
Roku Ultra 2024: A Premium Streaming Experience with Key Tradeoffs | Image Source: www.howtogeek.com
SEATER, 20 December 2024 – The Roku Ultra (2024) has reached the market with promises of a premium streaming experience at an ​affordable price, and to a large extent of delivery. Price for $99.99 MSRP, but often available for as little as ​$79.99 from retailers such as ​Amazon, Walmart ​and ​Best Buy, the ​device offers convincing features such as Wi-Fi ​support 6, ​a backlit Pro ​voice and HDMI 2.1b. However, your updated 10/100 Ethernet port and a slightly clumsy user interface ​can leave some users who want more, according to a detailed review by How-To Geek.
A performance that challenges Rivals
The 2024 Roku Ultra has made significant progress in terms of performance compared to its predecessors. As How-To Geek said, the device is exceptionally fast, offering ​almost instant application launches and smooth navigation. This level of response capacity competes even with high-end transmission devices such as ​Apple TV 4K. The examiner pointed ​out, “The performance of Roku’s latest high-end media player was honestly something ​I ​didn’t expect.” Fast loading times and ​smooth ​interface make Roku Ultra a strong competitor in the high-end streaming ​market.
Despite ​its excellent performance, the Roku Ultra ​faces devices such as Apple TV 4K and Amazon’s Fire TV Cube. However, ​its significantly lower price – often between $30 and ​$40 cheaper than competitors ​- gives it a different ​advantage ​for budget-conscious consumers.
Design and configuration: A user-friendly ​experience
The Roku Ultra (2024) offers a direct configuration ​process. As How-To Geek described, the configuration includes correspondence with the remote control and connection to a network. The examiner advised to use Ethernet during the initial configuration to avoid the burden of the ABC keyboard on the screen. “Save headaches and plug Ethernet during configuration,” suggested the review. Roku also ​includes ​free testing and discounts for popular streaming services such ​as Disney+ and Apple TV+ during configuration, improving its attractiveness for ​early users.
The Voice Remote Pro, included with the Ultra, has several updates, including backlit keys, manages ​voice commands and USB-C charge. These improvements improve user-friendliness, especially in low-light environments. The remote control also adds ​customizable shortcuts, so it is a versatile tool to navigate the Roku ecosystem.
Networking: ​A mixed bag
While the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 is a highlight of the Roku Ultra (2024), the device’s network capabilities ​are hampered by ​its obsolete 10/100 Ethernet port. ​According to How-To Geek, ​using ​the download speeds of Ethernet limits at only 100 Mbps, significantly ​slower than Wi-Fi ​6, which reached 290 Mbps in the ​examiner’s ​tests. “Why would Roku choose to do the Ethernet port 10/100 go ​beyond me,” said the examiner. This limitation reduces the attractiveness of a wired connection, pushing users to rely instead on wireless networks.
The decision ​to include such a date Ethernet port in ​a premium device in 2024 raises questions about Roku’s hardware ​priorities. However, for users ​with robust Wi-Fi networks, this ​limitation may be negligible in daily use.
Improved interfaces and space for growth
The Roku ​Ultra (IU) user interface has seen some improvements, but it is still behind competitors like Apple TV. Although the ​IU is functional ​and fluid, your organization may feel disorderly. How… For Geek, tabs such as “Live TV” and ​”Sports” create unnecessary complexity, ​as most users depend mainly on the “Home” tab. “I would like to see Roku’s work to ​simplify unemployment ​insurance,” said the examiner, suggesting that a more minimalist design could improve user-friendliness.
Despite ​these reviews, the Roku ​Ultra interface is useful for most users. Its fast performance compensates for a slightly ​dated design, ensuring a generally pleasant viewing experience.
Remote Voice ​Pro: Support Function
The second generation of ​Voice Remote Pro is one of the highlights of the ​2024 Roku Ultra. Its backlit keys, voice capabilities and USB-C load make it an important update on previous models. ​As How-To Geek said, “Why did it take so long to get backlit control?” The remote control also includes quick access buttons for popular ​streaming applications and ​a customizable rocket icon that can launch a user-defined menu.
With these features, Voice Remote Pro enhances the overall streaming experience, ​providing comfort and flexibility for users who prefer to navigate without hands or ​direct access. The ​remote control is compatible with most TVs thanks to its IR and HDMI CEC support, adding another layer of versatility.
Price and value: A competitive advantage
In a $99.99 MSRP and $79.99 ​sale price, the Roku Ultra (2024) is the most affordable high-end device in its class. Cut the Apple TV 4K entry level for $30 and Amazon Fire TV ​Cube for ​$40. ​According to How-To Geek, “If I bought a new ​streamer right now, the ​2024 ​Roku Ultra would be extremely tempting for me.”
While your lowest price point comes with commitments, such as Ethernet port and slightly clumsy user interface, they are not negotiators for many users. The Roku Ultra offers ​an exceptional ​value for its price, so it is an ideal option for those looking for a premium streaming ​experience without ​breaking the bank.
In conclusion, the ​Roku Ultra ​(2024) stands out as a strong competitor in ​the streaming device market. Its combination of performance, accessibility and ​enhanced ​features such as Wi-Fi 6 and a backlit remote control make it an attractive option for ​small cables and technology enthusiasts. ​However, potential buyers must weigh the device limits, such as Ethernet port 10/100 and the dated user interface, before making a ​purchase. For those who prefer value and functionality, the Roku Ultra is an excellent option ​for 2024 and beyond.