Roku refreshed its streaming lineup in back in May 2025, making incremental changes at the entry level. The company has quietly retired the popular Roku Express and Express 4K+ set-top boxes, replacing them with two sleek HDMI sticks — the Roku Streaming Stick (model 3840) and Roku Streaming Stick Plus (model 3830) which follow a stick-form factor.
At $29.99 and $39.99 respectively, these new sticks promise faster performance according to Roku, simpler setups, and Roku’s signature streaming experience in a more compact form factor. But are they really better than the previous models? Here’s everything you need to know.
Express Is Out. Stick Is In.
If you’ve visited Roku’s website recently specially the product page, you’ll notice something missing: the Roku Express and Express 4K+ are nowhere to be found. That’s not a bug — it’s a product reset.
The new Roku Streaming Stick (3840) is now Roku’s entry-level HD player, effectively replacing the Express (3960R). Meanwhile, the Streaming Stick Plus (3830) takes over from the Express 4K+ (3941R) as the go-to 4K HDR model.
But unlike the old set-top boxes, these new models ditch the rectangular plastic shell for a more compact HDMI stick that plugs directly into the back of your TV — no more clutter or HDMI cables dangling below your screen. These sticks can be powered by your TV’s USB port instead of the main power socket, which make them even more convenient.
Under the Hood: What’s Changed?
The new 2025 sticks bring modest but meaningful performance changes:
Roku Streaming Stick (3840)
- Resolution: Up to 1080p HD
- Processor: Realtek 1312C
- RAM: 512 MB
- Wi-Fi: Dual-band (802.11n)
- Power: USB-C (powered from TV)
- Remote: Roku Voice Remote with TV controls
This model mirrors the old Express in specs, but the form factor is drastically improved. It plugs directly into HDMI and draws power via USB-C, which means no wall outlet needed — your TV’s USB port is enough.
Roku Streaming Stick Plus (3830)
- Resolution: Up to 4K HDR (HDR10 only)
- Processor: Amlogic S905Y4 (quad-core)
- RAM: 1 GB
- Wi-Fi: Dual-band (802.11ac)
- Power: USB-C (powered from TV)
- Remote: Roku Voice Remote with TV controls
The Plus stick introduces a newer processor and better power efficiency. It supports HDR10 but unfortunately drops Dolby Vision, a feature still available on the older Streaming Stick 4K (3820R).
Side-by-Side: 2025 vs Previous Roku Models
| Feature | Streaming Stick (3840) | Streaming Stick Plus (3830) | Express 4K+ (3941) | Streaming Stick 4K (3820) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Release year | 2025 | 2025 | 2021 | 2021 |
| Max Resolution | 1080p HD | 4K HDR (HDR10) | 4K HDR (HDR10) | 4K HDR (HDR10, Dolby Vision) |
| Dolby Vision | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Wi-Fi | Dual-band 802.11n | Dual-band 802.11ac | Dual-band 802.11ac | Dual-band 802.11ac (external antenna) |
| Processor | Realtek 1312C | Amlogic S905Y4 (quad-core) | Realtek | Realtek |
| Remote | Voice Remote + TV controls | Voice Remote + TV controls | Voice Remote + TV controls | Voice Remote + TV controls |
| Power | USB-C (TV powered) | USB-C (TV powered) | Micro-USB (wall power) | Micro-USB (external Wi-Fi module) |
| Form Factor | HDMI Stick | HDMI Stick | Set-top Box | HDMI Stick |
Old vs New: What’s Better?
The major advantage of these new sticks is convenience. They’re thinner, plug directly into the TV, and can be powered without a wall socket. This makes them perfect for wall-mounted TVs, travel setups, or just reducing clutter.
Performance-wise, the Streaming Stick Plus is faster and snappier than the Express 4K+, thanks to a newer quad-core chip. Boot times and app launches feel slightly quicker, though it’s not a night-and-day difference.
However, some corners were cut — neither new model supports Dolby Vision, a dealbreaker for cinephiles. If you’re already using the Roku Streaming Stick 4K (3820) or Ultra, there’s not much reason to switch.
Remotes Get a Minor Upgrade
Both new sticks come bundled with Roku’s Voice Remote, which includes power and volume controls for your TV. That’s a step up from the old Express models, which used basic IR remotes.
Still, these are not the fancy rechargeable remotes you get with the Roku Ultra. Further more, there’s no headphone jack for private listening, and no lost remote finder that come with these models.
Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade?
If you’re using an older Roku Express or a first-gen Streaming Stick, the new 2025 models are absolutely worth upgrading to. They’re cleaner, simpler, and faster — and they finally make Roku’s entry-level lineup feel modern again.
But if you already own a Roku Streaming Stick 4K (3820) or Ultra? You’re fine. Unless you’re after a more compact setup, there’s no major incentive to switch — especially if Dolby Vision is important to you.
About David Okwii
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he's not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
Discover more from Dignited
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
