Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Score: 70/100
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 Streaming Stick 4K offers 4K HDR video with Dolby Vision, long-range Wi-Fi and a hands-free voice remote, delivering a premium picture on a tiny form factor. Its drawbacks include the lack of an Ethernet port, limited RAM and non-expandable storage. Ideal for cord-cutters who need 4K streaming in rooms where Wi-Fi range is a concern.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 1.5 GBbest | |
4 GBbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 26 gbest | 55 g |
| ↓ lower better | 3.5 Wbest | — |
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 | 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 |
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 2160p | 1080p |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice remote with TV power, volume, mute (AAA batteries) | Voice remote |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 26 g | 55 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 3.7 x 0.8 x 0.45 inches mm | 2.4×0.5×6.4 inches 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.
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.
“breathtaking upgrade for any TV”
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.
