For most Samsung Smart TVs with an available HDMI port, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K (model 3820) is a straightforward choice to consider. Roku says it works with any TV that has HDMI, but that means basic connection compatibility—not that every Samsung TV can display 4K or HDR. Your TV’s capabilities, HDMI input, signal path, and preferred remote features may change which Roku is right for you.
Which Roku should you choose?
For a simple Roku addition
Consider the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, model 3820, if your Samsung TV has an available HDMI input and you want a compact streaming player. Roku’s compatibility statement is that the stick works with any TV that has HDMI: Roku Streaming Stick 4K compatibility and setup.
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If your Samsung TV does not support 4K or HDR
The stick can still connect over HDMI, but a streaming device cannot add 4K or HDR display capability that the TV does not have. The picture is limited by the capabilities of the TV and the rest of the setup. Roku’s overview of 4K and HDR requirements is at Roku 4K and HDR requirements.
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If you want a closer model or remote comparison
Do not choose solely by the words “4K” in a model name. Compare the output formats supported by your Samsung TV, the remote functions you actually need, how the device will fit and connect, and current listings. Roku’s model information identifies the Streaming Stick 4K as model 3820 and the Streaming Stick 4K+ as a separate model, but the available information here does not establish a current price/value winner or a best remote for every buyer: Roku player models.
#1 Best Overall
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
What you need for 4K or HDR
A 4K-capable Roku alone is not enough. Roku says 4K streaming requires a compatible 4K TV and input, a 4K-capable Roku player, a suitable streaming service plan, and sufficient internet bandwidth; it says up to 25 Mbps may be needed. For 4K over HDMI, connected devices must support HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2. See Roku’s 4K and HDR requirements.
- Check the exact Samsung TV model and whether it supports the format you want.
- Check the specific HDMI input: a TV may not support the same capabilities on every port.
- Confirm the streaming service and plan support the desired resolution.
- Make sure the internet connection is sufficient for the stream.
- If a receiver or soundbar sits between the Roku and TV, check that it also supports the required HDMI and HDCP capabilities.
Enable the Samsung HDMI setting if needed
Some Samsung TVs require HDMI UHD Color to be enabled on the input used for the Roku. Roku lists these example menu paths:
Rank #2
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Some models: Menu > Picture > Picture Options > HDMI UHD Color > On > Restart.
- Some newer menus: Settings > General > External Device Manager > HDMI UHD Color > On.
Menu names and availability vary by Samsung model and software. Use the manual for your exact TV if the setting is elsewhere or absent. Roku’s setup guidance is at Roku 4K and HDR requirements and Roku 4K/HDR troubleshooting.
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- Plug the stick into an available HDMI port on the Samsung TV.
- Connect the included USB power cable. Roku says the Wi-Fi receiver is built into that cable, so use the supplied cable. If the TV’s USB port does not provide enough power or the stick shows a power warning, connect the cable to the included wall adapter instead.
- Turn on the TV and select the HDMI input where you plugged in the Roku.
- Follow the on-screen Roku setup to connect to Wi-Fi, install updates, and link the player to a Roku account. Roku says accounts are free and it does not charge activation fees.
If the stick does not physically fit around the TV or nearby cables, Roku says you can request a free HDMI extender. The stick plugs directly into the TV, so a separate HDMI cable is not required. See Roku Streaming Stick 4K compatibility and setup.
Rank #3
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
Troubleshoot missing 4K or HDR
Check the TV input and picture setting
Confirm that the Roku is connected to a compatible HDMI port, then check whether HDMI UHD Color is enabled for that input. The feature name and path are model-dependent.
Remove intermediate devices to isolate the problem
Roku says every HDMI-connected device in the path must support HDCP 2.2 for 4K/HDR. If the Roku runs through an AV receiver or soundbar, temporarily connect it directly to a compatible TV input. If the higher-resolution signal works directly, check the intermediate device’s capabilities and settings. Roku’s guidance is at Roku 4K/HDR troubleshooting.
Rank #4
- Hides behind your TV: The all-new design plugs right into your TV with a simple setup
- Super-fast startup: Start streaming channels like Disney+, Prime Video, HBO Max, Apple TV+, Netflix, Sling, and Hulu in a snap—just turn on your TV
- Long-range Wi-Fi: Enjoy fast, smooth TV streaming in any room with a strong Wi-Fi connection, now up to 2x faster
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku Streaming Stick with the Roku remote
- Voice search & control: Quickly search, play entertainment, and control your streaming device with the voice remote
Check the full streaming setup
Verify that the TV, Roku, service plan, and internet connection support the format together. A lower resolution can result when any part of the chain cannot carry or deliver the requested signal.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Upgrade your TV, instantly – Fire TV Stick HD is our fastest HD streaming stick ever, with a streamlined navigation that jumps straight to your movies, shows, and live TV. Take your entertainment on the go with the new ultra-portable profile. And watch it all come to life with crisp Full HD and Wi-Fi 6 support.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- All your apps in one place – Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV, HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and thousands more. It’s easy to find what to watch from hundreds of thousands of movies and TV episodes, including free, ad-supported content. Subscription fees may apply.
- Our most portable stick – Thin and light, without extra clutter. Connects directly to your TV's HDMI port without blocking other ports.
- Easier than ever to set up – Now with Direct Power, it's powered by your TV with the included USB-C cable and eliminates the need for a wall adapter.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
