Maria Diaz/Kayla Solino/ZDNET
If you want to cut the cord and enhance your streaming TV experience, you may wonder which device is best suited for you. The Amazon Fire TV Stick and the Roku Streaming Stick are two of the most popular options on the market -- and they're both on sale right now. However, there are some key differences to consider before pulling the plug.
Also: I watched Roku's free live TV channels, and it felt like the cable I grew up with
Amazon Fire TV and Roku strive to provide the best streaming experience possible through dongles, branded televisions, and streaming boxes. Choosing the right device, however, involves more than just comparing price tags. I'll delve into the major differences between Fire TV and the Roku streaming platform to help you determine which one best suits your needs and preferences, using the comparable Roku Streaming Stick Plus and Fire TV Stick 4K Plus as examples.
Specifications
Features Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Roku Streaming Stick Plus Normal Retail Price $50 $40 Picture quality 4K resolution, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ 4K resolution, HDR10, HDR10+ Frame rate 60 FPS 60 FPS Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 6 Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 Dual-band Ports HDMI 2.1 output with ARC support, Micro-USB for power HDMI 2.0b Remote batteries Two AAA batteries Two AAA batteries
You should buy a Fire TV Stick 4K Plus if...
Amazon
1. You want more features for less money (right now)
When you compare the tech specifications of a Fire TV Stick 4K Plus against the Roku Streaming Stick Plus, you'll find that both devices are very similar. One thing is certain, however: Amazon offers bigger discounts more often on its Fire TV Stick than Roku does, as the former is now available for half off at $25, while the latter is $29. This means you can typically find the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus for a lower price than the Roku (like right now).
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