The competition has improved over time, and in 2019, we don’t think this device is as useful as Roku’s Streaming Stick+, or even the Premiere+, but it is more mobile than the latter. And as 4K apps continue to grow in number, the Ultra can grow with them. That’s especially true now that Google and Amazon’s long-raging feud is over, meaning Chromecast now supports Amazon Prime Video. That said, the Chromecast’s app support is much heartier than most built-in TV interfaces, with support for apps like Vudu, Google Play movies, and others that may or may not come with your new TV. While the device was the only streamer that supported full HDR on YouTube upon its initial release, this is no longer the case. Unlike Roku and Nvidia’s Shield device, the Ultra supports both HDR10 (the most prevalent HDR format) and Dolby Vision (the second-most prevalent), still ranking among the most versatile 4K streamers in its price class.īy now, you may be asking yourself, “Don’t all new premium 4K TVs pack smart interfaces with 4K apps like Netflix and YouTube built right in?” To which we’d reply, “Yes, and that’s a very astute observation!” This fact limits the use cases for the Ultra significantly, as does the fact that 4K HDR content still isn’t as widely prevalent as HD streams. You’ll need a certified Ultra HD Premium TV (which is more expensive) to fully appreciate it, but HDR is often referred to as the icing on the 4K cake, offering more vivid contrast and richer shading that enhances the expanded color gamut of top-tier 4K TVs. While the most touted feature is 4K Ultra HD compatibility, just as important - some might say more so - is support for HDR (High Dynamic Range). Google recommends a 5Ghz connection for 4K streaming. ![]() Like the 2015 model, the Ultra’s Wi-Fi connection is 802.11ac compatible, and it will connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz access points. In practice, we didn’t experience much of a boost, though the Ultra was a few seconds faster, on average, at loading HD content than our 2015 Chromecast. ![]() Some basic hardware upgrades have also been added, which Google claims will make the device “1.8” times faster at loading streaming content than some of its older predecessors. Adding your new Ultra into the fold is as simple as clicking the device icon at the top right, and following the basic instructions.Ĭonnecting your Ultra is as simple as clicking the device icon at the top right, and following the instructions. ![]() Now dubbed Google Home to signal broader functionality, the Chromecast app is essentially the same as it always was. (Editor’s note: This review has been updated to put the Ultra in context with the current crowd of streaming devices, and to update the addition of Amazon Prime app support.) Setupįirst things first, simply plug your Ultra into your TV and wall outlet - the new device can’t source power directly from your TV like its siblings. While the upgrade pushes the Ultra’s price ($69) to double that of its predecessors, for those eyeing a versatile way to stream in 4K Ultra HD with HDR, it’s one of the best bargains around. Fitbit Versa 3Īn inevitable move to mirror the latest in TV technology, the Chromecast Ultra may not look much different, but under the hood is the key to unlocking the 4K streaming buffet, including support for High Dynamic Range to unleash the rich contrast and expanded color gamut of today’s most eye-popping video.
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