A streaming stick is the best way to add streaming services to your TV, monitor, or laptop.
These compact devices plug into any available HDMI port, giving you quick access to a variety of streaming services and access to a host of useful apps and games.
Even if you already own a smart TV, the interface these devices offer makes it invaluable, allowing you to easily switch between streaming services and search for media without being forced to fumble through an on-screen keyboard.
Here, we compare some of the most popular 4K models from Amazon and Roku to see who comes out on top.
| Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K | Roku Streaming Stick 4K |
|---|---|
| more games | More free apps |
| Dolby Vision | HDR10+ |
| Voice-centric applications | More general application |
| Alexa integration | Voice search/without assistant |
When weighing these two models, the quality of the flow is the most critical aspect. Thankfully, both options support 4K video playback. Both Roku and Fire TV Stick support Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
Neither device has built-in Ethernet connectivity, but both are equipped with 802.11 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, providing all the necessary bandwidth for seamless 4K streaming.
Unlike Google's Chromecast devices, the Roku and Fire TV Stick stick to a simple TV stick adapter design that allows them to hide behind almost any screen.
One small consideration, however, is that while the Roku Stick is slightly smaller than Amazon's option, it doesn't come with an expansion adapter, which means the Roku may have some issues if your TV has limited clearance around the HDMI port outside the box.
The remote controls are similar in shape on both models, with the Firestick remote being slimmer and more aesthetically modern. Each has dedicated volume and playback controls as well as multi-function directional buttons that run on AAA batteries. Both remotes also include quick-access buttons that let you quickly switch between streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+ (these options vary).
Each streaming stick is powered using a separate micro-USB adapter that can be connected to a wall outlet or directly to your TV for power.
Both options include built-in Wi-Fi, which means they don't need to be hardwired to work, just an active wireless connection in your home. While they both include voice search, the Fire TV Stick 4K is slightly more responsive. It supports Alexa, which makes it just a few extras, especially if you're already an Amazon Smart Hub owner.
These two remotes can also replace your handy TV remote. Bluetooth connectivity built into each device effectively replaces the 3.5mm audio jack found in some previous versions, allowing you to pair headphones wirelessly and listen to TV without disturbing others.
Mobile apps are available for both devices, but in very different ways. The Roku app is undoubtedly the more impressive of the two, acting as a temporary remote if your original app happens to be lost and allowing you to quickly search for apps and media using your phone's keyboard.
The Fires TV Stick app offers a main home page, a menu, and a back button, and allows you to perform quick voice searches, but it lacks the private listening features that Roku offers.
The Fire TV Stick does have an extra setup hurdle, requiring an Amazon account before it can be installed and running. Although not required, the Fire Stick will try its best to nudge you to subscribe to Amazon Prime if you don't already have one.
While all the most popular streaming services are available on both devices, there are differences. It's estimated that Roku has nearly 10,000 more apps than Amazon's streaming stick.
The bottom line here is that unless you're looking for a very specific game or app, it's likely to be available on either device.
Both players cost the same $50, so choosing one should depend on what you expect from a streaming device in terms of available apps and channels.
If you already live in the Amazon ecosystem, the answer is obvious: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K.
However, the Roku platform has a wider library of apps and channels. It has a more versatile companion app, making the Roku Streaming Stick 4K the clear winner in our competition. (Unless you need Alexa functionality built into your remote.)
