Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Score: 74/100
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select
Score: 78/100Rankings
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select offers a budget-friendly 4K experience with Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Alexa voice control. Its trade-offs include only 1 GB of RAM, Wi-Fi 5 connectivity and modest storage. Best suited for cost-conscious users who want solid 4K streaming without premium features.
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 GBbest | 1 GBbest | |
4 GB | 8 GBbest | |
60 Hzbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 3.5 Wbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 26 gbest | 42.5 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Processor | ARM Cortex A55 | MT8698 MCM quad-core 1.7 GHz |
Storage(1) | ||
Internal Storage (GB) | 4 GB | 8 GB |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Roku OS | Vega OS 1.1 |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Digital stereo, DTS Digital Surround, Dolby-encoded audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice remote with TV power, volume, mute buttons | Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 26 g | 42.5 g |
Dimensions (W×H×D) (mm) | 93.98×20.32×11.43 mm mm | 29.93×14.0×108.2 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”
“Fastest app launch for any in its price range... big, bright, crisp signal.”
“underfeatured... catch up with the times”
Pick Fire TV Stick 4K for more RAM and Amazon ecosystem; pick Roku for simplicity and better Wi-Fi range.
Roku is ideal for users who prioritize a neutral platform; the Fire TV Stick 4K Select is better for Amazon-centric households.
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.
