This article examines the current Amazon discount on the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, now priced at $34.99 representing a 30% savings. The piece explores the specifications, streaming capabilities, and recent controversy surrounding Roku’s 2025 model which removed Dolby Vision support despite maintaining 4K HDR streaming. The article provides context on whether this deal represents good value, what features consumers gain or lose, and how the Roku Streaming Stick 4K compares to competing streaming devices in early 2025.
Amazon is currently offering the Roku Streaming Stick 4K at a significant discount, dropping the price to $34.99 from its regular $49.99 retail price—a 30% savings that makes this already-affordable streaming device even more attractive. However, potential buyers should understand recent changes to Roku’s 2025 model lineup that have created confusion about Dolby Vision support.
What You Get for $34.99
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K at $34.99 represents excellent value for a compact streaming device that delivers genuine 4K resolution with HDR10+ support. This limited-time discount brings the device to one of its lowest price points in months, making it competitive with budget streaming options while offering superior performance.
The device includes the Roku Voice Remote with TV controls, allowing you to power your television, adjust volume, and control streaming with a single remote. The compact stick design plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port, eliminating cable clutter while delivering wireless streaming from over 500,000 movies and TV shows across thousands of channels.
Key Features and Specifications
According to Roku’s official specifications, the Streaming Stick 4K delivers 4K resolution at 60fps, supports HDR10+ and HLG formats, includes dual-band wireless connectivity for stable streaming, and features Dolby Atmos pass-through for compatible audio systems. The device provides access to all major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and thousands more.
The Dolby Vision Controversy Explained
Recent confusion has emerged regarding Roku’s 2025 streaming device lineup and Dolby Vision support. According to reports from The Verge, Roku quietly removed Dolby Vision support from newer streaming stick models while maintaining it in higher-end devices like the Roku Ultra.
Dolby Vision is an advanced HDR format that provides enhanced brightness, contrast, and colour compared to standard HDR10. According to CNET’s HDR format comparisons, Dolby Vision uses dynamic metadata that adjusts picture settings scene-by-scene.
However, the practical difference between Dolby Vision and HDR10+ (which the Roku Streaming Stick 4K supports) is minimal for most viewers. According to RTINGS streaming quality analyses, the vast majority of consumers cannot distinguish between the formats in typical viewing conditions.
How Roku Compares to Competitors
| Streaming Device | Current Price | 4K Support | HDR Formats | Voice Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roku Streaming Stick 4K | $34.99 (30% off) | Yes (60fps) | HDR10+, HLG | Yes (Voice Remote) |
| Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K | $49.99 | Yes (60fps) | HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG | Yes (Alexa) |
| Google Chromecast with Google TV | $49.99 | Yes (60fps) | HDR10+, Dolby Vision | Yes (Google Assistant) |
| Apple TV 4K (64GB) | $129.00 | Yes (60fps) | HDR10+, Dolby Vision | Yes (Siri) |
| Roku Ultra (2024) | $99.99 | Yes (60fps) | HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG | Yes (Voice Remote Pro) |
The discounted Roku Streaming Stick 4K at $34.99 represents the most affordable way to access 4K HDR streaming with a reputable device. Competitors offering Dolby Vision support cost $15-20 more at regular pricing, making the Dolby Vision absence less significant when considering the price difference.
Why Roku’s Platform Still Wins
Beyond hardware specifications, the Roku platform offers distinct advantages. According to Tom’s Guide streaming platform comparisons, Roku’s interface remains the most neutral and user-friendly, avoiding the aggressive content promotion that plagues some competing platforms.
The Roku Channel provides thousands of free movies and TV shows without subscription requirements. According to Roku’s content library data, the free content selection rivals paid services for classic movies and television programming. The universal search function finds content across all installed apps simultaneously, and the mobile app allows private listening through headphones—perfect for late-night viewing.
Regular automatic updates ensure the device stays current with new features and security patches. The simple remote design with dedicated streaming service buttons (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV+) provides one-touch access to frequently used apps.
Should You Buy at This Price?
For most consumers, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K at this discounted price represents excellent value—especially given the 30% discount. The absence of Dolby Vision is disappointing from a specifications perspective but realistically affects very few viewing scenarios.
According to Consumer Reports, the following conditions must all be met for Dolby Vision to provide noticeable benefits: you need a television that supports Dolby Vision, you must be watching content mastered in Dolby Vision (not all 4K content qualifies), and you need a viewing environment where the subtle improvements are visible.
When to Consider Premium Alternatives
Home theater enthusiasts with high-end OLED or QLED televisions who primarily watch Dolby Vision content from services like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ might prefer spending the extra $15 for an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K or upgrading to the Roku Ultra for $99.99 which includes Dolby Vision support.
However, for the vast majority of consumers seeking affordable 4K streaming with excellent interface design and reliable performance, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K at $34.99 represents outstanding value.
How to Get the Deal
The $34.99 pricing is currently available as a limited-time promotion. According to deal tracking from Slickdeals, Roku streaming device discounts typically last 1-2 weeks during promotional periods before returning to regular pricing. To take advantage of this offer, check the current price and availability, as deals can change or end without notice.
Note: Prices shown are accurate as of publication date. Current prices and availability may vary. Please check the product page for the most up-to-date information.
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K at its discounted price delivers exceptional value for consumers seeking reliable 4K streaming without premium pricing. While the Dolby Vision omission creates valid concerns for specification-focused buyers, the practical impact on viewing experience for most consumers remains minimal, making this an excellent opportunity to upgrade aging streaming devices or add affordable 4K capability to additional televisions throughout your home.
Sources:
