Features, settings & updates

[edrin88]

I bought a Roku Ultra back in 2016 and am now in the market for a new streaming device. I see Roku still claims the "Ultra" is their top of the line device. Is my ultra the same as a new ultra? How can I find out what (if anything) has changed since 2016? Asking because I'm considering all of my options (beyond just Roku) and I want to know if it's fair to compare my experiences with my 2016 device against the latest and greatest from Apple, etc. Or if I do get a new Roku, how much improvement should I expect? Thanks in advance!

[makaiguy]

@edrin88-

This Wikipedia chart will enable you to track some of the differences between a 2016 Ultra (the initial Ultra 4640) and later models.

This Roku Page will show you features of the current product line including today's Ultra.

[atc98092]

To give you a quick answer: no the current Ultra is nothing like the one you have. Yours is likely the 4640 (I still have one myself). While it supports 4K/HDR, it doesn't support Dolby Vision. I can assure you the WiFi radio in the latest model is much better as well. In addition, the latest model has a much, much faster processor, has double the operating memory and 4x the channel storage memory. The only thing you lose from your 4640 is the SD card slot, which isn't needed since the latest model has so much more channel storage space.

[jontalk]

I have the 4800R which I upgraded to from a Roku 3 and its WAY faster than the older generations, has a voice remote that connects with WiFi direct. It offers multiple surround audio format support as well as the AC band on WiFi, and is currently running the latest build of OS 12. And while its far from perfect, the Roku platform remains as the best of any. The biggest problem I have is with channel audio volumes varying greatly, especially the HBO/Max..my AVR is 100 w/channel and with Max I have to crank the audio to 50%!