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Walmart Launches a New Google TV 4K Streaming Stick for Just $19.88

Walmart has begun rolling out a new Onn Google TV 4K streaming stick, marking the brand’s first entry into 4K-capable devices in a compact stick form factor for 2026. The device, which carries the model designation as the Onn 4K Streaming Device with Google TV, appeared on store shelves ahead of any formal announcement from the retailer, with some units selling for $19.88 according to a post on Reddit. Unfortunately, it’s not for sale online, and it is possible that the Walmart store had it incorrectly listed at the HD stick price, but gave them the 4K version instead, as the HD stick is also now selling at $19.88. Many expected this device to be priced around the $30 mark, still making it a great deal.

Shoppers have reported finding the streaming stick mixed among other Onn devices at local Walmart locations. One early purchaser obtained the item while visiting a store for unrelated goods and was charged $19.88 at checkout. Online product links associated with the purchase have not functioned in some cases, indicating that the rollout may still be in an early or limited phase, with availability primarily in physical stores rather than widespread online listings.

The Onn 4K Streaming Stick runs the Google TV platform and supports 4K Ultra HD resolution along with Dolby Atmos audio. It features a voice remote with control capabilities, including integration for Google Assistant or Gemini features as noted on packaging. Setup involves connecting to a television via HDMI, with power supplied through a USB-C adapter included in the box. An HDMI extender is also provided to accommodate installations behind wall-mounted displays.

Initial setup experiences have varied. The automatic sign-in process through the Google TV app on iOS devices has worked only partially for some users, requiring a switch to manual configuration after Wi-Fi connection. Upon connecting to a network, the device has prompted a system update of approximately 198 megabytes, followed by an additional remote update. Network performance testing has shown Wi-Fi speeds reaching around 220 megabits per second for both upload and download using iperf3 measurements. When connected through a USB Ethernet adapter, such as a Cable Matters hub, speeds have increased to approximately 330 megabits per second in both directions.

In terms of display and audio capabilities, the streamer supports HDR10 and has demonstrated functionality with Quick Media Switching and Variable Refresh Rate features. It includes Dolby Atmos support but does not offer Dolby Vision compatibility, a distinction noted after initial assumptions based on branding elements. YouTube playback in HDR with Dolby Digital Plus has performed as expected. The device appears based on a Realtek chipset similar to the RTD1325 series used in other budget media players, which influences its format handling.

Audio and video format testing, conducted with an LG G3 television and Denon AV receiver over eARC, has revealed differences across applications. In Kodi, using SMB shares, lossless passthrough for formats including Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DTS-X has generally succeeded, with most files playing correctly, though occasional fallback to DTS core has occurred with specific DTS-X content. Other apps such as Emby have shown limitations, including failure to play certain files or transcoding of audio tracks. Nova Player has exhibited mixed results, with some high-bitrate content stuttering or down-converting audio. HDR10 content with TrueHD Atmos has played back successfully in Kodi but required transcoding or adjustments in other players. Dolby Vision profile files have not displayed correct colors or playback in tested applications.

High-bitrate HEVC and H.264 test files, such as those from the Jellyfish benchmark set, have played without issue up to certain thresholds in compatible apps but have shown stuttering at higher rates in others. The device has demonstrated better stability with HTTP-based streaming compared to SMB shares in media center software like Kodi. Recommendations for optimal local media playback include using WebDAV or direct integrations with services such as Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin rather than relying solely on SMB.

The Onn 4K Streaming Stick positions itself as an affordable option in Walmart’s lineup, sitting below higher-end models like the Onn 4K Pro while offering a stick design for easier placement. It provides 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, along with dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Early availability at the $19.88 price has drawn attention for its value, though the absence of Dolby Vision may limit appeal for users prioritizing that HDR format. Performance in standard 4K streaming apps has aligned with expectations for a budget device, with the Google TV interface providing access to a wide range of applications and content recommendations.

As Walmart continues the phased introduction of the device, additional units are expected to reach more stores. The streamer represents an expansion of the Onn brand’s Google TV offerings, which previously included box-style 4K models and lower-resolution sticks. Further details on full specifications, official pricing, and nationwide availability are anticipated once the retailer provides a formal launch update. For consumers interested in entry-level 4K streaming on a limited budget, the Onn device offers core functionality with some advanced audio passthrough capabilities in select software environments.

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