As long you have Netflix Premium(UHD) subscription with Atmos supported device/AVR, you are good to go.
With VPN you can 'access' bigger catalog if you connect to US server but do note Netflix app is getting 'smart' in blocking VPN.

Device with Netflix Atmos support:
Chromecast with Google TV(Dolby Vision)
Firestick(Dolby Vision)
TiVo 4K(Dolby Vision)
Mecool KM2/KD2
Nvidia Shield TV(Dolby Vision)
Xiaomi Stick 4K(Dolby Vision and AV1)

Oh..all those device can do local playback with Atmos(DD+) while Shield TV also support TrueHD, AI Upscaling and frame rate matching for local playback in case you are interested in this feature.

If you are planning to use USB for local playback then you'll need to use USB hub on some of the device. Meanwhile for Apple TV 4K the media files need to be stream from other source on the network because there's no USB port.

p/s: updated device list on previous post..

IMO, I don't think the high cost is due to gaming because it is basically just streaming gameplay from other gaming system remotely which is something that other device is capable to do it now.
The high cost is probably due to own SoC development, support(7 years & counting), features, licensing fee and etc..

No, i've never used Roku device before. Do note that Roku device is not officially available in Asia and the app availability on their app store for Asia or local streaming provide app that is not available in US is zero. Afaik, you can still stream US content using VPN and US based account.

"..as it seems the most Budget and Powerful the same time.."
This statement is only applicable if comparing among other Roku devices.

I don't use Mecool KM2.
Mecool KM2 runs on Android TV and able to use in Malaysia. The box support HDR10 with passthrough Atmos(DD+) and has usb ports. Looks like it is suitable for your usage and good replacement for your laptop unless there's specific feature that you use on your laptop for media playback.