Google Chromecast
Score: 73/100
Roku Ultra
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Roku Ultra 2024 is Roku's fastest streaming player, delivering 4K HDR10+/Dolby Vision video, Dolby Atmos audio and a premium rechargeable voice remote. Trade-offs include the lack of Apple AirPlay/HomeKit and a barrel-style power connector that some users find inconvenient. Best for users who want top-tier performance and premium features in a Roku ecosystem.
Google Chromecast (HD) provides a compact, lightweight solution for 1080p streaming with a Bluetooth voice remote and optional Ethernet support. Its 1.5 GB RAM and lack of 4K limit high-resolution content and multitasking. Perfect for budget-focused users with HD TVs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1.5 GB | 2 GBbest | |
— | 4 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 55 g | 18 gbest |
| ↓ lower better | — | 3.5 Wbest |
1 countbest | 1 countbest | |
— | 2 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
RAM (GB) | 1.5 GB | 2 GB |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac | Wi‑Fi 6 |
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 1080p | 4K |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice remote | Rechargeable Voice Remote Pro with backlit buttons |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 55 g | 18 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 2.4×0.5×6.4 inches mm | 4.9 x 5.0 x 1.0 inches mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers note that the HD model is positioned as a budget-friendly entry point to the Google TV ecosystem, offering sufficient performance for basic HD streaming but lacking the 4K support and higher-end hardware of its 4K sibling. Official listings emphasize its compact form factor, voice remote, and optional Ethernet as key differentiators for cost-conscious users.
Professional reviewers hail the Roku Ultra 2024 as the most powerful and fastest Roku device, emphasizing its lightning-fast interface, seamless 4K/Dolby Vision/HDR10+ playback, and premium remote that together deliver a cinematic experience for any living-room setup.
Everyday users consistently praise the ultra-fast app launches, smooth 4K streaming over Wi-Fi 6, and the convenience of the Voice Remote Pro with its finder and headphone jack, while recurring complaints focus on shipping limitations, the barrel-style power connector, and occasional Wi-Fi range concerns.
