Amazon’s Fire TV Stick range might be top dog for streaming but one of its biggest rivals is back with a bang. The team at Roku have just announced the UK launch of the Roku Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick Plus. These mini gadgets plug straight into the back of TVs and offer instant access to a swathe of apps such as Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+ and BBC iPlayer. There’s also free access to the Roku channel, which features movies, shows, entertainment and content for kids.
Of course, Amazon’s Fire TV device does exactly the same thing, but switching to these latest Roku streamers has one advantage.
Unlike Amazon’s dongles, which require plugging into the mains via cable, the Roku Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick Plus get all the juice they need from the TV.
“Improving on the form factor of the previous iterations, the new devices can be powered directly by the TV, eliminating the need for hanging cables, delivering a cleaner, more streamlined setup,” Roku explained.
Along with that cordless power function, the latest steamers have also been made super slim so they take up less space, behind the screen, and they offer features such as “What to Watch”, which offers a personalised selection of recommendations.
There’s also a “Continue Watching” row for easy access to recently viewed content.
Owners get a voice-powered remote control, making it easy to find things to watch without endless button pushing plus there are quick keys to launch apps such as Netflix with one touch.
Those opting for the more plush Plus model will find it beams shows and movies to the big screen in glorious 4K quality.
Prices start from £29.99, and you can buy them from today at Amazon and in-store at Asda.
It’s worth noting that these latest Roku devices can’t quite match the might of Fire TV Stick 4K Max for features – that model gets the Ambient Experience built in, which shows works of art and widgets on the TV screen.
You’ll also find a speedy processor inside, and it’s ready to access fast Wi-Fi 6E speeds. It’s a top-notch devcie but it does cost over £60 making it lot more expensive than Roku.