The Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Streaming Stick 4K+ are two popular options in Roku's lineup — but which one is ultimately worth buying? Buying a smart streaming device is one that comes with a lot of decisions to make. Roku has plenty of options to choose from, but so do Amazon, Apple, Google, and others. There are various models available from each company, different specs/features to consider, and more.
As the nearly identical names imply, the Streaming Stick 4K and Streaming Stick 4K+ have more than a few things in common. Both gadgets have a quad-core processor for 30 percent faster performance over the old Streaming Stick+. An upgraded Wi-Fi chip also enables up to 2x faster wireless speeds compared to earlier models, allowing for smoother video and audio streaming. That streaming goes up to 4K UHD for both models, along with for Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Tying all of this together is an included remote that controls the Roku interface, TV power/volume, and s voice commands with the press of a button.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ Has One Key Advantage
The Streaming Stick 4K and Streaming Stick 4K+ are effectively the same devices. The one key difference lies in the remote that comes with the latter. Along with all the features outlined above, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ includes the Roku Voice Remote Pro. In addition to the remote features mentioned above, the Voice Remote Pro has a few extra goodies — one of which is a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening. Want to watch a show without disturbing other people in the house? Just plug in a pair of earbuds or headphones to the Voice Remote Pro and start watching.
Another key feature is for hands-free voice controls. Instead of having to press the voice button, s can say 'Hey Roku,' followed by their command for completely hands-free control of their TV. That hands-free functionality also enables the lost remote feature. If the remote happens to become lost, say 'Hey Roku, where's my remote?' to automatically trigger a loud audio cue from the remote's built-in speaker. Combine all of that with a rechargeable battery (the regular Streaming Stick 4K remote uses AAA batteries) and customizable shortcut buttons, and the Voice Remote Pro has quite a bit to offer.
Cost Of Roku Streaming Devices Compared
The Streaming Stick 4K retails for $49.99, whereas the Streaming Stick 4K+ kicks things up to $69.99. Given that the streaming stick itself is identical across both models, this really comes down to how much someone wants the Voice Remote Pro. If someone thinks they'd benefit from private listening, hands-free controls, and the lost remote functionality, spending an extra $20 for the Streaming Stick 4K+ is a good idea.
If none of those things matter, there's no harm in saving some cash by picking up the regular Streaming Stick 4K. It's just as fast, has the same upgraded Wi-Fi, and the 4K HDR content will look every bit as good. Not to mention, if someone buys the regular Streaming Stick 4K but finds themselves wishing they had the fancier remote, they can always buy the Voice Remote Pro on its own for $30. In other words, don't stress this one too much.
Roku’s lineup has expanded greatly over the years, and in 2023, buyers might want something a little more complex than the basic streaming stick. The company also offers the Roku Ultra streaming player, which features a compact, counter-top box design, for $99.99. The Ultra boasts greater Wi-Fi range plus the ability to plug into Ethernet, faster processing, and features like voice control and Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. If that isn’t enough, there’s also the Roku Streambar and beefier Roku Streambar Pro for 129.99 and 179.99, respectively. These two models level-up the experience by bringing 4K streaming plus a soundbar for immersive audio.