The world of streaming continues to expand at lightning speed. More services launch every month, and the ways we can access all that great content are also multiplying. Two of the most popular streaming devices on the market are the Roku Express 4K+ and the Chromecast with Google TV. These affordable and compact gadgets plug into your TV and provide access to a huge library of shows, movies, live TV and more.
But which one is right for you? Let‘s dive into a detailed comparison of the Roku 4K+ vs the Chromecast Google TV to help you decide.
At a Glance: How the Roku 4K+ and Google TV Chromecast Compare
Before we analyze all the nitty gritty details, here‘s a high-level overview of how these streamers stack up:
Roku Express 4K+
- Price: $39 MSRP ($29 common sale price)
- Video quality: Up to 4K
- Apps/channels: Over 20,000
- Voice assistant: Roku voice commands
- Pros: Very affordable, excellent app support, easy to use interface
- Cons: Less advanced software features, no major voice assistant integration
Chromecast with Google TV
- Price: $29 (1080p) or $49 (4K)
- Video quality: Up to 4K
- Apps/channels: Over 10,000
- Voice assistant: Google Assistant integration
- Pros: Great software and recommendations, feature-packed remote, Dolby Vision HDR support
- Cons: Slightly more expensive, smaller content library than Roku
Both streamers offer excellent value and performance for their low prices. But the Chromecast Google TV pulls ahead in areas like software, voice control and high-end video format support. Keep reading for more details.
Pricing and Value Comparison
Let‘s start with the all-important question: how much do these streamers cost?
The Roku Express 4K+ retails for $39. But it frequently goes on sale for $29 at major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Given its excellent streaming capabilities, $29 is an incredible value.
The Chromecast Google TV comes in two variants. The 1080p model costs $29, while the 4K model costs $49. Unlike the Roku, Google‘s streamer rarely goes on promo. The 4K version has only been discounted to $39 once in the past year.
Considering their standard retail prices, the Roku device is cheaper. But given the frequent $29 sale price, both streamers can be purchased for very reasonable, budget-friendly amounts. The Chromecast does give you more advanced features for that extra $10-$20. So it may be worth spending a bit more.
Winner: Tie – both deliver fabulous value. But Roku is cheaper when discounted.
Video and Audio Support Comparison
A streaming device means nothing without excellent video quality. Here‘s how the Roku 4K+ and Chromecast Google TV compare:
The Roku Express 4K+ lives up to its name by supporting crystal clear 4K video along with HDR color and contrast. This allows stunning picture quality when watching 4K HDR movies and shows. Audio support covers everything from Dolby Atmos surround sound down to basic stereo.
The Chromecast Google TV matches the Roku‘s 4K and HDR capabilities. But it adds support for advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision. This expanded high dynamic range format delivers even bolder colors and better contrast. If your TV supports it, Dolby Vision can provide a slight video upgrade over the Roku device.
On the audio side, the Chromecast Google TV also supports modern sound formats like Dolby Atmos for an immersive listening experience.
Winner: Chromecast Google TV – while both are fantastic, Google‘s streamer offers advanced video formats and technically leading picture performance.
Design and Hardware Comparison
In terms of physical design, both streaming gadgets take up very little space and blend easily into your entertainment center:
The Roku 4K+ measures just 3.4 x 1.5 x 0.8 inches. It connects to your TV‘s HDMI port and sits neatly out of sight. The included voice remote uses IR and Wi-Fi Direct to control your TV‘s volume and power. A Micro USB port provides power.
Chromecast Google TV has an even smaller footprint at just 6.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches thin. It also plugs directly into HDMI. The remote connects via Bluetooth and IR. And the Chromecast relies on USB-C for power – allowing faster charging.
While compact and inconspicuous, the Chromecast Google TV remote sets this streamer apart. Its polished design and colorful buttons make navigating menus enjoyable. The dedicated Google Assistant button also makes voice commands a breeze. Roku‘s remote feels dated and utilitarian by comparison.
Winner: Chromecast Google TV – while both devices themselves lack visual flair, Google‘s superior remote design gives it an edge.
Interface, Ease of Use and Features Comparison
Of course, a streaming device‘s software interface and features are just as crucial as its hardware design. Here is how Google TV and Roku stack up:
The Roku OS provides a simple home screen with big icons for accessing different apps and inputs. The vertical main menu offers quick access settings and features. It‘s very straightforward and easy to learn. But the interface definitely feels dated compared to slicker modern platforms.
Google TV provides a far more polished interface. Richly designed screens dynamically highlight different movies, shows, apps and recommendations. Everything looks visually stunning. Extensive preferences for customizing the home screen to your interests are available too. And quick access tabs on top make navigating a breeze.
Both systems offer thousands of apps (20,000+ for Roku and 10,000+ for Google). But Google TV really excels at surfacing personalized, relevant content suggestions from across different services. Its watchlist and keep track of movies feature beats anything Roku currently provides too.
Winner: Chromecast Google TV – while Roku still holds the edge in sheer channel quantity, Google TV‘s gorgeous design and smart software give it the victory here.
Voice Control and Smart Home Integration Comparison
With built-in microphones, both these streamers provide various forms voice control – a major benefit for hands-free navigation. But they take quite different approaches.
The Roku 4K+ remote has a mic button for accessing Roku voice commands. You can launch apps, search for content or control playback. It works well enough but lacks capabilities beyond basic streaming functions. Roku devices offer very limited smart home integration too.
Thanks to native Google Assistant support, voice control on the Chromecast Google TV is far more advanced. You can search across services, get recommendations, check the weather, control smart home devices and more. Chromecast Google TV also directly integrates with Google smart speakers for powerful hands-free voice navigation.
Winner: Chromecast Google TV – Google Assistant crushes Roku‘s voice features with vastly wider capabilities and smart home synergies.
Which Offers Better Overall Value for Your Money?
Both the Roku Express 4K+ and Chromecast Google TV pack excellent streaming functionality into compact, affordable packages. But is one a better purchase overall?
For those seeking the cheapest 4K HDR streaming on a tight budget, Roku remains tough to beat. When discounted to $29, its smooth interface, huge app library and reliable performance are fabulous for the price. Easy usability for less tech-savvy users is a bonus too.
However, the Chromecast Google TV adds more advanced features that make it arguably worth spending a bit extra. Dolby Vision HDR delivers superior picture quality. Google Assistant integration and personalized recommendations provide a smarter, more tailored experience overall. And quick access playback controls right on the remote are great.
If you want better software, voice commands and video format support, I suggest spending up for the $49 Chromecast Google TV. But if low cost is paramount, the $29 Roku on sale can‘t be matched. Both are truly excellent streamers that will capably meet most buyers’ needs.
The Bottom Line
When comparing the Roku Express 4K+ and the Chromecast Google TV, Google‘s streamer has a slight edge in many areas. But Roku still holds its own with a simpler interface, wider app selection and bargain pricing when discounted. Ultimately, your choice comes down to:
Budget – Are you comfortable spending more for extras like Dolby Vision and a smarter platform? Roku wins on pure value but frequently costs $10+ less.
Ease of use – Do you want basic plug-and-play simplicity? Roku may suit you better.
Newer features – Do you care about elements like voice control, personalized recommendations and advanced HDR? Go with the Chromecast Google TV.
Whichever gadget fits your streaming priorities, you really can‘t go wrong. Both the Roku 4K+ and Chromecast Google TV deliver excellent streaming at reasonable prices. Your favorite shows and movies await!
