The Tool Desk
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At a glance: which alternative fits your setup?
| Device | Form factor and resolution | Documented HDR and audio | Memory and storage | Price information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roku Streaming Stick 4K (model 3820) | Stick; 4K at up to 60 fps | HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Audio details not stated in the cited Roku specifications. | Not stated in the cited Roku specifications | Roku’s product page displayed $49.99 beside a crossed-out $59.99 when accessed; the page marked the offer limited-time, so this is not a guaranteed current or recurring price. |
| Roku Streaming Stick Plus (model 3830R) | Stick; 4K at up to 60 fps | HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG. Dolby Vision is not listed for this model in Roku’s developer specifications. Audio details not stated there. | Not stated in the cited Roku specifications | Not stated in the cited Roku page information. |
| Google TV Streamer (4K) | Box; up to 4K | Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos | 4 GB RAM and 32 GB storage, according to Google’s product comparison | Google’s page lists a U.S. price of $99.99; check current pricing and local availability. |
| Apple TV 4K | Apple TV 4K device; current generation and configuration need verification | Confirm the formats for the exact currently sold model on Apple’s specifications page. | Not established for a confident generation-by-generation comparison. | Current price and configuration were not established; check Apple’s current listing for your market. |
These figures describe manufacturer specifications and listed prices, not comparative performance tests. A device’s maximum resolution or format support does not guarantee that you will see or hear it: the TV, HDMI connection, content, and service all matter.
Roku: choose between the Streaming Stick 4K and Streaming Stick Plus carefully
Streaming Stick 4K: Dolby Vision is listed
Roku identifies the Streaming Stick 4K as model 3820 and its 4K+ counterpart as model 3821. Roku’s hardware specifications list the Streaming Stick 4K as a 2022 model with 4K playback at 60 fps and support for HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. These details apply to the older named Streaming Stick 4K, not automatically to every newer Roku stick. Roku’s support page is titled “Getting to know your Roku Streaming Stick 4K or Streaming Stick 4K+.”
Streaming Stick Plus: a separate 2025 model
Roku’s product page describes the Streaming Stick Plus as its new 2025 4K streaming device and identifies it as model 3830R. Roku’s developer specifications list 4K60 playback and HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG for the Plus; they do not list Dolby Vision for this model. If Dolby Vision is a requirement, do not infer support from the older Streaming Stick 4K specification—check the exact model number and TV compatibility.
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- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
Both are stick-format choices that plug into a TV. Roku’s Plus page showed a limited-time offer price of $49.99 alongside a crossed-out $59.99 when accessed. Because that offer can change or expire, verify the live listing before buying rather than treating either figure as a standing price.
Google TV Streamer: choose a box and Google Home features
Google TV Streamer (4K) is a box, not a stick. Google lists up to 4K resolution, 4 GB of RAM, 32 GB of storage, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. Google also describes a built-in Thread border router and a Matter/Google Home hub role, which may be useful if you want the streaming device to participate in a compatible smart-home setup.
Rank #2
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Google lists a U.S. price of $99.99 on its product page. That is a listed regional price, not a promise of today’s price or of availability in other markets. Check Google’s current page and local retailers for the configuration and price where you live.
Google says the Streamer works with an HDMI display, but the output is constrained by both the display and the content. A 1080p television limits viewing to up to 1080p even when the streamer can output 4K. Google recommends a 4K TV for the best experience and an Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 certified cable for optimal performance; its documentation says that cable is sold separately.
Rank #3
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
Apple TV 4K: verify the exact generation before comparing
Apple maintains an official “Apple TV 4K – Technical Specifications” page, but the available specifications do not establish a sufficiently clear current generation, configuration, or price for a reliable model-to-model comparison here. Apple TV 4K remains a relevant alternative if you are considering Apple’s platform, but check Apple’s current technical specifications and sales listing for your market before deciding. Do not assume that the name alone identifies a particular generation or configuration.
Check your TV and HDMI connection before choosing
Compatibility can matter more than the streamer’s headline resolution. Roku says 4K requires a compatible TV, an HDMI port with HDCP 2.2, a suitable high-speed HDMI cable, and 4K content. HDR also requires a compatible TV and HDR content. Google likewise notes that the display and content constrain resolution. A 4K or HDR-capable streamer cannot add those capabilities to a TV that lacks them.
Rank #4
- Streaming made easy: Roku Express lets you stream free, live and premium TV over the Internet—right to your TV. It’s perfect for new users, secondary TVs and easy gifting—but powerful enough for seasoned pros
- Quick and easy setup: Just plug it into your TV with the included High Speed HDMI Cable and connect to the internet to get started
- Tons of power, tons of fun: Compact and power-packed, you’ll stream your favorites with ease; from movies and series on Apple TV, Prime Video, Netflix, The Roku Channel, HBO, Showtime and Google Play to cable alternatives like Hulu with Live TV and PlayStation Vue, enjoy the most talked about TV across free and paid channels
- Low cost, no extra fees: For under $30, Roku Express streaming device includes a High Speed HDMI Cable—and there’s no monthly equipment fee; with access to free TV on hundreds of channels, there’s plenty to stream without spending extra
- Simple remote: Incredibly easy to use, this remote features shortcut buttons to popular streaming channels
- For 4K: Confirm that the TV supports 4K, the HDMI connection meets the device’s requirements, and the program or service offers 4K.
- For HDR: Check both the TV’s supported HDR formats and the exact streamer model’s format list. In particular, distinguish Roku Streaming Stick 4K model 3820 from Streaming Stick Plus model 3830R.
- For Dolby Atmos: Google lists Atmos support for the Streamer. Confirm that your TV or audio equipment and the content path also support the format; a device specification alone does not establish that every setup will deliver it.
- For a smart-home hub: Google identifies Thread and Matter/Google Home functions for its Streamer. Check that your other devices support the standards and setup you intend to use.
How to make the choice
- Start with the TV. Note its resolution, HDR formats, available HDMI ports, and—if you are considering Roku 4K—whether the port meets the HDCP 2.2 requirement.
- Pick the platform and form factor. Choose between Roku sticks, Google’s box and its documented smart-home role, or Apple TV 4K after confirming the current model details. The supplied specifications do not establish which interface is fastest, easiest, or best for every household.
- Match the exact model to your formats. Compare the Roku model numbers and verify Apple’s current generation. Do not treat the words “4K” or “HDR” as proof that two products support identical formats.
- Check the complete viewing path. Confirm that the display, HDMI connection, audio setup, and specific content support the resolution and formats you want.
- Compare current local prices. The Roku page showed a limited-time offer when accessed, and Google’s listed price is U.S.-specific. Product lineups, stock, prices, and service catalogs can vary by date and region.
What the specifications cannot tell you
The cited official product information establishes selected compatibility details, formats, form factors, and listed prices. It does not provide a controlled comparison of speed, interface quality, advertising, or service availability in every region. Choose based on the requirements you can verify—especially your TV’s capabilities, preferred platform, and exact model—rather than assuming one device is universally better.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
