Video quality has increased tremendously in recent years, and we all want to get the latest technology at a reasonable price. Roku Ultra offers the latest 4K UHD definition, but you would also like to know if it supports Dolby Vision to enjoy even more vivid colors than those you get with HDR.

Not all versions of Roku Ultra support Dolby Vision. Only the most recent models can apply this dynamic video processing. In addition to a new Roku Ultra, you will need to get a compatible TV and stream content filmed in HDR to apply the Dolby Vision format.

In this article, we will discuss which Roku Ultra models support Dolby Vision, as well as the requirements needed to play this video format. Keep reading to learn the proper setup and avoid missing any components that could prevent you from enjoying breathtaking, realistic visuals.

Does Roku Ultra Support Dolby Vision?

The majority of modern televisions and streaming media players support 4K UHD video, as well as high-dynamic-range (HDR). This already provides great video quality, but some people want to go even further. That is exactly what Dolby Vision offers. 

You are considering buying a Roku Ultra. But before you do, you want to make sure this media player will provide you with the most advanced video format there is.

Roku Ultra models made from 2020 on support Dolby Vision. However, it is important to keep in mind that a Dolby Vision compatible media player is not the only thing you will need to access this video format. For a complete cinematic setup, you will need to gather:

  • Content that accepts Dolby VisionA Dolby Vision-compatible televisionA streaming media player that supports Dolby Vision

In the following sections, we will dive into the details of the requirements stated above.

Which Roku Ultra Models Support Dolby Vision?

Only Roku Ultra models made from 2020 on will support Dolby Vision. These newer versions also support Dolby’s audio counterpart, Dolby Atmos. Roku Ultra models made before 2020, on the other hand, do not support Dolby Vision. 

It’s not enough to simply have a compatible Roku Ultra streaming media player. You will also need a television that meets Dolby’s minimum capabilities to support this advanced video format.

What TVs Support Dolby Vision?

To ensure your TV will support Dolby Vision, you need to check whether it supports the SMPTE ST-2084 HDR format. To adjust the parameters needed for higher image quality, it will need a minimum contrast ratio of 200.000:1 and a minimum brightness of 1000 nits. Regarding the color range, your television should have standards very close to those of Rec 2020. 

Image definition is not the only important factor for good video quality. Movies recorded in HDR provide much better color depth, contrast, brightness, and clearness to the image in general. 

Each display is slightly different, so not all TVs will reproduce images the same way. Dolby Vision takes the video, understands the characteristics of the screen, and adapts every single scene to look the best it can.

To use Dolby Vision, you need an HDMI 1.4b cable or newer. This allows 4K video at 24Hzs. Most people assume they need a high-end HDMI cable to properly run Dolby Vision, and while your cord should be able to run 4K UHD video, you don’t necessarily need the most expensive option. 

Is Dolby Vision Compatibility Only Limited to Hardware?

Now that you have all the necessary hardware to support Dolby Vision, you might be wondering: can I use Dolby Vision for any movie, show, or video? Generally, the answer to this question is no. The content you’re watching should also support the video format. 

Only content recorded in HDR can be played in the highest quality possible through Dolby Vision. This technology was first introduced to the public, outside of movie theaters, in the form of UHD BlueRay discs. 

Overall, Dolby Vision compatibility will depend on both content and hardware specifications. However, most recent TV shows and movies can support this format. As long as you have compatible hardware, you shouldn’t have many issues watching high-quality television on your Roku Ultra through Dolby Vision.

Wrapping Up 

Roku Ultra players made from 2020 on do indeed support Dolby Vision. Nevertheless, the media player is not the only component you need to process this format. The television you are connecting your Roku Ultra to also needs to meet a few minimum performance requirements, including a minimum contrast ratio and minimum brightness level. 

Once you’ve confirmed your setup meets these basic requirements, the only thing left to do is find movies, videos, or shows that can be played with Dolby Vision. This last step is the easy part, as most new media is recorded with HDR and will support this format.