Walmart's entry-level streaming device, priced at $30, outperforms rivals from brands like Amazon and Roku in terms of value.
The Onn 4K Plus stands out as another strong offering from Walmart in the streaming market.
At just $30, this small device supports 4K resolution with HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos audio. It delivers impressive performance for the cost, featuring 16GB of internal storage for applications, and its Google TV interface proves practical overall, though it occasionally displays intrusive banner advertisements.
Compared to Roku's entry-level options like the $40 Streaming Stick Plus, which excel in user-friendliness, or Walmart's own Onn 4K Pro with extra capabilities, the Onn 4K Plus remains a top choice for anyone seeking a capable streaming box under $50 that handles most tasks effectively.
Measuring roughly one inch in thickness and easily held in the hand, the Onn 4K Plus includes a fixed power adapter on a five-foot USB-C cord and connects via HDMI to televisions. Unlike Roku's affordable models, which omit a wall charger, this device provides one.
Though partial to Apple TV, the reviewer would opt for the Walmart Onn 4K Plus when budget constraints apply.
Walmart keeps processor specifics under wraps, but reports indicate the Onn 4K Plus employs a quad-core Amlogic S905X5M processor at 2.5GHz. Testing from AFTVNews reveals it surpasses the $50 Onn 4K Pro in speed, trailing only premium options like Amazon's Fire TV Cube and Nvidia's Shield TV.
Hands-on evaluations confirm these results. When tested alongside the Onn 4K Pro, the more affordable Plus model launched applications faster and navigated smoothly through Pluto TV guides and Google TV's Live section. It also outperformed the Roku Streaming Stick Plus in app loading times.
However, the higher-end Onn 4K Pro doubles the RAM at 4GB compared to the Plus's 2GB, aiding seamless app switching. The Plus often reloaded apps fully after a few switches, while the Pro resumed from the previous state.
With 16GB of storage versus the Pro's 32GB, the Onn 4K Plus suffices for typical use, even if gamers install many titles. It exceeds the 8GB in Amazon's basic Fire TV Sticks.
The device accommodates Bluetooth devices like wireless headphones and supports Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, but lacks USB-A and Ethernet ports, which are available only on the Onn 4K Pro.
The included remote features an array of controls: a directional pad, home and back keys, plus dedicated buttons for voice search, quick settings, user profiles, Google's live TV guide, free video access, channel switching, and direct links to paid services including YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and Paramount.
This remote handles TV power functions and adjusts volume on televisions, soundbars, and other audio setups. It goes beyond Roku's HDMI-CEC limitations by using infrared to manage sound systems when required.
A customizable Star button in the upper right allows access to Google Home for smart device control or launching a preferred application.
For further personalization, apps like TVQuickActions enable remapping of buttons—for instance, to view all apps, link the Live button to Channels DVR, or alter preset service shortcuts. Unlike Amazon's Fire TV, which restricts such changes, Google TV on this device allows greater flexibility.
Notably absent are backlit buttons, a remote locator sound feature, and dedicated transport controls for fast-forward, rewind, and play/pause, requiring use of the directional pad instead—a shift that might require adaptation from Roku or Fire TV users.
Powered by Android TV with the Google TV interface, the device curates watch suggestions based on user preferences on its home screen.
The top three rows offer value: personalized recommendations, installed apps, and a 'Continue Watching' section that aggregates unfinished content from platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Apple TV, and Disney+ for easy resumption.
Lower sections introduce clutter with promoted content, free Google offerings, and purchasable on-demand films, such as a prominent ad panel right after the 'Continue Watching' area.
Users can adjust some elements via the 'Your services' menu to hide suggestions from unused services like Peacock.
Persistent elements, including movie rental rows and Google free service promotions, remain unavoidable, requiring navigation past ads to reach core features.
As a Google TV product, the Onn 4K Plus integrates deeply with Google's services.
Its screensaver connects to Google Photos, allowing selection of albums for display during idle periods. Live albums create an updating digital photo frame on the TV, encouraging nostalgic viewing—simpler than on Roku devices.
It functions as a Google Cast receiver, enabling video or audio streaming from compatible phone apps and screen mirroring from Android phones or Chrome browsers.
Integration with Google's smart home extends to the quick settings menu's Google Home panel, where users can monitor cameras and manage lights, thermostats, plugs, and other connected gadgets.
Despite a preference for Apple TV, the Onn 4K Plus appeals for budget-conscious setups, particularly secondary TVs, with solid speed, adequate storage, and a functional interface marred only by ads. The Google Photos feature enhances family photo sharing.
Alternatives exist: Roku Streaming Sticks often discount and offer a cleaner, if ad-heavy, experience; Amazon Fire TV suits Alexa users; and the Onn 4K Pro adds ports and a remote finder.
For upgrading outdated streamers or sluggish smart TV interfaces without platform loyalty like Roku, the Onn 4K Plus provides unmatched value at its price point.
This review contributes to TechHive's comprehensive analysis of leading media streaming devices.