Rankings
The Google TV Streamer 4K is a compact dongle delivering smooth 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Atmos, backed by 4 GB RAM, 32 GB storage and Ethernet connectivity. Its Wi-Fi 5 radio, non-expandable storage and lack of an HDMI cable limit its appeal for power users. Ideal for Google-centric households seeking reliable 4K streaming and advanced smart-home features.
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select is an entry-level streaming stick delivering 4K Ultra HD with HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, powered by a quad-core processor and Alexa voice remote. Its limited 1 GB RAM and Wi-Fi 5 connectivity can cause occasional UI lag and restrict future-proofing. Ideal for budget-conscious users who want affordable 4K streaming with Amazon ecosystem integration.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a compact HDMI stick that brings 4K HDR and Dolby Vision to any TV, excelling with long-range Wi-Fi performance. Its main trade-offs are the lack of an Ethernet port and limited 1 GB RAM which can lead to occasional lag. Ideal for secondary or wall-mounted TVs where space is at a premium.
The Amazon Fire TV Stick HD provides Full HD 1080p streaming with HDR support and Alexa voice control at a low price point. It lacks 4K capability and has modest performance due to limited RAM and storage. Perfect for budget users with HD TVs who need basic streaming.
The Roku Streaming Stick HD 2025 is a compact HD streaming device with a voice remote, offering over 500 free channels and Bluetooth headphone support. It does not support 4K or HDR and has limited RAM and storage. Suitable for budget-focused viewers with HD TVs and limited space.
| Attribute | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 31.8 g | 60 g | 26 gbest | 162 g | 42.5 g |
1 GB | 0.51 GB | 1 GB | 4 GBbest | 1 GB | |
— | 1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | — | |
8 GB | 0.512 GB | 4 GB | 32 GBbest | 8 GB | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 3.5 Wbest | 3.5 Wbest | — | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Performance(2) | |||||
RAM (GB) | 1 GB | 0.51 GB | 1 GB | 4 GB | 1 GB |
Processor | Enhanced 1.7 GHz quad-core | ARM Cortex A55 | ARM Cortex A55 | — | MT8698 MCM quad-core 1.7 GHz |
Display(2) | |||||
Maximum Video Resolution | 1080p | 1080p | 3840x2160 | 4K UHD | 4K |
HDR Support | true | false | true | true | true |
Ports(1) | |||||
HDMI Version | — | 2.0 | HDMI 2.0b | HDMI 2.1 | — |
Connectivity(2) | |||||
Wi‑Fi Standard | Dual-band | Wi‑Fi 5 | Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi‑Fi 5 | Wi‑Fi 5 |
Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.0 | — | 5.1 | 5.0 |
Storage(1) | |||||
Internal Storage (GB) | 8 GB | 0.512 GB | 4 GB | 32 GB | 8 GB |
Audio(1) | |||||
Supported Audio Formats | — | — | Digital stereo, DTS Digital Surround, Dolby-encoded audio | Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
Controls(1) | |||||
Remote Type | Alexa Voice Remote | Roku Voice Remote | Voice remote with TV power, volume, mute buttons | Voice Remote | Alexa Voice Remote |
Build & Design(2) | |||||
Weight (g) | 31.8 g | 60 g | 26.0 g | 162 g | 42.5 g |
Dimensions (W×H×D) | 30.0 mm × 12.4 mm × 85.9 mm | 20.32 mm × 12.7 mm × 93.98 mm | 3.7 x 0.8 x 0.45 inches | 76.2×25.4×162.6 mm | 4 in × 1.5 in × 0.6 in |
Software(1) | |||||
Operating System | — | — | Roku OS | Android TV OS | Vega OS 1.1 |
Accessories(1) | |||||
Included Accessories | — | Roku Streaming Stick HD 2025 device, Voice Remote with TV power, volume and mute buttons, USB power cable for TV USB power | Streaming stick, Voice remote, Two AAA batteries, USB power cable, Power adapter | Google TV Streamer device, Voice Remote (with 2 AAA batteries), Power adapter, Power cable (1.8 m), Quick Start Guide, Safety & warranty document | Fire TV Stick 4K Select, Alexa Voice Remote, power cable/adapter, HDMI extender cable, 2 AAA batteries, Quick Start Guide |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the Fire TV Stick HD a solid, budget-friendly choice for anyone who only needs Full HD streaming. They note that while the hardware is modest-featuring a 1.7 GHz quad-core CPU, 1 GB RAM, and 8 GB storage-it still provides acceptable performance for everyday services like Netflix and Prime Video. However, critics point out that the specs lag behind modern Android TV boxes and that the device is more restrictive than higher-tier Fire TV models, limiting power-user flexibility.
Everyday users appreciate the low price, reliable HD playback on popular services, and the plug-and-play simplicity. Common praise centers on its value for casual viewers and stable performance with a good internet connection. Recurring complaints involve the lack of 4K support, limited storage and RAM for heavy multitasking, and fewer customization options compared with Android-based alternatives.
“in real usage, the performance is still acceptable for basic streaming”
“great choice for those seeking affordable Full HD streaming with simple setup”
“breathtaking upgrade for any TV”
Pick Fire TV Stick 4K for more RAM and Amazon ecosystem; pick Roku for simplicity and better Wi-Fi range.
Pick Google TV Streamer for richer Google services and wired connectivity; pick Roku for a simpler, budget-friendly streaming stick.
User feedback is sparse, but the few comments indicate interest in being able to download premium apps like HBO Max, while no major complaints or praise trends are evident.
Professional reviewers praise the Roku Streaming Stick 4K for its breathtaking 4K clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, noting the vibrant color pop and excellent upscaling. The long-range Wi-Fi receiver is highlighted as a key strength, delivering stable 4K streams even in challenging locations.
Everyday users consistently highlight the easy setup, sharp 4K picture quality, and reliable long-range Wi-Fi as top positives. Recurring complaints revolve around occasional interface slowdowns, the need to replace remote batteries often, and the absence of an Ethernet port for wired connections.
Professional reviewers commend the Google TV Streamer 4K for its fast 22 % improved processor, doubled RAM, and seamless 4K HDR performance with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. They appreciate the Ethernet port, ample 32 GB storage, and deep integration with the Google ecosystem, but criticize the lack of Wi-Fi 6 and insufficient graphics power for gaming, as well as the missing HDMI cable.
Everyday users praise the device for effortless 4K streaming, quick app navigation, strong Dolby Atmos audio, and the stability provided by the Ethernet connection. Common complaints focus on Wi-Fi 5 limitations for wireless 4K, the non-expandable 32 GB storage, the absence of an HDMI cable, and the device's inability to handle gaming workloads.
Professional hands-on reviewers commend the Fire TV Stick 4K Select for delivering the fastest app launches and a bright, crisp 4K picture at an affordable price, emphasizing its Dolby Vision/Atmos support and AI search. However, they criticize its outdated 1 GB RAM, Wi-Fi 5 radio and overall lack of premium features, labeling it under-featured compared to newer sticks.
Everyday users appreciate the smooth 4K streaming, quick app loading, Alexa voice control and the inclusion of free ad-supported TV and cloud gaming. Recurring complaints focus on occasional UI lag, limited storage/RAM and occasional incompatibility with certain apps, as well as the older Wi-Fi standard.
