There’s a lot to remember when you’re setting up a new TV to stream 4K movies, shows, and documentaries. Your TV has to be 4K-capable, sure. And your internet connection needs to be fast enough, so make sure you’ve got a decent WiFi router and aren’t paying for the cheapest internet plan. Oh, and some streaming networks restrict 4K content to the priciest subscriptions. Cough, Netflix and HBO Max.
Forget any one element and your swanky TV may just end up showing you everything in regular HD resolution, and you might not even know it. One last piece of the puzzle to consider: Your streaming device is rated for 4K, Dolby Vision, and all that mess, right? Because without it, you can’t watch the good stuff.
I’ve tested all the major 4K-capable streaming devices on the market, and the Roku Ultra 4K beats ’em all. Sure, we can talk hardware specs and all that, but you know what impressed me the most in the many hours I used the Ultra 4K? Its remote control and its playful sense of personality.
TL;dr: my Review at a glance
Well, I hope you have a 4K TV. Most of them these days, even the cheapos, can display 4K resolution. The Roku Ultra 4K supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos, so if you have a TV that plays the very highest quality video and audio formats, the Ultra 4K is the best choice for streaming it. If your TV doesn’t display 4K video or if you don’t pay the (sometimes sky-high) prices for streaming channel tiers that let you play 4K video, then save your money and buy a cheaper streaming box, like the Roku Streaming Stick HD for $18.
how i tested
Of all the devices I’ve tested for VICE, this was a particularly fun testing routine. I watched a lot of movies and television shows in 4K. Old black-and-white films restored for the Criterion Collection, modern-day digitally shot blockbusters peppered with CGI, and sepia-toned Westerns. And more. A lot more.
I viewed them all on a TCL QM7,…