Roku Ultra
Score: 84/100
Google Chromecast with Google TV
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Roku Ultra is Roku's flagship 4K streaming player offering premium video and audio formats, Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, and a rechargeable voice remote. Its high price and larger size may deter budget-focused users, while the remote's charging requirement adds a minor inconvenience. Best for home-theater enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance and extensive connectivity.
The Chromecast with Google TV (4K) in Sky Blue offers 4K UHD playback with Dolby Vision and a feature-rich voice remote that includes Bluetooth and an accelerometer. Its limited 8 GB storage and need for external power and Ethernet adapters may be drawbacks. Best suited for Google-ecosystem enthusiasts seeking high-quality video and audio.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
| ↓ lower better | 167.5 g | 55 gbest |
2 GBbest | 2 GBbest | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
— | 8 GBbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 4.5 Wbest | 7.5 W |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Video Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K |
Ports(1) | ||
HDMI Version | HDMI 2.0a | HDMI 2.0 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | Wi‑Fi 6 | Wi‑Fi 5 |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | AAC, MP3, WMA, FLAC, AC3, DTS, ALAC | Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos (pass‑through) |
Power(1) | ||
Power Consumption (W) | 4.5 W | 7.5 W |
Controls(1) | ||
Remote Type | Rechargeable backlit Voice Remote Pro | Voice remote with Google Assistant, integrated mic, accelerometer, Bluetooth |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 167.5 g | 55 g |
Dimensions (W×H×D) | 124.5×25.4×127 mm | 162x61x12.5 mm |
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Roku OS | Android TV OS |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | Roku Ultra streaming player (model 4850R), Rechargeable backlit Voice Remote Pro, Power adapter | Chromecast stick; Voice remote (with 2 AAA batteries); Power cable (1.8 m); Power adapter; Quick start guide |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors consistently commend the Roku Ultra for its 30% faster processor, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and premium audiovisual support such as Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. They also highlight the feature-rich rechargeable Voice Remote Pro and the reliability of its wired Ethernet and local media playback options, positioning it as the most capable Roku device for high-end home-theater setups.
Everyday users praise the device's lightweight design, fast and responsive interface, and the convenience of the hands-free remote with a lost-finder. Stable streaming via Wi-Fi 6 or Ethernet and the ability to play local media are also frequently mentioned, while the higher price and lack of deep smart-home integration are noted as minor drawbacks.
“maximum performance, wired”
“very light”
Professional reviewers commend the Chromecast with Google TV for its game-changing voice remote, excellent 4K HDR performance with Dolby Vision, and intuitive Android TV interface that organizes content efficiently. They also note its strong integration with Google services, support for Stadia, and overall upgrade over earlier models, while calling out modest storage, limited RAM, and the need for external power and Ethernet adapters as drawbacks.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the device's straightforward setup, sharp 4K streaming, and the convenience of the voice remote, emphasizing how well it fits into the Google ecosystem. Common criticisms focus on occasional Wi-Fi drops, the small 8 GB storage that fills quickly, and the need to replace remote batteries regularly.
