Roku has done it again with this iteration of the Roku Streaming Stick. Although this streaming stick doesn’t look like much (it comes in a small package), it packs a powerful punch for your streaming purposes. So much so that it lands on our list of the best streaming device along with top options like the Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast 3rd Gen, and the TiVo Bolt OTA Streaming Device.
Why We Like It – Roku Streaming Stick Review
The Roku Streaming Stick Plus is an awesome middle man among the major streaming devices, like Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV. Not only do you have the convenient access to all major streaming platforms, but you have fast access with up to 4K picture quality.
- Up to 4K picture quality support
- Integrated remote design and functionality
- Powerful Wi Fi connection
- Might be finicky on older TVs
Performance
The Streaming Stick Plus has everything you want from a streaming device. With up to 4K picture quality, and compatibility with lesser picture qualities, you can be sure that you’re getting the best picture possible at every definition. It also supports Dolby Vision HDR, which improves the quality of pixels on your screen. Having HDR video support should be expected out of any new streaming device. New Roku streaming devices like this one meet the challenge.
The dual band wireless is a great touch to make sure that you keep the loading time for your streaming services to a minimum. Speaking of which, you have access to almost any streaming services imaginable — Apple TV, Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Google Play, and on and on.
It’s easier to control your watching experience as well with the Roku app. The mobile app allows you to access additional TV controls like TV volume and works pretty seamlessly with the Roku OS. Do you want to customize the lineup of your channels on a streaming service? Read our Sling tv review: an internet tv solution that simply works.
Design
The Roku Stick maintains its basic, simple design that originated years ago. You plug the Stick Plus into your TV’s HDMI port and connect it to power through a USB port with a USB cable. Straightforward.
Where this new Roku device improves its design is in the remote control. With the tap of a button, you can voice search for any TV shows and movies you want. Additionally, if you’re watching late at night you have the option of private listening by plugging your personal headphones into the headphone jack in the remote.
Value
The Stick Plus most readily competes with Amazon Fire products, especially the Fire TV Stick. Fire TV runs in about the same price range and offers similar performance and design. The Roku Stick Plus may be a safer long term value though, given that the competition between the major streaming giants could cause Amazon to drop access to one or more of them from their devices.
Roku Streaming Stick Review Wrap Up
The Roku Streaming Stick is a high quality streaming device that gives you access to all the content you want. New Roku devices seem to be getting even better with each release, and this streaming stick is no exception. If you’re looking for a new streaming stick to play content from different streaming services, this is one of your best bets.
