The new Express delivers essentially the same functionality as the previous model – 1080p streaming across a range of channels and streaming services, all controlled through the included Roku app and remote.
What’s changed is the size: the 2019 Roku Express is ten percent smaller – though actually feels even smaller still – making it much easier to hide away and streamline your setup. With that in mind Roku is including an adhesive strip to help you mount the new Express behind or on the side of your TV. If your TV has a USB port the Express can be powered from this to avoid power cables trailing down from behind.
The 2019 Express will cost the same – £29.99/$29.99 – when it launches in October. It won’t be alone though, as October will also see the introduction of the Roku Premiere to the UK.
Already available in the US, the £39.99/$39.99 Premiere is a short step up. It’s the same size as the previous Express, but supports 4K streaming – though this does necessitate powering the device from a mains charger rather than a USB port on the TV. There’s support for both HDR10 and HLG, which also means it’s compatible with the ongoing iPlayer 4K trials.
The final update to Roku’s lineup is a little less exciting – but no less welcome. The Streaming Stick+ is getting a price drop from £59.99/$59.99 to £49.99/$49.99, bringing the full Roku lineup to an aesthetically pleasing 29/39/49 pricing structure.
In reality, £49.99 is exactly how much the Streaming Stick+ was often already available for, but at least this change makes the lower price official. The Stick+ offers the same 4K HDR streaming as the Premiere, but in a slimmer stick design and with a suped-up remote that includes voice controls and expanded functionality for controlling the rest of your TV.
Read our Roku reviews
Roku Express review Roku Premiere review Roku Streaming Stick+ review Roku Streambar review Roku TV review
Tech Advisor’s Deputy Editor, Dom covers everything that runs on electricity, from phones and laptops to wearables, audio, gaming, smart home, and streaming - plus he’s a regular fixture on the Tech Advisor YouTube channel.
