Today’s question comes from George, who asks, “Which Roku works best with Tablo? I want to make sure I buy the right model.”
If you’re able to invest in the best, we recommend purchasing a Roku Ultra (model 4850) for use with Tablo.
Within the current Roku lineup, Tablo also officially supports the Roku Streaming Stick 4K (model 3820) and Roku Ultra LT (model 4801), along with Roku smart TVs and streambars.
Why do we recommend the Roku Ultra?
- The Roku Ultra Is 4K-Capable
While no Tablo content is delivered in 4K, HD-only devices like the Roku Streaming Stick (model 3840) have intermittent problems displaying over-the-air TV content due to a bug in the Roku operating system. Because of this, they are not officially supported. If you sometimes see a bright green background or odd aspect ratio when playing Tablo content on your Roku, upgrading to the Ultra will fully resolve this.
- The Roku Ultra Can Play All Required Video Formats
Tablo is one of a few Roku-compatible apps that delivers video in a format called MPEG2, which is used by over-the-air antenna TV. While most Roku devices support this, the newest Roku Streaming Stick Plus (model 3830) does not. If you have a Roku Streaming Stick Plus and find that you can play streaming channels but not antenna TV channels via the Tablo app, upgrading to the Ultra will resolve this.
- The Roku Ultra Has Better Hardware
With a lower price point and smaller form factor, manufacturers generally build streaming sticks with a fraction of the processing power and memory of box-style streaming devices like the Roku Ultra. While it may cost more upfront, a Roku Ultra will offer faster performance over the long term versus lower-end models that may feel sluggish in just a few years.
- The Roku Ultra Has Better Features
It pays to invest in quality streaming devices. In addition to top-of-the-line performance, the Roku Ultra has several features like an Ethernet port, a backlit remote with a rechargeable battery and the ability to pair headphones or hearing aids via Bluetooth for private listening, which will make watching your favorite shows via the Tablo app even easier.
Have questions about which streaming devices and smart TVs are compatible with Tablo? Head to the Tablo Knowledge Base for more information.
Have a question about watching TV that you’d like answered? Send us a note and you may see your question on the Tablo blog and in an upcoming issue of our newsletter, Stay Tuned!
