We compared two popular 4K streaming devices at different prices: the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus and the Roku Express 4K+.
What we looked at
4K and HDR formats, Wi-Fi, remote and voice control, apps and extras, and price. Note that the Roku listing carries an international-products note.
The verdict
If you want Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos support, Wi-Fi 6, Alexa+ voice search and Xbox cloud gaming, the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus is the feature-rich pick. If you would rather pay about £35 less for a 4K HDR streamer with a remote that controls your TV and an HDMI cable in the box, the Roku Express 4K+ is the budget option.
Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos and Wi-Fi 6 with Alexa+ voice search, but it costs £34.99 more.
A cheaper 4K HDR streamer with a TV-controlling remote and HDMI cable, but no Dolby formats listed and an international-products note.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Device (Wi-Fi 6, Dolby Vision/Atmos, HDR10+) — Most Features
Intended for: Marketed as a 4K streaming stick with Wi-Fi 6, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos support, an Alexa+ voice remote and the newest Fire TV experience, with apps including Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+.
What we liked
- 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos audio support
- Wi-Fi 6 support for smooth streaming when other devices are connected
- Alexa+ voice search across apps, plus smart home control
- Listing says it is the only streaming media player with the Xbox app for cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
- Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and free ad-supported apps such as Twitch and Pluto TV
Worth knowing
- Costs £34.99 more than the Roku Express 4K+ on these listings
- The listing does not mention an HDMI cable in the bullets
Best for
- Anyone who wants Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support
- Alexa users who want voice search and smart home control
- Gamers who want Xbox cloud gaming on the TV
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Anyone who does not want an Alexa-centred interface
Roku Express 4K+ 2021 Streaming Media Player with Roku Voice Remote and Premium HDMI Cable — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as an HD, 4K and HDR streaming player with dual-band wireless, a Roku Voice Remote with TV controls to power on the TV and adjust volume, and a premium HDMI cable included.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus on these listings
- Streams in HD, 4K and HDR
- Dual-band wireless stated to give faster wireless performance with multiple devices connected
- Remote powers up the TV and controls volume and mute, plus voice search
- Premium HDMI cable included
Worth knowing
- The listing carries an international-products note: sold from abroad and may differ from local products
- No Dolby Vision or Dolby Atmos support is mentioned in the listing bullets
Best for
- Buyers who want a cheaper 4K HDR streamer
- Anyone who wants an all-in-one remote with TV power and volume controls
- Households that want an HDMI cable in the box
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants Dolby Vision or Dolby Atmos listed
- Buyers who prefer a UK-market product without an international note
