Roku Express 4K+
Score: 71/100
Google Chromecast
Score: 73/100Rankings
Google Chromecast (HD) provides a compact, lightweight solution for 1080p streaming with a Bluetooth voice remote and optional Ethernet support. Its 1.5 GB RAM and lack of 4K limit high-resolution content and multitasking. Perfect for budget-focused users with HD TVs.
The Roku Express 4K+ is a compact streaming dongle that offers solid 4K/HDR playback and a voice-controlled remote. Its main trade-offs are limited RAM/storage and the lack of an Ethernet port or premium HDR/audio formats. Ideal for budget-conscious users upgrading secondary rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 1.5 GBbest | |
16 GBbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 45.4 gbest | 55 g |
1 countbest | 1 countbest | |
60 Hzbest | — | |
1 yearsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
RAM (GB) | 1 GB | 1.5 GB |
Processor | ARM Cortex A55 quad-core | Amlogic S805X2 quad-core ARM Cortex-A35 1.8 GHz |
GPU | OpenGL ES 2.0 | Mali-G31 MP2 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | Wi‑Fi 5 | 802.11ac |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Roku OS | Google TV (Android TV) |
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 4K UHD | 1080p |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice remote with TV power, volume, mute controls | Voice remote |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 45.4 g | 55 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 21.1 x 40.6 x 76.2 mm mm | 2.4×0.5×6.4 inches mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Roku Express 4K+ for its brilliant 4K picture quality, smooth dual-band Wi-Fi streaming, and the convenience of a voice remote that also controls TV power and volume. They also appreciate the fast quad-core processor and broad smart-home integration, while noting the drawbacks of missing Ethernet, limited RAM/storage, and lack of Dolby Vision/Atmos support.
Everyday users praise the device's effortless setup, reliable 4K/HDR streaming, and the handy voice remote that consolidates TV controls. Common complaints revolve around occasional Wi-Fi buffering, limited internal storage, and the absence of an Ethernet port or premium HDR/audio formats.
Roku Express is ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and cost, while the HD Chromecast is better for those who want Google Assistant integration and a more capable processor.
Professional reviewers note that the HD model is positioned as a budget-friendly entry point to the Google TV ecosystem, offering sufficient performance for basic HD streaming but lacking the 4K support and higher-end hardware of its 4K sibling. Official listings emphasize its compact form factor, voice remote, and optional Ethernet as key differentiators for cost-conscious users.
