Streaming · Streaming Device
Roku Ultra (2024) Review: The Honest $100 Verdict
“The best Roku yet,” CNET reports, but both reviewers question its value at $100.
No single aggregate score — here's what the reviewers agree on, below.
The short version
Critics report that the Roku Ultra (2024) is fast, easy to use and capable of excellent 4K HDR playback. The backlit USB-C remote, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth and Quick Media Switching are useful upgrades. The problem is value. CNET calls the performance increase marginal, while Tom's Guide says the familiar design and $99 price may leave owners of the previous model with little reason to upgrade.
What reviewers loved
- Crystal-clear 4K HDR playback, with CNET finding image quality similar to the Roku Ultra 2022 and Apple TV 4K in its comparison
- Backlit, USB-C rechargeable remote that is easier to use in a dark room
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth headphone support add more flexible wireless connectivity
- HDMI 2.1 and Quick Media Switching provide capabilities Tom's Guide says the $99 Google TV Streamer lacks
- Simple Roku interface and faster performance make everyday navigation easy
What held it back
- The $99 to $100 price is steep when cheaper Roku devices cover many of the same basic streaming needs
- The speed increase is only marginal according to CNET, making this a weak upgrade for recent Roku Ultra owners
- The remote drops the headphone jack and CNET found its voice control less responsive
- It lacks the Matter support and Thread border router offered by the Google TV Streamer
Buy it if you want Roku's easiest and most fully featured 4K streamer, especially if you value the backlit remote, Wi-Fi 6 and HDMI 2.1 features.
Skip it if you already own a recent Roku Ultra or care more about smart-home integration, gaming or maximum value.
What the reviewers say
Tom's Guide describes its time with the Roku Ultra as “fantastic,” praising the clear 4K HDR video, smart-home extras, Backdrops and Quick Media Switching. It also notes that the hardware looks much like its predecessor and calls $99 a hefty premium.
CNET scores the Roku Ultra 7.9 out of 10 and reports that it is faster, widely compatible and very easy to use. Its reviewer particularly notes the backlit USB-C remote, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth, but says the speed improvement is marginal and argues that a flagship Roku should offer more value.
The competition
Google TV Streamer
Also costs $99 and adds Matter support plus a Thread border router, but Tom's Guide says it lacks the Roku Ultra's HDMI 2.1 support and Quick Media Switching.
Apple TV 4K
Costs more, but CNET says power users and gamers may prefer it; Tom's Guide also identifies it as the other streamer offering Quick Media Switching.
Cheaper Roku devices
CNET notes that much of the Ultra's appeal comes from its remote, which can be added to another Roku device for $30.
Should you buy it?
The Roku Ultra (2024) is the right Roku for buyers who want the company's premium box and do not mind paying for a better remote, newer wireless connectivity and HDMI 2.1 features. Critics agree that it streams 4K HDR well and remains simple to use. They also agree that the upgrades are modest for the price. Wait for the reported $79 sale price if value matters, and do not rush to replace a recent Ultra. RightWei summarizes independent hands-on reviews and does not test units itself.
Sources
RightWei aggregates and summarizes independent reviews — we link to the original hands-on tests so you can go deeper. We don't test units ourselves.