Sarah Tew/CNET

This is the one and only Roku model we don’t recommend. Frankly, there are better entry-level streamers from Google and Amazon. We think that the Chromecast with Google TV HD is by far the best choice for a $30 HD streamer. It’s speedy and offers a remote that doesn’t need line-of-sight to work and can seamlessly control your TV’s power, volume and inputs. It also comes with a built-in button to access Google Assistant. Even the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite offers a better value than the Roku Express. At least the remote on that model includes built-in voice search and control powered by Alexa. 

The good thing about the HD-only Roku Express is that it can use all the apps on Roku’s platform. But the included Roku TV remote is the bare-bones IR option that lacks Roku remote voice controls and requires you to point at the tiny box. It also won’t control your TV’s power, volume and inputs, so you’ll also need your regular TV remote. And to add insult to injury, the Express doesn’t come with a power brick in the box. You’ll have to provide your own, or plug it into your TV’s USB port in order to power the device. It’s best to just avoid this model, if you can. Either spend a little more to upgrade to the Express 4K Plus or grab the Chromecast with Google TV HD for the same price as this one. We promise you’ll be glad that you did.