This 4K streaming stick could make Google TV very affordable
Could the Realme 4K Google TV Stick be one to watch out for?
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Realme is set to launch its first streaming stick very soon. The Realme4KSmartGoogleTV Stick runs its namesakeGoogle TVoperating system, and features4K60fps support as well asHDR10+for sharp and colorful picture quality.
The Realme 4K Smart Google TV Stick launches on October 13, 2021. It doesn’t currently have a price tag attached to it, though we imagine it’ll be on a par with theChromecast with Google TVat $50 / £60 / AU$99 – and it could be even cheaper given the lack of a dedicated remote.
Details can be perused on the Realme 4K Smart Google TV’sofficial page. Aside from the aforementioned picture quality features, the stick also has support forHDMI 2.1, USB-C connection and, as you might expect, built-in Google Assistant functionality.
Strangely, the stick’s official page doesn’t detail too much in the way of supported apps, with only standouts likeNetflix,Prime Video,YouTubeandGoogle PlayGames being shown.
However, as the device is powered by Google TV, it should be safe to assume that other popular streaming apps likeDisney Plus,SpotifyandHBO Maxwill likely be viewable on Realme’s new streaming stick.
Analysis: Is Realme’s 4K stick a big deal?
While Realme is perhaps best known for its selection of mid-range smartphones like theRealme GT, the company has branched out to other types of products in the past, including smart watches like theRealme Watch 2. The company has a reputation for launching quality products with low costs and relatively high specs.
This looks like it may also be the case with the Realme 4K Smart Google TV stick. Google TV is about as good as telly-basedoperating systemsget, with a responsive and easy-to-use interface that’s in the process of outright replacing the more divisiveAndroid TV– and, if the price is right, it could be the best way to upgrade your TV’s operating system to Google TV for relatively little cost. (Currently, you need a pretty new Sony TV like theA90J, or a Chromecast with Google TV dongle, to try out the new OS.)
Get the best Black Friday deals direct to your inbox, plus news, reviews, and more.
Sign up to be the first to know about unmissable Black Friday deals on top tech, plus get all your favorite TechRadar content.
Throw in other high quality features like 4K resolution and gorgeous HDR10+ support at a potentially low cost, and Realme might just be onto a winner. However, it’s sure to face competition against similarly-priced streaming sticks like theRoku Streaming Stick 4K, which is also releasing in October and boasts support forHDRandDolby Vision.
Rhys is TRG’s Hardware Editor, and has been part of the TechRadar team for more than two years. Particularly passionate about high-quality third-party controllers and headsets, as well as the latest and greatest in fight sticks and VR, Rhys strives to provide easy-to-read, informative coverage on gaming hardware of all kinds. As for the games themselves, Rhys is especially keen on fighting and racing games, as well as soulslikes and RPGs.
The Apple TV 4K just got even more interesting for projectors in tvOS 18.2
Amazon just dropped the Fire TV Stick HD, and it comes with a nice surprise in the box
5 must-have Android apps
