Roku Streaming Stick 4K Review 2024

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K has finally arrived and brings some minor updates compared to its predecessor, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus. While the previous model that made its debut in 2017 went unmodified for about four years, the good people at Roku finally decided that it was time for a change and offered us this baby.

However, the difference between Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Plus are minimal at best. Sure, the updates involve adding Dolby Vision HDR support and a new quad-core processor that works at least 30% faster, we still think that there was a whole lot that could be done. We will explain everything in our excellent Roku Streaming Stick 4K review, so make sure you continue reading.

Unboxing Roku Streaming Stick 4K and First Impressions

Right off the bat, the box contains the Roku Stick 4K itself, a voice remote controller, a power adapter, and an extender cable. The extender cable is a good addition as depending on the design of your TV, you can rarely get the stick plugged in so it stays hidden in the back. A surprise addition were the two AAA batteries for the remote, which we rarely see added to the box.

The stick boasts a slick, black look and compared to the previous model has a a matte finish. Even though you might not ever see your stick again after plugging it into the back of the TV, it still feels good knowing they decided to update the design even though the tweaks were small.

The Micro-USB port is actually now set on the side of the device, which depending on the design of your TV could be troublesome to work around. Also, if you don’t want to use the power adapter, you can power your device straight from the TV by sticking it into the USB port.

But the real MVP is the voice remote. It fits your hand like it was made for it, with buttons that just make sense. Plus, it’s got those extra handy TV power and volume buttons, so you can juggle fewer remotes and still be the master of your media universe.

Compared to the regular Roku remote, this one comes with an always-listening Voice Remote Pro. While testing it out we noticed that it responds quickly to the voice commands it has been given. While it helps perform some of the basic functions, it still lacks the ability of Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Google’s Assistant.

Roku 4k Stick Specs

The biggest improvement under the hood for the Roku Streaming Stick is the included Quad-core CPU processor. It justifies what it has promised as it does help with the apps working faster. However, the biggest addition is the Dolby Vision inclusion. However, you will be sad to know that we will be missing out on the Roku Streaming Stick 4k Dolby Atmos features. If that becomes a turning point for you, devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and Chromecast with Google TV are viable alternatives. 

Roku 4k TV Stick Review – Setup & User Interface

Getting this stick up and running is as easy as pie. Pop it into your TV’s HDMI slot, hook it up to Wi-Fi, and boom—you’re in business. You have the option of powering it up with a power adapter or through the TV while being plugged in. However, this also means that the stick is turned off. If you want to skip the Roku boot-up animation every time you want to use it, you can leave it on standby.

Navigating the menu is a walk in the park. The interface remains the simplest among major streamers. This is one of Roku’s strengths and we are glad they are keeping it that way. The grid design is not only simple to navigate but also appealing to look at. If you prefer less clutter as opposed to thumbnail-heavy menus as seen on Fire TV and Google TV, Roku’s streaming stick will be the best possible choice for you.

More so, the voice control option helps, but make sure you use it for interface browning mostly. The improved Roku 10.5 operating system has done wonders for this feature. Even though it is not the same as the addition of AirPlay from last year, we do think that they have done more than we expected. The changes that we enjoyed are being able to dictate your password and including podcast and music results from Spotify voice searches.

Finally, all the streaming apps that the rivals have are also here, including Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Sling TV, and Apple TV Plus. Unfortunately, gamers are going to be disappointed that once again they skipped over Google Stadia and Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Roku 4k Streaming Stick Review – Performance & Streaming Quality

Roku Streaming Stick 4K works fast enough to deliver services like Netflix and YouTube at an adequate speed to you. It is mostly thanks to the 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10 plus, wrapping all the visuals in a nice little basket for us. However, when compared to rivals in the same price range like the Chromecast with Google TV, it still falls behind.

Roku’s Streaming Stick also lacks some audio standards, and we do refer to the Dolby Atmos sound technology. We actually rewatched some movies that support Dolby Atmos and saw the difference it brings to the table. Therefore, if you are that picky when it comes to quality, you might start to reconsider this streaming stick as your choice.

Gaming Experience

For casual gamers, this stick offers more than they will need. It’s a neat little gateway to a bunch of streaming-based gaming platforms, perfect for a quick gaming fix without the hassle of consoles and cables. However, if your gaming leans more toward epic battles and quests, you might find this stick inadequate. Don’t forget, this is not a gaming console, so its strengths aren’t really in gaming. It is not a cheap alternative for a console, but it will help you pass the dull hours with some simpler gaming choices.

Personal Experience

Our experience with the Roku Streaming Stick has been largely positive. The setup was straightforward, and the streaming quality was impressive. Voice control is a standout feature, making it convenient to search and play content. The range of apps and channels, including free TV options, is commendable.

Also, while the difference between Roku Streaming Stick 4k and 4k+ greatly goes in favor of the former, there are still other products in a similar price range that beat this product to the punch. Nevertheless, we still consider it a quality purchase that can help you want your favorite shows at a cut-cost price.

Comparison with Similar Products 

When compared to competitors like Amazon’s Fire Stick and Google Chromecast, the Roku Streaming Stick holds its own. Its user-friendly interface, superior streaming quality, and voice control functionality stand out. 

However, for users seeking more advanced gaming features, other devices might be more suitable. Also, if you are in need of the sound that Dolby Atmos, you are not going to be happy with this stick.

To see how the Roku Streaming Stick 4K compares with its Amazon counterpart in various aspects, including price and features, read our full comparison article: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max vs. Roku Streaming Stick 4K.

User Reviews and Feedback

To help us create the best possible Roku Streaming Stick 4K review, we also took a look at what other users think. It also helped us form our opinion in a more objective manner. Most users are happy about how it is easy to set up the device, the streaming quality, and the variety of apps that the device comes with.

However, they are not liking the issues with the remote, particularly the volume, and complain about the 4K limitations of the device. Nevertheless, overall, the majority of users like the ease of use and the friendly user interface, seeking the device as great value for money, which we agree with.

Pricing and Value for Money

Priced at $39.99, down from $49.99 (its often on discount), the Roku Streaming Stick 4K offers excellent value. It’s an affordable way to upgrade any TV into a smart TV with high-quality streaming capabilities.

Troubleshooting

Common issues like Wi-Fi connectivity or remote control problems can often be resolved by restarting the device or checking for software updates. Roku’s customer support also provides helpful resources for more complex issues. There was no need to do so on our part and we didn’t have to restart the device while checking it out. Nevertheless, if it happens to you, try a simple reboot before you decide to do anything else.

Final Verdict

The Roku Streaming Stick is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, high-quality streaming experience at an affordable price. You also cannot go but compare Roku Streaming Stick 4k and 4k+, and in our opinion, the 4k is the superior of the two. While it may not cater to advanced gaming needs, its ease of use, vast content selection, and superior streaming quality make it a top contender in its category.

So to answer the question is Roku 4k Streaming Stick worth it? The answer is a tentative Yes. Not if you are looking for a way to play games and not if you want a device with Dolby Atoms sound. As far as casual streaming capabilities, it will do its stuff.

Purchasing Information

The Roku Streaming Stick is available for purchase on Amazon. Keep an eye out for discounts, especially during sale seasons. The device comes with a standard warranty, and Roku offers supportive customer service for any post-purchase queries.

FAQs

For some final thoughts on the Roku Streaming Stick 4k, read the answer below.