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So far in our series on streaming devices as media players, we’ve covered top contenders like the Nvidia Shield, Google’s new 4K streamer, and more. Today, let’s turn our attention to another standout: the 2024 Roku Ultra. This flagship device has not only upped its game for home streaming but has also become a serious option for dynamic digital displays. Fast, sharp, and packed with a lot of smart features for businesses.
Understanding the Roku Ultra
Since it hit the market in 2019, the Roku Ultra has always been the top choice for Roku fans who want a powerful streaming experience. Every new model has brought a few improvements, but the 2024 edition takes it up a notch with serious upgrades like a faster processor, HDMI 2.1 support, and even an improved Voice Remote Pro. All of this is designed to make streaming—and displaying content—a fast, sharp, and seamless experience.
Compared to the Nvidia Shield or Amazon’s FireStick, the Roku Ultra strikes a nice balance between performance and simplicity. The Shield is great for high-performance digital signage, while Chromecast and Fire TV are excellent if you’re deep into the Google or Amazon ecosystems. But the Roku Ultra? It’s perfect if you want a device that’s powerful yet straightforward, with an interface anyone can navigate. And priced at $99, it’s an affordable option that still delivers a high-end experience.
What’s New in the 2024 Roku Ultra?
Let’s get right to what you really want to know: what makes the 2024 Roku Ultra different, and is it actually worth it?
Enhanced Performance for Smoother Playback
A New Quad-Core Processor
If you’re tired of slow load times or lagging content, the new quad-core processor might just be the fix. This 30% speed boost means noticeably faster app load times, smoother playback, and an overall snappier experience. The processor is fast enough to keep up with demanding 4K content that rotates through high-res images and videos without frozen screens or awkward pauses.
WiFi 6 and Ethernet Support
The 2024 Roku Ultra supports WiFi 6, the latest standard that provides faster and more stable connections even in busy environments with multiple devices. If you’re setting up in a high-traffic area or have multiple screens that rely on a single network, WiFi 6 will help keep everything running smoothly. And if you have access to a wired network, the Ethernet port gives you the option for even more stability.
Rich Visual Experience
4K HDR Support
If quality visuals are a priority, you’re in good hands with the Roku Ultra’s 4K HDR capabilities. This model supports HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, delivering vibrant, lifelike images with sharp contrast and detailed colors. This means that for digital signage, the colors pop, the contrast is on point, and the details are sharp to catch the viewer’s eye and hold their attention.
HDMI 2.1 and Quick Media Switching (QMS)
With the addition of HDMI 2.1, the 2024 Ultra now has Quick Media Switching (QMS) to eliminate those black screen delays that can disrupt the viewer’s experience when switching between different media types. QMS helps maintain smooth transitions across varied content, so if you’re running a display that shifts between videos, slideshows, and live content, your audience won’t have to sit through a momentary blackout each time the content switches.
Intuitive and User-Friendly Interface
Roku OS
The Roku Ultra runs on Roku OS, a clean and easy-to-navigate operating system. One of the most user-friendly streaming interfaces out there, Roku OS organizes everything in a simple layout so you can find and manage content quickly. And if you’re using the Ultra for digital displays, you can easily install compatible digital signage software to streamline content creation and management.
With your signage software in place, Roku OS lets you quickly upload and arrange media, schedule content rotations, and even set up live feeds—all through an intuitive interface.
Dynamic Content Switching
Roku OS’s content switching is also highly responsive, meaning you can move between different content sources without hassle. While great for streaming purposes, this feature might not be very useful if you already have digital signage software, since it should essentially come with smart scheduling capabilities, to help you pre-plan and automate content changes.
Versatile Remote Capabilities for Enhanced Control
Voice Remote Pro (Second Edition)
One of the best upgrades in the 2024 Ultra is the new Voice Remote Pro, which makes controlling the device way easier. With hands-free voice control, you don’t even need to pick up the remote to switch content. This is especially useful if you’re managing a setup where you might not always be right next to the display.
The remote is also rechargeable, which is a huge plus for anyone using the Ultra in a high-use environment. You won’t have to worry about constantly replacing batteries, and the USB-C charging port is compatible with most modern chargers. The backlit buttons and shortcut keys make it easy to find your way around, even in low light, so you won’t waste time fumbling with controls when you need to make quick adjustments.
Lost Remote Finder and Mic Mute
In busy environments, it’s easy to lose track of a remote. The Ultra’s Voice Remote Pro has a built-in chime that can be activated by simply saying, “Hey Roku, where’s the remote?” This little feature is a time-saver and a stress reliever, especially if you have multiple remotes in your setup. Additionally, the remote includes a mic mute switch, which ensures privacy by muting the voice control mic when not in use—a thoughtful touch if you’re using the Ultra in more public spaces.
Compact, Practical Design and Installation Flexibility
Space-Saving Form Factor
Roku Ultra’s compact design makes it easy to fit behind screens or tuck into display cabinets, allowing for a clean setup without visible hardware. If you’re creating a professional look for your display environment—whether it’s a retail setup, office lobby, or multi-screen installation—the Ultra’s form factor allows for a sleek, unobtrusive installation.
Cost-Effective Solution with Premium Features
Affordable Pricing
At $99, the Roku Ultra is positioned as the top-end device within Roku’s own lineup, yet it’s still far more affordable than many comparable devices from other brands. Roku has other budget-friendly options, like the Roku Express ($29.99) and Roku Streaming Stick 4K ($49.99), both of which offer solid performance for general streaming but the Roku Ultra still exceeds them in dynamic digital signage capabilities.
In the same price range, Google’s new Google TV Streamer (4K) is a strong competitor at $99.99. This device is a great fit if you’re already embedded in Google’s ecosystem, and can take advantage of the smart home capabilities to control lighting and other connected devices in your digital signage setup.
Conclusion
In the end, the 2024 Roku Ultra makes a compelling case for anyone needing a media player that’s powerful, versatile, and affordable. It’s got the flexibility to handle everything from your favorite streaming apps to dynamic digital signage setups without locking you into one ecosystem. If you’re looking for a smooth, intuitive device that gives you control and just works—whether at home or in a professional setting—the Roku Ultra checks most if not all the boxes.
