So if you are deciding between the LT and the XD, read the comparison below to determine which is the best choice for you. One important option that these two models share is that they include the option for composite video output. So, whether you want to connect your Roku to a newer TV with an HDMI cable, or you want to connect it to an older TV with the red, white and yellow plugs, both the XD and the LT can accommodate either option. As is indicated by the chart above, the Roku XD has a couple of features that the Roku LT does not, so read on below for a little explanation of what those features are.
Some Roku XD Advantages
The first thing you will notice about these two devices is the color difference. Some people like the bright purple color of the Roku LT, but others are worried about how it will clash in a neutral-colored room. Because of the more palette-friendly black color of the XD, its’ appearance can certainly be considered an advantage in its’ favor. The Roku XD also has an “instant replay” button on the remote control that lets you jump back a few seconds in your video, which the Roku LT does not have. Additionally, the Roku XD is able to play 1080p content. While 720p content is still technically high-definition and will look great on your big-screen HDTV, many purchasers prefer the 1080p option on the XD, particularly if they are streaming their own HD content from a media server channel like Plex.
Some Roku LT Advantages
From a purely technical standpoint, the Roku LT doesn’t have any advantages over the XD. Both perform similarly, but the XD is able to outperform the LT in video resolution.
Conclusion
This decision will factor largely on how important 1080p content is to you, and whether that upgrade is worth the price increase from the cheaper Roku LT to the more expensive XD. Most of the popular video streaming services typically deliver content at 720p resolution, which is still high-definition, and the majority of people cannot tell the difference between 720p and 1080p. If you are someone that is just happy with HD content and doesn’t require the increased 1080p resolution, then there is little to gain in going from the LT to the XD. As mentioned previously, the Roku LT is purple. If you are concerned about how that will contrast with the room in which the Roku is being installed, then the solid black color of the Roku XD, coupled with the ability to output higher resolution, would make that the best choice for you. But, for the majority of Roku shoppers, the Roku LT is the more reasonable and cost effective choice. We have also written some other Roku comparison articles that you can check out below. Roku LT vs. Roku HD Roku XD vs. Roku 3 Which Roku is right for me? After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites. His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well. Read his full bio here.
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