Walmart's new 4K Google TV stick priced at $20, lacks Dolby Vision

At a glance:

• Walmart's Onn 4K Streaming Device is priced at $19.88, significantly lower than the initially leaked $30 price point
• The streaming stick supports 4K output with Dolby Atmos but lacks Dolby Vision HDR, offering HDR support only in select apps
• Running Android TV 14 with an update available out of the box, the device serves as a budget alternative to Google's $50 Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Budget-Friendly Streaming Option Emerges

Walmart's upcoming 4K Google TV streaming stick has been spotted in stores with a surprisingly low price tag of $19.88, undercutting initial leaks that suggested a $30 cost point. The device, officially called the "Onn 4K Streaming Device," represents Walmart's first foray into the Google TV streaming stick market with 4K output capabilities. This discovery comes after the device began appearing on some store shelves earlier this month, with Reddit users being among the first to get their hands on the new hardware.

The Onn 4K Streaming Device is positioned as an affordable alternative to Google's own Chromecast with Google TV (4K), which retails for $50. While the Walmart offering comes at a fraction of the price, it does make some compromises in features. Notably, the device supports Dolby Atmos for immersive audio but lacks Dolby Vision HDR, which is found on more premium streaming options. However, the 4K upgrade does bring HDR support to certain applications, including popular platforms like YouTube and Kodi, though it won't match the full HDR capabilities of devices like the Google TV Streamer.

Technical Specifications and Performance

Upon examination, the Onn 4K Streaming Device is revealed to be running Android TV 14, with an update already available out of the box. This ensures users will have access to the latest version of Google's television operating system from the moment they power on the device. The streaming stick supports standard 4K resolution output, making it suitable for modern high-definition televisions, though the absence of Dolby Vision HDR means it may not deliver the same level of picture quality as more expensive alternatives that support this advanced high dynamic range format.

The device's codec support appears to be a mixed bag, with some advanced features included while others are notably absent. While Dolby Atmos is supported for superior audio experiences, the lack of Dolby Vision HDR represents a significant limitation for users seeking the best possible picture quality. HDR support in apps like YouTube and Kodi provides some compensation, but the overall experience may not satisfy those who prioritize premium visual fidelity. These compromises are understandable given the device's extremely competitive price point, but potential buyers should be aware of these limitations when considering their purchase.

Market Position and Availability

Walmart has yet to formally announce the Onn 4K Streaming Device or make it available for purchase online. The device's appearance in physical stores suggests that Walmart is conducting a limited rollout or test market before a wider release. When the device does become officially available, it should appear at Walmart's dedicated product page, though the exact link is not yet provided in available information.

The emergence of this budget-friendly streaming option comes at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking affordable ways to upgrade their home entertainment systems. With major streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video all offering 4K content, there's growing demand for affordable devices that can deliver this content to modern televisions. Walmart's entry into this space with a Google TV-based device could significantly expand access to 4K streaming for budget-conscious consumers, potentially putting pressure on other manufacturers to offer more competitively priced options.