Roku Ultra 2024 Review: Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6 and a Premium Remote

The Roku Ultra 2024 is Roku’s premium 4K streaming player, designed for users who want fast performance, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet and one of the best remotes included with a streaming device.

The 2024 model is Roku Ultra 4850R and supports 4K video at up to 60fps.

Roku Ultra 2024 Specs

Roku also includes a Premium High Speed HDMI cable in the box.

Streaming Performance

Performance is one of the biggest advantages of the Roku Ultra.

Roku says the 2024 generation is up to 30% faster than any other Roku player, resulting in quicker app launches and smoother navigation.

Independent testing also found the Ultra noticeably faster than older Roku hardware, with responsive menus and quick app loading.

4K HDR Picture Quality

The Roku Ultra supports:

4K UHD up to 60fps
Dolby Vision
HDR10+
HDR10
HLG

That gives it excellent compatibility with modern OLED, Mini LED and QLED TVs.

Unlike cheaper streaming devices that may omit one of the major HDR standards, Roku Ultra supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

Dolby Atmos

The Ultra also supports Dolby Atmos over HDMI with compatible audio equipment.

Combined with Dolby Vision, this makes it a strong choice for home-theater setups using:

• Dolby Atmos soundbars
• AV receivers
• Surround systems

Wi-Fi 6

The Roku Ultra supports dual-band Wi-Fi 6 on 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks.

Wi-Fi 6 can provide improved network efficiency and stable 4K streaming, particularly in homes with many connected devices.

However, the Ultra does not support Wi-Fi 6E, so there is no 6GHz band.

Ethernet

Unlike most streaming sticks, Roku Ultra includes a built-in 10/100 Ethernet port.

A wired connection can provide more consistent streaming in locations where Wi-Fi is unreliable.

This is especially useful for:

• High-bitrate 4K streaming
• Large homes
• Crowded Wi-Fi networks
• Home-theater installations

Voice Remote Pro 2nd Edition

One of the Roku Ultra’s best features is its included Roku Voice Remote Pro (2nd Edition).

It offers:

• Rechargeable battery
• USB-C charging
• Backlit buttons
• Hands-free “Hey Roku” commands
• Lost remote finder
• TV power and volume controls
• Live TV guide button
• Customizable shortcut

Independent reviews have praised the remote as one of the strongest parts of the Roku Ultra package.

Bluetooth Headphone Mode

Roku Ultra supports Bluetooth, allowing compatible headphones to connect directly to the player.

This is useful for late-night viewing when you do not want to disturb other people.

USB 3.0

The Ultra includes a USB 3.0 port for local media playback.

Supported formats include video using codecs such as:

• H.264
• HEVC
• VP9
• AV1

It also supports common music and image formats.

This gives the Ultra more flexibility than most compact streaming sticks.

Roku Interface

Roku’s interface remains relatively straightforward and app-focused.

You get access to major services including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV and YouTube, alongside Roku’s own streaming ecosystem.

Roku also offers free ad-supported movies, shows and live channels through The Roku Channel.

Independent reviewers generally praise Roku’s simple navigation, although advertising throughout the interface can be distracting.

Apple, Google and Alexa Support

Roku Ultra works with:

Apple AirPlay
Apple HomeKit
Google Home
Amazon Alexa
Roku Smart Home

This makes it flexible for households using different smart-home ecosystems.

Pros

✓ Dolby Vision and HDR10+
✓ Dolby Atmos
✓ Fast Roku performance
✓ Wi-Fi 6
✓ Built-in Ethernet
✓ USB 3.0 local playback
✓ Bluetooth Headphone Mode
✓ Excellent rechargeable remote
✓ Backlit remote buttons
✓ Simple Roku interface

Cons

✗ No Wi-Fi 6E
✗ Limited to 4K/60Hz
✗ More expensive than Roku streaming sticks
✗ Interface includes noticeable advertising
✗ Only 10/100 Ethernet rather than Gigabit
✗ No HDMI passthrough

Independent reviews particularly note the higher price compared with Roku’s cheaper streaming products.

Roku Ultra 2024 Rating

Picture Quality: 9.5/10
Performance: 9.4/10
HDR Support: 9.7/10
Connectivity: 9.4/10
Remote: 9.8/10
Ease of Use: 9.5/10
Value: 9.0/10

Overall: 9.4/10

Verdict

The Roku Ultra 2024 is an excellent premium streaming player for users who want fast performance, broad HDR support and a simple streaming experience.

Its biggest strengths are Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, USB playback and the excellent Voice Remote Pro 2nd Edition.

The main drawbacks are the lack of Wi-Fi 6E and its higher price compared with inexpensive streaming sticks.

For users who prefer Roku’s interface and want its most capable standalone streaming player, the Ultra is the strongest option in the Roku lineup.