Roku Streaming Stick, HDMI Version Preview and Chromecast Comparison

Some of you may be aware of the Roku Streaming Stick. It has come bundled with a few products including BenQ projectors. These sticks allow access to Roku's services simply by plugging the stick into an HDMI port. But not just any HDMI port. The Roku Streaming Stick required an MHL (Mobile High-definition Link) compatible HDMI port. These ports allow for up to 1080p and 7.1 channel streaming from HDMI sources. More importantly, they allow the HDMI port to power the device that is connected to it. The combination gave the Roku Streaming Stick the perfect one-connection solution for adding streaming to devices.

But MHL isn't as ubiquitous as Roku would like. On top of that, Google released its Chromecast - an HDMI streaming stick that didn't require MHL. Of course, this meant that it needed some sort of external power, but it was compatible with many more HDMI ports than the limited Roku Streaming Stick.

Roku has answered the Chromecast with their Roku Streaming Stick. Yes, it has the same name but the two sticks now have separate designations. The original is called the "Roku Ready" version (meaning devices will display "Roku Ready" banners) and the new one is the "HDMI version. The functionality of the devices is essentially the same but the prices, and types of HDMI ports differ. The Roku Ready version is listed as a $70 MSRP, while the HDMI version retails for $50.

Note - both of these are more expensive than the $35 Chromecast streaming stick.

Roku entered the streaming game soon after Netflix streaming started. They have a huge arsenal of streaming apps at their disposal. Roku brags on their website that they have over 1000+ channels of content. Much of that requires a subscription but that is not unique for Roku - those services require a subscription no matter what device you use. The Chromecast, on the other hand, has less than 15 channels and only a handful of those would be considered "premium" by most users. You could make the argument that Google has cherry-picked the most popular services, and there is some truth to that assertion. But you can't deny that Roku's staple of channels is impressive.

The Roku Streaming Stick HDMI version comes with a unique remote with four dedicated buttons for the most popular while the Chromecast requires you use your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Both require external power and come bundled with a USB cable and a USB to wall plug converter in case you don't have a nearby USB port. The Roku has 802.11 dual-band (a/b/g/n compatible) with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 support wireless connection to your router.

Conclusion

The Roku Streaming Stick HDMI version is the solution for those that want to turn their TV into a "smart TV" or add streaming to their system without adding another box. The real question users need to ask themselves is what services will they use. If the cheaper Chromecast offers those services, it makes little sense to pay $15 extra for the Roku. If you can't wait for Google to add your favorite service, the Roku is a great solution.

For more information, please visit www.roku.com.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.