Streaming is basically now the default way for millions upon millions of us to get our latest fix of top-quality (or low-quality) content, from new prestige TV shows to the latest movies. To get access to the best services, though, you might want a simple and affordable streaming stick, since so many TVs have rubbish built-in software.
For a long time, Roku has offered some of the best streaming hardware in the business, and its options range from premium to super affordable. That last label is perfect for the Roku Express, which is on special on Amazon right now with a deal taking it down to just £29.99 thanks to a 17% reduction.
That means for less than £30 you get a great little streaming device that has access to all the best apps and services, with a handy remote and the ability to stream HD content straight to your display of choice. It also works with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant. It's got a great reputation, too, attracting a four-star review from tech site ExpertReviews, and sitting with the proud label of "Best Cheap Roku device" from the knowledgeable team at Tom's Hardware.
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It's not just the experts, either - customers have left over 17,500 ratings on its Amazon page and come to an average of 4.6 stars, which is really impressive at that volume. Some of these reviews are really praising, too.
One person wrote: "I got the Roku Express last week and I'm really pleased with it. It's for a slightly older TV (non-smart, 1080p) and we don't care at all about 4K, voice search, Alexa integration or other features bundled with most streaming devices. The Roku Express is the perfect solution to add streaming functionality to an older TV, especially if you don't want any other features."
That's an ideal summary, but others were more brief, like this user who said: "Easy to use, cheap, easy to set up. Nice remote. Nothing not to like here…"
A third user wrote: " The device was simple and instinctive to set up. The remote control unit is compact and well-made. It is easy to use and it has a good battery life. The user interface is attractive and instinctive to use. Setting up my favourite channels was a cinch. Highly recommended."
There are some people with critical notes, with some struggling with the remote. Another review mentioned: "Personally I think the control handset could be cleaner and easier to use the instructions are non-existent".
Of course, you could also opt for a bunch of other streaming sticks, with Amazon's own Fire TV Stick Lite offering a similarly affordable option at £34.99 and with the bonus of an Alexa-enabled remote. Another option is the Chromecast with Google TV's HD version for £34.99, which makes using Chromecast a doddle if you're a fan of casting from other devices.
Neither is quite as cheap as the Roku Express, though, making it a pretty superb option for HD streaming if you're in the market for a simple device. This deal won't last forever, either, so don't hang around if you're potentially interested!
