UPDATED AUGUST 2026 · RESEARCH-BASED REVIEW
Quick verdict: Roku Streaming Stick 4K remains the Roku model to consider if you specifically want Dolby Vision and the platform’s simple interface. It is older than the newer Streaming Stick Plus, but Roku still positions it as the higher-tier picture-quality option because it combines 4K, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision with a long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
Key specifications
- Up to 4K at 60fps
- HDR10, HDR10+, HLG and Dolby Vision
- Long-range Wi-Fi receiver
- Roku Voice Remote with TV power and volume controls
- Apple AirPlay and HomeKit support
- Works with Google Home and Alexa
- Compact HDMI-stick form factor
Why this Roku still matters in 2026
Roku now sells a newer Streaming Stick Plus, but newer does not automatically mean better for every television. Roku’s own comparison reserves Dolby Vision and the long-range Wi-Fi receiver for the Streaming Stick 4K. If your TV supports Dolby Vision and picture-format compatibility matters more than having the newest model, this older stick still has a clear reason to exist.
Our Roku Streaming Stick Plus review covers the newer model in detail.
Roku OS is the main reason to buy it
Roku is deliberately simpler than Fire TV or Google TV. The home screen is centred on your installed channels rather than a dense recommendation feed. For households that mainly open Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, YouTube and other mainstream services, that simplicity can be more valuable than extra smart-home features.
The trade-off is flexibility. Roku is a controlled platform and is not designed around advanced app installation, browser use or USB expansion. If those things matter, Fire TV or Google TV may suit you better.
Picture quality and Dolby Vision
The Streaming Stick 4K supports 4K HDR including Dolby Vision and HDR10+. That is its biggest advantage over the newer Roku Streaming Stick Plus, which supports HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG but not Dolby Vision.
Dolby Vision only matters when your television and the content both support it, so do not pay extra for the badge if your TV is HDR10-only.
Wi-Fi and placement
Roku includes a long-range Wi-Fi receiver with the Streaming Stick 4K. That can help when the television sits farther from the router or behind furniture. Wireless performance still depends on the router, walls and local interference, but this is one of the hardware differences that separates the 4K model from Roku’s simpler sticks.
If wireless standards are confusing, read Wi-Fi 6 vs Wi-Fi 6E for Streaming Devices.
Remote and everyday usability
The included Roku Voice Remote can control the streaming interface and, on compatible televisions, TV power and volume. That makes the setup feel more like a single appliance rather than a collection of separate boxes and remotes.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K vs Streaming Stick Plus
| Feature | Streaming Stick 4K | Streaming Stick Plus |
|---|---|---|
| 4K | Yes | Yes |
| Dolby Vision | Yes | No |
| HDR10+ | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Long-range receiver | Dual-band Wi-Fi |
| Positioning | Higher-tier Roku picture features | Newer simple 4K stick |
Choose the 4K model if Dolby Vision or the long-range receiver matters. Choose the newer Stick Plus if you prefer Roku’s simpler current 4K option and do not need Dolby Vision.
Who should buy it?
- Roku users with a Dolby Vision television
- People who want a simple home screen
- Wall-mounted TV owners who want hardware hidden behind the screen
- Buyers who do not need Ethernet or extra ports
Who should look elsewhere?
- Power users who want more local app storage
- Buyers who need built-in Ethernet
- People who want a browser or more open app installation
- Google or Alexa-heavy households that prefer deeper ecosystem integration
ViewHarbour verdict
Roku Streaming Stick 4K is no longer the newest Roku stick, but it still has a clear niche: simple Roku software plus Dolby Vision. That makes it easier to recommend than an older product with no remaining advantage.
Compare it with the newer models in our Best Streaming Sticks UK 2026 guide, or use the Device Finder for a personalised shortlist.
