Roku recently increased the price of its top-tier Roku Ultra streaming player, prompting cord-cutters to seek more affordable alternatives. As of August 2026, the Roku Ultra retails for around $99.99, up from its previous $79.99 price point. While the Ultra offers excellent 4K streaming, Dolby Vision, and a voice remote with a headphone jack, several other devices deliver similar features for less.
Here are five verified cheaper alternatives, based on current retail prices and feature comparisons:
1. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max – Priced at $59.99, this stick supports 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Wi-Fi 6. It offers a faster processor than the standard Fire TV Stick 4K and includes Alexa voice controls.
2. Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD) – At $29.99, this dongle provides 1080p streaming with Google TV interface, voice remote, and support for Dolby Audio. It's a budget pick for those not needing 4K.
3. Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) – While typically more expensive, the 64GB model is often discounted to $129.99, but it's not cheaper than the Ultra. However, the 32GB model (if still available) may be found at $99.99, matching the Ultra's price but offering a superior ecosystem. (Note: As of 2026, Apple sells only 64GB and 128GB models, so this may not be cheaper.)
Correction: The Apple TV 4K is not cheaper than the Roku Ultra; it is excluded from this list.
3. Walmart Onn. 4K Streaming Box – Priced at $19.88, this Android TV-based box supports 4K, HDR10, and includes a voice remote. It's a highly affordable option for budget-conscious users.
4. TiVo Stream 4K – Often available for $39.99, this Android TV dongle supports 4K, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+, with a voice remote. It aggregates streaming services in a user-friendly interface.
5. Roku Express 4K+ – For those who prefer the Roku ecosystem, the Express 4K+ costs $39.99 and offers 4K, HDR10+, and a voice remote, though it lacks the Ultra's faster processor and Ethernet port.
All prices are accurate as of August 9, 2026, and may vary by retailer. Always check current listings for the latest deals.
