Roku has been a dominant player in the streaming device market for years, and its Roku Ultra has been a fan favorite since its inception. With the release of the Roku Ultra 2022, potential buyers might be wondering how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Roku Ultra 2021. In this article, we’ll compare the two devices in terms of features, performance, and price, to help you decide which one is the right choice for you.
Table of Contents
Roku Ultra 2022 Vs 2021: Pick The Better One
Design And Build
At first glance, the Roku Ultra 2022 and the 2021 models look quite similar, as they both have a sleek, square design with rounded edges. Both devices measure 4.9 x 4.9 x 0.85 inches and sport the familiar glossy-black finish.
The remote controls for both models are also similar, offering voice search, headphone jacks for private listening, and dedicated buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.
Hardware And Performance
The Roku Ultra 2022 comes with a more powerful processor than its predecessor, which translates to faster app loading times and smoother navigation.
While the Roku Ultra 2021 featured a quad-core processor, the 2022 model has been upgraded to a Hexa-core processor, making it one of the fastest streaming devices on the market. This increased performance means that users can enjoy a more seamless streaming experience, especially when using demanding applications or streaming 4K content.
Video And Audio Support
Both the Roku Ultra 2021 and 2022 models support 4K resolution, HDR10, and Dolby Vision, ensuring that users can enjoy stunning picture quality on compatible TVs. Additionally, both devices support Dolby Atmos for immersive audio experiences, provided you have the necessary audio equipment.
However, the Roku Ultra 2022 takes it a step further with the introduction of HDR10+ support. This new feature provides dynamic metadata that enables better color and contrast representation on compatible TVs, giving users an even more vibrant and lifelike picture.
Connectivity
The Roku Ultra 2021 and 2022 models both come with dual-band Wi-Fi and an Ethernet port for wired connections, ensuring that you can enjoy smooth streaming without any buffering issues.
The main difference in connectivity between the two models is the addition of Wi-Fi 6 support in the 2022 version. Wi-Fi 6 provides faster and more reliable connections, especially in congested network environments.
This can be particularly beneficial if you have multiple devices streaming simultaneously or live in an apartment building with many neighboring Wi-Fi networks.
Storage And Expandability
The Roku Ultra 2021 and 2022 models both come with 512MB of RAM and 2GB of internal storage. However, the 2022 model features a microSD card slot, allowing users to expand the storage for additional channels and apps.
This can be particularly useful if you have a large library of channels or frequently install new apps.
Additional Features
The Ultra 2022 introduces a new feature called “Roku Zones,” which allows users to create personalized content hubs based on their interests. This feature makes it easier for users to discover new content by grouping channels and apps according to specific genres or themes, such as sports, news, or movies.
Price
When it comes to price, the Roku Ultra 2022 is $99.99, which is the same as the launch price of the 2021 model. Given the additional features and performance improvements, the 2022 version offers excellent value for money.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find the Roku Ultra 2021 at a discounted price now that the newer model is available.
Compatibility With Roku Accessories
Both the Roku Ultra 2021 and 2022 models are compatible with a range of Roku accessories, including the Roku Voice Remote Pro, Roku Streambar, and Roku Wireless Speakers. Hence, you can easily upgrade the Roku ecosystem without worrying about compatibility issues between devices.
Setup And User Interface
The setup process for Roku Ultra 2021 and 2022 models is straightforward and user-friendly. When you connected the device to your TV and Wi-Fi network, they will prompt you to sign in or create a Roku account. The on-screen instructions will guide you through the process of adding channels and personalizing your home screen.
Both devices share the same user interface, which is known for its simplicity and ease of use. The home screen provides quick access to your favorite channels and apps, while the search function allows you to find content across multiple streaming services.
Voice Control And Integration With Smart Home Devices
The Roku Ultra 2021 and 2022 models both support voice control through the Roku Voice Remote, enabling users to search for content, control playback, and adjust settings using voice commands. Additionally, both devices can be integrated with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your Roku Ultra using compatible smart speakers or displays.
Roku Ultra 2022 Vs 2021: Conclusion
When comparing the Roku Ultra 2022 vs. 2021, it’s clear that the 2022 model offers several notable improvements in terms of performance, connectivity, and features. With the introduction of a Hexa-core processor, Wi-Fi 6 support, HDR10+ compatibility, and the new Roku Zones feature, the Roku Ultra 2022 provides a more seamless and enjoyable streaming experience.
While the Roku Ultra 2021 is still an excellent streaming device, the 2022 model is worth considering if you’re looking for the latest features and the best performance possible. However, if you’re on a budget and can find the 2021 model at a discounted price, it remains a viable option for a quality streaming experience.
