Welcome to the world of Roku, a streaming platform that offers a diverse range of devices to cater to different user needs.
In this article, we’ll delve into two popular Roku devices & the differences between the two devices:
- The Roku Stick 4K (Full Review)
- The Roku Ultra (Full Review)
Keep in mind, there’s also a less expensive Roku Ultra LT model, which we compare here: Roku Ultra vs Roku Ultra LT.
We’ll explore their features, compare their performance, and guide you on which one to choose based on your streaming needs and budget. Dive deeper into the world of Roku by exploring what is Roku and how does it work?.
Related: 7 Best Roku Streaming Devices (For Every Budget)
- Differences between the Roku Stick 4K vs the Roku Ultra
- Roku Ultra: Quick glance at the device
- Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Quick Look at the streaming stick
- Key Differences between Roku Ultra and Roku Streaming Stick 4K
- Which One to Choose: Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
- Does the Roku Ultra offer better streaming quality than the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
- Is the Roku Ultra worth the extra cost compared to the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
- Does the Roku Ultra support Dolby Vision content?
- Can I use the same Roku account with both the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
- Final thoughts and recommendations
Differences between the Roku Stick 4K vs the Roku Ultra
The primary distinctions between the Roku Stick 4K and the Roku Ultra are:
- The Ultra features an ethernet port, while the Roku Stick 4k utilizes Wi-Fi only.
- The Ultra supports Dolby Vision, while the Roku Stick 4k does not.
- The Ultra offers Dolby Atmos capability, the roku Stick 4K doesn’t have this.
- The Roku Voice Remote Pro for the Ultra includes a Lost Remote finder, The Roku Stick 4K has the standard voice remote
- There’s a $50 price difference between the two devices, the Roku Ultra is 2x the price as it’s offered at $100, while the Roku Stick 4K retails for $50.
Important
In the photo below, you’ll see the differences that are most crucial highlighted, many of the features in which the Streaming stick lacks are important to those streaming with advanced home theater setups.
Not only that, but the Ultra also comes with an ethernet port for wired internet connection, an option not available in the Stick 4K.
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Top | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon | |
 Top | Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ (Plus Model) | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon | |
 Top | Roku Ultra | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon | |
 Top | Roku Ultra LT 4K | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon |
To ensure you’re making an informed choice, familiarize yourself with the difference between roku devices.
Key Features & Differences (Table)
When it comes to the Roku Stick 4K and the Roku Ultra, there are a few key differences: The Roku Stick 4K is a compact, plug-and-play device that’s ideal for wall-mounted TVs, while the Roku Ultra is a more powerful, feature-rich device that offers a faster, feature rich, and overall superior streaming experience.
| Feature/Specification | Roku Ultra | Roku Streaming Stick 4K |
|---|---|---|
| Size/Design | Larger box device | Compact plug-and-play |
| Ethernet Port | Yes | No |
| Dolby Vision | Yes | No |
| Dolby Atmos | Yes | No |
| Lost Remote Finder | Yes | No |
| USB Port | Yes (for local media playback) | No |
| Voice-Controlled Remote | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $100 | $50 |
Exclusive features of each device
The Roku Ultra stands out with its Dolby Vision support for improved picture quality, Dolby Atmos for a cinematic audio experience, and a lost remote finder feature. It also includes a USB port for local media playback.
If you need a wired internet connection for 4K streaming or just faster streaming in general, an ethernet port is essential and the Roku Ultra has this, but other Roku streaming sticks don’t.
On the other hand, the Roku Stick 4K, while it doesn’t have these features, is a more affordable option that still offers 4K streaming quality and a voice-controlled remote for easy navigation.
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon | |
| Top | Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ (Plus Model) | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon | |
| Top | Roku Ultra | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon | |
| Top | Roku Ultra LT 4K | PrimeEligible | View at Amazon |
User Experience & Performance differences
| Criteria | Roku Ultra | Roku Streaming Stick 4K |
|---|---|---|
| User Experience | – Fast and smooth streaming | – Easy setup |
| – Excellent picture and sound quality | – Intuitive interface | |
| – Easy-to-use interface | – Can occasionally lag or freeze | |
| Performance | – Strong Wi-Fi connection | – Strong Wi-Fi connection |
| – Quad-core processor | – Generally smooth streaming, but may lag occasionally |
Keep in mind the plus mode of the Roku streaming stick primary has the Roku voice remote pro.
Pros & Cons of each device (table)
| Criteria | Roku Ultra | Roku Streaming Stick 4K |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | – Superior picture and sound quality | – Affordable |
| – Strong Wi-Fi connection | – 4K streaming capability | |
| – Additional features like lost remote finder | – Compact size | |
| Cons | – More expensive | – No Dolby Vision support |
| – Might have more features than a casual streamer needs | – Lacks some features found in Roku Ultra |
Roku Ultra: Quick glance at the device
The Roku Ultra is Roku’s most powerful streaming device, offering exceptional picture and sound quality. It supports 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision content, ensuring a cinematic viewing experience.
The device also boasts a strong Wi-Fi connection and a quad-core processor for smooth and fast streaming.
AlFor a comprehensive understanding of the lite version of the Ultra device, read our Roku Ultra LT review.
Features and specifications
The Roku Ultra comes with a host of impressive features. It supports 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision content, and it comes with an ethernet port for a stable internet connection.
The device also has a USB port for local media playback and a lost remote finder feature. While you explore these features, also discover some Roku tips and tricks to enhance your user experience.
Pros and cons
The Roku Ultra’s strengths lie in its superior picture and sound quality, strong Wi-Fi connection, and additional features like the lost remote finder. However, it’s more expensive than other Roku devices and may offer more features than a casual streamer needs.
User experience and performance
Users generally report a positive experience with the Roku Ultra, citing its fast and smooth streaming, excellent picture and sound quality, and easy-to-use interface. The device’s additional features, like the lost remote finder, also receive high marks.
I personally found the Ultra to be significantly faster and its definitely an upgrade from the Roku Stick 4k in terms of speed of streaming and navigating apps.
Price and value for money
The Roku Ultra is priced at around $100, making it one of the more expensive Roku devices. However, given its high-end features and performance, many users find it to be good value for money.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K: Quick Look at the streaming stick
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a compact, budget-friendly device that still delivers high-quality streaming. It supports 4K content and comes with a voice-controlled remote for easy navigation.
If you’re looking for a more affordable Roku option without compromising too much on quality, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is worth considering. Interested in other versions? Here’s our Roku stick 4k plus review.
Features and specifications
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K supports 4K content and comes with a voice-controlled remote. It doesn’t have an ethernet port, but it does offer a strong Wi-Fi connection for smooth streaming.
Pros and cons
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K’s main strengths are its affordable price, 4K streaming capability, and compact size. However Dolby Vision content, and it lacks some of the additional features found in the Roku Ultra.
User experience and performance
Users generally report a positive experience with the Roku Streaming Stick 4K. They praise its easy setup, intuitive interface, and smooth streaming. Some users do note, however, that the device can occasionally lag or freeze.
Also see: How Long Do Roku Sticks & Roku TVs Last?
Price and value for money
The Roku Streaming Stick 4K is priced at around $50, making it a more affordable option than the Roku Ultra. Given its features and performance, many users find it to be good value for money.
Key Differences between Roku Ultra and Roku Streaming Stick 4K
When comparing the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, the key differences lie in their features, performance, and price. The Ultra offers more high-end features, like Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, and it generally performs better due to its stronger Wi-Fi connection and faster processor. However, it’s also more expensive.
Related: Roku Express 4K vs Roku Stick 4K: Every Difference Compared
The Streaming Stick 4K, while lacking some of these features, is a more affordable option that still delivers high-quality streaming. If you’re still curious about differences between other models, see our comparison on the difference between Roku stick 4k and 4k plus models.
Which One to Choose: Factors to Consider
Choosing between the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K depends on your specific streaming needs and budget. If you’re looking for the best streaming experience and don’t mind paying a bit more, the Roku Ultra is a great choice.
However, if you’re on a budget and still want high-quality streaming, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a solid option. Consider everything, including how to set Roku up for installation, before making your decision.
Related: Roku Stick 4K vs Roku Stick 4K+ (Plus) : Every Single Difference Compared
Understanding your streaming needs
Before choosing a Roku device, it’s important to understand your streaming needs. Do you need the highest picture and sound quality? Do you watch a lot of Dolby Vision content? Do you need an ethernet connection for more stable internet? Your answers to these questions will help guide your choice.
Also see: 10 Best Wireless speakers for Roku & Roku TV
Evaluating your budget
Your budget is another important factor to consider when choosing a Roku device. If you’re willing to spend more for a high-end streaming experience, the Roku Ultra could be a good fit. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K offers good value for money.
Comparing device compatibility
Before choosing a Roku device, it’s also worth considering its compatibility with your other devices. For example, if you have a Dolby Vision TV, you might want to opt for the Roku Ultra, which supports Dolby Vision content. To ensure your remote works flawlessly, learn everything you need to know about Roku remote compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
The Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K both deliver 4K streaming capabilities, but there are some differences. The Roku Ultra is a bigger box that sits on your TV stand, while the Streaming Stick 4K is a smaller dongle that plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port.
The Ultra has a more powerful quad-core processor and supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision, while the Streaming Stick 4K only supports HDR10. The Ultra also has features like an Ethernet port for wired connectivity, a USB port for local media playback, an SD card slot for extra storage, and a lost remote finder.
Does the Roku Ultra offer better streaming quality than the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
Technically, both the Roku Ultra and Roku Streaming Stick 4K can stream in 4K quality. However, the Roku Ultra supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision HDR, giving it the ability to produce a superior picture quality compared to the Streaming Stick 4K, which only supports HDR10. Therefore, if your TV supports Dolby Vision, the Roku Ultra would offer better streaming quality.
Is the Roku Ultra worth the extra cost compared to the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
Whether the Roku Ultra is worth the extra cost compared to the Roku Streaming Stick 4K depends entirely on your needs.
If you require the additional features offered by the Ultra (like Dolby Vision support, Ethernet and USB connectivity, extra storage, and the lost remote finder), then the extra cost might be worth it. However, if you don’t need these features, then the cheaper Roku Streaming Stick 4K could be more than sufficient.
Does the Roku Ultra support Dolby Vision content?
Yes, the Roku Ultra does support Dolby Vision content. This means it can take full advantage of TVs that support Dolby Vision, offering improved contrast and colors for an even better viewing experience.
Can I use the same Roku account with both the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K?
Yes, you can use the same Roku account with both the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K. In fact, by using the same account, you can easily synchronize your channels and preferences between the two devices.
Having remote issues? Find solutions in our post titled roku not responding to remote.
Final thoughts and recommendations
In conclusion, both the Roku Ultra and the Roku Streaming Stick 4K are excellent streaming devices, each with their own strengths. If you’re looking for the best streaming experience and don’t mind paying a bit more, the Roku Ultra is the way to go.
However, if you’re on a budget and still want high-quality streaming, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K is a solid choice. Before concluding… it’s worth checking out the best Roku devices to have a complete overview of available options.
