On the surface, the new Chromecast Ultra looks nearly identical to the updated streaming dongle Google introduced last fall. The main cosmetic difference is the absence of the Chromecast logo; now there's just a generic "G."
On the inside, though, the Chromecast Ultra has been revamped to support streaming in 4K and high dynamic range (HDR). Its new processor and Wi-Fi radios (Google won't say what they are) mean it can load videos 1.8 times faster than other Chromecast devices, even in Ultra HD.
Of course, you'd need robust Wi-Fi to support that, which might not be the case if your router is in the home office and your television is in the basement. If that's your situation, Chromecast Ultra supports Ethernet via its power brick, the first Google streaming device to do so.
As with the current Chromecast, the matte side of the circular Ultra is magnetized, letting the HDMI connector stick to it when not in use. Since you'll probably plug it into your TV or receiver and forget about it, the magnet probably won't see a lot of use.
At $69, the Ultra is nearly twice the price of the current Chromecast, but it's in line with other 4K streaming devices, including the recently announced Roku Premiere.
In addition to the Chromecast Ultra, Google unveiled a slew of other hardware at its event in San Francisco on Tuesday, including Google Home, its Amazon Echo rival, and a new router known as Google Wifi. Both devices unlock Chromecast's full potential. But if you're not enthusiastic about wiring your home with Ethernet, Google Wifi's easy expandability (it comes in a pack of three for $299) could deliver the robust connection you need for 4K streaming.
Google Home can also beam audio to any Chromecast, including the Ultra and the Chromecast Audio speaker dongle. Instead of casting a Spotify playlist from the app on your iPhone (which drains your phone's battery) you can instead say "OK Google, play Beyoncé on my Chromecast," and let Google's Assistant do the rest.
The 4K video displayed at Google's event streamed smoothly, with most of the demo Chromecast Ultras connected via Ethernet. If you don't view a lot of 4K content and have a stable Wi-Fi connection, though, you'll probably be just fine with the regular Chromecast. To be sure, check out PCMag's in-depth comparison of the two.