Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Score: 74/100
Amazon Fire TV Cube
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Amazon Fire TV Cube is a hands-free 4K streaming box with a powerful octa-core CPU and full HDR/Dolby Atmos support. Its bulkier form factor, lack of gaming-focused features and occasional ad-laden UI are trade-offs. Ideal for Alexa-centric homes that value HDMI switching and high-speed Wi-Fi 6E.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K offers a compact, hideable form factor with long-range Wi-Fi and full 4K HDR support. Its lack of Ethernet and modest 1 GB RAM can lead to occasional lag and limit wired stability. Best suited for secondary or wall-mounted TVs where space is at a premium and wireless performance is sufficient.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 2 GBbest | |
4 GB | 16 GBbest | |
60 Hzbest | 60 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 3.5 Wbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 26 gbest | 513 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Processor | ARM Cortex A55 | Octa-core 2.0 GHz |
GPU | OpenGL ES 2.0 | ARM Mali G52-MP2 800 MHz |
RAM (GB) | 1 GB | 2 GB |
Storage(1) | ||
Internal Storage (GB) | 4 GB | 16 GB |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Roku OS | Fire OS 7 |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Digital stereo, DTS Digital Surround, Dolby-encoded audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Audio/MAT, DTS, DTS-HD, AAC-LC, AC3, eAC3, FLAC, MP3, PCM/Wave, Vorbis |
Ports(1) | ||
HDMI Version | 2.0b | 2.1 |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E |
Ethernet Port | false | true |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice remote with TV power, volume, mute buttons | Alexa Voice Remote |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 26 g | 513 g |
Dimensions (W×H×D) (mm) | 93.98×20.32×11.43 mm mm | 86×77×86 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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. Editors also commend the slim, hideable form factor and the voice remote with TV power and volume controls, calling it ideal for wall-mounted or secondary TVs. Minor criticisms focus on the lack of Ethernet and limited 1 GB RAM, which can cause occasional lag.
Everyday users consistently highlight the easy setup, sharp 4K picture quality, and reliable long-range Wi-Fi as top positives. The compact, hidden design and the abundance of free live channels are also frequently praised. Recurring complaints revolve around occasional interface slowdowns, the need to replace remote batteries often, and the absence of an Ethernet port for wired connections. Overall sentiment is positive, with most users finding the device meets daily streaming needs well.
“breathtaking upgrade for any TV”
Professional reviewers praise the Fire TV Cube for its powerful octa-core CPU, comprehensive HDR and Dolby Atmos support, and the unique hands-free Alexa with HDMI input that simplifies switching between streaming and live sources. However, they note the mediocre SDR upscaling, lack of gaming-focused features like VRR/ALLM, and a bulkier form factor compared to slimmer competitors.
Everyday users consistently highlight the convenience of hands-free Alexa, rapid app launches, and excellent 4K/Dolby Vision picture quality, while expressing frustration over intrusive ads, occasional voice-recognition hiccups, and sub-par upscaling of non-4K content.
