Roku Streaming Stick+
Score: 83/100
Google Chromecast
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Roku Streaming Stick+ is a compact HDMI stick that streams 4K @ 60 fps HDR10/10+/HLG with a long-range dual-band Wi-Fi and a voice remote with TV controls. It lacks an Ethernet port and Dolby Vision/Atmos support, which may deter power users. Perfect for users who want an easy, portable 4K streaming solution at a low price.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | 1.5 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 26 gbest | 55 g |
| ↓ lower better | 2.5 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 | Cortex-A53 | 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 |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Roku OS | Google TV (Android TV) |
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 4K | 1080p |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | IR with voice | Voice remote |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 26 g | 55 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 20x94x12 mm mm | 2.4×0.5×6.4 inches mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Stick+ for its sleek, plug-and-play form factor, strong long-range Wi-Fi, and solid 4K/HDR picture at a budget price, but they criticize the missing Dolby Vision/Atmos support and the lack of an Ethernet port, which limits its appeal for premium-audio or wired-network users.
Everyday users love the effortless setup, crisp 4K/HDR picture, responsive voice remote, and reliable Wi-Fi range, while recurring complaints focus on occasional overheating, short remote battery life, and intrusive interface ads.
“quick setup, intuitive interface, strong 4K/HDR picture quality”
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.
