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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThe Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a compact 4K player for TVs with an available HDMI input. It supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG, and its USB power cable includes a long-range Wi-Fi receiver. Its clearest trade-off is speed: PCWorld’s 2021 review found that the Roku Ultra launched apps a couple of seconds faster on average. Roku’s current U.S. direct price is $79.99, subject to change.
Is the Roku Streaming Stick 4K worth it?
It is a good fit if you want Roku’s streaming interface and 4K HDR support in a player that is easy to hide behind a television or take along when you travel. Roku describes it as its premium Streaming Stick with 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and a long-range Wi-Fi receiver on its product page.
PCWorld called the device “fast and fluid” in its 2021 review, while noting that the Roku Ultra launched apps a couple of seconds faster on average. That makes app-launch speed the main documented performance advantage of the larger player. The review is from 2021, so it should not be read as a current head-to-head speed test.
Roku’s U.S. commerce page lists the Streaming Stick 4K at $79.99; prices can change. Decide whether the small form factor and HDR format support matter more to you than the Ultra’s reported quicker app launches.
#1 Best Overall
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
What picture formats does it support?
The player outputs up to 2160p (4K) at 60 frames per second, and up to 1080p for HD. Supported HDR formats are Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG, according to Roku’s product details.
Format support does not guarantee that every show will play in every format. Dolby Vision or HDR10+ requires compatible support across the television, HDMI connection and the app or content being watched. A compatible TV must also support HDCP 2.2 for 4K/HDR playback.
Rank #2
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
What TV and connection do you need?
- HDMI: The stick connects to an HDMI input using HDMI 2.0b. Check that the TV has a free input.
- 4K and HDR: For 4K/HDR playback, use a compatible TV with HDCP 2.2. Dolby Vision and HDR10+ additionally depend on support from the TV, HDMI path and content or app.
- Power: The player is powered over USB. Keep the supplied USB power cable attached: it also contains the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Network: It uses 802.11ac dual-band MIMO Wi-Fi. Roku does not state a minimum internet speed in the cited product details.
How fast is the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
PCWorld’s 2021 review described everyday operation as “fast and fluid,” but reported that the Roku Ultra opened apps a couple of seconds faster on average. The review does not establish a current, controlled comparison or a precise time for every app, so treat this as a reported relative difference rather than a universal launch-time guarantee.
For a buyer choosing between the two Roku players, the evidence points to a straightforward trade-off: the stick is smaller and more portable; the Ultra has the review’s documented app-launch advantage.
Rank #3
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
Roku Streaming Stick 4K vs. Roku Ultra
| Consideration | Streaming Stick 4K | Roku Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| App launches | PCWorld called it “fast and fluid” in 2021; its review did not give a specific launch-time figure for the stick. | PCWorld reported apps launched a couple of seconds faster on average in its 2021 review. |
| HDR formats | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG, per Roku. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac dual-band MIMO, with a long-range receiver in the USB power cable, per Roku. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Size and portability | 3.7 × 0.80 × 0.45 inches and 0.90 ounces (26.0 g), per Roku; stick form makes it easy to hide or carry. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Remote and TV controls | Included voice remote controls Roku and, on most TVs, TV power, volume and mute. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Power and connection | Connects through HDMI 2.0b and receives USB power; its Wi-Fi receiver is in the power cable. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
| Current U.S. direct price | $79.99 on Roku’s U.S. commerce page; subject to change. | Not stated in the cited sources. |
The available sources do not establish differences between the two players in app availability or the Ultra’s full specifications, so those are not grounds for this comparison.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Remote, size and power details
The included voice remote controls the Roku player and can control TV power, volume and mute on most TVs. Roku lists the stick at 3.7 × 0.80 × 0.45 inches and 0.90 ounces (26.0 g). Its stated typical power consumption while streaming 4K UHD video is less than 3.5 W. These specifications are published on Roku’s product page.
Rank #4
- Hides behind your TV: The all-new design plugs right into your TV with a simple setup
- Super-fast startup: Start streaming channels like Disney+, Prime Video, HBO Max, Apple TV+, Netflix, Sling, and Hulu in a snap—just turn on your TV
- Long-range Wi-Fi: Enjoy fast, smooth TV streaming in any room with a strong Wi-Fi connection, now up to 2x faster
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku Streaming Stick with the Roku remote
- Voice search & control: Quickly search, play entertainment, and control your streaming device with the voice remote
Because the Wi-Fi receiver is built into the USB power cable, the cable is part of the device’s wireless setup, not just a power lead. Allow for the USB power connection when planning how to route or conceal the stick behind the TV.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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