Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Score: 76/100
Google Chromecast with Google TV
Score: 73/100Rankings
Roku's Streaming Stick 4K offers true 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and long-range Wi-Fi in a tiny dongle, plus extensive smart-home compatibility. It lacks Ethernet and has only 1 GB RAM, which may affect heavy app use. Perfect for users seeking a simple, reliable 4K streamer with broad ecosystem support.
The Chromecast with Google TV (4K) is a compact streaming stick delivering 4K UHD video with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos audio. Its modest 8 GB storage and 2 GB RAM can limit multitasking, and it requires an external power source and optional Ethernet adapter. Ideal for users entrenched in the Google ecosystem seeking easy voice-controlled streaming.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 2 GBbest | |
— | 8 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 3.5 Wbest | 7.5 W |
| ↓ lower better | 28.35 gbest | 55 g |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
RAM (GB) | 1 GB | 2 GB |
Ports(1) | ||
HDMI Version | 2.0b | HDMI 2.0 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac | Wi‑Fi 5 |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Digital stereo over HDMI, DTS Digital Surround passthrough, Dolby‑encoded audio passthrough | Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice Remote | Voice remote with Google Assistant |
Power(1) | ||
Power Consumption (W) | 3.5 W | 7.5 W |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 28.35 g | 55 g |
Dimensions (W×H×D) (mm) | 20x48x11 mm mm | 162×61×12.5 mm mm |
Display(2) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 3840x2160 | 4K UHD |
HDR Formats Supported | Dolby Vision, HDR10/10+, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Roku Streaming Stick 4K for its snappy performance, fast quad-core processor, and excellent picture quality with full HDR and Dolby Vision support. The device's discreet size and robust smart-home integration are also highlighted, positioning it as Roku's top-of-the-line streaming stick.
Everyday users give the stick high marks, repeatedly noting the sharp 4K picture, smooth streaming experience, and the convenience of the voice remote with TV power and volume controls. The long-range Wi-Fi is frequently mentioned as a benefit in larger homes.
Pick Chromecast for richer specs and Google integration; pick Roku for a minimalist UI and ease of use.
Professional reviewers commend the Chromecast with Google TV for its game-changing voice remote, excellent 4K HDR performance with Dolby Vision, and intuitive Android TV interface that organizes content efficiently. They also note its strong integration with Google services, support for Stadia, and overall upgrade over earlier models, while calling out modest storage, limited RAM, and the need for external power and Ethernet adapters as drawbacks.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the device's straightforward setup, sharp 4K streaming, and the convenience of the voice remote, emphasizing how well it fits into the Google ecosystem. Common criticisms focus on occasional Wi-Fi drops, the small 8 GB storage that fills quickly, and the need to replace remote batteries regularly.
