When comparing Roku vs Apple TV, the Slant community recommends Roku for most people. In the question“What are the best media centers?” Roku is ranked 2nd while Apple TV is ranked 3rd.
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Seamless Airplay support
The Apple TV works seamlessly with Airplay for streaming from Apple devices.
Pro Simple consistent UI
All apps need to conform to the Apple TV UI, meaning they all act similarly.
Cons
Con Easy to accidentally change channel
It's very easy to accidentally sit on the remote, and stop your video, or exit the channel. Apple Remote does not have this problem.
Con Frustrating & complex remote design
For some apps like YouTube, left and right switches videos. While left and right on Netflix will fastforward/rewind. Apple Remote is a better & simpler design, a direction pad & select button is all you need.
Con Not a hobbyist platform
It's next to impossible to alter the core of the Roku, like create custom notifications. While new channels can be made, existing ones can't be modified.
Con No built-in Chromecast
Unlike official Androidtv devices it has no Chromecast built-in.
Con Remote is very easy to lose
The remote is incredibly small and can easily fall between couch cushions.
Con Aged
Compared to newer internet TV options, the Apple TV is a lot less powerful, and has less capabilities, such as not supporting games or voice search.