Roku Express
Score: 67/100
Google TV Streamer 4K
Score: 81/100Rankings
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 Roku Express HD is an ultra-compact, entry-level streaming stick that delivers 1080p video and offers a massive library of free live channels. Its lack of HDR, single-band Wi-Fi and basic IR remote limit its appeal for power users. Ideal for budget-conscious households and secondary TVs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 31 gbest | 162 g |
— | 4 GBbest | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
— | 32 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.2 Wbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Display(2) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 1080p | 4K UHD |
HDR Support | false | true |
Ports(1) | ||
HDMI Version | HDMI 1.4b | HDMI 2.1 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11bgn | Wi‑Fi 5 |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS Digital Surround | Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | IR Simple Remote | Voice Remote |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 31 g | 162 g |
Dimensions (W×H×D) | 20×71×38 mm | 76.2×25.4×162.6 mm |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Roku OS | Android TV OS |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | Roku Express HD streaming stick, High‑speed HDMI cable, Micro‑USB power cable, IR remote with channel shortcut buttons, Quick start guide | Google TV Streamer device, Voice Remote (with 2 AAA batteries), Power adapter, Power cable (1.8 m), Quick Start Guide, Safety & warranty document |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Roku Express HD for its upgraded storage, fast app launches, and the clean, intuitive Roku OS that gives access to a massive channel lineup. They also note the device's tiny footprint and broad smart-home integration as strong points. However, they criticize the lack of HDR, occasional app lag, and the reliance on single-band Wi-Fi, which can hinder performance in busy network environments.
Everyday users praise the device for its plug-and-play simplicity, reliable 1080p streaming, and the huge library of free channels, especially for secondary or guest TVs. Recurring complaints focus on slower app loads, the absence of 4K/HDR, and the basic IR remote that requires line-of-sight, with some noting Wi-Fi buffering in crowded homes.
“perfect for new users yet powerful for pros”
“Seamless HD streaming for beginners, quick setup, vast free/premium content access, and reliability for casual viewing”
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.
