Both Have Loads of Content
The main concern with any streaming device is exactly how much streaming content it grants access to. After all, no one wants to invest in a product that will only let them stream two of the dozens of major services, right? Roku Streaming Stick Plus does have a bit of a leg up in terms of content, though. It has more channels than any other platform out there, although many of those channels are just curated lists of YouTube videos. It might not sound like much, but it’s hard to pass up the chance to find quality YouTube content that might not otherwise show up in your algorithm. Roku Streaming Stick Plus also provides users access to the Roku Channel: a free, ad-supported network. It’s a lot like free networks like Pluto TV or Peacock. You may see a few ads, but everyone likes a commercial break from time to time.
Roku Streaming Stick Plus Is the King of Search
Although both platforms have quality search engines, Roku Streaming Stick Plus clearly takes the crown. It has a robust search function that allows you to find content. If you’re looking for a movie and it’s available on a streaming service, Roku Streaming Stick Plus will find it—period. The search function saves you a lot of effort in terms of loading up individual services and using their built-in search engines to check for content. You can even search across services you don’t have installed. The search function isn’t limited to just movie names, either. You can search for specific actors or directors and watch someone’s entire filmography. If you’re a hardcore fan of an actor, this is a great way to see everything they’ve ever been in.
Both Platforms Stream 4K
No one can deny the appeal of 4K programming, especially when you take one look at just how good a movie like Moana looks on the big screen with crisp, clear HDR. That said, it often comes at a price. With 4K TVs becoming more affordable day by day, it is worth investing in a streaming stick capable of handling 4K content, even if you don’t yet own a TV that can fully display it.
Which Is Easier to Use?
The remotes include voice controls, too. You can simply request the content you want, which is faster than surfing through numerous menus. However, true ease of use boils down to the interface–and in that regard, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus wins. Although the Roku Streaming Stick Plus’s interface is a bit dated, it is intuitive and easy to understand. You can more easily find your favorite streaming services than on the Fire TV Stick 4K.
Which Is Better?
Overall, Roku Streaming Stick Plus is a better purchase. It ticks more of the boxes that make it an appealing purchase than the Fire TV Stick 4K, especially to people who aren’t overly familiar with technology. The ease of use and search functionality, as well as the broad range of content, make Roku Streaming Stick Plus the clear choice.
