Walmart’s cheap Google TV box now comes in a stick

Following the launch of its Onn Google TV 4K Streaming Box earlier this year, Walmart is back with a cheaper stick version for just $14.88. The Onn Google TV Full HD Streaming Device (catchy) has lower video quality (1080p) and less RAM than its boxy sibling, but as it costs less than a month of Netflix, it could be a good option for smartening up the guest room TV.

Essentially a cheaper version of Google’s $30 Chromecast with Google TV HD (which is currently on sale for $19), the Onn stick runs the same Google TV software and comes with a voice-capable Bluetooth remote control that summons Google Assistant. It’s available starting today at Walmart.com.

Just plug the HDMI device into the back of your TV and access streaming services like Netflix, YouTube TV, ESPN, and Max. It’s also got built-in Chromecast so you can cast photos, videos, and music onto your TV.

The specs are basic but the same as Google’s HD stick: full HD (1080p) resolution, stereo sound, 1.5GB RAM, and 8GB storage. It comes with a remote, an HDMI cable, and a Micro USB power adaptor and plug.

Onn is Walmart’s in-house TV, electronics, and accessories brand. The Verge’s Chris Welch reviewed the Onn Google TV 4K Streaming Box in May and called it the best $20 deal in streaming.

The new, cheaper stick version features lower specs but uses the same remote, with dedicated buttons for Netflix, YouTube, Disney Plus, Paramount Plus, and Google Assistant. The $20 box has 2GB RAM and 4K streaming and is more comparable to Google’s $50 Chromecast 4K.

For $15 with voice control and access to the Google TV platform, the new Onn stick might seem compelling. But that step up to the $20 Onn box with 4K resolution and more memory is so small, it feels hard to justify saving $5 for this gadget.