Roku 3 vs. Roku Stick- How do the media streamers compare?

Media streamers offer the only available option to engage content without necessarily having to download it first; the units have, therefore, been configured to transmit content in a continuous stream of data, so it plays as it arrives, meaning that you can only watch what is being transmitted instead of downloading to watch later.

So while most media streamers will play content from the internet not all of them will allow users to stream local or personal files. Most people, therefore, want units that they can personalize in that they will use it to stream family videos, photos, or music. A media streaming device like Roku allows the incorporation of a portable hard drive and has also been equipped with expandable storage.

So, to make the search easy for people who are looking for a simple solution with which they can stream their local content or stream their family videos, we have zeroed in on Roku 3 and the Roku stick. Both of the above units come from a reputable developer but the features and functionalities are a bit different, so check below to see which one suits you.

What are the differences between Roku 3 and Roku Stick?

Model	Roku 3	Roku Stick
Storage	USB slot/Micro SD slot	8GB
RAM	512mb	1 GB
Throughput Speeds	25mbps around 4K 6mbps HD	3.0mbps for SD 9.0mbps for HD
Ports	USB port, Memory card slot	Micro USB power port, HDMI
Processor	dual-core BCM11130 clocking at 900MHz	ARM Cortex A7 quad-core 800 MHz
Availability	Check Price Here	Check Price Here

Roku 3 vs Roku Stick – How do they compare?

Performance

The overall performance of a media streamer is highly dependent on speeds, cache size, and the speed of the RAM. So while the speed of the processors’ clock is also a primary factor to consider as regards how your unit will perform the other mentioned factors are worth your careful consideration. Now the most notable difference between Roku 3 and the Roku stick is that the later is a quad-core, while the former is a dual-core, which already indicates that Roku stick offers faster performance.

Now if we are to consider the other relevant factors such as RAM, Roku once again comes out top with 1GB as Roku 3 only has 512mb meaning that performance will be affected and will therefore not be as fast when compared to the speeds of the Roku stick. So while Roku 3 might be five times faster than Roku 2, it is definitely not faster than the Roku stick.

Speed

The speed of your media streamers has a lot to do with the WIFI signals, the reason why many people experience buffering. Weak WIFI signals could be caused by too many users within one network and it will get worse if they are streaming the bandwidth-intensive applications. Also, ensure that your router is not being obstructed; it’s positioning also plays a big role in the transmission of signals.

The throughput speeds offered by Roku 3 and the Roku stick are perfect for streaming in HD and SD given that the standard recommended speeds for streaming in SD are 3.0 and 5.0 for HD. Other factors that may affect streaming speed are storage are if you have downloaded a lot of content, as the device will be slow in transmitting.

The above then leaves us with only one winner, which is the Roku stick as it has incorporated up to 8GB storage space sufficient for fast streaming; while Roku 3 gives you the option of expanding your storage space to what will be enough for you but at an extra cost.

Build and Design

Roku stick looks exactly as its name sounds, and the best thing about it is that it will disappear behind your Tv with ease. The unit comes with an intuitive remote control, complete with a hands-free voice option; you can also use it for private listening just attach the headphones, and noise will be minimized in your home.

Roku 3 on the other hand, has the aesthetics, a perfect combination of the shiny and matte black complete with the 3 numeral embedded on top of the unit so that you don’t confuse it with Roku 2. Roku 3 seems a bit sophisticated when compared to the Roku stick, the build and design is to provide accommodation for the relevant ports at the back and the side of the unit.

So as regards build and design we must say that Roku 3 is not only attractive but highly functional and by placing it at the side of your display, you can expect the remote to be responsive as you browse the various channels and applications.

Roku 3 and Roku Stick – A Comparison Overview

Roku 3

Roku is famous for developing media streamers with a breadth of content; Roku 3 is a 3^rd generation media streamer that was released back in 2013, the unit is famous for its powerful CPU, and the WIFI direct remote instead of the Bluetooth. Users can expect to be treated to smooth streaming thanks to the built-in Ethernet port and the dual-band wireless adaptor.

There is also the free Roku app available in most of the Roku media streamers that allow users to share pictures, music, and videos from their smartphones or tablet to the TV via the “Play on Roku.”

Pros

• Has incorporated a powerful processor
• The unit has an enhanced game remote
• Offers Stunning HD video quality
• Has incorporated over 2000+ entertainment channels

Cons

• Freezes frequently
• Problem with loading YouTube videos

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Roku Stick

We begin with the fact that the Roku stick is highly portable at least when compared to Roku 3, the unit is known for offering brilliant picture quality complete with smoother streaming not to mention the long-range wireless receiver. Roku stick allows users to stream for free live sports, music, news, and movies, and for the above, you can use the voice control feature.

Another advantage of investing in the Roku stick is that its remote control can control your TV’s volume and power, so while you will be able to enjoy all the above and much more, you must know that this unit is lacking in 4K and HDR streaming.

Pros

• Set up and use is easy
• The interface is intuitive
• The media streamers remote control can be used on the TV
• Users can subscribe to varied streaming channels both free and subscription-based

Cons

• The remote is not very responsive
• The remote is buggy

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Conclusion

Both the Roku 3 and Roku stick do not support 4K, but the Roku stick is well capable of streaming content in HDR.

Final Verdict – So which is better? Roku 3 or Roku stick?

Roku stick is the better media streamer when compared to Roku 3 because it has incorporated a high storage capacity has a powerful processor and offers faster throughput speeds.

FAQ’s

1. Can I watch Disney plus on Roku 3?

You can watch Disney plus on Roku 3 only that you will have to get a new Roku device with updated software.

2. Why do I need to give up my credit card information when signing up for a Roku Account?

The above information is required so that you can easily purchase the subscription services or channels in the future.