A Growing Number of Cord Cutters Don’t Plan to Buy a New Streaming Device in 2024, Spelling Trouble for the Tech Giants cordcuttersnews.com/a-growing-number-of-cord-cutters-dont-plan-to-buy-a-new-streaming-device-in-2024-spelling-trouble-for-the-tech-giants/ MyFree DIRECTV Launches Early, Offering 50+ Channels and On-Demand Content for Free cordcuttersnews.com/myfree-directv-launches-early-offering-50-channels-and-on-demand-content-for-free/ Roku Reports Strong Q3 2024 Earnings, Surpasses $1 Billion in Revenue cordcuttersnews.com/roku-reports-strong-q3-2024-earnings-surpasses-1-billion-in-revenue/ AT&T Invests $1 Billion to Expand Its Fiber Internet Network to New Areas cordcuttersnews.com/att-invests-1-billion-to-expand-fiber-internet-network-to-new-areas/ Netflix is Adding Universal Live-Action Films cordcuttersnews.com/netflix-universal-expand-partnership-to-add-live-action-films/ Google TV Offers “Apps Only Mode” to Hide Personalized Recommendations & Make It Look More Like a Roku TV cordcuttersnews.com/google-tv-offers-apps-only-mode-to-hide-personalized-recommendations-make-it-look-more-like-a-roku-tv/
I wonder how many of the 71% already have a streaming device that's working fine and aren't planning on buying a new one. That number seems high Luke. Good job here. Always thumbs up!
What people don't realize is that smart TVs don't have continuous updates. At a point in a few years it will stop getting updated and your apps won't work. I have a an LG TV from 2018 and 75% of the apps have stopped working. I have a Roku from 2015 and it still is going strong.
Of course. The most egregiously terrible experience is the Roku TV which has a bad mix of geeky technology terms and an eclectic mix of Roku channels that are as appealing as a root canal. There are much better boxes that figure everything out for you automatically and fit in much better with an experience that includes a cable TV box.
So true. I have a Sony TV with Google TV software (NSX-GT1) from 2010. The Google TV apps stopped working long ago, but the TV still works perfectly with a Roku player. Same with a Sony TV from 2015 that works great with the Roku, but the Android software is useless. I will never buy a smart TV for the "smart" capabilities.
@@JohnnyReno71 I haven't seen one in several years. I just ignore all the smart features, do not accept any smart TV licenses to maintain a little privacy, and use the Roku box.
I have 2 roku smart tvs. The oldest TV is a Sharp about 7 years old. I also have a westinghouse TV that is about 4 years old. When either of those die or can't upgrade to a new operating system. I might buy roku with OLED screen.
The rokus are so well designed they outlast thier time.i still have my 1st 2nd and 3rd gen I had to upgrade bc they no longer updated. I have 3 roku ultras now and them fir years. Never any issues
I live in an area where my old antenna pick up about 20 channels; at some point, I'll get a newer attic antenna since I'm between two major cities , but for now it's a good experiment that give me a taste of how I could eventually get rid of cable. Not at all interested in Netflix.
I have an OTA antenna that can only get one channel. I only use it when we are getting severe weather. I can't stand watching ads so I never watch live TV or anything else that has ads.
I gave up paying for streaming services I also upgraded my ota antenna and get 30 channels for free and don’t pay a dime got tired of paying $100.00 a month for TV plus I live by myself and don’t watch that much TV anymore.
Smart tvs mostly perform far more slowly than separate devices. Try the tv then plug in an mid price to high priced external device and notice the significant differences
My TCL Roku TV maufactured in 2017 is still going strong and is quite quick and not laggy. I'm happy with it. It just upgraded to a new Roku OS version, so it's still receiving software updates as of this year. I'll be sad when it no longer receives updates. But as long as the TV itself works I'll just buy a Roku HDMI device to plug into it.
It depends on the age of the tv you have. My new Samsung (manufactured in September 2024) seems to have every main streaming app out there and I feel like any streaming device I attach to it would just duplicate what came on the tv). If you are looking for really obscure apps or local channel news apps, you are better off attaching something to your tv.
@@ejc1956 One of my TVs is from 2009 and dumb. I can get all the streaming services from it using a vintage 2014 AppleTV. That’s not the case with a newer Roku.
While smart TVs are OK if you only have 1 TV, the differences in streaming interfaces can be an issue for a spouse who isn't a tech nerd. For me, TVs are a commodity and I buy whatever is the best deal at the time. I use Roku because it has a friendly, consistent interface that is easy for my wife. I own 2 Ultras and 2 sticks. I've upgraded sticks in the past to get additional features on the remotes and to make the remotes consistent from TV to TV. While I'm not in the market for new Rokus, I would certainly buy them if there were compelling new features. My go to free service is also the Roku Channel. There are only a handful of free channels that we watch so it serves us well. We sometimes use Pluto but the others that I've tried didn't impress us as having anything worthwhile as extras. Great reporting! Thanks!
Same here. Once we got 1 Roku it became our favorite due to the interface. Now I have 3 of them including a TCL TV with Roku built in. We started with AppleTV but as everyone knows the remote is terrible. Trying to remember how each remote and OS works in different rooms is just annoying.
I’ve tried the Roku and found it not as user-friendly as an Apple TV. It takes just minutes for me to show non-tech savvy visitors how to use the remote control to navigate and use all the features. I do have the latest remote though. The previous one was not so good. The Roku is a bit more portable, but gathers dust when I’m not travelling. It’s going into the next donations pickup along with Lightning cables and VGA connectors.
I’m happy with a “dumb” tv with a roku box. Upgraded my roku to an ultra early this year when it was on a good sale. Got a 43” Toshiba dumb tv on marketplace for $40, my 19+ year old 32” still works, put in the bedroom with an antenna. Everyone I know with a smart tv has had issues.
Toshiba used to be good quality back in the day. But I bought two of their flatscreens about 15 years ago. Both died within 4 years. Never bought Toshiba again.
I bought a 50 inch Sceptre tv without smart features back in 2017. It was a Black Friday deal that I couldn't pass up. I used it for ota only until about 2020 and got a Roku for it. I moved that rig to the garage recently and I am happy to say everything still works like new and the Roku updates just fine. As a side note, the Sceptre picture quality was not the greatest until a friend with a calibration tool adjusted it and that made a HUGE difference. Even a cheap tv can look great if it is set up correctly.
Just bought the 2024 Roku Ultra. 30% faster and I can adjust the play speed up or down when I'm watching training videos. That's a game changer for me!
Free streaming TV is good, but it’s all trackable. Major privacy concerns. OTA TV using a TV antenna FTA satellite do not require an internet connection, and are not tracked by media companies.
I have a collection of "dumb" tvs friends gave away when they purchased smart tvs. I will probably not have to purchase a tv for years to come! I bought cheap firesticks a few years ago during the prime sales. No need to replace. Spending $$ on what is important
Here's the considerations in favor of an external streaming device: 1- If you want a consistent interface among multiple TV sets, you can best accomplish that with same external devices (like...each set has a Roku on it). 2- Using built in streaming has put many TV set owners in jeopardy on older sets. As the sets age, many apps have abandoned the built in streaming software. Yet the TV is good for the owner. Having an external streamer solves that issue. If it ages out, just buy a new streamer - not a new TV. 3- You have the option of getting faster streaming interfaces with higher end streaming players. 4- As AI comes to play in the streaming arena, you may want to have a streamer that can best handle the AI. A new external streamer should be the best way to get there, rather than abandoning your old set. Nevertheless, it's nearly impossible to buy a non-streaming smart TV. So it confuses some...or tempts them to use the built in software. Many won't know about the considerations above.
My testimonial: I own a couple Firesticks, a Firecube, Nvidia Shield and an Apple Tv. In order of importance as follows. My new Lg C3 doesnt need a stream box...yet. But I have my 2nd favorite box, Firecube, set aside for the LG if I need it for some reason. My Sony Bravia 900E has my favorite, Apple tv. My spare room tvs use the Firesticks. My Shield sits in a drawer. I take it out every 6-8 months and hook it up, update it, then use it until it fails again(1-2 weeks). Then it goes back in the drawer.
Used Roku Ultra device for many years. Suddenly there were HDCP issues and Roku failed to address this when I had the Ultra in place. Then went to an Apple 4K device. An iOS update bricked the device so returned it. Also didn’t care for the audio in LPCM as content volume constantly changed when ads played making them super loud. So now just using my smart tv apps. Not planning any change in near future.
Luke described it perfectly, that a TV is a big purchase item and a streaming stick is about $40. People should realize that if your TV doesn't have good, snappy app support, you don't have to spend $200-$3000 on a new TV. Just buy a new streaming stick!
@@frommatorav1 Typically the inbuilt TV apps are slow because TV margins are so small, so they put in a slow processor which makes the thing infuriating to use. It's like the processor in the built-in GPS/Entertainment system in your car. They're all slow as molassas
@@teekay_1 I did use the apps on my 2019 Samsung 4k because it was new for me. I didn't have a lot of problems with Amazon Prime, especially at first. In 2020, I was using Directv Stream and that app was unusable on the Samsung TV. I bought a Firestick 4k for $25 on sale to test it and that app worked fine on it and Prime was faster, too. I wasn't super happy with that streaming stick because it lacked a lot of storage space. The Firestick 4k Max had better wifi, was a little snappier and had about 1.5GB more storage. The 2nd version of the 4k Max has double the storage and a better remote, too for $40 on sale. When I upgraded to an LG C1 OLED in 2022, I didn't even bother with built in OS and just continued to use the Firestick 4k Max.
I bought a new FireTV during the last Prime Days. I needed to replace the remote for one of my Fire Stick remote that stopped working. It was cheaper to buy a whole refurbed Fire Stick than to buy a remote by itself.
I just got a smart TV for the den. The old one was dying. I didn't get it for the "smart" part, but for the picture/image/video quality and price-point. First thing I did after getting it set up was attach my Roku Ultra and away I went. I don't care about a TV's OS. I never use it, except for the necessary set-up. So the den "smart TV" is my trusty 3 year old Roku Ultra and the primary living room "smart TV" has my AppleTV 4K (3rd generation). As both the Roku and AppleTV are operating flawlessly and are fully updated, there's no point in getting a "new" streaming device/box when what I have is perfect.
My 2007 46 inch Sony has zero apps, and only 2 HDMI ports but is still going strong with an Nvidia Shield. I did have to replace it once, I had the one with the 500 meg hard drive (I upgraded it to a 2 terabyte SSD). After a few years it died, so I replaced it with another Nvidia Shield (not the cheaper tube). Very satisfied despite the adds on the home screen (thanks Google). I do have a Roku on the spare 24 inch Samsung TV. I also have an antenna and use my NAS as a Plex server with a couple of Silicondust network tuners. The encryption on the new 4k channels encouraged me to wait and see on upgrading. I did just replace the Roku to try and solve the "replace the remote batteries every 2 or 3 weeks" problem. This doesn't seem to have worked.
Personally, I think there should be an option to get a smart tv OR a tv that does not have all those features that don't need to be updated making some want to buy a new smart tv which kinda sucks :/ Didn't see the poll but I will be buying another streaming player this year, for a smart tv that won't update anymore. Great video!
I would take those stats to be more indictive what percentage of people will be switching to streaming this year more than a measure of people who prefer an external steamer. Reason I say is because if you have a steamer that you like and works for you, why would you be planning on buying a new one? One of the many advantages of having an external steamer is creating a uniform experience if you have multiple TV's, with no dependency on TV brand. What I would really like to see is TV brands starting to offer non Smart TV's for a discount.
We just love All of our Apple TV’s ❤BUT I also have a few Firesticks for older TV’s. I have 2 LG smart TV’s and their smart apps are just slow performing even after their updates. That’s why we have the external devices.
Just bought a new LG so called smart TV with all the apps but don’t use it because it’s so slow and cumbersome. So much easier to use my Apple TV or amazon cube. Sales might be down for the devices since they can last a long time.
I bought the Google streamer because the old one i had Google Chromecast TV was almost 4 years old & the new Google Streamer is replacement of the old one i had , so was worth it & LOOOVE Google streamer, since i am Google & YTTV user for over a decade , love the interface & how's brings things i like to interface & mix it up with You Tube & other streaming services i have , really nice & clever🙌👍 F that old boring Roku as same interface since 2005, dont matter new or old one all the same shyt
Which may happen with the Apple TV within the next year or so. And with full Apple Intelligence support if the Apple TV box gets the A17 Pro or A18 system on a chip (SoC) in the next model.
That and an option for universal ad free options. Also have an option for built in DVR and ota options. It's getting old having Roku adding ads like crazy to the interface. I'd pay for an option to remove them from Roku channel and the menus. Also another thing they put ads in the damn Roku app 🤬 I use it for private listening and it used to not have any ads in it.
I would be surprised if streaming players went away. It's far easier to replace an aging streaming player than it is a TV. I have four "Smart" TVs in the house. Three of them have some sort of streaming player connected due to a number of issues. The LG has a Firestick because it's now a "dumb" TV. LG gave up support on that model (not that it ever was great with the apps anyway). The Samsung has a Firestick to cover an app or two that isn't available on Samsung OS (and for some performance problems that it suffers). The Hisense Google TV doesn't have anything extra. It functions as it should. The Hisense Xumo has a Tivo Stream because the Xumo OS is just garbage. I also have a couple of "dumb" TVs from 2009 or so that are still going strong. One has a Firestick, the other a Roku.
I have a Roku Express (1st gen), but it's a very old model, so I've been considering upgrading. I haven't committed sticking with Roku though. I've been looking at Google TV (Chromecast). While I don't use Chrome on my PC anymore, I still use Android. I haven't ruled out buying a smart TV either. I can buy a nice 4K smart TV for about $200USD, while a Google TV Streamer is $100. There is also the fact that smart TV's are fixed in what hardware their built with. If you're having issues with you're streaming device, you can just replace it. My old Roku Express crashes frequently which is the reason I'm looking to upgrade my device. With the inevitable march of technology, devices won't have enough RAM, or software support stops, or some other issue occurs, thus a smart TV has to be replaced once something along those lines happen, so it turns into a bigger investment with little to no advantages over a streaming box.
It looks like Free Direct TV carries the same stuff the others have. So, why go through the hassle of signing up. If they carry material that is not elsewhere, I may sign up with it.
I started with two high end roku, one entry firestick, liked the firestick layout, switched the two to firestick. That was June 2023. Haven't updated since, even though new high end, and apparently now entry level firestick has come out.
@CordCutter, Smart TV’s do Not have the CPU & ram capacity to run Native 4K content without causing heat issues. I own a Firestick Pro Max 4K latest gen & recently spent $$ to upgrade my TV to the latest gen LG OLED 75”. I use UA-camTV with the 4K addon. So, on the 1st game of the WS, I tried my TV’s UA-camTV app & loaded up the 4K WS. The TV shut down mid 5th inning. I fan cooled it down & I swithed to my Firestick Pro 4K Max Gen (3?). Zero problems since.
I use that Firestick 4k Max Gen 2 with my LG OLED (65" C1) also. My wife was already comfortable with the Firestick, so I just use that instead of the TV OS. I used the Gen 1 Firestick 4k Max, when the TV was new 2 years ago but upgraded to the new one. I like it's remote better and having more storage built in.
Every "smart" TV I've owned had an underpowered processor that made the user interface slower and slower as years went by. Roku TV updates keep moving/hiding my antenna channels in favor of their live streaming TV.
I own 6 Roku devices. My Roku 4 is officially outdated and no more updates 😢. I really liked that and now I have it as memorabilia but I've since it was my first one. I replaced it in 2021 with a new Roku Ultra that was on sale from an offer, Roku kept ahowing me. I final took the bait..😂 The other 4 are Roku sticks, which all work well but will still need upgrades eventually. I'm trying to get as close to 10 years or more out of all my smart devices with TVs and streaming. Smartphones not so much. Maybe every 2, 3, or possibly 4 years, depending on the tech and features.
I would like to do an upgraded Roku TV. The economy has caused me to be more cautious. Honestly, we are in the mode of replace when it begins to fail. Secondly, we are watching less TV in the bedroom so the older tv and Roku are sufficient. I did purchase a Roku for my parents because they were missing too much and their interest have changed. They very much enjoy having a Roku.
I have a Vizio smart tv, but can't download the Tablo app. I had to attach a Roku device to it. Guess there will always be a market for streaming devices.
Well I got a onn box for just one TV, I got the fire stick Max on the other TVs and the TV itself is a Roku TV so I don't think I need to invest in much else.
I'm not planning on getting a new streaming player since I've only had my Roku for a year now. My TV is still going strong but should something happen, I don't see myself getting a Smart TV. I forget where I read it but the apps quit getting updates after two or three years.
Still using the 2015 Nvidia ShieldTVs (Pros and 16GB) version and see no reason to upgrade; even the later ShieldTV-released model futures needed to be more (seemed more of a downgrade to me) to want to buy. Sadly, Google hasn't released any groundbreaking OS features.
Smart TV chipsets & platforms - no matter how new or premium - are under powered. They may work well for a while, but will quickly slow down over time. I'll never understand why anyone wouldn't invest in a streaming device. Even the low end/budget ones will work better longer.
My 2017 manufactured TCL Roku TV 40" is still going strong without any lag. It's great. I'm very happy with it. It just received another OS update a few weeks ago and it has no issues. When this OS no longer receives updates I'll just buy a Roku stick and plug it in. I'm very happy with my TV.
I got two smart TVs and Xfinity flex. I'm not currently looking at getting any new streaming players or TV's at this point but if something breaks I'll have to do what I need to do.
With even smaller services like Crunchyroll(behind your head) now available on your LG TV there is no need to get or even keep you current Roku(with its agree to our terms or no access policy) updated.
Im still happy with the roku 4k stick that i got a few years ago. Abd slso happy with the amazon firestick i got as well. I moved from roku express when the earluer version i had was not continued.
I have an external Roku Ultra connected to my Samsung OLED. I swear the picture quality is better than using the apps on the Samsung TV. And yes, I’ve calibrated the TV, myself, and have made the adjustments apply to all inputs, and made sure the values are the same for the apps.
It's possible the apps do look better today but in 3-5 years when Samsung stops updating it, you'll be glad to use the Roku Ultra or a newer device in the future. I've heard of some high end TVs having better processing built into the apps. They're usually only for the flagship models, though.
I am using my first Roku streaminng device, which I got when forced to become a cordcutter a year ago. I'm fine with it and don't plan to update any time soon. I can't say I am sure about the quality of a Roku TV versus Samsung, Panasonic, Toshiba, etc, and I'm still using my decade old Samsung which is not a Smart TV.
I have a newer Google Hisense TV but have yet to sign in with my Google acct. Original Tablo and original Roku Ultra both I am considering upgrading too newer.
I have always used my smart tv. I recently bought a chromecast because my Samsung was very difficult to cast to from phone. But really didn't need it. All apps I use are on the TV
I have a Samsung smart TV. It randomly disconnects from the internet and I have to turn the TV off and back on to get it connected again. And when it is connected, some apps just randomly disconnect and reconnect. I thought it may be an internet issue, but my LG and Sharp TVs don't have these issues. Put a Roku on the Samsung, and it works flawlessly.
I have a "dumb" TV with an older Chromecast. It works just fine. However, we recently switched to the ad supported Netflix plan, then later found out that the ad supported plan does not work with Chromecast. So we were thinking about getting a new device, but it seems wasteful since the Chromecast works with everything else we watch.
I have Apple TV 4K gen1 and they still work great, so I just don’t see the benefit to upgrade just because they are older devices. When Apple comes out with the next gen Apple TV 4K I will buy two for my main tvs, but not until then (unless any of my current boxes die).
However, it really depends on Apple does with their next Apple TV box. If they put in the A17 Pro or A18 system on a chip (SoC), then the Apple TV could be improved so it becomes an actual viable _gaming_ machine in addition to a streaming box. It also helps the A17 Pro or A18 have the type of processing power needed to decode HD video a lot faster than most lower cost streaming boxes.
Just Bought a new Samsung tv. Seemed like a good idea that they could access all my apps (discovered this after buying the tv). However, there is no way to record and save shows. So I am keeping my Roku device.
I don't use my smart TV for streaming, don't like it's UI. Besides it's not powerful to do so. If it had a better powerful CPU then yeah. Am very happy using my android Google streaming box.👍💪
I have an older TV (10 years) that hasn't had a security update since 2020. I'd prefer not to connect it to the internet, instead running my content from a fire tv stick. However i lose Chromecast on that TV, so i might still connect it but behind a VPN app so it's segregated from the rest of my network
Had FireTV, remote died and no replacements, so moved to Roku, while I have smart TV’s I’d rather use a Roku, much easier to move from TV to TV, you must be hitting the really frugal buyers on this channel. Also just bought 2 new Rokus as the ultra we had died after a few years.
I have two Roku sticks, one about fives old, the other maybe 7 years old. Is there any advantage to updating to a more current player and a current remote?
Faster processor, latest software updates, as they age they can't keep up with the new apps, could have incompatible versions with an older OS. Plus they slow down over time. If you use it all the time spend the $99 on the Roku ultra. Does 4k has a rechargeable remote, has an option for Ethernet. Or if you want a cheaper option and travel a lot get the Roku streaming stick + it's the size of a flashdrive and can do 4k as long as you get the right version and have a compatible TV and streaming content.
Hope it helps 😊. Don't get a Roku express they don't last long. Had one maybe two years before it started throwing a HDMI error code every few days. So either do the streaming stick or the ultras. If you have other questions let me know 😊.
What ever aren’t they all the same. My newest model firestick loses coordination between the sound and picture. I can get it synchronized but after a few days it is out of whack again.
I was an early-adopter cord cutter in 2016, no cable since. Purchased various Fire Stick devices for several TVs...maybe have replaced 2 since. Did purchase a Chromecast with Google TV for protection TV in the man cave which I really like and as any Fire Stick devices go bad will probably replace with that... Primarily because I don't care for all the featured Amazon content and like the Chromecast layout. Happy Halloween 👻🎃
I have a Nvidia Shield and it plays everything so no need to change. The old saying if it still works why upgrade? I would love for them to change to Google TV if AndroidTV is dead.
How would these possible changes in the Amazon Fire TV's? With built in Fire OS's? Interesting as I was thinking of buying a Amazon Fire TV in 2025 at some point.
A Growing Number of Cord Cutters Don’t Plan to Buy a New Streaming Device in 2024, Spelling Trouble for the Tech Giants cordcuttersnews.com/a-growing-number-of-cord-cutters-dont-plan-to-buy-a-new-streaming-device-in-2024-spelling-trouble-for-the-tech-giants/
MyFree DIRECTV Launches Early, Offering 50+ Channels and On-Demand Content for Free cordcuttersnews.com/myfree-directv-launches-early-offering-50-channels-and-on-demand-content-for-free/
Roku Reports Strong Q3 2024 Earnings, Surpasses $1 Billion in Revenue cordcuttersnews.com/roku-reports-strong-q3-2024-earnings-surpasses-1-billion-in-revenue/
AT&T Invests $1 Billion to Expand Its Fiber Internet Network to New Areas cordcuttersnews.com/att-invests-1-billion-to-expand-fiber-internet-network-to-new-areas/
Netflix is Adding Universal Live-Action Films cordcuttersnews.com/netflix-universal-expand-partnership-to-add-live-action-films/
Google TV Offers “Apps Only Mode” to Hide Personalized Recommendations & Make It Look More Like a Roku TV cordcuttersnews.com/google-tv-offers-apps-only-mode-to-hide-personalized-recommendations-make-it-look-more-like-a-roku-tv/
I wonder how many of the 71% already have a streaming device that's working fine and aren't planning on buying a new one. That number seems high Luke. Good job here. Always thumbs up!
That's the number in April it 77 percent now and yes most all of that number already owns a streaming device and is happy with it.
What people don't realize is that smart TVs don't have continuous updates. At a point in a few years it will stop getting updated and your apps won't work. I have a an LG TV from 2018 and 75% of the apps have stopped working. I have a Roku from 2015 and it still is going strong.
Of course. The most egregiously terrible experience is the Roku TV which has a bad mix of geeky technology terms and an eclectic mix of Roku channels that are as appealing as a root canal. There are much better boxes that figure everything out for you automatically and fit in much better with an experience that includes a cable TV box.
So true. I have a Sony TV with Google TV software (NSX-GT1) from 2010. The Google TV apps stopped working long ago, but the TV still works perfectly with a Roku player. Same with a Sony TV from 2015 that works great with the Roku, but the Android software is useless. I will never buy a smart TV for the "smart" capabilities.
Do they even make tv’s that aren’t smart ones anymore? I’ve never seen one.
@@JohnnyReno71 I haven't seen one in several years. I just ignore all the smart features, do not accept any smart TV licenses to maintain a little privacy, and use the Roku box.
I have 2 roku smart tvs. The oldest TV is a Sharp about 7 years old. I also have a westinghouse TV that is about 4 years old. When either of those die or can't upgrade to a new operating system. I might buy roku with OLED screen.
I like the Roku streaming player better than the Roku TV itself. Love the jacket!🎃
The rokus are so well designed they outlast thier time.i still have my 1st 2nd and 3rd gen I had to upgrade bc they no longer updated.
I have 3 roku ultras now and them fir years. Never any issues
Upgraded my antennas. Have gone almost a month just watching ota
Similar to me. My TV viewing is either OTA or its used as a screen for watching DVDs.
@crosslink1493 cool. Yeah, I've been thinking about a good DVD player.
I live in an area where my old antenna pick up about 20 channels; at some point, I'll get a newer attic antenna since I'm between two major cities , but for now it's a good experiment that give me a taste of how I could eventually get rid of cable. Not at all interested in Netflix.
I have an OTA antenna that can only get one channel. I only use it when we are getting severe weather. I can't stand watching ads so I never watch live TV or anything else that has ads.
I gave up paying for streaming services I also upgraded my ota antenna and get 30 channels for free and don’t pay a dime got tired of paying $100.00 a month for TV plus I live by myself and don’t watch that much TV anymore.
Smart tvs mostly perform far more slowly than separate devices. Try the tv then plug in an mid price to high priced external device and notice the significant differences
My TCL Roku TV maufactured in 2017 is still going strong and is quite quick and not laggy. I'm happy with it. It just upgraded to a new Roku OS version, so it's still receiving software updates as of this year. I'll be sad when it no longer receives updates. But as long as the TV itself works I'll just buy a Roku HDMI device to plug into it.
I still use an external device because not all apps are available on the smart TV platform.
It depends on the age of the tv you have. My new Samsung (manufactured in September 2024) seems to have every main streaming app out there and I feel like any streaming device I attach to it would just duplicate what came on the tv). If you are looking for really obscure apps or local channel news apps, you are better off attaching something to your tv.
My TV is pretty smart, but I like the simplicity of the FireTV remote and app navigation.
@@MsGail61 plus if things change as far as apps, you can adapt where the TV can’t unless it’s running a flavor of Android
I use my Xbox for apps my LG TV doesn't have.
@@ejc1956
One of my TVs is from 2009 and dumb. I can get all the streaming services from it using a vintage 2014 AppleTV. That’s not the case with a newer Roku.
Love my Roku. Dont need a new one but love the fact I can take it with me where there is wi-fi I can watch all my favorites wherever I go.
I loved that you had showed me on how to remove the clutter! I want just the basics and none of the fluff.
Got a roku tv but i use a firestick cause i love the guide and having all my fhannels in one place
Same here. My TV is pretty smart, but I like the simplicity of the FireTV remote and app navigation.
While smart TVs are OK if you only have 1 TV, the differences in streaming interfaces can be an issue for a spouse who isn't a tech nerd. For me, TVs are a commodity and I buy whatever is the best deal at the time. I use Roku because it has a friendly, consistent interface that is easy for my wife. I own 2 Ultras and 2 sticks. I've upgraded sticks in the past to get additional features on the remotes and to make the remotes consistent from TV to TV. While I'm not in the market for new Rokus, I would certainly buy them if there were compelling new features. My go to free service is also the Roku Channel. There are only a handful of free channels that we watch so it serves us well. We sometimes use Pluto but the others that I've tried didn't impress us as having anything worthwhile as extras. Great reporting! Thanks!
Same here. Once we got 1 Roku it became our favorite due to the interface. Now I have 3 of them including a TCL TV with Roku built in. We started with AppleTV but as everyone knows the remote is terrible. Trying to remember how each remote and OS works in different rooms is just annoying.
I’ve tried the Roku and found it not as user-friendly as an Apple TV. It takes just minutes for me to show non-tech savvy visitors how to use the remote control to navigate and use all the features. I do have the latest remote though. The previous one was not so good.
The Roku is a bit more portable, but gathers dust when I’m not travelling. It’s going into the next donations pickup along with Lightning cables and VGA connectors.
I bought all new ROKU's last year. So I'm good for a few years.
I’m happy with a “dumb” tv with a roku box. Upgraded my roku to an ultra early this year when it was on a good sale. Got a 43” Toshiba dumb tv on marketplace for $40, my 19+ year old 32” still works, put in the bedroom with an antenna. Everyone I know with a smart tv has had issues.
Toshiba used to be good quality back in the day. But I bought two of their flatscreens about 15 years ago. Both died within 4 years. Never bought Toshiba again.
@ well, for $40, if it lasts 4 more years I figure I’m ahead
I bought a 50 inch Sceptre tv without smart features back in 2017. It was a Black Friday deal that I couldn't pass up. I used it for ota only until about 2020 and got a Roku for it. I moved that rig to the garage recently and I am happy to say everything still works like new and the Roku updates just fine. As a side note, the Sceptre picture quality was not the greatest until a friend with a calibration tool adjusted it and that made a HUGE difference. Even a cheap tv can look great if it is set up correctly.
Just bought the 2024 Roku Ultra. 30% faster and I can adjust the play speed up or down when I'm watching training videos. That's a game changer for me!
Nice! Seems like a great device. I myself have the 2020 Roku Ultra which is still working well. 😎
Nice feature.
Free streaming TV is good, but it’s all trackable. Major privacy concerns. OTA TV using a TV antenna FTA satellite do not require an internet connection, and are not tracked by media companies.
you are still tracked but not in the same way.
I have a collection of "dumb" tvs friends gave away when they purchased smart tvs. I will probably not have to purchase a tv for years to come! I bought cheap firesticks a few years ago during the prime sales. No need to replace. Spending $$ on what is important
If you just want an android tv with no box or stick, make sure your tv has a 3.1 usb input. That way you can add a thumb drive for memory.
Here's the considerations in favor of an external streaming device:
1- If you want a consistent interface among multiple TV sets, you can best accomplish that with same external devices (like...each set has a Roku on it).
2- Using built in streaming has put many TV set owners in jeopardy on older sets. As the sets age, many apps have abandoned the built in streaming software. Yet the TV is good for the owner. Having an external streamer solves that issue. If it ages out, just buy a new streamer - not a new TV.
3- You have the option of getting faster streaming interfaces with higher end streaming players.
4- As AI comes to play in the streaming arena, you may want to have a streamer that can best handle the AI. A new external streamer should be the best way to get there, rather than abandoning your old set.
Nevertheless, it's nearly impossible to buy a non-streaming smart TV. So it confuses some...or tempts them to use the built in software. Many won't know about the considerations above.
My testimonial: I own a couple Firesticks, a Firecube, Nvidia Shield and an Apple Tv. In order of importance as follows. My new Lg C3 doesnt need a stream box...yet. But I have my 2nd favorite box, Firecube, set aside for the LG if I need it for some reason. My Sony Bravia 900E has my favorite, Apple tv. My spare room tvs use the Firesticks. My Shield sits in a drawer. I take it out every 6-8 months and hook it up, update it, then use it until it fails again(1-2 weeks). Then it goes back in the drawer.
Used Roku Ultra device for many years. Suddenly there were HDCP issues and Roku failed to address this when I had the Ultra in place. Then went to an Apple 4K device. An iOS update bricked the device so returned it. Also didn’t care for the audio in LPCM as content volume constantly changed when ads played making them super loud. So now just using my smart tv apps. Not planning any change in near future.
I have the latest FireTV. I prefer the FireTV interface over my smart tv. I do not use the smart tv feature at all.
Happy Halloween! I don't plan on buying anything new. I have Roku TV's, don't need a player. Love the jacket.
Anyone who purchases a TV based on the built in apps as a top priority is clueless
You've described 90% of the public
@@teekay_1 That sounds about right. I would estimate that 90% of the public is clueless.
Luke described it perfectly, that a TV is a big purchase item and a streaming stick is about $40.
People should realize that if your TV doesn't have good, snappy app support, you don't have to spend $200-$3000 on a new TV. Just buy a new streaming stick!
@@frommatorav1 Typically the inbuilt TV apps are slow because TV margins are so small, so they put in a slow processor which makes the thing infuriating to use.
It's like the processor in the built-in GPS/Entertainment system in your car. They're all slow as molassas
@@teekay_1 I did use the apps on my 2019 Samsung 4k because it was new for me. I didn't have a lot of problems with Amazon Prime, especially at first. In 2020, I was using Directv Stream and that app was unusable on the Samsung TV. I bought a Firestick 4k for $25 on sale to test it and that app worked fine on it and Prime was faster, too. I wasn't super happy with that streaming stick because it lacked a lot of storage space. The Firestick 4k Max had better wifi, was a little snappier and had about 1.5GB more storage. The 2nd version of the 4k Max has double the storage and a better remote, too for $40 on sale.
When I upgraded to an LG C1 OLED in 2022, I didn't even bother with built in OS and just continued to use the Firestick 4k Max.
I bought a new FireTV during the last Prime Days. I needed to replace the remote for one of my Fire Stick remote that stopped working. It was cheaper to buy a whole refurbed Fire Stick than to buy a remote by itself.
I just got a smart TV for the den. The old one was dying. I didn't get it for the "smart" part, but for the picture/image/video quality and price-point. First thing I did after getting it set up was attach my Roku Ultra and away I went. I don't care about a TV's OS. I never use it, except for the necessary set-up. So the den "smart TV" is my trusty 3 year old Roku Ultra and the primary living room "smart TV" has my AppleTV 4K (3rd generation). As both the Roku and AppleTV are operating flawlessly and are fully updated, there's no point in getting a "new" streaming device/box when what I have is perfect.
Streaming TV's are too invasive. I prefer the device that I can turn off when I'm not using it and know that it's off and not keeping an eye on me.
My 2007 46 inch Sony has zero apps, and only 2 HDMI ports but is still going strong with an Nvidia Shield. I did have to replace it once, I had the one with the 500 meg hard drive (I upgraded it to a 2 terabyte SSD). After a few years it died, so I replaced it with another Nvidia Shield (not the cheaper tube). Very satisfied despite the adds on the home screen (thanks Google). I do have a Roku on the spare 24 inch Samsung TV. I also have an antenna and use my NAS as a Plex server with a couple of Silicondust network tuners. The encryption on the new 4k channels encouraged me to wait and see on upgrading. I did just replace the Roku to try and solve the "replace the remote batteries every 2 or 3 weeks" problem. This doesn't seem to have worked.
Buy the Roku voice remote pro it's USB C rechargeable and is backlit. Yes it's $30 but it's worth it.
Personally, I think there should be an option to get a smart tv OR a tv that does not have all those features that don't need to be updated making some want to buy a new smart tv which kinda sucks :/
Didn't see the poll but I will be buying another streaming player this year, for a smart tv that won't update anymore.
Great video!
I have the Fire TV Cube and it works fine.
I would take those stats to be more indictive what percentage of people will be switching to streaming this year more than a measure of people who prefer an external steamer. Reason I say is because if you have a steamer that you like and works for you, why would you be planning on buying a new one? One of the many advantages of having an external steamer is creating a uniform experience if you have multiple TV's, with no dependency on TV brand. What I would really like to see is TV brands starting to offer non Smart TV's for a discount.
We just love All of our Apple TV’s ❤BUT I also have a few Firesticks for older TV’s. I have 2 LG smart TV’s and their smart apps are just slow performing even after their updates. That’s why we have the external devices.
Just bought a new LG so called smart TV with all the apps but don’t use it because it’s so slow and cumbersome. So much easier to use my Apple TV or amazon cube. Sales might be down for the devices since they can last a long time.
I never use the apps on my LG tv. For TV shows and movies, I use a Fire TV Cube and an Xbox Series X. I have a Wiim Ultra for streaming music.
I got the my free direct tv and thus far I like it. Given that I had direct tv stream before it’s very easy to use and very similar.
I bought the Google streamer because the old one i had Google Chromecast TV was almost 4 years old & the new Google Streamer is replacement of the old one i had , so was worth it & LOOOVE Google streamer, since i am Google & YTTV user for over a decade , love the interface & how's brings things i like to interface & mix it up with You Tube & other streaming services i have , really nice & clever🙌👍
F that old boring Roku as same interface since 2005, dont matter new or old one all the same shyt
My Ruku 4 years old and my other one is 10 years old i have no plans, two upgrade, either one
Streaming Players Need a major improvement like (universal TV guide across all streaming apps) before I buy a new streaming player.
Which may happen with the Apple TV within the next year or so. And with full Apple Intelligence support if the Apple TV box gets the A17 Pro or A18 system on a chip (SoC) in the next model.
That and an option for universal ad free options. Also have an option for built in DVR and ota options. It's getting old having Roku adding ads like crazy to the interface. I'd pay for an option to remove them from Roku channel and the menus. Also another thing they put ads in the damn Roku app 🤬 I use it for private listening and it used to not have any ads in it.
My LG TV is pretty smart, but I like the simplicity of the FireTV remote and app navigation.
LG’s WebOS stinks.
I would be surprised if streaming players went away. It's far easier to replace an aging streaming player than it is a TV. I have four "Smart" TVs in the house. Three of them have some sort of streaming player connected due to a number of issues. The LG has a Firestick because it's now a "dumb" TV. LG gave up support on that model (not that it ever was great with the apps anyway). The Samsung has a Firestick to cover an app or two that isn't available on Samsung OS (and for some performance problems that it suffers). The Hisense Google TV doesn't have anything extra. It functions as it should. The Hisense Xumo has a Tivo Stream because the Xumo OS is just garbage. I also have a couple of "dumb" TVs from 2009 or so that are still going strong. One has a Firestick, the other a Roku.
Just bought a onn roku smart 50 inch and love it
nice jacket sir luke
I have a Roku Express (1st gen), but it's a very old model, so I've been considering upgrading. I haven't committed sticking with Roku though. I've been looking at Google TV (Chromecast). While I don't use Chrome on my PC anymore, I still use Android. I haven't ruled out buying a smart TV either. I can buy a nice 4K smart TV for about $200USD, while a Google TV Streamer is $100. There is also the fact that smart TV's are fixed in what hardware their built with. If you're having issues with you're streaming device, you can just replace it. My old Roku Express crashes frequently which is the reason I'm looking to upgrade my device. With the inevitable march of technology, devices won't have enough RAM, or software support stops, or some other issue occurs, thus a smart TV has to be replaced once something along those lines happen, so it turns into a bigger investment with little to no advantages over a streaming box.
It looks like Free Direct TV carries the same stuff the others have. So, why go through the hassle of signing up. If they carry material that is not elsewhere, I may sign up with it.
Digging that Halloween jacket. Sporting the drip today.
I started with two high end roku, one entry firestick, liked the firestick layout, switched the two to firestick. That was June 2023. Haven't updated since, even though new high end, and apparently now entry level firestick has come out.
@CordCutter, Smart TV’s do Not have the CPU & ram capacity to run Native 4K content without causing heat issues. I own a Firestick Pro Max 4K latest gen & recently spent $$ to upgrade my TV to the latest gen LG OLED 75”. I use UA-camTV with the 4K addon. So, on the 1st game of the WS, I tried my TV’s UA-camTV app & loaded up the 4K WS. The TV shut down mid 5th inning. I fan cooled it down & I swithed to my Firestick Pro 4K Max Gen (3?). Zero problems since.
I use that Firestick 4k Max Gen 2 with my LG OLED (65" C1) also. My wife was already comfortable with the Firestick, so I just use that instead of the TV OS. I used the Gen 1 Firestick 4k Max, when the TV was new 2 years ago but upgraded to the new one. I like it's remote better and having more storage built in.
Every "smart" TV I've owned had an underpowered processor that made the user interface slower and slower as years went by. Roku TV updates keep moving/hiding my antenna channels in favor of their live streaming TV.
i had downloaded it the my direct tv yesterday and my husband and i really like it
I own 6 Roku devices. My Roku 4 is officially outdated and no more updates 😢. I really liked that and now I have it as memorabilia but I've since it was my first one. I replaced it in 2021 with a new Roku Ultra that was on sale from an offer, Roku kept ahowing me. I final took the bait..😂 The other 4 are Roku sticks, which all work well but will still need upgrades eventually. I'm trying to get as close to 10 years or more out of all my smart devices with TVs and streaming. Smartphones not so much. Maybe every 2, 3, or possibly 4 years, depending on the tech and features.
I would like to do an upgraded Roku TV. The economy has caused me to be more cautious. Honestly, we are in the mode of replace when it begins to fail. Secondly, we are watching less TV in the bedroom so the older tv and Roku are sufficient. I did purchase a Roku for my parents because they were missing too much and their interest have changed. They very much enjoy having a Roku.
I have Apple TVs in every room now. Roku, Amazon, and Google can keep their ad boxes.
I have a Vizio smart tv, but can't download the Tablo app. I had to attach a Roku device to it. Guess there will always be a market for streaming devices.
I never use the smart tv features.i love Appletv, by far the easiest to use I feel.
Well I got a onn box for just one TV, I got the fire stick Max on the other TVs and the TV itself is a Roku TV so I don't think I need to invest in much else.
I'm not planning on getting a new streaming player since I've only had my Roku for a year now.
My TV is still going strong but should something happen, I don't see myself getting a Smart TV. I forget where I read it but the apps quit getting updates after two or three years.
Great jacket, Luke. You remind me of Uncle Fester. :)
Still using the 2015 Nvidia ShieldTVs (Pros and 16GB) version and see no reason to upgrade; even the later ShieldTV-released model futures needed to be more (seemed more of a downgrade to me) to want to buy.
Sadly, Google hasn't released any groundbreaking OS features.
Love the jacket, Luke!
Smart TV chipsets & platforms - no matter how new or premium - are under powered. They may work well for a while, but will quickly slow down over time.
I'll never understand why anyone wouldn't invest in a streaming device. Even the low end/budget ones will work better longer.
My 2017 manufactured TCL Roku TV 40" is still going strong without any lag. It's great. I'm very happy with it. It just received another OS update a few weeks ago and it has no issues. When this OS no longer receives updates I'll just buy a Roku stick and plug it in. I'm very happy with my TV.
Now I got a new TV. I can’t wait to plug it in. I’m gonna get ready to go through all the streaming service.
I prefer a device feather than a smart TV.. Just bought the latest ATV to replace my Previous..
I got two smart TVs and Xfinity flex. I'm not currently looking at getting any new streaming players or TV's at this point but if something breaks I'll have to do what I need to do.
With even smaller services like Crunchyroll(behind your head) now available on your LG TV there is no need to get or even keep you current Roku(with its agree to our terms or no access policy) updated.
Love the jacket!
Im still happy with the roku 4k stick that i got a few years ago. Abd slso happy with the amazon firestick i got as well.
I moved from roku express when the earluer version i had was not continued.
I plan on using my old TVs and devices till they compelety break down.
I have an external Roku Ultra connected to my Samsung OLED. I swear the picture quality is better than using the apps on the Samsung TV. And yes, I’ve calibrated the TV, myself, and have made the adjustments apply to all inputs, and made sure the values are the same for the apps.
It's possible the apps do look better today but in 3-5 years when Samsung stops updating it, you'll be glad to use the Roku Ultra or a newer device in the future. I've heard of some high end TVs having better processing built into the apps. They're usually only for the flagship models, though.
I am using my first Roku streaminng device, which I got when forced to become a cordcutter a year ago. I'm fine with it and don't plan to update any time soon. I can't say I am sure about the quality of a Roku TV versus Samsung, Panasonic, Toshiba, etc, and I'm still using my decade old Samsung which is not a Smart TV.
I have a newer Google Hisense TV but have yet to sign in with my Google acct. Original Tablo and original Roku Ultra both I am considering upgrading too newer.
I just bought a new tv for better picture quality. The faster OS was just an added benefit.
Yes,I really like your jacket.
Happy Halloween Luke and family!🎃🍁🍂
Anybody know what the device Luke holds up near the end of the video? Really thick for a tablet, maybe a video control device?
I have always used my smart tv. I recently bought a chromecast because my Samsung was very difficult to cast to from phone. But really didn't need it. All apps I use are on the TV
What is streaming and what does it cost
I have a Samsung smart TV. It randomly disconnects from the internet and I have to turn the TV off and back on to get it connected again. And when it is connected, some apps just randomly disconnect and reconnect. I thought it may be an internet issue, but my LG and Sharp TVs don't have these issues. Put a Roku on the Samsung, and it works flawlessly.
Thank you Cord Cutters News - Love your coat. :) Happy Halloween.
I'm buying both Apple TV 4k and Nvidia Shield Pro TV 4k
I can't get "My Free DirectTV" on my Roku Ultra. Is it being rolled in certain areas only?
I have 2 Nvidea Shield pros 2019 for 5 years, no need to upgrade. Much better than my 10+ year old Vizio TV Yahoo apps..LOL
I have a "dumb" TV with an older Chromecast. It works just fine. However, we recently switched to the ad supported Netflix plan, then later found out that the ad supported plan does not work with Chromecast. So we were thinking about getting a new device, but it seems wasteful since the Chromecast works with everything else we watch.
Cool jacket bro ! 😅😅
I have Apple TV 4K gen1 and they still work great, so I just don’t see the benefit to upgrade just because they are older devices. When Apple comes out with the next gen Apple TV 4K I will buy two for my main tvs, but not until then (unless any of my current boxes die).
However, it really depends on Apple does with their next Apple TV box. If they put in the A17 Pro or A18 system on a chip (SoC), then the Apple TV could be improved so it becomes an actual viable _gaming_ machine in addition to a streaming box. It also helps the A17 Pro or A18 have the type of processing power needed to decode HD video a lot faster than most lower cost streaming boxes.
I have a smart TV in my bedroom and just got a new one with Amazon TV for the living room.
Glad to see Roku seems to be doing so well, your headline seemed a bit click baity and scary.
Just Bought a new Samsung tv. Seemed like a good idea that they could access all my apps (discovered this after buying the tv). However, there is no way to record and save shows. So I am keeping my Roku device.
I don't use my smart TV for streaming, don't like it's UI. Besides it's not powerful to do so. If it had a better powerful CPU then yeah. Am very happy using my android Google streaming box.👍💪
I have an older TV (10 years) that hasn't had a security update since 2020. I'd prefer not to connect it to the internet, instead running my content from a fire tv stick. However i lose Chromecast on that TV, so i might still connect it but behind a VPN app so it's segregated from the rest of my network
Had FireTV, remote died and no replacements, so moved to Roku, while I have smart TV’s I’d rather use a Roku, much easier to move from TV to TV, you must be hitting the really frugal buyers on this channel. Also just bought 2 new Rokus as the ultra we had died after a few years.
I have two Roku sticks, one about fives old, the other maybe 7 years old. Is there any advantage to updating to a more current player and a current remote?
Faster processor, latest software updates, as they age they can't keep up with the new apps, could have incompatible versions with an older OS. Plus they slow down over time. If you use it all the time spend the $99 on the Roku ultra. Does 4k has a rechargeable remote, has an option for Ethernet. Or if you want a cheaper option and travel a lot get the Roku streaming stick + it's the size of a flashdrive and can do 4k as long as you get the right version and have a compatible TV and streaming content.
Hope it helps 😊. Don't get a Roku express they don't last long. Had one maybe two years before it started throwing a HDMI error code every few days. So either do the streaming stick or the ultras. If you have other questions let me know 😊.
What ever aren’t they all the same. My newest model firestick loses coordination between the sound and picture. I can get it synchronized but after a few days it is out of whack again.
I love Roku. I used it a lot. I hope that nothing happens to it.
Bought a tcl google TV last October just to realize it was 4 years old not getting updated so I got the Google streamer 4k and it is 5x better
Only issue is each app has a different volume. Say UA-cam is low but when I switch to a different app it will dang near blow your ears out
I was an early-adopter cord cutter in 2016, no cable since. Purchased various Fire Stick devices for several TVs...maybe have replaced 2 since. Did purchase a Chromecast with Google TV for protection TV in the man cave which I really like and as any Fire Stick devices go bad will probably replace with that... Primarily because I don't care for all the featured Amazon content and like the Chromecast layout. Happy Halloween 👻🎃
I have a Nvidia Shield and it plays everything so no need to change. The old saying if it still works why upgrade? I would love for them to change to Google TV if AndroidTV is dead.
How would these possible changes in the Amazon Fire TV's? With built in Fire OS's? Interesting as I was thinking of buying a Amazon Fire TV in 2025 at some point.
Nice outfit, Luke. Can you direct me on your sites? Where can I find out if you talked about Tablo?