The Roku Streaming Stick HD plugs into HDMI, can power from the TV, and includes a voice remote that also controls TV power and volume. Ideal for bedrooms, guest rooms and travel; choose a 4K Roku if your screen supports it.
Description
The Roku Streaming Stick HD is a small HDMI dongle that adds streaming apps to a TV, with a voice remote that also handles the TV’s own power and volume. It is aimed at bedrooms, guest rooms and older sets where 4K is not the goal.
First look: the Roku Streaming Stick HD
It streams in HD through popular apps as well as free movies, shows and live TV on Roku’s platform. It can draw power from the TV alone, so you may not need a wall socket, and its compact shape avoids blocking neighbouring HDMI ports. Roku lists long-range Wi-Fi and a simple home screen.
Buying the Roku Streaming Stick HD: hD only
The listing offers HD, 4K and 4K with Dolby Vision versions; if your TV is 4K, compare those styles first.
The Roku Streaming Stick HD in everyday routines
It is popular for second TVs, for relatives who want a simple interface, and for travellers who bring it to hotel or rental TVs so they can sign into their own apps.
Some hotel TVs lock HDMI inputs or require a captive portal sign-in, which can stop it working.
Where the Roku Streaming Stick HD wins and loses
What the Roku Streaming Stick HD gets right
- Tiny, easy to hide
- Remote controls TV power and volume
- Clean interface
Main catch: HD only
- HD only
- Hotel TVs may block it
Matching the Roku Streaming Stick HD to the right person
Second-TV setups will like the Roku Streaming Stick HD
- Second-TV setups
- Families wanting an easy remote
- Travellers
When to skip the Roku Streaming Stick HD
- 4K TV owners wanting full resolution
- People without Wi-Fi at the TV
Other options beyond the Roku Streaming Stick HD
For a 4K set, the Roku 4K sticks or Fire TV Stick 4K Plus make more sense; for HD screens, this is all you need.
Last thoughts on the Roku Streaming Stick HD
An easy, inexpensive way to make a non-smart HD TV useful again.
