When it comes to upgrading your TV's capabilities, there are a lot of choices out there. Today, we're looking at two popular but different approaches: the Roku Streambar SE ($59.99) which combines streaming and sound, and the Google TV Streamer 4K ($99.99) which focuses purely on streaming. Let's break down what each offers and help you figure out which might work better for you.
The way we watch TV has changed dramatically in the last decade. Instead of cable boxes and TV antennas, many of us now rely on streaming devices to watch our favorite shows and movies. These devices need to handle high-quality video (like 4K and HDR), provide smooth access to streaming services, and ideally make finding content easier.
But there's more to consider than just getting Netflix on your TV. Sound quality, which often gets overlooked, can make a huge difference in your viewing experience. This is where our two contenders take different paths.
The Roku Streambar SE hit the market in late 2021 as a budget-friendly version of Roku's popular Streambar. It's what I like to call a "two-birds-one-stone" solution - it gives you both streaming capabilities and better sound than your TV's built-in speakers. For many people, especially in smaller rooms or apartments, this combination makes a lot of sense.
The Google TV Streamer 4K, released in early 2023, takes a more focused approach. It's all about providing the best possible streaming experience, leaving audio to whatever system you already have (or plan to buy separately). This newer device brings more processing power and memory than previous Google streamers, which means faster menu navigation and smoother app switching.
Both devices support 4K (ultra-high-definition) video and HDR (High Dynamic Range, which means better contrast and more vivid colors). However, there are some noteworthy differences:
The Google TV streamer has more powerful hardware inside - its processor is 22% faster than previous models, and it has more memory for running apps. In practical terms, this means:
The Roku, while capable, isn't quite as snappy. But here's the thing - unless you're the type who frequently jumps between apps or gets frustrated by slight delays, you might not notice the difference. I've used both, and while the Google TV is noticeably faster, the Roku is perfectly adequate for most viewing.
This is where things get interesting. The Roku Streambar SE includes two front-facing speakers and a dedicated bass port. While it won't compete with a full home theater setup, it provides significantly better sound than most TV speakers. It includes features like:
The Google TV streamer has no built-in audio capabilities - it relies entirely on your TV's speakers or whatever external sound system you connect. This isn't necessarily a disadvantage if you:
Here's where we need to talk about bang for your buck. The Roku Streambar SE at $59.99 (currently discounted from $100) offers both streaming and improved sound. The Google TV Streamer 4K at $99.99 is more expensive and doesn't include any audio improvements.
However, if you're planning to build a serious home theater setup, the Google TV might make more sense. Its more powerful processor and broader format support could make it a better long-term investment, especially when paired with a high-end sound system.
Let's look at some specific scenarios to help you decide:
If you're working with limited space and budget, the Roku Streambar SE is incredibly compelling. It saves space, reduces cable clutter, and improves both your streaming and audio situation with one purchase.
For a dedicated home theater room, the Google TV Streamer 4K might be the better choice. Its superior processing power and wider format support make it a better fit for serious entertainment setups. You can pair it with the audio system of your choice, from a simple soundbar to a full surround sound setup.
If you're deep into the Google ecosystem (Nest cameras, Google Home devices, etc.), the Google TV streamer offers better integration. You can control smart home devices and even view security cameras right from your TV.
Consider these key questions:
Both devices receive regular software updates, but the Google TV's more powerful hardware might give it a longer useful life. That said, Roku has a great track record of supporting older devices, and the Streambar SE's dual functionality means it'll remain useful even if streaming technology advances.
The Roku Streambar SE is an excellent choice if you want to improve both your TV's sound and streaming capabilities in one affordable package. It's particularly good for smaller spaces or simpler setups.
The Google TV Streamer 4K is the better choice if you want the most capable streaming device and either already have good audio or plan to invest in a separate sound system. It's especially appealing if you're invested in the Google ecosystem or want the most future-proof option.
Remember, there's no wrong choice here - both devices will get you streaming your favorite content. The decision comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and how you plan to use the device in your space.
| Roku Streambar SE - $59.99 | Google TV Streamer 4K - $99.99 |
|---|---|
| Processing Power - Affects menu responsiveness and app loading speed | |
| Basic processor (adequate for streaming) | 22% faster processor (noticeably smoother experience) |
| Audio Capability - Determines if additional purchases needed | |
| Built-in speakers with bass port (good for small-medium rooms) | No speakers (requires separate audio solution) |
| Memory - Impacts app switching and overall performance | |
| 2GB (sufficient for basic streaming) | 4GB (better for heavy app users) |
| Form Factor - Affects setup complexity and space requirements | |
| 9.6" wide soundbar (saves space, fewer cables) | Compact dongle (hides behind TV, needs space for sound system) |
| Smart Home Integration - Important for connected homes | |
| Basic voice control (limited smart features) | Full Google Home support with Matter (excellent for smart homes) |
| HDR Support - Affects picture quality on compatible TVs | |
| HDR10 (good for basic HDR content) | HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision (better for movie enthusiasts) |
| Audio Formats - Important for home theater setups | |
| Basic Dolby Audio (adequate for casual viewing) | Dolby Atmos, Digital Plus (superior for home theater) |
| Value Proposition - Total cost to achieve desired setup | |
| Complete solution ($59.99 total) | Requires additional audio purchase ($99.99 + sound system) |
| Primary Use Case - Most suitable application | |
| Small rooms, basic upgrades | Home theater, smart homes, advanced users |
For dedicated home theater use, the Google TV Streamer 4K ($99.99) is superior due to its better HDR support, Dolby Atmos compatibility, and ability to pair with high-end audio systems. The Roku Streambar SE ($59.99) is more suited for casual viewing rooms.
The Roku Streambar SE provides better immediate value since it includes both streaming and audio improvements for $59.99. However, the Google TV Streamer 4K at $99.99 offers more long-term value for those planning to build a quality audio system.
The Google TV Streamer 4K works with any audio system through your TV's connections. The Roku Streambar SE has its own speakers but can also connect to additional Roku wireless speakers for surround sound.
The Google TV Streamer 4K offers superior streaming performance with its faster processor and more memory. The Roku Streambar SE provides adequate streaming performance for most users but may be slower when switching between apps.
With the Roku Streambar SE, no additional speakers are required for basic setup. The Google TV Streamer 4K requires separate speakers or soundbar as it has no built-in audio capabilities.
The Roku Streambar SE is ideal for small spaces as it combines streaming and sound in one compact device. The Google TV Streamer 4K requires additional audio equipment, taking up more space.
Yes, both support 4K and HDR, but the Google TV Streamer 4K offers more advanced HDR formats including Dolby Vision and HDR10+. The Roku Streambar SE supports basic HDR10.
The Roku Streambar SE offers simpler setup with fewer cables and components. The Google TV Streamer 4K requires additional setup steps if you're connecting external audio equipment.
The Google TV Streamer 4K offers comprehensive smart home control, especially with Google Home devices. The Roku Streambar SE has limited smart home capabilities.
For basic audio, the Roku Streambar SE provides good sound quality suitable for regular TV viewing. The Google TV Streamer 4K can deliver superior audio quality but only when paired with a good external sound system.
Both the Roku Streambar SE and Google TV Streamer 4K require internet connection for streaming. Both support Wi-Fi, and the Google TV also offers Ethernet connectivity for more stable connections.
The Google TV Streamer 4K has more powerful hardware and is likely to stay current longer. However, the Roku Streambar SE remains useful as a soundbar even if streaming technology advances.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: rtings.com - roku.com - community.roku.com - bestbuy.com - bhphotovideo.com - staples.com - cnet.com - community.roku.com - bestbuy.com - roku.com - newegg.com - bestbuy.com - electronicexpress.com - soooq.com - store.google.com - bestbuy.com - verizon.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - gsmarena.com - youtube.com
