Just recently, the newly-designed Roku Streaming Stick was announced as yet another great way for people to stream media content and watch different programs in the most convenient ways. It ups the ante in terms of the battle between media players, as the price point comes in below that of Apple TV or the Roku 3 box device, yet slightly higher than the Google Chromecast media stick. It is yet to be introduced in the market but there’s already debates heading up comparing the new Roku Streaming Stick vs. Google Chromecast as the streaming media battle is just taking shape. We’ve got the inside scoop on the new device and why it may be a better buy than Google’s dongle.

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Currently, there’s a Roku Streaming Stick on the market for $90 (seen above), but that’s all about to change. The price will be lower and the device will be easier to use, offering more capabilities for streaming media through the device. That will put Roku’s stick in direct competition with the Google Chromecast, which has been a steady seller on the market for an easy way to send certain media to a hi-def television set.

So which streaming media stick should one buy? There are several clear cut differences between the two streaming media sticks. Each one of them has its own pros and cons, so we’ll help you make the selection with regard to the best device for your money.

Roku Streaming Stick vs. Google Chromecast comparisons:

Device Connectivity

The Roku and Chromecast are not set top boxes, but small dongles or “sticks” similar to USB flash/jump drives. To use them, owners need to plug the stick into an available HDMI port on the side, back or front of a television. It is also important to note that both Roku and Chromecast are also powered using either a normal wall socket or a USB extension. Many newer televisions include a USB port nearby to HDMI ports for more convenience.

(Pictured above: Current edition of Chromecast user guide book)

Functionality And Content

One of the key differences between the new Roku Streaming Stick and the Google Chromecast is their functionality. Their software is quite different. With Roku, you will be in a position to view more than 750 channels of various content like movies, TV shows, music videos, and sports among others. Its functionality is from inside the device itself over your wireless internet.

On the other hand, Chromecast does not have that sort of functionality built in. It is basic in the sense that its functionality is based on streaming content from another device to the Chromecast over Wi-Fi. That requires using a tablet or any other internet enabled device. You’ll have to set up the Chromecast streaming through a laptop, tablet or other devices, by installing an app on the device. Then you’re able to stream from certain apps such as Hulu Plus, Netflix or YouTube on mobile devices. There are reportedly other content providers on the way, but for now, it’s nowhere near as broad as the content channels from a Roku or Apple TV.

Right now, the number of channels looks to be the main reason why Roku is bound to surpass Chromecast in terms of popularity and usage. Owners of other models, such as the Roku 3 media player, already know just how much they get for their money. Now the Roku Streaming Stick is set to be available at a lower price.

Price Comparison

Early reports indicate plenty to be excited about with regards to the price of Roku Streaming Stick. The new media device is going to cost just $49 for US residents and 49 pounds in UK. This means that Roku is slightly more expensive as compared to Chromecast which goes for $35. The Google device was as low as $30 during some sales and Black Friday 2014 deals.

The differing features between the two media streaming devices are what clearly explain the difference in prices. The new Roku streaming media stick will make its debut for buyers in April 2014, while Chromecast is currently available at Amazon.com and other online sites.

Which streaming media device do you think is best? The Roku, the Apple TV or Google Chromecast?