Using tech can be one HUGE challenge for the elderly, especially with something new and innovative coming out every day.
Entertainment – mainly TV is a big problem for seniors, especially with devices like Roku and Fire-stick which turn your TV into a smart one.
If your elderly parents or grandparents couldn’t handle the TV when it was just a regular old TV, you might think they sure as hell will not be able to handle a smart TV with streaming services and multiple options to choose from.
But you will be surprised to know that both Roku and Fire Stick can be used by the elderly with a bit of practice.
But which one of the two is the easiest for the elderly?
Find out in this comprehensive Roku vs Firestick for elderly comparison.
Roku vs. Firestick for the Elderly (Comparison Table)
| Feature/Criteria | Roku | Firestick |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Simpler interface with less clutter. Straightforward options. Easier for the elderly to navigate. | Bold and colorful design. Cluttered with many images and icons. Might be difficult for the elderly to navigate. |
| Remote | Feels like a normal TV remote. Shorter and has a distinct click feel. | Thinner with a minimalistic design. Easier to hold, especially for those with arthritis. |
| Voice Command | Supports voice commands. Connects to Alexa and Google Assistant. Some models allow hands-free commands. | Supports voice commands. Connects mainly to Alexa. Some models allow hands-free commands. |
| Variety of Content | Vast content variety. 350 completely free channels. | Also has a vast content variety. 380 channels, but some are paid |
| Prices | Roku Streaming Stick 4K: $50 Range: $30 to $130 | Fire TV Stick 4K: $50 Range: $30 to $140 |
| Customer Support | Better reputation for quick and efficient support. | More inconsistent support. Active user forum for peer assistance. |
This table provides a brief overview of the comparisons between Roku and Firestick. You can find more detailed explanation below
User Interface
First, let’s talk about the interface – which can be different on both Roku and Firestick, with Roku coming on top in terms of simplicity.
You will find that Roku has a simpler interface compared to Firestick, with way less clutter and straightforward options.
The elderly in your family can very easily select and change between the titles, and options in the Roku interface because they can easily see what’s on the screen.
Firestick, however, has a different type of interface – one that is much more bold and colorful but has a lot of images, icons, and a CLUTTERED design that can be difficult for the elderly to navigate.
There’s a lot that can distract them and that can make using the Firestick’s streaming services a problem for someone of age.
Remote
Roku and Firestick remotes have slightly different layouts and features with the navigation buttons being the main difference.
If your loved ones are used to normal TV remotes, the Roku remote would feel familiar.
Plus, it’s shorter and has that normal remote distinct click feel too.
The Firestick remote is a lot thinner and has a minimalistic design which can be confusing for some elders.
However, the remote is easier to hold, especially if the senior suffers from arthritis.
Voice Command
Voice commands can make operating the TV a lot easier for seniors and both the Fire Stick and Roku support voice commands.
Plus, they can connect to Alexa as well. Roku can also connect to Google Assistant.
However, you must keep in mind that this entirely depends on the model of the remote, because certain Roku and Firestick remotes do NOT have the voice command function.
So make sure you know which model you are buying.
All Roku voice remotes, and the mobile app will let you push buttons using your voice, but remotes like Roku Voice Remote Pro will let you make completely hands-free commands.
It’s the same with Firestick Voice Remote Pro which comes with FireTV stick 4K Max – which also connects to Alexa and allows you to make hands-free voice commands.
So both remotes are pretty on par when it comes to voice control settings.
However, you must also know that voice command isn’t always the best option for the elderly because sometimes their voices can NOT be understood properly by the devices due to various speech problems they can have with old age.
Variety Of Content
Both Roku and Firestick have a huge variety of content you can select from.
From a ton of streaming apps showing your favorite shows to the usual channels – local ones, news channels, and live TV that the elderly in your family are used to and will love.
You will however find that Roku has a lot more content than Firestick, with 350 channels that are COMPLETELY FREE, with no streaming charges for any of them.
But this doesn’t mean Firestick is LACKING in that department. They have 380 channels but some of these are paid.
Prices
When it comes to Roku vs Firestick for elderly, price becomes an important factor to consider.
Especially since the elderly will have multiple expenses to think about – and the CHEAPER the BETTER when it comes to additional expenses like entertainment.
If you are considering the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Fire TV Stick 4K, they go for an equal price of $50.
But there is a range of prices for Roku and Firestick models, the former ranging from $30 to $130 and the latter from $30 to $140.
Either way, it is obvious that they have pretty similar prices. If you want even more of a price reduction, you can actually wait for the holiday season when discounts and sales pop up, bringing these prices down further!
However, keep in mind that these prices do not include any fees charged by streaming apps like Netflix or Hulu. They have separate monthly charges.
Customer Support
Both services offer customer support but Roku has a better reputation for good and quick customer support.
Unfortunately, Amazon’s support might be more hit or miss. But they do have a very active support forum with users helping each other out if the staff fails to answer.
Is Roku Better Than Firestick For Seniors?
Despite the price points being similar, when it comes to ease of use, customer support, and free content, Roku stands above Firestick.
However, that does NOT mean that Firestick is terrible for the elderly.
If you are willing to pay a little more in terms of subscriptions and have a fast and efficient streaming service, Firestick will most definitely deliver.
Anyway, it all depends on what they are used to, and what channels and programs your elderly parents and grandparents like to watch.
