or 14 day trials to help you decide.