Are you considering a Roku media streamer? If so, you've come to the right place as we'll deep dive into the best Roku you can buy in Australia.
This company was one of the pioneers in the media player market and has changed dramatically over the years. Now you can buy a wide range of devices including, Amazon TV, Apple TV, Android Boxes and Magboxes.
Until recently, getting hold of one of these boxes was nearly impossible without spending a fortune with a parallel importer. We'll show you how to get your hands on one fast, using a platform used by nearly every Australian.
Where to buy Roku in Australia?
Until recently you'd probably had to use a parallel importer such as Smart TV Works but now you can buy Roku directly from Amazon.com with low international shipping fees. Alternatively you can buy on eBay too.
Most orders can be delivered in under 7 working days for free shipping and 3 days for premium shipping.
Why pay a premium for buying from an Australian parallel importer?
The Roku's voltage is 110-240v meaning it will work in Australia.
Which model of Roku should you buy?
There's many different models of Roku's on the market and as a consumer it can be difficult to choose the best one. We decided to put together this guide, outlining the best Roku for Australian consumers.
A Roku can turn any TV into a smart TV instantly without having to buy a brand new TV. It also offers far more features than Australian providers such as Netflix USA, Hulu Plus, HBO, ESPN to name a few.
Best Roku Australia
Before we get into the technical specs, it's important to note that you can install the same channels on all devices. You also need a credit card to activate your Roku dashboard to complete setup (free).
1. Roku Ultra
It's the powerhouse of the Roku range offering the fastest quad-core processor and is suitable for 4K Ultra HD streaming. Of course you'll need a super fast internet connection and a suitable television to actually get 4K quality but it's definitely possible.
The Roku Ultra offers dual band wireless which allows you to use 2.4 and 5GHz connections if available. On the back you've got an ethernet connection for even faster connectivity, an HDMI connection and an optical port which is good for surround sound.
The remote offers great functionality with hot keys and an earphone slot that automatically mutes your TV and plays audio through the headphones. The remote is small but there is a remote finder button on the actual device and you can even use the Roku app on your phone instead.
Buying the Roku Ultra may require a power adapter and is manufactured for 110v-240v so will work without a power transformer in Australia.
Pricing regularly fluctuates so I recommend checking out the best price with low international delivery to your Australian address.
2. Roku Express
It's the smallest device in the range but packs quite a punch. If you're looking for a quick and easy Roku device that is setup and operational within minutes then you should consider the Roku Express.
Featuring a quick processor it's suitable for streaming 1080P HD video from all the major Roku channels available. Similar to the Roku Ultra this device requires a power connection and uses an HDMI cable to connect to the television. You can't power the Express through HDMI only.
The included remote doesn't feature a headphone slot and doesn't include as many hot keys. The remote also is slightly fiddly and when you're trying to do lots at once you'll notice the dashboard lags a little. You need to consider the price vs spec. If you want something more powerful then the Roku Stick+ might be a better option.
Pricing regularly fluctuates so I recommend checking out the best price with low international delivery to your Australian address.
3. Roku Stick+
It's the newer version of the Roku Stick which is now called the plus and features a few major improvements including a sleeker more nimble design and an enhanced remote with hot keys.
An advanced wireless receiver gives you 4x better signal strength for faster uninterrupted streaming.
Provided you've got a suitable television and internet connection and a 4K Netflix subscription you can easily watch 4K Ultra HD content with the Roku Stick+ in Australia. The one of 3 devices offering 4K streaming.
At a much more affordable price and with the ability to power the device using HDMI and USB only the Stick+ is a great option for travelers and kitting out multiple televisions in your house where power may not be freely available.
If you're on the fence between this and the standard (old version) Roku Stick I'd say go for this one for the better wireless and 4K functionality.
Pricing regularly fluctuates so I recommend checking out the best price with low international delivery to your Australian address.
4. Roku Premiere+ 4K
The Roku Premiere is an ultra budget, 4K version that offers all the features you'd come to expect from their premium models.
The remote features built in enhanced voice control making it perfect for interaction without manually typing out your favourite shows.
Alongside the voice features is quick launch buttons for Netflix and Hulu as well as Sling TV and Vudu. Bundled inside the box is an HDMI cable and 30 day free trials of Showtime, Starz, Epix and Roku channel.
Power is via USB if your TV has such port or you can use standard mains power.
The stand out feature of this model is the ability to adjust the TV volume through the remote without having to use your TV one.
The premiere+ only comes with Wireless connectivity however the strength is excellent and you'll have no issues in any mid sized house.
For larger homes I'd say you should consider the Roku Ultra with builtin e-Ethernet port in case wireless is an issue in your household.
5. Roku Streaming Stick
It's the older model of the Roku Stick+ and includes all the same features which the exception of the improved wireless, less hot keys and weaker processor.
The Roku Streaming Stick only supports HD TV's up to 1080P with up scaling from 720p. You also need to ensure your TV supports HDCP 2.2.
The remote features quick launch buttons for Netflix, Hulu, Sling and NOW.
The remote control features voice activation and recognition allowing you to search for titles without manually using the pad.
This model doesn't feature the long-range wireless receiver that other models include so you'll need to ensure your TV is located close to your wireless router.
How To Setup Roku In Australia?
Before buying a Roku you should note that the devices are configured specifically for residents in the United States, Mexico and United Kingdom.
With that said you can use a Roku outside those countries using your standard connection and only use services such as Netflix Australia.
However If you want to access geo blocked content such as Netflix USA, Hulu Plus, HBO, ESPN and all those other premium channels then you need to setup Smart DNS on your internet router.
The Roku hard codes their DNS software and buying a standard VPN will not work as there is no VPN app on the Roku.
You need a VPN at the router level, more commonly called Smart DNS.
The best provider is Smart DNS Proxy.
Roku Setup Guide Australia
Activate your 14 day free trial.
Use the 'Servers' page to find the two closest servers.
Login to your routers default gateway.
Locate DNS settings, usually under DHCP or WAN.
Change them to the two server IP's from earlier.
Save and reboot your router.
Revisit Smart DNS dashboard and update IP.
Start enjoying geo-blocked content.
Smart DNS doesn't change your IP or affect local sites.
Anyone can alter their router settings and it's just a matter of making a few changes using the web interface. To find out your router IP and the default login details, checkout this guide.
Once you've setup Smart DNS you can register for an account with Roku.
You must have Smart DNS running before creating your account.
Use a US billing address, you can use a service such as MyUS to get a US address. You can then use your Australian credit card to validate the account.
Now you're ready to signup for your apps and services.
I can't change router DNS for Roku?
If you live in a communal area such as a university it's unlikely you'll be able to alter the router settings so a Roku might not be the best option for you.
Maybe you should checkout Amazon Fire TV instead. You can sideload apps and run a local VPN on the device to bypass router settings.
Other routers provided by telecom companies may require advanced configuration so check to ensure you can access the web configuration before making any changes.
When buying on Amazon.com you will need to pay international delivery and 10% GST import deposit. This is usually very affordable and included in the price you pay online.
Verdict
There are many different models and it can be difficult to choose which is the best Roku model for you. I'm a firm believer that buying a model that supports Ethernet is the best option as you can get the highest quality streams without buffering. For that, the Ultra is the one to go with.
Related: Best Wireless Headphones
Last Updated: December 3, 2021 by Rhys
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