The best Roku for Samsung smart TV depends entirely on your specific Samsung model. For high-end Samsung 4K QLED TVs, the Roku Ultra is the best choice because it supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, includes an Ethernet port for a stable wired connection, and has a fast processor. For mid-range Samsung 4K TVs, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K offers excellent Wi-Fi performance, a compact design, and support for 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. For older Samsung 1080p TVs, the Roku Express is the suitable and affordable choice. Once you have your device, you can watch Roku on Samsung smart TV with a quick setup that gets you streaming in minutes. If you are open to other brands, comparing these options against the best streaming device can help you find the right fit for your setup.
Which is the best Roku for Samsung smart TV models?
If you own a high-end Samsung 4K QLED TV, the Roku Ultra is generally considered the best option. Its fast processor, Ethernet port for stable connections, and support for advanced HDR (HDR10+, Dolby Vision) and audio (Dolby Atmos) formats make it a perfect match. For a mid-range Samsung 4K TV, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is recommended, offering excellent Wi-Fi performance, a compact design ideal for wall-mounted setups, and support for 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. If you have an older Samsung 1080p TV, the Roku Express is a suitable and affordable choice that will provide a smooth streaming experience.
Roku model comparison for Samsung TVs
Here is a comparison of the three most relevant Roku models for Samsung TV owners, focusing on features that directly impact your viewing experience.
- Roku Express: Max resolution is 1080p. It does not support HDR10+, Dolby Vision, or Dolby Atmos. It has no Ethernet port.
- Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Max resolution is 4K. It supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. It does not support Dolby Atmos. It has no Ethernet port.
- Roku Ultra: Max resolution is 4K. It supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. It supports Dolby Atmos. It includes an Ethernet port for wired internet.
How to connect your Roku to a Samsung TV
Connecting your Roku to a Samsung TV is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get started.
- Plug the Roku device into an open HDMI port on your Samsung TV.
- Connect the Roku to power using the included power adapter.
- Turn on your Samsung TV.
- Press the "Source" or "Input" button on your Samsung remote and select the corresponding HDMI input.
To control your Samsung TV's volume and power with the Roku remote, you can enable Samsung's Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) feature. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "External Device Manager" > "Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC)" and turn it on.
Samsung TV features and Roku compatibility
Because the Roku device handles all the processing, an older Samsung TV can still get 4K HDR from a capable Roku like the Streaming Stick 4K or Ultra. This means you can upgrade your streaming experience without replacing your television. For gaming, Samsung TVs from 2020 onwards typically feature HDMI 2.1 ports, which support advanced gaming features like 4K at 120Hz, Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). To utilize these features fully, you will need an HDMI 2.1 cable. If you encounter any issues with your device, you can contact Roku support for assistance.
