Roku 4850R Streaming Player Review
Our verdict
The Roku 4850R is a fully connected 4K player with Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, Bluetooth, HDMI, and USB all built in at $86.99. It earns a 4.5-star average from over 8,000 buyers, which is a strong signal for an upper-tier Roku box.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Home theater setups that need 4K streaming with a wired network connection and Wi-Fi 6 for best wireless performance
Skip if
You only need basic 1080p streaming and want to spend less, or your TV already has a capable 4K smart platform
- Resolution 4K Uhd
- Connectivity Bluetooth, Ethernet, Hdmi, Usb, Wi-Fi
- Color Ultra (With Wi-Fi 6)
- Weight 18.0 lb
- Priced 45% above the category median ($59.99 across 52 tracked models)
- Weight of 18.0 lb - heavier than 88% of the 55 models we track
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.5/5
4.5 average across 8,153 owner ratings
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Popularity4.1/5
8,153 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other LED, QLED and OLED TVs plus TV mounts, streaming media players, antennas, cables and satellite gear we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
["The Roku 4850R sits at the higher end of Roku's lineup at $86.99. It outputs 4K UHD and packs the most complete connectivity set in the category: Bluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi 6. Wi-Fi 6 support is worth noting because it delivers faster throughput and better performance in crowded wireless environments compared to older Wi-Fi standards.", 'The Ethernet port means you can hardwire this player if your TV setup allows it, which eliminates wireless as a variable for 4K streaming. USB adds flexibility for local media playback. The Roku platform itself is well-regarded for its simple, clean interface and wide app support.', 'Buyer response is strong: 8,153 ratings at 4.5 stars and around 4,000 purchases last month. That level of review depth gives the rating real weight. If you want a no-compromise Roku box with every connectivity option covered, the 4850R is the choice.']
Pros
- 4K UHD output with Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more reliable wireless
- Ethernet port for wired network connection
- Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI all included
- 4.5-star rating from over 8,000 buyers
- Roku OS is simple to navigate with a broad app library
Cons
- $86.99 is a real premium over basic Roku sticks
- No HDR format detail available in specs
- Overkill for a TV that will only stream at 1080p
Performance notes
4K UHD output. Wi-Fi 6 improves wireless streaming consistency in busy home networks. Ethernet port available for a wired connection. Bluetooth, USB, and HDMI rounding out connectivity. No HDR tier or refresh rate data in available specs.
What buyers say
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars across 8,153 reviews with around 4,000 monthly buys. That volume of reviews with a high average score gives genuine confidence this player performs consistently. Buyers at this price point typically prioritize reliability, and the numbers suggest they are getting it.
Specifications
| Resolution | 4K Uhd |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Ethernet, Hdmi, Usb, Wi-Fi |
| Color | Ultra (With Wi-Fi 6) |
| Weight | 18.0 lb |
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Roku 4850R have a wired Ethernet port?
Yes, the 4850R includes an Ethernet port alongside Wi-Fi 6. You can use either a wired or wireless connection depending on your setup. Ethernet is the more stable choice for 4K streaming if your router is nearby.
What makes Wi-Fi 6 worth having in a streaming player?
Wi-Fi 6 handles more simultaneous device connections without slowing down, which matters in homes with many wireless devices. It also delivers faster speeds and lower latency compared to Wi-Fi 5. For 4K streaming that already demands consistent bandwidth, Wi-Fi 6 reduces the chance of buffering.
How does the 4850R compare to cheaper Roku models?
Budget Roku sticks typically top out at Wi-Fi 5 and lack Ethernet or USB ports. The 4850R adds Wi-Fi 6, a wired network option, Bluetooth, and USB, which together make it the better choice for a dedicated home theater player. If you just need basic streaming on one TV, the lower-cost Roku Express or Express 4K will do the job for less money.