Roku Streambar SE vs Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Which Streaming Device Offers Better Value for Your Money?

[Serena Anderson]

Introduce​

Parameter	Roku Streambar SE​	Roku Streaming Stick 4K​
Picture​	​	​
Price​	$82.99​	$37.89​
Highlight​	Enhanced Speech Clarity: Hear every word clearly. Universal Remote Control: Power, volume, and streaming control with one remote. Premium Audio: Two speakers and a dedicated bass port for dynamic sound. Expandable Sound System: Compatible with Roku Wireless Bass subwoofer only. Seamless Streaming: Quick app launch with 4K HDR picture optimization. 4K Streaming Capability: Provides high-quality streaming with substantial sound.	Picture Quality: 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10 Voice Control: Voice search and control Content Access: 350+ free live TV channels, premium TV options Wi-Fi: Long-range Wi-Fi for smooth streaming Startup Speed: Super-fast startup for streaming apps Voice Assistant Compatibility: Works with Siri, Alexa, Hey Google

Side-by-Side Comparison​

Performance​

Parameter	Roku Streambar SE​	Roku Streaming Stick 4K​
RAM Memory​	-​	1 GB​
Storage Capacity​	-​	16 GB​
Resolution​	4k​	4k​
Internet Applications​	Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube​	Netflix, Prime Video, Pandora, Hulu, Vudu​

Features​

Parameter	Roku Streambar SE​	Roku Streaming Stick 4K​
Video Codec​	H.264/AVC, H.265/HEVC, VP9​	H.265 (HEVC)​
Connectivity Technology​	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Optical, HDMI​	Wi-Fi​
Controller Type​	Remote Control, App Control, Button Control​	Remote Control, Voice Control​
Compatible Devices​	Television​	TV​
Connector Type​	Optical cable, HDMI​	HDMI​
Other Features​	Compatible with Wireless Headphones, Enhanced Speech Clarity and Automatic Volume Control, Quick Guided Simple Setup, 4K HDR/HDR10+ Streaming, Automatic Volume Control​	Dolby Vision, TV Control​

Measurements​

Parameter	Roku Streambar SE​	Roku Streaming Stick 4K​
Item Weight​	2 Pounds​	0.9 Ounces​

Conclusion​

Product	PROS AND CONS​
Roku Streambar SE​	Pros: • Great sound quality, especially for music • Easy to set up and install • Compact size makes it ideal for small rooms • Includes Roku functionality with access to channels • Standard Roku remote simplifies navigation and controls power • Provides significant improvement in audio and picture quality Cons: • Limited input options, requiring optical cable for older TVs • Basic Roku remote does not control all TV functions; additional remote needed for full control Overall Impression: The Roku Streambar SE is an excellent choice for enhancing sound and streaming capabilities for smaller TVs, especially in bedrooms or small rooms. Its sound quality and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment, though potential buyers should be aware of its limited input options and the need for a more advanced remote for full TV control. Overall, it's a solid product that combines great audio with Roku's streaming convenience.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K​	Pros: • Easy setup and installation process • Excellent picture quality, especially for 4K content • Smooth and intuitive user interface • Highly portable for travel or moving between rooms • Lightweight remote with mute button and TV control functionality • Reliable and intuitive overall system • No buffering issues reported with upgraded stick • Cost-effective option for streaming, especially after canceling cable Cons: • Occasional lag when switching between apps or starting new streams • Voice search functionality may not work as intended within specific apps Overall Impression: The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a fantastic streaming device that enhances the TV-watching experience with its impressive picture quality and user-friendly interface. While there may be minor performance hiccups, the device's portability, ease of setup, and reliable functionality make it highly recommended for anyone seeking a quality streaming solution.