Roku makes some of the most popular and affordable streaming devices on the market. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to figure out which model is right for you. Two of Roku‘s most popular budget-friendly 4K models are the Roku Streaming Stick 4K and the Roku Express 4K+.
While both offer easy access to thousands of streaming channels, 4K and HDR video quality, and Roku‘s excellent software, there are some notable differences in their design, features and performance. This comprehensive guide compares the Streaming Stick 4K and Express 4K+ across nine key categories, so you can determine the best Roku device for your needs and setup.
An Overview of Roku
Before diving into the nitty gritty details, let‘s take a quick look at Roku as a company. Roku was founded in 2002 in California by Anthony Wood, inventor of the digital video recorder (DVR). He wanted to make streaming internet video easy and affordable for everyone.
Roku launched its first streaming player in 2008, in partnership with Netflix. With its simple interface, universal search, and support for virtually every major streaming service, Roku quickly became a popular option for cord-cutters.
Today Roku has a full line-up of streaming players, Roku TVs, wireless speakers and more. The company continues to innovate, adding useful software features and support for the latest video technology standards across its product portfolio. Roku also offers The Roku Channel, an ad-supported streaming service featuring free TV shows, movies and more.
Now let‘s see two of Roku‘s latest and most affordable 4K streaming devices stack up…
Design and Visibility
The first difference is in the physical design of each device.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a small rounded stick that plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port. It is designed to hide away out of sight behind your TV. The stick has a receiver for the remote built-in.
The Roku Express 4K+ is a small square set top box, meant to sit near your TV. It connects to your TV‘s HDMI port via a short included cable. The Express 4K+ box must be placed somewhere visible to work with its infrared (IR) remote.
For most setups, the Streaming Stick‘s behind-the-TV design results in a cleaner look compared to the visible black box of the Express. However for wall-mounted TVs, the Express can conveniently sit on a shelf below.
Portability
Given its stick design and ability to directly plug into a TV‘s HDMI port, the Streaming Stick 4K is much more portable than the Express 4K+.
You can easily unplug the Streaming Stick and take it with you on vacation, allowing you to stream Roku channels from hotel TVs. The Express 4K+ relies an HDMI cable, so it is bound to wherever it is setup.
Hardware and Performance
Here is a spec comparison between the Streaming Stick 4K and Express 4K+ hardware:
| Spec | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | Roku Express 4K+ |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Quad-core | Dual-core |
| RAM | 1GB | 512MB |
| Storage | No built-in storage, channels stored in RAM | No built-in storage, channels stored in RAM |
| WiFi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac dual band MIMO | 802.11 b/g/n/ac dual band MIMO |
| HDMI Version | HDMI 2.0b | HDMI 2.0b |
| HDR | 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision | 4K HDR10 |
| Price | $49.99 | $39.99 |
With its quad-core processor and extra RAM, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K delivers snappier performance compared to the Express 4K+ when loading channels and switching between apps.
The Streaming Stick also supports Dolby Vision HDR in addition HDR10. Dolby Vision enables brighter colors and improved contrast on compatible 4K TVs. The Express 4K+ lacks Dolby Vision support.
Both Rokus can reliably stream 4K HDR content from services like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video and more. But the Streaming Stick 4K‘s extra performance headroom provides a better overall experience.
WiFi and Connectivity
On paper both models come equipped with dual-band wireless using MIMO technology for stronger WiFi connectivity.
However in real-world usage, the Streaming Stick 4K gets significantly better WiFi range. That‘s thanks to the included wireless receiver that plugs into a USB port on your TV or wall adapter.
If your WiFi router is in a different room from your TV, the Streaming Stick 4K does a much better job maintaining a reliable signal. The Express 4K+ may struggle or buffer due to spotty connectivity.
The Express 4K+ does add one useful option lacking on the Streaming Stick – an Ethernet port for wired internet connectivity. This is helpful if your WiFi is unreliable. Although you‘d have to buy Roku‘s $15 optional USB adapter to add Ethernet to the Streaming Stick.
Voice Remote
Both Rokus come with an enhanced voice remote that allows voice search and TV controls. However there are some differences…
The Streaming Stick‘s voice remote uses RF technology so you can speak voice commands without needing line-of-sight to the player. This is helpful since the Stick hides behind the TV.
The Express 4K+ remote relies on old-school IR (infrared) requiring you to aim the remote at the box for voice features to work.
Additionally, the Streaming Stick remote has dedicated shortcut buttons for popular services like Disney+, Hulu and Sling TV. The Express remote lacks these shortcuts.
For private listening, both remotes have a headphone jack to connect headphones or wireless earbuds.
Channels and Apps
Both the Streaming Stick 4K and Express 4K+ provide access to the same Roku Channel Store with over 10,000+ streaming channels. And they include the top services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, Spotify and countless more.
You‘ll find all the most popular apps on both devices. The extra RAM in the Streaming Stick means switching between channels feels a bit faster. But channel selection and compatibility are otherwise the same.
Which Should You Choose?
So which budget 4K streaming device from Roku is better for you? It comes down to your needs…
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is the better overall performer, with faster loading channels, better WiFi range and support for Dolby Vision HDR. The compact design neatly hides away too. However it costs $10 more than the Express.
The Roku Express 4K+ has Ethernet connectivity and saves you $10 upfront. If wired internet is a must or cost is your foremost concern, the Express gets the job done streaming 4K HDR content at a very affordable price point. But performance is slower than the Stick.
For most users, I recommend spending a little extra on the Roku Streaming Stick 4K for smoother streaming, Dolby Vision support and superior WiFi reception. But if every dollar counts, the Express also delivers 4K streaming albeit without frills.
Either way you can‘t go wrong – Roku devices offer an excellent smart TV experience that your whole family can enjoy. With frequent software updates delivering new features, these streamers will serve you well for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an internet connection to use a Roku device?
Yes all Roku devices connect via your home WiFi network to enable access to streaming channels. You cannot use Roku devices offline. Both the Streaming Stick 4K and Express 4K+ need a broadband internet connection.
What kind of internet speeds do I need for 4K streaming?
Roku recommends internet download speeds of at least 25 Mbps for smooth 4K UHD streaming, or faster if you have multiple people streaming simultaneously. For the best 4K HDR visual quality like Dolby Vision, even faster speeds are beneficial.
Can I use Roku without a smart TV?
Absolutely. One of the best things about Roku is it can add smart streaming functionality to any TV with an HDMI input. Many people use Roku products specifically to enjoy thousands of streaming channels on an older ‘dumb‘ TV.
Does Roku have free channels?
Yes Roku offers The Roku Channel featuring free, ad-supported movies and TV shows. There are also many free channels like PlutoTV, Tubi, PBS, Live News Net and more – no paid streaming service required. However most premium channels like Netflix and HBO Max require paid subscriptions.
I hope this detailed streaming stick comparison has helped show the main differences between two of Roku‘s most popular media streamers. Let me know in the comments below if you have any other questions!
