Roku Ultra 4K Streaming Device Review Ultimate Performance with Dolby Vision and Wi-Fi 6

Description

Sleek Design and Compact Build

I’ve got to say, the Roku Ultra with model number 4850R feels like a premium piece of tech the moment you unbox it. The compact dimensions—just 5 x 4.9 x 1 inches—mean it fits snugly almost anywhere, from a crowded entertainment center to a minimalist TV stand. Its matte-black finish is understated but classy, blending effortlessly into any setup. The interface is ridiculously fast, and the 30% speedier performance compared to other Roku devices is immediately noticeable.

The design of the accompanying Roku Voice Remote Pro is just as impressive. The backlit buttons? A lifesaver for late-night binge sessions. I’ve lost count of how many times I used the lost remote finder feature, especially when it somehow ends up under the couch cushions or buried in a blanket. Its rechargeable nature—no more fumbling for AA batteries—is a feature I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without.

Picture and Sound Quality

Streaming on this device is nothing short of stunning. The 4K resolution paired with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision transforms even regular shows into cinematic experiences. I tested it on a nature documentary, and the colors were so vivid I felt like I could reach out and touch the landscapes. What really takes it up a notch is the Dolby Atmos audio. The sound is immersive, rich, and layered, making it perfect for action-packed movies or just zoning out to music videos.

I paired it with Bluetooth headphones late one evening, and wow, the private listening mode is a game-changer. It’s thoughtful touches like this that make this streaming device stand out.

Positives

The key benefits of this device make it an easy recommendation:

• Lightning-fast performance that ensures apps load in an instant.
• Backlit remote with voice commands for maximum convenience.
• 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support delivering breathtaking visuals.
• Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, ensuring seamless streaming even in rooms far from the router.

Downsides

As much as I’m impressed, there are areas for improvement:

• The Ethernet port is handy, but I noticed the cable slot feels a bit tight when plugging in.
• While the voice control feature is intuitive, it sometimes misheard commands when there was background noise.
• No HDMI cable included in the box, which is a minor inconvenience but worth flagging.

Features That Make Life Easier

The hands-free voice activation is a standout for me. You can say, “Hey Roku,” and the device responds, making it ideal when your hands are full with snacks or, in my case, a sleepy toddler who refuses to move. I particularly appreciated the user-friendly interface, which allows for fast access to streaming apps and live TV.

Another handy feature is the Bluetooth pairing for headphones. This came in clutch when I didn’t want to disturb anyone during late-night movie marathons. The Wi-Fi 6 compatibility also ensures top-notch streaming stability, even in rooms where your older devices might struggle.

Competing Options

When comparing to Amazon Fire TV Cube and Apple TV 4K, the Roku Ultra holds its own. It lacks the smart home integration depth of the Fire TV Cube, but its streaming performance is undeniably smoother. Apple TV 4K might have a slight edge in app ecosystem quality, but it comes at a noticeably higher price point.

Where the Roku Ultra really shines is in offering features like the rechargeable remote and lost remote finder, which neither competitor includes. And let’s not forget the free live TV channels, which are a big bonus for cord-cutters.

Price Performance

From a value proposition standpoint, this device punches well above its weight. The streaming quality, combined with premium features like Dolby Atmos and private listening mode, justifies its cost compared to competitors. If you’re looking for a device that offers a balance of performance, convenience, and innovation, this is a smart buy.

There’s a lot to love about this product, and though it isn’t perfect, the pluses far outweigh the minor critiques. Whether you’re upgrading an older streaming device or investing in your first, this one feels like it’s built to impress.

Additional information