In the world of smart streaming devices, the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) and Roku Ultra are two titans offering high performance, sleek design, and voice control features. But when it comes to integration with Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem, which device truly enhances your smart home experience in 2025?
In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore:
Smart home integration and automation
Voice assistant compatibility (Siri vs Roku Voice)
Streaming performance and content support
Privacy and data control
Value for money
Whether you’re setting up your first Apple Home or looking for a device that works well with your iPhone and Siri, this guide will help you decide which device fits your connected lifestyle.
HomeKit & Smart Home Integration
Apple TV 4K
Native HomeKit hub functionality
Supports automations and scenes in the Apple Home app
Can act as a Thread Border Router (for Matter devices)
Direct control via iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch
Roku Ultra
No native HomeKit support
Limited AirPlay 2 and HomeKit control via workaround (AirPlay + HomeBridge)
No support for Thread or advanced HomeKit automations
Verdict: Apple TV 4K is the clear winner for HomeKit and Apple ecosystem users.
Voice Assistant: Siri vs Roku Voice
Apple TV 4K
Full Siri voice assistant integration
Can be used to control other HomeKit devices (“Turn off the lights and start Netflix”)
Can trigger HomeKit scenes using voice
Roku Ultra
Includes Roku Voice Remote with basic voice command support
No Siri integration
Works with Alexa and Google Assistant externally, not natively with HomeKit
Verdict: Apple TV offers seamless Siri voice control with HomeKit commands.
Streaming Features & Content Access
Apple TV 4K
4K HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos
Premium interface (tvOS 17)
Apple Arcade, Fitness+, Apple Music
Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, YouTube
SharePlay, AirPlay 2, Apple One integration
Roku Ultra
4K HDR10+, Dolby Vision (on 2022+ models)
Strong app catalog with neutrality toward platforms
Apple TV app included
Voice remote with headphone jack (private listening)
Verdict: Apple TV offers richer integration for Apple users, Roku is excellent for broad content compatibility.
Privacy & Data
Apple TV 4K
Industry-leading privacy policy
No ad tracking across apps
Encrypted HomeKit data and private Siri processing
Roku Ultra
Tracks usage and displays ads on home screen
Roku collects data for ad-targeting unless disabled
Verdict: Apple TV is more privacy-focused, perfect for users wary of third-party tracking.
Value for Money
| Feature | Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) | Roku Ultra (2023 Model) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $129–$149 | $79–$99 |
| HomeKit Support | Full | Minimal (AirPlay only) |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Roku Voice |
| Ecosystem Fit | Apple Ecosystem | Multi-platform |
Verdict:
Choose Apple TV 4K if you’re in the Apple ecosystem and use HomeKit
Choose Roku Ultra if you want broad compatibility and lower cost
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?
If your home is already powered by Apple devices like iPhone, HomePod mini, and HomeKit lights or sensors, Apple TV 4K is the logical choice. It becomes a hub for all your automations and offers advanced features like Thread, secure video streaming, and native Siri control.
On the other hand, Roku Ultra still holds value for users who just want fast, affordable streaming with access to most apps. However, its HomeKit compatibility is limited and not ideal for automation-heavy homes.