Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus, specifically tailored for us here in the UK. If you're on the hunt for a compact, powerful streaming solution that won't break the bank, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from setup and performance to the nitty-gritty details that make this little stick a contender in the crowded streaming market. So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and let's get started!

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus enters a competitive UK market already brimming with established players like Amazon's Fire TV Stick and Google's Chromecast. To stand out, it needs to offer a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. In this review, we'll examine how well it meets those criteria. We'll explore the device's ease of use, the breadth of its app selection, the quality of its 4K streaming capabilities, and any unique selling points that might sway your decision. Whether you're a seasoned streamer or new to the world of on-demand entertainment, this review aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus brings to the table.

We'll be paying close attention to the user interface, which is a critical aspect of any streaming device. A clunky or unintuitive interface can quickly sour the experience, regardless of how good the underlying hardware is. Roku has traditionally been praised for its simple and user-friendly interface, but we'll see if that reputation holds up with the 4K Plus model. We'll also be testing the streaming performance across a variety of apps and content types, from standard HD to full 4K with HDR. And of course, we'll be looking at the all-important price point and how it compares to the competition. By the end of this review, you should have a clear picture of whether the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus is the right streaming solution for your needs.

What's in the Box?

Okay, let's unbox this bad boy! Inside the box, you'll typically find:

• The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus itself (obviously!).
• A voice remote with TV controls – super handy for ditching multiple remotes.
• Two AA batteries for the remote.
• A USB power cable and power adapter.
• An HDMI extender (if your TV's ports are a bit cramped).
• And, of course, some quick start guide and legal documentation (yawn, but important!).

The inclusion of the voice remote with TV controls is a significant plus. It allows you to control not only the Roku device but also your TV's power, volume, and input, streamlining your entertainment experience. The HDMI extender is a thoughtful addition, as it can help to ensure a secure and stable connection in situations where the TV's HDMI ports are closely spaced or obstructed. The USB power cable and adapter provide flexibility in terms of powering the device, allowing you to plug it into a wall outlet or directly into a USB port on your TV, depending on your setup.

It's worth noting that the specific contents of the box may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any special promotions that may be in effect. However, the core components listed above are typically included as standard. Before discarding the packaging, it's always a good idea to double-check that you have all of the listed items. Also, make sure to keep the quick start guide handy, as it contains essential information about setting up and using the device. With everything unboxed and accounted for, you're ready to move on to the next step: setting up the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus and getting it connected to your TV and network.

Setting Up Your Roku

Setting up the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus is generally a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Plug It In: Connect the stick to an HDMI port on your TV and power it using the USB cable and adapter.
2. Power On: Turn on your TV and select the correct HDMI input.
3. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Roku will guide you through connecting to your Wi-Fi network. Make sure you have your Wi-Fi password handy!
4. Account Activation: You'll need to create or log in to a Roku account. Don't worry, it’s free. You’ll likely need to do this on your computer or phone.
5. Channel Selection: Choose the streaming services (channels) you want to add, like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, etc.

The on-screen instructions are designed to be clear and easy to follow, even for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. The process of connecting to your Wi-Fi network is straightforward, and the device will typically remember your network credentials for future use. Creating or logging in to a Roku account is a necessary step, as it allows you to access the Roku Channel Store and manage your subscriptions. The Roku Channel Store offers a vast selection of streaming services, both free and paid, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences. Selecting the channels you want to add is a simple matter of browsing the store and choosing the ones that appeal to you.

Once you've completed these steps, your Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus will be ready to use. You can then begin exploring the Roku interface, discovering new content, and customizing your viewing experience. The initial setup process typically takes only a few minutes, and once it's done, you can start enjoying your favorite movies, TV shows, and other streaming content. Regular software updates will be installed automatically in the background to keep your device running smoothly.

Performance and Features

Now for the juicy stuff! How does the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus actually perform?

• Picture Quality: As the name suggests, it supports 4K resolution and HDR (High Dynamic Range) for vibrant colors and sharp details, provided your TV supports it, of course. The upscaling of HD content is also pretty decent.
• Speed: The quad-core processor ensures smooth navigation and fast loading times. No more waiting ages for your shows to start!
• Voice Control: The voice remote lets you search for content, control playback, and even control your TV with voice commands. It's not always perfect, but it's a definite convenience.
• Roku Channel: Roku's own channel offers a surprising amount of free content, including movies, TV shows, and live news.
• App Selection: Roku boasts a massive library of apps (channels), covering just about every streaming service you can think of. Seriously, if it streams, it's probably on Roku.

The device's ability to deliver 4K resolution and HDR content is a major selling point, providing a visually stunning experience for viewers with compatible TVs. The quad-core processor ensures that the device can handle demanding streaming tasks without stuttering or lagging, contributing to a smooth and responsive user experience. The voice control feature, while not always flawless, adds a layer of convenience and allows for hands-free operation of the device. The Roku Channel provides a valuable source of free entertainment, supplementing the vast library of paid streaming services available through the Roku platform.

The sheer number of apps available on Roku is a testament to its popularity and widespread adoption. Whether you're looking for mainstream streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video or niche channels catering to specific interests, you're likely to find what you're looking for on Roku. This extensive app selection makes the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus a versatile streaming solution that can adapt to a wide range of viewing preferences. Regular updates to the Roku operating system ensure that the device remains compatible with the latest streaming technologies and services.

The Remote

The remote deserves its own little section. It's compact, comfortable to hold, and features dedicated buttons for popular services like Netflix and Spotify (the specific buttons may vary). The voice control button is easily accessible, and the TV controls are a welcome addition. It uses infrared (IR) to control the TV, so you need a line of sight.

The dedicated buttons for popular streaming services provide quick and easy access to your favorite content, eliminating the need to navigate through menus or search for specific apps. The voice control button allows you to search for content, control playback, and perform other tasks using voice commands, adding a layer of convenience and hands-free operation. The TV controls enable you to control your TV's power, volume, and input, reducing the need for multiple remotes. The remote's compact size and ergonomic design make it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.

The use of infrared (IR) technology to control the TV means that you need to maintain a line of sight between the remote and the TV's IR receiver. This can be a minor inconvenience in some situations, but it's generally not a major issue. The remote is powered by two AA batteries, which are typically included in the box. The battery life is generally quite good, and you can expect to get several months of use out of a single set of batteries. Overall, the Roku remote is a well-designed and functional accessory that enhances the streaming experience.

Roku vs. the Competition

How does the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus stack up against its rivals, like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and Google Chromecast with Google TV?

• Interface: Roku's interface is simpler and more user-friendly than Fire TV's, which can feel cluttered with ads and recommendations. Chromecast's interface is clean but relies heavily on Google's ecosystem.
• App Selection: All three offer a wide range of apps, but Roku arguably has the most comprehensive selection.
• Voice Control: All three have voice control, but Google Assistant (on Chromecast) is generally considered the most intelligent.
• Price: The price is usually competitive, often sitting in the middle ground between the Fire TV Stick 4K and the Chromecast with Google TV.

Roku's emphasis on simplicity and ease of use makes it a great choice for users who are new to streaming or who prefer a more streamlined experience. The Fire TV interface, while feature-rich, can be overwhelming for some users due to its abundance of ads and recommendations. The Chromecast with Google TV offers a clean and modern interface, but it is heavily integrated with Google's ecosystem, which may not appeal to all users. Roku's comprehensive app selection ensures that users have access to a wide range of streaming services and content.

While all three devices offer voice control capabilities, Google Assistant is generally considered to be the most advanced and versatile. However, Roku's voice control is still quite capable and can handle most common tasks, such as searching for content, controlling playback, and launching apps. The price of the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus is typically competitive, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Ultimately, the best streaming device for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons

Let's break it down:

Pros:

• Excellent 4K HDR picture quality.
• Smooth performance.
• Simple and user-friendly interface.
• Massive app selection.
• Voice remote with TV controls.

Cons:

• The remote uses IR for TV control, requiring line of sight.
• The interface can feel a bit dated compared to the competition.

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus excels in delivering high-quality streaming performance with its 4K HDR capabilities and smooth navigation. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to use for both beginners and experienced streamers. The vast app selection ensures that you'll have access to a wide range of content. The voice remote with TV controls adds a layer of convenience and simplifies your entertainment setup. However, the use of IR technology for TV control can be a minor inconvenience, and the interface may feel a bit dated compared to some of its competitors.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus remains a strong contender in the streaming device market, offering a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. Its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone looking to upgrade their streaming experience. Regular software updates ensure that the device remains up-to-date with the latest streaming technologies and services.

Final Verdict

So, should you buy the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus in the UK? If you're looking for a reliable, easy-to-use streaming device with excellent picture quality and a huge selection of apps, then absolutely! It's a solid choice for cord-cutters and anyone who wants to upgrade their TV's smart capabilities. While it might not be the flashiest option out there, it gets the job done, and it gets it done well.

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus offers a compelling combination of features and performance at a competitive price point. Its user-friendly interface, extensive app selection, and excellent picture quality make it a standout choice in the crowded streaming device market. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some of its competitors, it excels in delivering a reliable and enjoyable streaming experience. Whether you're a seasoned streamer or new to the world of on-demand entertainment, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus is a solid investment that will provide you with countless hours of entertainment.

It's particularly well-suited for users who prioritize simplicity and ease of use. The Roku interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate, making it a great choice for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. The device's voice control capabilities add a layer of convenience and allow for hands-free operation. And with its vast app selection, you're sure to find all of your favorite streaming services and content. Overall, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K Plus is a highly recommended streaming device that will enhance your entertainment experience.