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4K on a budget
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Pros
- Access to 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10+
- Alexa Voice Remote
- Intuitive design
Cons
- No Google Play apps
- Requires power adapter
- Complicated menu system
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is the brand's most powerful streaming media stick and is more affordable than most 4K streamers on the market. The Fire TV Stick 4K also features a simple and intuitive menu and a comprehensive voice experience via the Alexa Voice Remote.
Top tier streaming
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Pros
- Dolby Vision picture
- Voice remote with TV controls
- Long-range Wi-Fi
Cons
- No ethernet port
- No headphone jack on remote
- Doesn't work as seamlessly with Alexa/Google Home speakers
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the latest streaming stick from Roku and takes things to the next level, thanks to Dolby Vision picture compatibility. Its sleek design also hides easily behind your TV and is praised for its long-range Wi-Fi capabilities.
Both the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K offer high-quality streaming at an affordable price. Both devices also include a Voice Remote, which makes navigating both your television and streaming apps easier.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K vs. Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Prices and features
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K currently retails for $50, but often goes on sale, making it one of the most affordable 4K-compatible streaming devices on the market right now. Described as the most powerful streaming stick by Amazon, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K specifically supports streaming in 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10+. The device also comes with the Alexa Voice Remote, which allows you to use your voice to search and launch shows across downloaded apps and control the power and volume on your TV with a single remote.
| Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p Full HD | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| 4K Ultra HD | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Dolby Vision (HDR) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Storage | 8GB | 8GB |
| Memory | 1.5 GB | 1GB |
| Audio Support | Dolby Atmos | DTS Digital Surround |
| Size | 2.75 x 1.18 x .55 inches | 3.7 x 0.8 x 0.45 inches |
| Ports | HDMI output, micro-USB for power only | HDMI 2.0b, USB for Power & Long-range Wi-Fi receiver |
Meanwhile, the new Roku Streaming Stick 4K also retails for $50 and boasts many of the same features. In addition to streaming Dolby Vision picture and HDR10+, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the most powerful Roku streaming stick and features long-range Wi-Fi capabilities. Like the Alexa Voice Remote, the Roku Voice Remote eliminates the need for an extra TV remote. You can also download the Roku app to your mobile device for an elevated streaming experience.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K vs. Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Who should buy the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K?
As mentioned above, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is frequently marked down. It can be purchased for up to $15 less than the Roku Streaming Stick 4K when it is, making it by far the best option for viewers who want to watch high-resolution content on a budget.
Both devices are equally responsive with a strong internet connection, and both come with voice-enabled remotes that control your TV. However, the Amazon Fire TV Stick is a better choice for consumers already familiar with its interface and those who stream the bulk of their content using the Amazon Prime Video app. It's also worth pointing out that the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K works a bit more seamlessly with Alexa-enabled devices and Google Home speakers than its Roku counterpart.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K vs. Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Who should buy the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K features an interface and search function that tends to be a bit more straightforward than the Fire TV Stick 4K, making searching for content to watch a bit easier. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K may also be the better option for viewers who already own and are familiar with Roku devices, whether additional Roku streaming devices, Roku Wireless Speakers, or the Roku Streambar.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K also has the added perk of being compatible with the Roku app, which allows you to listen privately to the content streaming on your TV by listening via headphones connected to your mobile device. It should also be noted that while the Fire TV Stick 4K previously had the advantage of supporting Dolby Vision, that feature was added to Roku Streaming Stick 4K.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K vs. Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Which device should you buy?
When it comes to picking which streaming stick is the best device for you, it comes down to how much you're willing to pay for the 4K experience.
Both the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K provide the highest quality or streaming at an affordable price point, with options to cater your viewing experience to your particular tastes and preferences. However, it's more likely that you'll find the Amazon offering on sale.
With the latest version of both devices released this month, it's time to weigh your options, check your wallet, and take the streaming stick plunge.
4K on a budget
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Stream in 4K for under $50 right now
Starting at just $35, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K makes streaming high-quality picture super easy. The device is compatible with the most popular streaming apps and comes with the impressive Alexa Voice Remote.
Top tier streaming
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Roku's best streaming stick yet
Roku's most powerful streaming stick costs only $50 and offers the best picture possible. The Roku Voice remote also makes navigating apps and controlling your TV super easy.
