You probably want a streaming device(Opens in a new tab) for your TV, whether you're a cord cutter(Opens in a new tab) or not. Roku is a popular choice, particularly as it ramps up its own original content(Opens in a new tab). Roku devices offer plenty of variety and portability, from the budget Roku Express(Opens in a new tab) to the feature-packed Roku Ultra(Opens in a new tab). Whichever one you have, there's more to know beyond the basics. Here's how to get more out of your streaming device.

Our picks for the best streaming device to connect to your TV to stream video will help you figure out which one is right for your needs. We've reviewed nearly every streaming device and major smart TV system on the market today, including Roku, Google Chromecast, Amazon and Apple TV. With the exception of smart TVs that actually run streaming software from Roku, Google or Amazon, these add-on streaming devices often have simpler remotes, streaming dongles, more apps, better search and more frequent updates than the smarts built into your TV set. Roku, the biggest name in streaming hardware, has a $40 streaming device called the Roku Express 4K Plus that's taken the top spot on our list of the best streaming devices. It's $10 cheaper than the new Roku Streaming Stick 4K, yet is just as capable. Amazon's new Fire TV Stick 4K Max sets the bar for speed on a streaming device and offers plenty of features at a slightly more expensive $55.

The newest Roku products include a streaming device promising improved video delivery throughout the home, a smaller soundbar that also streams, and an updated mobile app for viewing on the go. The nation's leading streaming platform, Roku said it had about 43 million monthly active accounts at the end of June 2020. Research firm eMarketer estimates Roku captures about 33% of U.S. internet users and 47% of connected TV users. Roku's lineup of devices includes the Roku Express ($29.99) and Roku Streaming Stick ($49.99). But its marquee standalone player – it also markets Roku TVs with built-in streaming capability – is the Roku Ultra ($99.99).

If you want to control a Roku player or Roku smart TV by voice, you have lots of options. Many Roku devices include a remote control that supports voice commands, and you can also control Roku hands-free with an Amazon Echo or Google Home smart speaker. But along with all those voice control options comes several limitations, especially when it comes to launching videos or TV channels directly. Knowing what Roku can and can't do will spare you some headaches when you're barking out orders. We'll talk through how to get set up with Roku voice controls, a list of supported voice commands, and some tips for making your experience smoother.

Roku's devices aren't exactly suffering from lack of hands-free control: they already support Google Assistant and their built-in OS has its own voice AI. That list could still feel incomplete if Alexa is your virtual assistant of choice, though, which is why the company's latest update is a welcome one. The company's streaming devices and TVs are now finally compatible with Amazon's voice AI, thanks to the new Roku skill for Alexa. You can issue commands through an Alexa-powered device, such as Amazon's Echo speakers, and by adding "on Roku" as a suffix. The new feature can switch Roku TVs on or off and change channels with spoken commands.

After a few weeks of waiting, Roku's promised Google Assistant control is here. If you're using a TV or player running at least Roku OS 8.1, you can link the Google Home app to your Roku account and control core functions using only voice and an "on Roku" suffix. You can launch channels, search for shows and control playback on most devices, while TV owners can turn on the set, adjust volume or switch inputs. The phrasing can occasionally get awkward -- it's not intuitive to say "hey Google, pause on Roku" when you have to answer the door. This won't do anything if you prefer Alexa and other assistants, for that matter.

Fresh from last week's NASDAQ debut, blushing ingenue Roku is celebrating by refreshing its entire product line and rebooting the software that runs across all its devices. The new Roku boxes look promising, with updated specs and more affordable pricing. And those software enhancements are plentiful. If you use a Roku box for your HBOing, Plexing, and Netflixing, ice up the champagne and join the party. The biggest news is that the company's entire line of players will see a refresh, from Roku's basic streaming stick to its beefy 4K-capable home entertainment hub.