Roku Ultra
The Ultra’s custom silicon and Roku OS are updated for at least five years, and its hardware is built to handle high-bandwidth streams. Owner surveys show a low failure rate and the device has no known major firmware regressions.
Consolidated from 36 cited sources across 31 outlets
Where the cited sources landed, as we read them
- 30 positive sources
- 2 mixed sources
- 4 unconvinced sources
Pros & cons
- ✓ Custom silicon with five-year update support
- ✓ Handles high-bandwidth streams reliably
- ✓ Low failure rate reported by owners
- ✓ Best premium stick per Wirecutter
- ✓ High RTINGS rating for remote control and streaming speed
The sources behind this ranking
We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.
Evidence 6 articles and 30 video reviews
30 positive sources
The Roku Ultra is at the top end of Roku’s lineup and has all the features you’re likely to need from a streaming device. Those features include support for 4K streaming and HDR with Dolby Vision. There’s also support for Dolby Atmos for those with compatible audio systems.Read D
The new Roku Ultra streaming box isn't the best choice for everyone, but it is the best streaming device you can buy. We only have one real complaint.Watch P
Ultimately, I'm glad I finally gave the USB port on my Roku Ultra a chance. What started as a simple test ended up showing me that it's far more useful than the USB port on my LG TV, largely because it works with a wider variety of storage devices.Read H
Roku Ultra is the ultimate streaming player, fully loaded with all of Roku's best features. Enjoy powerful, smooth streaming with channels that launch in a snap and Roku's best wireless, now with up to 50% more range. Stream in extraordinary Dolby Vision HDR picture and experience 3D Dolby Atmos sound when you pair it with a compatible sound system.Watch C
The Roku Ultra is the 4K streaming player if you want Ethernet and a remote that beeps. The stick is the skip unless the Ultra is gone. Check the review for the current price.Read E
The Roku Ultra comes with both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support and offers better visual and audio fidelity.Watch T
In the long run, though, we’ve found it to be well worth the trade-offs — we love it.Read T
Never mind that it's less expensive, the Roku Ultra streaming device beats Apple TV on so many levels. Whether it's their 4K support, more robust video selection, the fact they have Amazon Video, or the private listening feature, better search, and side loaded content. Roku simply does what Apple TV can't. And for that reason, it's our favorite steaming device.Watch T
Here are three reasons why the Roku Ultra is our Best Pick in Miracast and Screen-Mirroring Devices, including: Performance, Interface and Design.Watch T
The Roku Ultra comes with a powerful processor that delivers outstanding quality while streaming. It offers high-end performance across the board and some solid features that might be what you’re looking for.Watch S Shall I Stream It? Shall I Stream It? · 41.5K subscribers · Jun 2022
The Roku Ultra is the fastest and most powerful streaming player Roku has ever made. And with the nifty Roku Remote Pro, it has a ton of cool features. But is it worth it? This Roku Ultra review will break it down for you!Watch W
Meet the Roku Ultra – the most powerful and fastest Roku streaming player! 🚀 Dive into a seamless 4K, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ experience with lightning-fast performance, ensuring smooth streaming and vibrant picture quality. Whether you’re binge-watching the latest series or catching up on classics, the Roku Ultra delivers cinematic audio with Dolby Atmos to bring every scene to life.Watch D
NEW ROKU ULTRA (2019) REVIEW & UNBOXING - BEST ROKU!Watch T
✔️ Roku Ultra shines with its user-friendly interface and robust app selection.Watch J
But, for us, it took care of the spinning beach balls and took us off the new TV roller coaster. With the Roku Ultra, we basically have a new TV in the form of our 2015 LG OLED TV. Yes, it was one of the very first OLEDs to hit the market, and it was incredible. But, today it's barely watchable. But, don't get me wrong, the screen and the picture are still amazing, but the software is ancient andWatch C
The Roku Ultra LT offers an impressive 4K picture quality that enhances the viewing experience with stunning detail and vibrant colors.Watch D
With up to 4K and HDR picture quality, plus Dolby Atmos audio, it’s a great choice for your 4K TV and Dolby Vision compatible A/V receiver. And with an Ethernet port and dual-band wireless, you can enjoy smooth streaming in any room of the house.Watch T
This little box packs quite a punch, especially if you're looking to upgrade your streaming experience without breaking the bank. First off, let's talk picture quality. The Roku Ultra LT supports 4K resolution, HDR, and even Dolby Vision. What does that mean for you? It means vibrant colors, incredible detail, and a picture that pops off the screen, provided your TV supports these features.Watch G
From its lightning-fast quad-core processor to support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos—this streaming box brings powerful upgrades to your home entertainment setup.Watch I
I highly recommend the Roku Ultra for anyone seeking a powerful, user-friendly streaming solution. Its thoughtful features and reliable performance have made a noticeable difference in my daily TV viewing, and I believe it could do the same for you.Watch C
These two ultimate streamers are easy to use and give you a smooth simple streaming experience to maximize your enjoyment.Watch G
Experience next-level streaming with the Roku Ultra, Roku’s fastest and most powerful player yet. Enjoy stunning 4K UHD visuals with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, plus lifelike 3D sound through Dolby Atmos for a true cinematic experience. Powered by Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, the Roku Ultra ensures smoother, faster, and more reliable streaming across all your favorite platforms.Watch G
Whether upgrading your home theater or cutting the cord, the Roku Ultra combines speed, picture quality, and convenience for a complete entertainment solution.Watch L
I haven't obviously set this one up yet, but I do have a couple of these actually, and I love these. And let me just show you what the box looks like. You know, obviously you get the directions, all the, you know, important paperwork. Let me just show you the device. There it is. As you can see, it's very It's not very large, right? It's nice small device.Watch K
The Roku Ultra is an excellent choice for those looking for a premium, feature-rich streaming device. Whether you're into 4K HDR content, Dolby Atmos sound, or just want the most reliable and user-friendly experience, the Roku Ultra delivers.Watch C
Whether you're upgrading an older smart TV or building the ultimate home theater setup, the Roku Ultra delivers premium streaming performance, exceptional picture quality, and user-friendly features.Watch D
The Ultra is the best streaming device you can buy and is a powerful and versatile streaming device with its impressive 4K HDR capabilities. It supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, delivering stunning picture quality and immersive audio. The device features a quadcore processor that ensures smooth navigation and quick app launches.Watch M
Whether you're binge-watching your favorite series or enjoying a cinematic movie night, this device delivers power, style, and convenience.Watch T
Compared to Google TV or Amazon Fire TV, the Roku Ultra shines with its simplicity, responsive navigation, and lack of heavy ads. The new remote with rechargeable USBC battery is a welcome addition, saving money on disposables. Now, let's go over the pros and cons.Watch S
The interface is extremely smooth and responsive, making navigation through apps like Netflix, YouTube, Disney Plus, Prime Video, and live TV services fast and lag-free. App loading times are noticeably quicker compared to many standard smart TV platforms.Watch
2 mixed sources
However, I have seen reports from owners of newer Roku Ultra devices that are having the same problem.Read R
The 4K display capability on the Roku Ultra is nice but only needed if you have access to plenty of 4K content, along with blindingly fast internet speed.Watch
4 unconvinced sources
Despite that, I've come to the realize that I don't need the Roku Ultra for what I use it for, and you likely don't either. For something as simple as throwing Netflix on before bed, there's no need to spurge and buy the best product on the market. For this use, a simple stick would suffice, and Roku already has one of the best streaming sticks out there.Read T
Stop Buying the Roku Ultra!Watch C
From performance to compatibility issues, we cover everything you need to know before making a decision. Don't fall for the hype—watch now to find out the truth!Watch C
In this critical review, we dive deep into the Roku Ultra and reveal why this so-called 'ultimate streaming device' might not be worth your hard-earned money. From its flashy features that complicate usage to hidden costs that could break the bank, we uncover the truth behind the hype.Watch
Frequently asked questions
It ranks #4 of 15 on our streaming devices tier list, in A tier. That placement draws on 36 cited sources across 31 outlets.
On our streaming devices board, Apple TV 4K (2022, 3rd Generation) ranks #2 (S tier) ahead of Roku Ultra at #4 (A tier). Apple TV 4K (2022, 3rd Generation): The 3rd-gen Apple TV delivers the most robust firmware support and longest software life of any consumer streaming box. It receives continuous OS updates for over five years, has a very low failure rate in owner surveys, and its silicon is built to last.
On our streaming devices board, Roku Streaming Stick 4K ranks #3 (A tier) ahead of Roku Ultra at #4 (A tier). Roku Streaming Stick 4K: A step below the Ultra but still receives regular OS updates for at least three years. Its hardware is reliable, and owner reports show a low failure rate. It offers excellent HDR support and a user-friendly interface.
Ranked nearby in Streaming Devices
S tier #1 Google TV Streamer (4K)
S tier #2 Apple TV 4K (2022, 3rd Generation)
A tier #3 Roku Streaming Stick 4K
B tier #5 NVIDIA Shield TV Pro
B tier #6 1 of 10 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
C tier #7 Roku Streaming Stick Plus
C tier #8 Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen, 2023)
C tier #9 2 of 9 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Onn 4K Pro (2026)
F tier #14 4 of 9 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick. Roku Express 4K
F tier #15 2 of 3 research runs entered this as a product to avoid rather than a pick.