The Roku Streaming Stick and Stick Plus are among the most compact and power-efficient streaming devices available today, capable of drawing power directly from a TV’s USB port.
Roku's new Streaming Stick replaces the Roku Express and supports up to 1080p HD resolution. The Streaming Stick Plus replaces the Express 4K Plus and supports 4K HDR10 and HDR10+ playback.
These new devices are positioned to compete with other ad-supported streaming players, including Amazon’s Fire TV Stick and various Google TV-based sticks.
Smaller, more power-efficient
Roku emphasizes that both new streaming sticks are the smallest in their class — more than 35% smaller than comparable devices from other brands.
This compact design is made possible by a more efficient processor, which also greatly reduces power consumption. As a result, both sticks can be powered directly from a TV's USB port, avoiding the need for a separate power adapter and cable. However, an outlet connection remains an option if preferred.
Connect the Roku streaming stick to an HDMI port and power it via the TV’s USB port. Photo: Roku
- "And both new Roku Streaming Stick players are designed to be so power-efficient, they can be powered directly by your TV, eliminating the need for hanging cables, delivering a cleaner, more streamlined setup. Plus, our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease," explained Roku.
Why the focus on design? A recent Harris study commissioned by Roku found that 90% of streamers prioritize a clutter-free setup with hidden cables.
Roku and Google both attempted to use a TV’s USB port for power back in 2013 and 2014, but the approach proved unreliable at the time, as many TVs could not deliver sufficient power.
Subsidized by ads
The Roku Streaming Stick will be priced at $30, while the Roku Streaming Stick Plus will cost $40. Both will begin shipping in the U.S. on May 6.
Roku also plans to launch the devices in additional markets “in the coming months.”
These aggressive price points are made possible by Roku’s ad-supported business model. The company is even testing ad placements before the home screen loads.
Roku's streaming sticks
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