Fire TV Stick 4K vs. Roku Streaming Stick+: A Comparative Review
When it comes to streaming devices, two of the most popular options are Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K and Roku’s Streaming Stick+. Both devices are designed to bring high-quality streaming to your TV, but which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each device and compare their features, performance, and user experience to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
Both devices are compact and sleek, making them easy to place on your TV stand or hide behind your TV. The Fire TV Stick 4K has a slightly more minimalist design, with a rounded shape and a flat bottom that fits snugly into your HDMI port. The Roku Streaming Stick+, on the other hand, has a more angular design with a small remote control that doubles as a pointer.
Performance
The Fire TV Stick 4K is powered by a quad-core processor and 1.7GB of RAM, while the Roku Streaming Stick+ has a quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM. In terms of performance, both devices handle 4K streaming smoothly, but the Fire TV Stick 4K may have a slight edge when it comes to more demanding tasks like gaming.
Streaming Capabilities
Both devices support 4K streaming at 60fps, as well as HDR10 and HDR10+ for enhanced color and contrast. The Fire TV Stick 4K also supports Dolby Vision, while the Roku Streaming Stick+ supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+. When it comes to streaming services, both devices have access to the major players like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as more niche services like HBO Max and Disney+.
Voice Control
The Fire TV Stick 4K comes with Amazon’s Alexa built-in, allowing for seamless voice control and access to skills like Amazon Shopping and Audible. The Roku Streaming Stick+, on the other hand, does not have voice control capabilities out of the box, but can be controlled with the Roku remote or paired with a voice assistant like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Price
The Fire TV Stick 4K is priced at $50, while the Roku Streaming Stick+ is priced at $70. Considering the features and performance of each device, the Fire TV Stick 4K may be the better value.
Conclusion
Both the Fire TV Stick 4K and Roku Streaming Stick+ are excellent streaming devices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. If you’re deeply invested in the Amazon ecosystem and want a device with built-in voice control and access to Amazon’s services, the Fire TV Stick 4K may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a device with a more neutral platform and a wider range of streaming services, the Roku Streaming Stick+ may be the way to go.
Key Features:
Fire TV Stick 4K:
- 4K streaming at 60fps
- HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support
- Alexa voice control
- Access to Amazon’s services and skills
- Priced at $50
Roku Streaming Stick+:
- 4K streaming at 60fps
- HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support
- No voice control capabilities out of the box
- Access to a wide range of streaming services
- Priced at $70
Ultimately, the choice between the Fire TV Stick 4K and Roku Streaming Stick+ depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both devices are excellent options for streaming lovers, and we recommend considering the features and price before making a decision.