In 2025, understanding Roku’s range of streaming players has become somewhat simpler compared to before—though it can still be a touch bewildering. The introduction of the new Roku Streaming Stick further adds to this mix.
Roku Streaming Stick Plus
Currently, the company’s lineup for streaming devices includes three sticks and one set-top box. Models designated as Express or those featuring a plus symbol have been discontinued. At $100, the Roku Ultra stands out as the priciest option within their range of set-top boxes.
2021
The Streaming Stick 4K is priced at $50, whereas
The Streaming Stick and the StreamingStick Plus
The cost is $30 and $40, respectively. Upon examining the Streaming Stick Plus and contrasting it with other streaming devices, I believe it offers a significant level of performance along with Roku’s user-friendly interface within a compact design.
The Roku Streaming Stick Plus compared to the Roku StreamingStick 4K
The main competitor for the Streaming Stick Plus might actually be another member of its own product line. Despite what one would expect from its name, the Streaming Stick Plus does indeed support 4K resolution just like the Streaming Stick 4K. However, the Streaming Stick 4K goes further with additional features such as compatibility with Dolby Vision and an extended range for Wi-Fi connectivity. While both devices use the Wi-Fi 5 standard, only the “4K” version includes a built-in Wi-Fi extender integrated into its USB power cord.
At this stage, the Stick 4K is
four years older
The Plus version has some advantages due to several technological improvements. One notable change is that the newer model is more compact because it omits both the Wi-Fi extender and the separate power adapter. According to Roku, this makes their device 35% smaller compared to similar products—though personally, neither of these streaming sticks tend to be overly big. In my experience, it was definitely smaller than the Amazon Fire TV Stick I tried out previously. However, reducing its size does not significantly impact practical usage scenarios—especially considering how they usually sit hidden behind televisions anyway.
A more substantial enhancement involves improved energy efficiency. You now have the option to draw power from your TV’s USB port rather than using a wall adapter. Notably, the Plus version does not include an adapter within the packaging, which makes it easier to transport. Previous versions of Roku sticks offered similar functionality, as did the 4K model.
can
use USB power on
some
TVs), making it the first 4K-capable model that Roku suggests can be used without a power adapter. Because of this, you won’t need an accessible electrical outlet close by, providing greater flexibility. This feature would have been extremely useful during a recent stay at a hotel where the television in my room was approximately 12 feet away from the closest available socket.
Both devices are equipped with Apple AirPlay compatibility and work seamlessly with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. Each comes bundled with an identical remote that includes functionalities such as voice command inputs along with controls for your TV’s power and volume settings. Both models feature the same operating system, presenting Roku’s vibrant, purple-themed user interface, which I find quite appealing especially when browsing through live and free content options—as mentioned earlier in our discussion.
streaming devices guide
.
Performance
The Streaming Stick Plus is quite speedy considering its price of $40. I also own a Roku Ultra connected to another television at home, and after performing identical tasks on both devices, the Streaming Stick Plus lagged only slightly behind the Ultra. For example, starting Disney+ took about one or two seconds on the Ultra, whereas it required an additional half-second or so on the Plus. While there was indeed some discrepancy in speed, the Streaming Stick Plus never felt annoyingly sluggish.
I doubt anybody really thinks a streaming stick will match the performance of modern smart TVs. My television is fairly new, and comparing them directly revealed only a slight difference between the capabilities of an external device versus those integrated into the larger screen. For instance, consider the Netflix interface: it looks sharp and vivid through my TV’s own Netflix app, whereas opening the same page on the Roku resulted in noticeably blurrier and more pixelated visuals.
As mentioned, I observed just a minor discrepancy in quality between the two when a show was being broadcasted. The sweeping views of the lavishly decorated yet bloodied interior spaces within the White House stood out.
The Residence
It was slightly more grainy on the Roku. Real video enthusiasts might spot the difference, but those primarily interested in watching Detective Cupp unsettle all the suspects probably won’t notice.
Is getting the Roku Streaming Stick Plus right for you?
A device as small as a tube of flattened lipstick cannot compete with a high-quality smart TV. However, for those who own an older model or a budget unit with a cumbersome user interface, the Roku StreamingStick+ might enhance your viewing experience. Other similar streaming devices available include
Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K
, which costs an additional $10 when purchased at full price (although it frequently goes on sale). Of the two options, I would choose Roku’s Streaming Stick Plus because Roku’s user interface is much more intuitive. Additionally, this streaming device is one I plan to bring along for my upcoming travels. By plugging it into the smart TV at my Airbnb location, rather than relying on whichever pre-installed applications happen to be available, I will be able to stream what I prefer.
Doctor Who
I won’t have to stress over finding the closest power outlet, and I’ll avoid the hassle of entering my ridiculously lengthy Disney+ password.
When deciding between this device and Roku’s other 4K streaming stick, I would recommend going with this one. The Roku Streaming Stick Plus not only costs $10 less but also comes with a design that is four years more recent. Since it draws power from your television, both the dongle and the USB power cord can remain hidden from view. If you dislike having cables visible around your entertainment center, as I do, you will appreciate how tidy everything looks. Obviously, though, this recommendation assumes you own a compatible TV.
supports
Dolby Vision or your Wi-Fi router is really far away from your TV, then you can go with the Streaming Stick 4K — that’s really the only major advantage that model has. Otherwise, the Streaming Stick Plus is a good pick for a cheap but modern streaming player.
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