# TLDR Review: Roku Ultra

*Published: 2026-02-21 | Updated: 2026-02-21 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/roku-ultra*

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## Product: Roku Ultra
**Brand:** Roku

## Pros
- Picture quality is clear and noticeably better than older Roku models, offering excellent 4K streaming with automatic detection and helpful prompts for optimal settings.
- Extremely fast and responsive performance with no lag or loading issues, making streaming seamless.
- Remote is a standout feature: backlit buttons for easy use in the dark, rechargeable battery lasting months, headphone jack for private listening, and a remote-finder beep button that works for all Roku remotes.
- Easy and quick setup process, including automatic app syncing, simple sign-ins via QR codes, and fast TV recognition and pairing.
- Includes useful ports like Ethernet and USB for wired internet connections and external media.
- Remote controls TV power and volume, reducing the need for multiple remotes and simplifying navigation.
- Supports a wide range of popular streaming apps including Sling, Disney/Hulu, Amazon Prime, ITV X, STV, and Now TV.
- Compact and minimalistic design that blends well with any entertainment setup.
- Consumes very little electricity compared to smart TV features, making it cost-effective over time.

## Cons
- Some software bugs remain, including issues with closed captioning and resuming shows, with customer support aware but no full fix yet.
- Ads appear on the home screen, though they’re generally unobtrusive but might annoy some users.
- UK app support is incomplete: while Channel 4 and Channel 5 apps are now supported, BBC iPlayer and U are still missing, which is a downside for full UK platform users.
- Disney+ and Prime Video apps cannot be installed or used properly despite dedicated remote buttons, limiting experience for fans of those services.
- No integrated search function, making content discovery less convenient.
- Optical audio connections may require managing multiple remotes due to limited support in audio control.
- If you already have a working Roku device, the upgrade might not be worth it given the price and the availability of cheaper options.

## Bottom Line

The Roku Ultra shines with superb 4K streaming quality, a lightning-fast interface, and a remote packed with thoughtful features that make streaming a breeze. It’s perfect for users craving top-tier performance and convenience, but if you rely heavily on UK-specific apps like BBC iPlayer or want full Disney+/Prime Video support, this might leave you wanting. Also, if your current Roku is holding strong, consider whether the extras are worth the upgrade price. For a user who values fast streaming, solid app choices, and premium remote functionality, *Roku Ultra* is a smart pick.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Picture quality is clear and noticeably better than older Roku models, offering excellent 4K streaming with automatic detection and helpful prompts for optimal settings. | Some software bugs remain, including issues with closed captioning and resuming shows, with customer support aware but no full fix yet. |
| Extremely fast and responsive performance with no lag or loading issues, making streaming seamless. | Ads appear on the home screen, though they’re generally unobtrusive but might annoy some users. |
| Remote is a standout feature: backlit buttons for easy use in the dark, rechargeable battery lasting months, headphone jack for private listening, and a remote-finder beep button that works for all Roku remotes. | UK app support is incomplete: while Channel 4 and Channel 5 apps are now supported, BBC iPlayer and U are still missing, which is a downside for full UK platform users. |
| Easy and quick setup process, including automatic app syncing, simple sign-ins via QR codes, and fast TV recognition and pairing. | Disney+ and Prime Video apps cannot be installed or used properly despite dedicated remote buttons, limiting experience for fans of those services. |
| Includes useful ports like Ethernet and USB for wired internet connections and external media. | No integrated search function, making content discovery less convenient. |
| Remote controls TV power and volume, reducing the need for multiple remotes and simplifying navigation. | Optical audio connections may require managing multiple remotes due to limited support in audio control. |
| Supports a wide range of popular streaming apps including Sling, Disney/Hulu, Amazon Prime, ITV X, STV, and Now TV. | If you already have a working Roku device, the upgrade might not be worth it given the price and the availability of cheaper options. |
| Compact and minimalistic design that blends well with any entertainment setup. |  |
| Consumes very little electricity compared to smart TV features, making it cost-effective over time. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Best Buy | $79.00  | In Stock |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*