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The 2024 Roku Ultra refresh adds Wi-Fi 6, a quad-core processor Roku says makes it more than 30% faster than other Roku players, and the second-edition Voice Remote Pro. That speed figure is Roku’s claim, not an independent benchmark, and Wi-Fi 6 does not guarantee faster streaming in every home. Against Google TV Streamer, the Ultra’s clearest differences are Roku’s interface and remote features; Google’s device adds more storage and smart-home hub capabilities.
What changed in the 2024 Roku Ultra?
Roku announced this refresh in September 2024. The U.S. product listing identifies it as model 4850R. The main updates are a quad-core processor, Wi-Fi 6 and the second-edition Voice Remote Pro. Roku describes the Ultra as having its “best Wi-Fi® yet: Wi-Fi 6.” Roku’s announcement and current product listing provide the company’s feature details.
Roku says the processor makes the Ultra more than 30% faster than other Roku players and enables quicker app launches. Treat that as a manufacturer comparison: the available sources do not provide an independent benchmark or a direct speed test against Google TV Streamer. The claim also does not mean every app, network, or TV setup will feel 30% faster.
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Roku Ultra 4850R specifications
- Video: up to 4K (2160p) at 60 frames per second, with Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG listed.
- Audio: Dolby Atmos support, when paired with compatible audio equipment.
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6 and 10/100 Ethernet.
- Connections and playback: HDMI 2.1b, USB 3.0 and USB local media playback.
These are Roku’s listed specifications for the U.S. model; format support depends on compatible content and connected equipment.
#1 Best Overall
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
Does the Roku Ultra have Wi-Fi 6, and will it make streaming faster?
Yes. Roku lists Wi-Fi 6 on model 4850R. Wi-Fi 6 is a newer wireless standard, but the device can only benefit from it within the limits of the home network, router, signal conditions and internet connection. It is not a promise of higher streaming quality or fewer interruptions in every household.
The Ultra also has a 10/100 Ethernet port. A wired connection is an option if the player is close enough to a router or network outlet and you prefer not to rely on Wi-Fi. Roku’s Wi-Fi performance description is a company statement, not a head-to-head test against Google TV Streamer.
Rank #2
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
What is new about the Roku Ultra remote?
The included second-edition Voice Remote Pro has backlit buttons and recharges over USB-C. It supports hands-free voice control, TV power and volume controls, lost-remote finding, a Quick Launch button and a Live TV Guide button. Roku says the Guide button opens its live channel guide. These changes can make navigation and remote handling more convenient, but a different remote does not improve picture quality or network speed.
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Both devices support 4K, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. The better fit depends more on the interface and extras you want than on an established real-world speed advantage: the available specifications do not establish that one streams faster than the other.
Rank #3
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
| Feature | Roku Ultra (4850R) | Google TV Streamer (4K) |
|---|---|---|
| Price shown in cited U.S. information | Roku’s product page displayed $99.99 during the cited research; its $99.99 September 2024 launch price is historical and separate from today’s store price. Roku product listing | Google’s comparison page lists $99.99; check the page for current price and regional availability. Google TV Streamer comparison |
| Processor or speed comparison | Roku claims more than 30% faster than other Roku players; no independent benchmark is established here. Roku announcement | Not stated in Google’s cited comparison. Google TV Streamer comparison |
| Wireless and wired networking | Wi-Fi 6 and 10/100 Ethernet. Roku product listing | Built-in Ethernet is listed; the cited comparison does not state its speed. Google TV Streamer comparison |
| Memory and storage | Not stated on Roku’s cited product listing. Roku product listing | 4 GB RAM and 32 GB storage. Google TV Streamer comparison |
| Remote features | Backlit buttons, USB-C charging, hands-free voice control, TV power and volume, remote finder, Quick Launch and Live TV Guide buttons. Roku announcement | Customizable remote button and remote finder. Google TV Streamer comparison |
| Smart-home features | Not listed on Roku’s cited product page. Roku product listing | Thread border router and Google Home/Matter hub functions. Google TV Streamer comparison |
| HDMI cable | Roku lists a Premium High Speed HDMI cable in the box. Roku support | Google recommends an Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 certified cable for optimal performance and says it is sold separately. Google TV Streamer comparison |
Choose by the features you will use: the Roku remote’s backlighting and rechargeable design, Google’s listed memory and smart-home functions, or your preference for Roku’s or Google TV’s interface and content discovery. Confirm that the apps you use are available on the device you choose; neither device listing guarantees access to every service or subscription.
What to check before buying or connecting the Ultra
- Confirm the model: the 2024 Roku Ultra is model 4850R. Roku support identifies Ultra LT as model 4801 and says it is sold exclusively at Walmart, so check the model number rather than relying only on an “Ultra” label. Roku model and cable support
- Check your TV for 4K: Roku says 4K requires a compatible TV with an HDMI input supporting HDCP 2.2. HDR and Dolby Vision also require compatible displays and content. Roku support
- Check your audio equipment: Dolby Atmos requires compatible speakers or other audio equipment. Roku product listing
- Use the included cable first: Roku lists a Premium High Speed HDMI cable in the box. A separate cable is not automatically required; consider one only if replacing the included cable or adapting your specific system. Roku support
- Compare current pricing: Roku’s listing showed $99.99 during the cited research, while $99.99 was also its 2024 launch price; Google lists $99.99 in its comparison. Store prices and regional availability can change, and these figures do not establish an Amazon price.
Who should choose the 2024 Roku Ultra?
The Ultra is a sensible option if you want Roku’s streaming platform, Wi-Fi 6 or Ethernet, USB local media playback, and a feature-rich remote with backlighting, USB-C charging and remote finding. Google TV Streamer is worth comparing if its 32 GB storage, Thread border router or Google Home/Matter hub features matter more to your setup. The evidence here supports a feature comparison, not a claim that either device is universally faster or better.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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