TiVo Stream 4K
Score: 65/100
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Score: 74/100Rankings
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.
TiVo Stream 4K is an Android TV dongle that aggregates multiple streaming apps and live TV into a single 4K Dolby Vision interface with voice control. It suffers from an outdated Android 9 OS, modest 2 GB RAM and no wired Ethernet, which can affect performance. It works well for casual viewers seeking a unified streaming experience.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2 GBbest | 1 GB | |
8 GBbest | 4 GB | |
60 Hzbest | 60 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 5 W | 3.5 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | — | 26 gbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
Processor | Amlogic S905Y2 | ARM Cortex A55 |
GPU | Mali-G31 | OpenGL ES 2.0 |
RAM (GB) | 2 GB | 1 GB |
Storage(1) | ||
Internal Storage (GB) | 8 GB | 4 GB |
Power(1) | ||
Power Consumption (W) | 5 W | 3.5 W |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Android 9.0 | Roku OS |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | MPEG, AAC, HE‑AAC, OGG, OGA, FLAC, ALAC, Ape, M4A, RM, MPEG‑1/2 Layers I/II, Dolby Digital/Plus, Dolby Atmos, DTS, WMA, WMA Pro | Digital stereo, DTS Digital Surround, Dolby-encoded audio |
Ports(1) | ||
HDMI Version | 2.0a | 2.0b |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 5 |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | voice remote | Voice remote with TV power, volume, mute buttons |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Dimensions (W×H×D) (mm) | 53×16×77 mm mm | 93.98×20.32×11.43 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the TiVo Stream 4K for its content aggregation that simplifies browsing across multiple services and for delivering solid 4K Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos performance at a budget price. However, they criticize the modest Amlogic S905Y2 processor, the lack of Ethernet, and the outdated Android 9.0 operating system, noting these as trade-offs for the dongle's compact form factor.
Everyday users praise the device for its easy setup, responsive voice remote, and the "headache-free" unified recommendations that make managing multiple streaming accounts simple. Recurring complaints focus on the limited 8 GB internal storage, occasional app lag, the need for AAA batteries in the remote, and the absence of a wired Ethernet connection for more stable streaming.
“breathtaking upgrade for any TV”
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.
