In the era of Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube TV, it‘s no surprise that streaming devices have become a household staple. According to research from Leichtman Research Group, 87% of U.S. households now subscribe to at least one streaming video service as of 2022. The streaming device market is also booming, with global revenue projected to reach $932.29 billion by 2028.
Two of the biggest players in the streaming hardware space are Roku and Amazon Fire TV. As of Q4 2022, Roku reported 70.2 million active accounts, while Amazon boasted over 50 million Fire TV users worldwide. Other popular options include Apple TV and Google Chromecast devices.
With so many streaming devices to choose from, consumers are often left wondering where to find the best deals and selection. Costco, known for its bulk savings and exclusive member offerings, is a go-to destination for many bargain hunters in the market for a new gadget. But does the wholesale retailer actually stock streaming devices like Rokus, Fire Sticks, Apple TVs, and Chromecasts?
As an avid streamer and Costco shopper myself, I dove deep into the retailer‘s in-store and online inventory to get to the bottom of its streaming device selection. I also spoke with Costco electronics department managers and analyzed competitors‘ offerings to help you make the smartest buying decision. Here‘s what I found.
Roku Rules at Costco (For Now)
When it comes to streaming devices, Roku is the clear star of Costco‘s current lineup. A recent visit to my local Costco warehouse revealed the Roku Ultra LT as the only streaming device in stock. Priced at $79.99, this 4K/HDR player is one of Roku‘s most powerful and feature-packed offerings.
Key features of the Roku Ultra LT include:
- Dolby Vision/HDR10/HDR10+ support
- Ethernet, Bluetooth, and dual-band WiFi connectivity
- Lost remote finder
- Voice remote with headphone jack for private listening
- MicroSD card slot for expanded channel storage
- Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support
At $79.99, Costco‘s price for the Ultra LT is a steal compared to other major retailers. The device normally retails for $99.99 at stores like Best Buy and Target. It‘s worth noting that the "LT" variant is a Costco-exclusive model that includes a premium JBL headphone ($30 value) for private listening.
I purchased the Roku Ultra LT during my Costco visit and have been thoroughly impressed with its performance so far. The device is snappy and responsive, with no lag or buffering even when streaming 4K Dolby Vision content. Setup was a breeze using the included voice remote, and the private listening feature with JBL earbuds is a game-changer for late-night binge sessions.
If you‘re in the market for a premium streaming device, the Roku Ultra LT at Costco is an excellent value that‘s tough to beat. Unfortunately, Costco‘s streaming device selection seems to start and end with this lone Roku model.
According to a Costco electronics supervisor I spoke to, the retailer has carried other Roku devices like the Express and Streaming Stick+ in the past. However, they tend to be seasonal or limited-time offerings that sell out quickly. Your mileage may vary depending on your location, but currently the Ultra LT appears to be the only consistently stocked Roku device available at Costco nationwide.
Missing In Action: Fire TV and Chromecast Devices
If you‘re a Fire TV fan, I have some bad news: Costco is a no-go for Amazon‘s streaming devices. The retailer currently does not sell any Fire TV Sticks, Cubes, or set-top boxes either online or in-stores. The same goes for Google‘s popular Chromecast dongles.
Costco‘s aversion to Amazon and Google‘s streaming hardware likely boils down to competition. As the fourth-largest retailer in the world, Amazon has long been a thorn in the side of membership-based wholesale clubs like Costco. By not stocking Fire TV devices, Costco avoids funneling sales to one of its biggest rivals in the e-commerce space.
On the Google front, Costco has an increasingly acrimonious relationship with the tech giant stemming from privacy disputes over customer data sharing. With legal battles brewing between the two companies, Costco may be hesitant to stock Google-branded streaming devices.
Additionally, Costco and other brick-and-mortar retailers have complained about Amazon‘s practice of giving physical stores limited stock of popular items like the Fire Stick. This can lead to frustrated customers and lost sales for Costco.
Where Else to Buy Amazon and Google Streamers
If you‘re committed to Team Fire TV or Team Chromecast, fear not – you still have plenty of options for snagging your preferred streaming device. Amazon‘s website is unsurprisingly the best place to shop for all things Fire TV, with guaranteed availability of the latest models. You can also find Fire TV Edition Smart TVs with built-in streaming exclusively at Amazon and Best Buy.
For Chromecasts, your best bet is the Google Store, Best Buy, Walmart, or Target. These retailers reliably stock Google‘s budget-friendly streaming dongles both in-stores and online. Don‘t expect to see any Costco-exclusive deals or bundles on Fire TV or Chromecast devices though.
Costco‘s Apple TV Offerings
Outside of the Roku Ultra LT, Costco‘s streaming device selection is rounded out by the Apple TV 4K. This premium set-top box seamlessly integrates with Apple‘s ecosystem of services like TV+, Fitness+, Apple Music, and iCloud. It‘s a favorite among iPhone and iPad users for its slick interface, Dolby Atmos sound, and best-in-class screencasting with AirPlay 2.
Costco currently sells the latest Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) with prices starting at $169.99 for the 32GB model. Stepping up to the 64GB version will run you $189.99. That‘s the standard retail price you‘ll find at other authorized Apple dealers, so don‘t expect any special Costco price cuts here.
Still, the Apple TV 4K is a top-notch streaming device for those willing to pay a premium, and it‘s convenient to pick one up during your Costco run. Just keep in mind that stock tends to be limited, so you may want to call your local warehouse to check availability before making a trip.
Smart TVs: The Ultimate Streaming Device
If you‘d rather not deal with a separate streaming box or stick, a Smart TV with built-in streaming apps is the way to go. Costco‘s TV selection is one of the best in the business, with a wide array of 4K models from top brands like LG, Sony, TCL, Samsung, and Vizio.
While you won‘t find any TVs with Amazon‘s Fire TV operating system at Costco, the retailer sells plenty of sets with built-in Roku, Google TV/Android TV, and other smart platforms. These systems bake all your favorite streaming apps right into the TV‘s interface, so you can access Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max and more with just your TV remote.
Some of Costco‘s best Smart TV deals include:
| Brand & Model | Size | Display Type | Smart Platform | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCL 5-Series | 55" | QLED | Roku | $499 |
| LG UQ9000 | 65" | LED | webOS | $699 |
| Sony X85K | 75" | LED | Google TV | $1,399 |
| Samsung QN90B | 85" | Neo QLED | Tizen | $3,999 |
Many of Costco‘s Smart TV offerings also come with exclusive perks for members. The retailer‘s Concierge Services program extends the manufacturer‘s warranty by 2 years on TVs and provides free technical support, delivery, and setup. It‘s a great value add that you simply won‘t find at other retailers.
Whether you opt for a streaming device or an all-in-one Smart TV, Costco‘s generous 90-day return policy has you covered. The retailer will accept returns on opened electronics within 90 days of purchase, giving you ample time to test out your new setup at home risk-free.
Maximize Your Costco Membership for Streaming Savings
If you‘re a frequent Costco shopper, you know the value of a club membership can extend far beyond bulk groceries and free samples. With a little strategy, your Costco membership can also help you save big on streaming devices and services.
One of the best perks for streaming fans is the Costco Anywhere Visa Card. This co-branded credit card earns 2% cash back on all Costco purchases (in-store and online), including streaming players and Smart TVs. For Executive Members, that reward rate jumps to a whopping 4% when combined with the annual 2% reward.
Let‘s say you purchased the 65" LG UQ9000 Smart TV for $699.99 with an Executive Membership and Anywhere Visa card. You‘d earn $28 in combined rewards – that‘s enough for 3 months of Hulu, 2 months of Netflix, or nearly 5 months of Apple TV+! Those savings can really add up over time, especially if you‘re a frequent streamer.
Your Costco membership can also unlock exclusive discounts on streaming services themselves. In the past, the retailer has offered special pricing on annual subscriptions to Disney+, Apple TV+, Discovery+, and Paramount+ for members. While these deals aren‘t always available, it pays to keep an eye on Costco‘s monthly coupon book and Instant Savings offers online.
Finally, don‘t forget about Costco‘s price adjustment policy. If you purchase a streaming device or Smart TV at Costco and the price drops within 30 days, you can request a refund for the difference. This gives you some extra peace of mind when investing in a big-ticket electronics item.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of streaming devices can be overwhelming, but Costco offers a straightforward selection for members. The Roku Ultra LT is hands-down the star of Costco‘s streaming hardware lineup, offering premium 4K/HDR performance and an exclusive JBL headphone bundle at an unbeatable price.
Beyond Roku, Costco also carries the popular Apple TV 4K streaming box, which is great for iPhone users and Apple fans. However, those in the market for an Amazon Fire TV or Google Chromecast device will need to shop elsewhere – Costco‘s contentious relationship with these tech giants means you won‘t find their streamers on warehouse shelves anytime soon.
As an alternative to standalone streaming devices, Costco‘s Smart TV selection is second to none. With a wide variety of sizes, price points, and smart TV platforms to choose from, there‘s something for every streamer‘s needs. Members can also take advantage of Costco‘s extended warranty, cash-back rewards, and exclusive streaming service discounts to save even more.
Whether you‘re a longtime cord-cutter or new to the world of streaming, Costco offers some compelling options for upgrading your setup. With its 90-day return policy and member perks, it‘s a low-risk, high-reward place to shop for all your streaming needs.
