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Roku Ultra

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Content availability
Picture and sound quality
Setup
Gaming capabilities
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3 Verified Hands-On Reviews

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Expert reviews [3]

84
Total expert reviews: 3
  • with a score: 3
  • without a score: 0
Highest score by excitingtechnews.com
90
Average score based on 3 reviews
84
Lowest score by PCMag
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
82
Roku Ultra (2022) Review: Same Streamer, Same Price, Better Voice Remote
The Roku Ultra (2022) is a minor refresh of the 2020 Roku Ultra, offering the same streaming capabilities but now bundled with the excellent Voice Remote Pro. While the remote is a nice upgrade, the lack of significant changes to the streaming box itself makes it a hard sell compared to Roku's more affordable options.
+ pros
  • The Roku Ultra comes with the excellent Voice Remote Pro, which is a nice upgrade.
  • The interface works great with the Ultra's quad-core processor, apps and content open quickly, and playback looks good for 4K, 4K HDR, and regular HD content.
  • Roku has strong app support with nearly all major streaming services, including support for Dolby Vision and Atmos.
- cons
  • The Roku Ultra is essentially the same box from 2020, so it doesn't offer any significant hardware or performance upgrades.
  • Compared to other streaming devices in the market, such as those from Amazon, Apple, and Google, the Roku Ultra is not as competitive in terms of price and features.
  • The Roku voice assistant is limited and lacks the capabilities of other voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
80
Roku Ultra (2022) Review
The author describes the Roku Ultra media streamer as a top-of-the-line device that now comes with the Voice Remote Pro, offering hands-free voice control and a headphone jack. They also mention that while the Roku Ultra is a solid option, the more affordable Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ may be a better choice for most users.
+ pros
  • The Voice Remote Pro adds hands-free voice control and a headphone jack to the Roku Ultra, making it a significant upgrade.
  • The Roku Ultra offers 4K streaming, high dynamic range (HDR) support, and Dolby Atmos audio, providing a high-quality media streaming experience.
  • The Roku Ultra has a wide selection of apps and services, including major streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu, as well as free content options.
  • The Roku Ultra supports Apple AirPlay 2, allowing users to stream content from their iOS devices or Mac.
  • The Roku Ultra is an excellent value at $99.99, especially with the inclusion of the Voice Remote Pro.
- cons
  • The voice features of the Roku Ultra still lag behind those of competitors like the Amazon Fire TV Cube, as it is primarily focused on entertainment and lacks general information and smart home control capabilities.
  • The Voice Remote Pro's microphone range is limited, requiring it to be within a reasonable distance for reliable voice control.
  • The Roku Ultra lacks Ethernet and USB ports, which may be a drawback for users who require wired network connections or playing media from USB drives.
  • The Roku Ultra does not have built-in support for Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, although it can be controlled by these voice assistants through compatible smart speakers.
  • The lack of a first-party Twitch app on Roku may be a limitation for users who frequently use the streaming platform.
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Expert consensus

The Roku Ultra 2022 is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content, excellent picture and sound quality, easy setup, and some gaming capabilities, making it suitable for various streaming preferences.

The Roku Ultra 2022 is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content availability, making it suitable for various streaming preferences. It provides access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, as well as its own Roku Channel service that offers free content.

The device also supports regional and international streaming services, catering to users around the world.

In terms of picture and sound quality, the Roku Ultra 2022 delivers excellent visuals and immersive audio. It supports up to 4K resolution and various HDR formats, enhancing contrast and colors for a more vibrant viewing experience. The device is capable of handling high-quality content seamlessly, thanks to its quad-core processor and stable connectivity options.

The setup process for the Roku Ultra 2022 is praised for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. It offers easy navigation through streaming channels and content options, and the remote control includes several convenient features like voice control and programmable shortcut buttons.

While the Roku Ultra 2022 offers some gaming capabilities, it may not be the top choice for hardcore gamers. However, it provides access to gaming channels and supports external gaming controllers, making it a suitable option for casual gamers who want to enjoy gaming content alongside their streaming experience.

Overall, the Roku Ultra 2022 is a comprehensive streaming device that offers a wide range of content availability, impressive picture and sound quality, easy setup, and some gaming capabilities. It is particularly well-suited for users who want to enjoy a variety of streaming services, high-quality visuals, and a user-friendly interface.

Content availability

The Roku Ultra 2022 is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content availability, including popular streaming services, free content options, and support for live TV streaming.

The Roku Ultra 2022 offers a wide range of content availability, making it a versatile streaming device. It provides access to popular streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Crunchyroll, Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, and Sling TV. The Roku interface allows users to easily navigate and access all major video streaming services.

Previously missing services like HBO Max and YouTube are now available on the Roku platform.

In addition to these mainstream services, Roku also offers its own Roku Channel service, which provides a plethora of free content. Users can also access third-party apps like Pluto TV and Tubi for more free content options.

The Roku Ultra 2022 supports regional and international streaming services, making it suitable for users around the world. It offers a wide range of streaming channels, including popular ones like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. However, the availability of specific channels may vary depending on the user's region and licensing agreements.

Users are advised to check the Roku Channel Store or Roku's official website to see the list of available channels in their country or region.

One of the standout features of the Roku Ultra 2022 is its support for live TV streaming services. Users can stream a vast selection of free, live, and premium TV content, including over 350 free live TV channels. This means users can watch live TV from various providers directly on the Roku Ultra 2022 streaming player.

Overall, the Roku Ultra 2022 offers a comprehensive content availability, catering to a wide range of streaming preferences and providing access to both on-demand and live TV content.

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Picture and sound quality

The Roku Ultra 2022 offers excellent picture and sound quality, supports 4K resolution and HDR content, and provides smooth streaming performance and reliable connectivity.

The Roku Ultra 2022 offers excellent picture and sound quality, according to expert reviews. It supports video output at up to 4K resolution, allowing for sharp and detailed visuals. The device also supports high dynamic range (HDR) content, including Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and hybrid log gamma (HLG), which enhances contrast and colors for a more vibrant and lifelike viewing experience.

Dolby Vision, in particular, provides even more precise and dynamic picture quality.

In terms of streaming performance, the Roku Ultra 2022 is designed to handle high-quality content without buffering or lag. It features a quad-core processor that ensures smooth and responsive performance. Apps, movies, and shows open quickly, and playback of 4K, 4K HDR, and regular HD content is reported to be good.

This indicates that the device is capable of handling high-quality content seamlessly.

The Roku Ultra 2022 also offers stable and reliable connectivity for streaming. It supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi and has an Ethernet port for a wired network connection. This ensures a strong and consistent internet connection, further enhancing the streaming experience.

Overall, the Roku Ultra 2022 is a top choice for those seeking high-quality picture and sound. Whether you're watching 4K content, HDR content, or regular HD content, the device delivers impressive visuals and immersive audio. It is particularly well-suited for users who want to enjoy vibrant colors, enhanced contrast, and a more lifelike viewing experience.

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Setup

The Roku Ultra 2022 is praised for its easy setup process, intuitive interface, smooth performance, multiple connection options, and feature-rich remote control, making it a user-friendly and efficient streaming device.

Based on the expert reviews, the Roku Ultra 2022 is praised for its easy setup process. The device offers a simple and intuitive interface that makes finding and accessing content quick and painless. It allows for easy navigation through various streaming channels and content options.

The interface works seamlessly with the Ultra's quad-core processor, ensuring smooth performance and quick app and content loading. The Roku Ultra 2022 offers multiple connection options, including HDMI, USB, and Ethernet ports, providing flexibility for connecting to your TV and other devices. It also comes with dual-band Wi-Fi for faster and more reliable streaming.

The remote control for the Roku Ultra 2022 offers several functions and features, including the ability to power up your TV, adjust the volume, control the Roku device, and use hands-free voice control with the Roku Voice Remote Pro. The remote also includes programmable shortcut buttons, private listening capabilities, a remote finder feature, and a rechargeable battery.

Overall, the Roku Ultra 2022 is considered to be a user-friendly and efficient streaming device with a range of features that enhance the streaming experience.

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Gaming capabilities

The Roku Ultra 2022 offers gaming capabilities and access to gaming-related content through its Channels, making it a convenient option for casual gamers.

The Roku Ultra 2022 offers some gaming capabilities and access to gaming-related content through its Channels. While it may not have a dedicated app store like other gaming consoles, it supports popular gaming platforms and services. Users can stream games from their iOS devices or Mac using Apple AirPlay 2, and mirror their Windows PC screens and play games on the Roku Ultra using Miracast.

Although the Roku Ultra 2022 is not primarily focused on gaming, it does provide access to gaming channels like Pluto TV and Tubi, which offer free gaming content. These channels may not offer the same gaming experience as dedicated gaming consoles, but they can be a convenient option for casual gamers.

The maximum resolution for gaming on the Roku Ultra 2022 is up to 4K, but the actual resolution and frame rate may vary depending on the game and the capabilities of the user's TV or display. For a more immersive gaming experience, it is recommended to use dedicated gaming devices.

The Roku Ultra 2022 can connect to external gaming controllers, including the Roku Gaming Remote and Bluetooth gaming controllers like the Xbox Wireless Controller and PlayStation DualShock controller. This allows users to enjoy a more immersive gaming experience on their Roku Ultra 2022 streaming player.

Overall, while the Roku Ultra 2022 may not be the top choice for hardcore gamers, it offers some gaming capabilities and access to gaming-related content through its Channels. It can be a suitable option for casual gamers who want to enjoy gaming content alongside their streaming experience.

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all TV boxes and sticks.

Rank Change Price Streaming Player
WIRED
TechRadar
Business Insider
Reviewed
The Verge
PCMag
IGN
Tom's Guide
TechHive
Digital Trends
1
- $180
Apple TV 4K
The Apple TV 4K (2022) has received positive reviews for its content availability, picture and sound quality, setup, and gaming capabilities, making it a versatile streaming device suitable for users who want a comprehensive range of streaming services, impressive picture and sound quality, easy setup, and seamless integration with other Apple devices.
3
1
3
4
1
6
5
4
4
1
2
- $29
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content, high-quality picture and sound, easy setup, and the option for casual gaming experiences.
1
9
-
3
3
4
7
1
1
-
3
+1 $74
Roku Ultra
The Roku Ultra 2022 is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content, excellent picture and sound quality, easy setup, and some gaming capabilities, making it suitable for various streaming preferences.
4
-
1
1
-
5
1
-
-
-
4
+1 Check price
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content options, 4K resolution, HDR and Dolby Vision support, fast navigation, and gaming capabilities, making it a recommended choice for users seeking a user-friendly and high-quality streaming experience.
5
8
4
-
4
-
2
6
-
4
Show all rows
The Best Roku
7 Oct 2024 (1 month ago)
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Best overall
1 Nov 2024 (1 month ago)
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Best Overall / Editors' Choice
25 Jul 2023 (1 year ago)
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Best Roku Streamer
28 Oct 2024 (1 month ago)
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Best Overall Streaming Device
2 Aug 2024 (4 months ago)
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Highest recommended tv boxes and sticks this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. tv boxes and sticks below are at the top of our ranking this December.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the streaming player for more details.
Apple TV 4K Roku Streaming Stick 4K Roku Ultra (this item) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Reviews
In comparison:
Apple TV 4K rank #1 out of 77. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
10.0
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Roku Streaming Stick 4K rank #2 out of 77. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.7
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Roku Ultra rank #3 out of 77. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.0
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max rank #4 out of 77. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.5
Amazing
Price
The Apple TV 4K (2022) has received positive reviews for its content availability, picture and sound quality, setup, and gaming capabilities, making it a versatile streaming device suitable for users who want a comprehensive range of streaming services, impressive picture and sound quality, easy setup, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content, high-quality picture and sound, easy setup, and the option for casual gaming experiences. The Roku Ultra 2022 is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content, excellent picture and sound quality, easy setup, and some gaming capabilities, making it suitable for various streaming preferences. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a versatile streaming device that offers a wide range of content options, 4K resolution, HDR and Dolby Vision support, fast navigation, and gaming capabilities, making it a recommended choice for users seeking a user-friendly and high-quality streaming experience.
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