Google Chromecast
Score: 73/100
Roku Ultra LT
Score: 75/100Rankings
The Roku Ultra LT (Walmart exclusive) is an affordable 4K HDR streaming player that includes Ethernet, Dolby Vision and a voice-enabled remote. Its trade-offs are modest 1 GB RAM, minimal internal storage and a lack of USB connectivity. It is best for budget-focused households that want wired stability and basic 4K streaming without extra accessories.
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 GBbest | 1 GB | |
— | 0.5 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 55 gbest | 167.2 g |
| ↓ lower better | — | 18 Wbest |
1 countbest | 1 countbest | |
— | 60 Hzbest | |
— | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(3) | ||
RAM (GB) | 1.5 GB | 1 GB |
Processor | Amlogic S805X2 quad-core ARM Cortex-A35 1.8 GHz | Quad-core ARM Cortex A53/A55 1.5GHz |
GPU | Mali-G31 MP2 | OpenGL ES 2.0 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac | Wi‑Fi 5 |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Google TV (Android TV) | Roku OS |
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 1080p | 4K 3840x2160 |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Voice remote | Roku Voice Remote |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 55 g | 167.2 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 2.4×0.5×6.4 inches mm | 124.4×25.4×127 mm 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 from TV Guide and Tom's Guide commend the Ultra LT for delivering a streaming experience close to the full Roku Ultra, with sharp 4K/60fps video and responsive navigation. However, they criticize the exaggerated speed claims, inconsistent 4K performance across apps, and the omission of a USB port, premium headphones, and gigabit Ethernet.
Everyday users appreciate the ultra-fast interface, impressive 4K/Dolby Vision clarity, and the convenience of the voice remote and included HDMI cable. Recurring complaints focus on the missing USB port, occasional lag when loading 4K content, basic earbuds, and the limited availability through Walmart.
