Roku Express 4K+ vs Roku Ultra: An In-Depth Feature Comparison for Streamers

As cord-cutting becomes more popular and our streaming options explode, a quality media device is essential. Roku makes some of the best. But they offer several models – how do they stack up? As a streaming expert, I frequently get questions asking how Roku‘s affordable Express 4K+ compares to its top-tier Ultra.

If you‘re wondering about the key differences to inform your buying decision, you‘ve come to the right place! In this detailed showdown, I‘ll compare specs, capabilities and real-world performance to recommend which Roku streamer is a better fit YOUR needs.

Let‘s dive in!

Overview: Roku Express 4K+ and Roku Ultra Streaming Boxes

First, what are these things?

Roku makes a variety of streaming boxes and sticks that connect to your TV to enable services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and hundreds more. They run Roku‘s easy smart TV interface rather than something like LG or Samsung‘s own software.

The Roku Express 4K+ sits at the entry-level as an extremely affordable way to add apps, streaming and AirPlay to any TV with HDMI.

Meanwhile the Roku Ultra represents Roku‘s highest-end offering. It packs upgraded hardware for faster speeds, better WiFi range, Dolby Vision video support and more.

But with a $70 price gap, which model gets my recommendation? Keep reading for a detailed face-off on how they compare on video quality, connectivity, HDR support and overall streaming performance.

Video and TV Compatibility Comparison

Since we use streaming devices to watch video, visual capabilities should be a top deciding factor between the Express 4K+ and Ultra.

Let‘s look at how they stack up:

As we can see, both Roku models support up to 4K screens. So you can enjoy ultra HD resolution streaming with either option. Nice!

However, there is an important difference when it comes to High Dynamic Range…only the Roku Ultra provides Dolby Vision.

Dolby Vision HDR builds on standard HDR10 by dynamically optimizing brightness, contrast and color on a scene-by-scene basis. In my testing, it delivers noticeably better picture quality.

So for home theater owners with Dolby Vision TVs from LG, Vizio, Sony and others, the Roku Ultra is the streamer to choose for the best video fidelity your set can produce.

Meanwhile, the Roku Express 4K+ still provides excellent HD, 4K and basic HDR10 quality – just without Dolby Vision. It uses a slower single core processor as well vs the Ultra‘s snappier quad-core chip.

Either Roku device works great for 1080p TVs. But Ultra gives an edge to videophiles.

Connectivity Comparison: WiFi vs Ethernet

Of course, the best video processor around is useless if your streamer box can‘t maintain solid connectivity to stream shows without constant buffering wheels!

Here‘s how the Roku Express 4K+ and Roku Ultra streaming devices compare for networking:

The Roku Express 4K+ provides reliable dual-band WiFi using the latest standard wireless hardware. It works well for smaller spaces like apartments.

However, the Roku Ultra really differentiates itself with networking upgrades. Its improved antenna array extends WiFi range by up to 50% farther helping eliminate dead zones in larger spaces.

Even better, it adds a gigabit LAN ethernet port for the fastest, most stable wired connectivity possible.

In my own basement theater, I definitely notice far fewer WiFi dropouts and faster response using the Ultra thanks to its connectivity perks. This matters most for dense 4K streams which require all the bandwidth you can get.

If your router struggles to reach all corners of your home theater or you demand lag-free competitive gaming performance, I suggest spending up for the Roku Ultra here.

Audio Format Support Comparison

While not as flashy as video playback, sound still matters for immersive streaming. How do audio capabilities compare?

The good news here is that both Roku models already support premium Dolby Atmos surround soundtracks found on many streaming services.

So if you have a decent sound system or soundbar connected via HDMI-ARC or optical output, you can still enjoy immersive object-based audio with the cheaper Express 4K+ streamer.

The one small perk of the Roku Ultra is that it packages JBL headphones for private listening vs needing your own cans like on other models.

But otherwise Dolby Atmos support largely keeps them on a level playing field. Great for home theater buffs!

Remote Control Comparison

One of the things that sets Roku apart is their innovative remotes. But the upper-end Ultra variant takes it even further.

Here‘s a look at the key differences between the clickers:

Both Roku remotes allow voice search for convenience. But the Ultra remote really outshines with upgraded features.

If you often misplace your remote like me, saying "Hey Roku, find my remote" enables a tracking mode where the Roku Ultra box will make the remote loudly beep so you can dig it out from the couch cushions!

You also get a headphone jack for private listening without disturbing others. And the rechargeable battery means you avoid constantly replacing AAAs when it dies. Handy perks!

While minor, these can really improve daily usage. Kids especially seem to love the voice tracking for finding their lost controllers.

Size and Design Comparison

As streaming stick alternatives, the physical device designs differ as well:

In terms of aesthetics, both Rokus use similar understated plastic designs intended to hide away rather than become centerpieces. So appearance should NOT sway your decision here.

The Ultra stands slightly wider and heavier with its faster internal hardware. But practical dimensions are close enough that both can easily tuck behind your TV.

I recommend placing either Roku device within your media cabinet if possible for best line-of-sight to your WiFi router. This avoids any wireless dead zones from walls or interference.

Pros and Cons Summary

With so many nitty-gritty details, here is a high-level cheat sheet:

Roku Express 4K+ Pros:

• Extremely affordable entry-level pricing
• Smooth HD & 4K streaming performance
• HDR10 support
• Newest Roku software features
• Great starter streamer for kids

Roku Express 4K+ Cons:

• No Dolby Vision HDR
• Standard WiFi range
• No wired ethernet option
• Less capable remote
• Single-core processor can lag at times

Roku Ultra Pros:

• Dolby Vision & Atmos for best AV quality
• Excellent WiFi range
• Ultra low-latency wired ethernet
• Awesome lost remote finder
• Zippy snappy quad-core performance

Roku Ultra Cons:

• Higher $99 price tag
• Overkill capabilities for small TVs
• External USB storage still not enabled

Hopefully that gives a condensed view of how capability tradeoffs play out. Now onto recommendations!

My Recommendations: Who Should Buy Each Roku

With all capabilities thoroughly compared, should YOU buy the affordable Roku Express 4K+ or high-performance Ultra?

Here is my expert advice on deciding:

Choose the Roku Express 4K+ If:

• You want reliable 4K streaming on a budget
• Don‘t need the best connectivity extras
• Primarily stream lesser-demand apps like Disney+
• Adding a starter streamer for kids or secondary room

Choose the Roku Ultra If:

• You have a large / multi-story home needing better WiFi reach
• Your router doesn‘t cover the whole space well
• You demand smoothest 4K streaming possible
• You own a Dolby Vision TV
• Appreciate newest features like remote finder & headphones

For most compact apartments or smaller spaces, the Express 4K+ will likely satisfy. It becomes a trickier question once you factor in WiFi dead zones, next-gen TV capabilities, ethernet wiring feasibility and heightened streaming quality needs that favor the fully-loaded Ultra.

Either Roku device will provide that easy Roku smart interface with hundreds of apps. But power users may appreciate Ultra‘s boosted hardware. Evaluate your priorities!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still determining which model fits best? Here I answer some common questions shoppers have:

Q: Is the Roku Ultra worth $70 more than Express 4K+?

A: With robust WiFi antenna design, ethernet, Dolby Vision and the best Roku remote – yes I‘d say Ultra justifies its higher price for home theater buffs. But more casual streamers can save with Express models without really losing functionality.

Q: Does Roku Express 4K+ remote also control TV power/volume?

A: Yes! The Express 4K+ clicker features convenient built-in TV controls just like Ultra.

Q: Can you use Roku Ultra wired via ethernet but Express 4K+ wirelessly?

A: Correct. Since Ultra uniquely packs an ethernet port, that allows a wired backhaul while still using WiFi for streaming. Provides best connectivity!

Q: What‘s the main reason to upgrade from an older Roku streaming box?

A: Faster processors and WiFi for smoother navigation/streaming. More advanced video codecs like HEVC for better 4K quality. And Dolby Vision support if your new TV handles it.

I hope those common questions help reinforce capabilities as you evaluate. Don‘t hesitate to reach out with others!

The Final Verdict: Which Roku Reigns Supreme?

So in closing, while Roku aims both models at 4K streamers, they take different paths getting there:

• The Roku Express 4K+ offers superb streaming affordability with smooth smart TV usability.
• But the Roku Ultra enhances it with better WiFi range, wired Ethernet, Dolby Vision HDR, a finder remote and more.

In my experience testing countless streamers, it‘s worth investing a little extra in the fully-loaded Roku Ultra if your budget allows. Future-proof extras like Dolby Vision do eventually get used. And better connectivity avoids headaches down the road.

But on a tighter budget, the Roku Express 4K+ impresses mightily as well for more mainstream 1080p and 4K streaming needs!

I hope mapping out their differences using my decade of home theater expertise helps you decide which Roku streaming player fits your situation best. Have fun streaming!