Buy On Amazon Now
Roku Express 4K+ Media Streaming Device Review
The Roku Express 4K+ offers an excellent balance of performance, ease of use, and affordability for anyone looking to upgrade to 4K streaming without breaking the bank. Whether you're new to streaming or looking to enhance your entertainment setup, the Roku Express 4K+ is an attractive option. Here’s a closer look at what this device has to offer:
Design and Setup
The Roku Express 4K+ comes in a compact, sleek design, making it easy to place behind your TV or on a shelf without taking up much space. Setting it up is a breeze. Simply plug it into an HDMI port, connect it to your Wi-Fi, and within a few minutes, you’re ready to start streaming. The device also comes with a convenient, high-speed HDMI cable, which makes setup even more effortless.
Performance
As the name suggests, the 4K+ version supports 4K resolution, as well as HDR10+ for enhanced color and contrast, which is a nice touch for users with compatible 4K TVs. Streaming is smooth, with minimal buffering, thanks to its upgraded processing power. It supports popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube, delivering a crisp 4K picture, provided you have a solid internet connection.
One of the standout features is the device's ability to upscale HD content to near-4K quality. So, if you're not always watching 4K content, the Express 4K+ does a decent job of enhancing regular HD streams.
Remote and Controls
The included remote is straightforward and easy to use. It has all the necessary buttons for volume control, navigation, and shortcuts for popular streaming services. The voice remote is an added convenience, allowing users to search for shows, control playback, or adjust volume with simple voice commands.
Roku Platform
Roku’s interface is one of the easiest to navigate, making it accessible for even those who are new to streaming devices. The platform allows you to customize the layout, add channels, and quickly access your favorite apps. Roku also offers a range of free, ad-supported channels, which is a nice bonus if you're looking to stream content without a subscription.
Value for Money
For a device that supports 4K and HDR10+, the Roku Express 4K+ offers fantastic value for its price. It’s perfect for users who want 4K streaming but don’t need the extra features or complexity of more expensive devices like the Roku Ultra or the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max. If you’re on a budget but want a quality streaming experience, this is a great choice.
Pros:
- Affordable for 4K streaming.
- Easy setup with a simple interface.
- Supports 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision for excellent picture quality.
- Voice remote with convenient controls.
- Fast streaming and smooth performance.
- Access to a wide range of streaming services and free content.
Cons:
- Lacks Dolby Atmos support (although the audio quality is still good).
- No Ethernet port (it relies solely on Wi-Fi, which could be a limitation for users with less stable connections).
- No USB port for external media (you’ll need a Roku Ultra for that feature).
Conclusion:
Overall, the Roku Express 4K+ delivers excellent performance and a user-friendly experience at an affordable price. It’s perfect for anyone looking to dive into the world of 4K streaming without spending a lot. While it might lack some of the advanced features found on premium devices, it’s more than enough for the average user who just wants high-quality content in 4K. If you're after a simple, reliable streaming device, the Roku Express 4K+ is an easy recommendation.