Which streaming boxes offer a 3.5mm headset jack?

Roku Ultra
Roku Ultra (Image credit: Android Central)

Best answer: If you want to use headphones for private watching, the Roku Ultra is going to be the best streaming box for you.

Amazon: Roku Ultra ($89)

Why this is the streaming box for you

Roku has offered 3.5mm headphone jacks on its streaming sticks and boxes for years, and it's still present on the latest Roku Ultra. If you've ever used another Roku streaming device — or a TV with Roku built-in — you'll immediately be at home with this remote. If not, it's super easy to learn how to use the remote and navigate the interface, and the 3.5mm headphone jack is easy to find on the side of the remote. There are earbuds included to get you started, but feel free to swap these out for your favorite headphones.

Almost every streaming service and digital store is available on Rokus, although iTunes isn't available, unfortunately. And if you're using this with a newer TV, know that it supports UHD and HDR playback.

Why you want a headphone jack with your streaming box

Having a headphone jack on your streaming box's remote may not seem like a huge deal, but it can really change how you consume content. For instance, if you have your streaming box in the bedroom, you can use headphones with the remote so you don't disrupt your partners' sleep.

Another reason is for more immersive audio. Surround systems are getting cheaper, but good headphones with stereo separation are even less expensive. With the Roku remote, you can plug in your nice headphones and feel like you're a part of the scene.

Why you may consider some upgrades

The Roku is great if you just need something for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime Video. But if you also want a box for games or playing DVDs and Blu Rays, it's worth spending a bit more money.

Tom Westrick
Latest in Roku
Roku Remote
Roku’s autoplay ads on startup are rubbing users the wrong way
Roku TV
The first Roku-built TVs are on the way as the company pushes for OLED
Roku Live TV Zone
Super Bowl Roku: how to watch Rams vs Bengals on NBC for free
Roku Live TV Zone
Roku introduces Live TV Zone for easy access to live programs and apps
Roku Ultra and remote
Best Roku devices 2025
Roku Nvidia Remotes
Android TV vs. Roku: Which smart TV platform is right for you?
Latest in News
The promotional image for Google Workspace feature drops.
The March Workspace feature drop upgrades Gemini's note-taking and translation tools
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge on display
New leak shows off Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge in 'Titanium' variants
YouTube Music home screen
YouTube Music's personalized radio stations are getting even smarter
The back of the Obsidian Google Pixel 9 Pro
Some Pixel owners had a delayed start, thanks to alarm clock failures
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Home Screen - 16x9
Heads up — Samsung's detailed One UI 7 rollout schedule for Galaxy appears
Screenshots showing the new Garmin Connect Plus subscription in action on mobile phones above the text "Connect+"
Garmin Connect+ subscription adds Active Intelligence, new workouts and coaching