Magewell Ultra Encode & Ultra Stream:
Complete Technical Comparison Guide 2026

Ultra Encode & Ultra Stream — What They Are and Why They Matter

The Magewell Ultra Encode and Ultra Stream families together cover the full spectrum of standalone hardware encoding — from simple one-click streaming to sophisticated multi-protocol 4K production workflows. Unlike software-based encoding solutions that rely on host computer resources, both families are self-contained hardware encoders requiring only a power source and network connection to begin delivering broadcast-quality streams.

As the authorised UK Magewell distribution, iView Data supplies the complete Ultra Encode family to broadcasters, systems integrators, houses of worship, corporate AV teams and education institutions across the UK. This guide draws on our technical experience across all these sectors to give you a precise, honest comparison between all five models.

Understanding the Two Tiers

Tier 1 — Core Models (HDMI & SDI)

The Ultra Encode HDMI and Ultra Encode SDI are the entry point of the family. They are compact, single-input encoders designed for straightforward live streaming and contribution applications — taking one HDMI or SDI input and delivering up to 1080p60 streams at up to 16Mbps across multiple streaming protocols simultaneously. These are the workhorses for fixed installations where 4K encoding is not required and simplicity of deployment is valued.

Tier 2 — Plus & AIO Models (HDMI Plus, SDI Plus & AIO)

The Plus series and AIO significantly expand on the core models — adding 4K encoding capability, higher bitrates up to 32Mbps, dual-stream encoding (main and sub-stream), file recording to SD card, USB or NAS, tally light integration, and up to 8 configurable video overlays. The AIO model adds the unique capability of accepting both HDMI and SDI inputs simultaneously, with picture-in-picture or side-by-side composition — making it the most capable single-box encoding solution in the range.

Full Technical Comparison Table

Individual Product Deep Dives

Use Case & Sector Matching

How to Select the Right Ultra Encode Device

Step 1 — Identify Your Input Signal

The first question is straightforward — does your source output HDMI or SDI? Most corporate, education and consumer-grade professional sources use HDMI. Broadcast cameras, production switchers and professional AV infrastructure predominantly use SDI. If you have both signal types on a single production — or need to mix two sources — only the AIO covers both simultaneously.

Step 2 — Do You Need 4K Encoding?

If your workflow operates at 1080p and below, the Core HDMI or SDI models are entirely adequate and represent the most cost-effective solution. If 4K encoding is required — either because your source outputs 4K or because you need to future-proof the installation — you need a Plus or AIO model. All three encode up to 4096×2160 at 30fps.

Step 3 — Do You Need to Record Locally?

Only the Plus and AIO models include file recording capability. If you need to simultaneously stream and record — for compliance, post-production or on-demand replay — you must specify a Plus or AIO. The Core models stream only with no local recording.

Step 4 — How Many Streaming Destinations?

All Ultra Encode models support up to 6 simultaneous streaming destinations, so this does not differentiate the product selection. However the Plus and AIO models add dual-stream encoding (main and sub-stream), allowing different quality profiles to be sent to different destinations simultaneously — for example a high-bitrate stream to an internal NAS alongside a lower-bitrate stream to YouTube.

Step 5 — Do You Need to Mix Two Video Sources?

If your production requires two independent video inputs — such as a presenter camera and a screen capture, or two camera angles — only the Ultra Encode AIO can mix these into a single encoded output using picture-in-picture or side-by-side composition. No additional hardware or software is required.

Future Outlook & Platform Considerations

NDI HX3 as the New Standard

The Plus and AIO models support NDI HX3 — the latest generation of NDI compression which delivers significantly lower bandwidth than HX2 while maintaining broadcast-quality video. For organisations building NDI-based IP production environments, HX3 support is an important factor in long-term infrastructure planning. The Core models support NDI HX2 only.

RIST and ZIXI Protocol Support

The Plus and AIO models add RIST (Reliable Internet Stream Transport) and ZIXI protocol support alongside the core streaming protocols. These are increasingly adopted in broadcast contribution workflows where SRT alone is insufficient — particularly for managed network operators and CDN delivery scenarios. If your workflow involves RIST or ZIXI infrastructure, only Plus and AIO models are compatible.

Control Hub Integration

All Ultra Encode models are compatible with Magewell's Control Hub software, which provides centralised configuration, monitoring and management of multiple devices from a single web interface. For installations with multiple encoders — such as multi-room corporate campuses or multi-venue broadcast operations — Control Hub significantly reduces operational overhead and is a compelling reason to standardise on the Ultra Encode platform.

AES Encryption on SRT

The Plus and AIO models support AES-128, AES-192 and AES-256 encryption on SRT streams — essential for secure contribution workflows in government, healthcare, financial and any organisation with data security requirements. The Core models support basic SRT without AES encryption.

Summary — Which Ultra Encode Is Right for You?

• Simple HD HDMI streaming, no recording needed: Ultra Encode HDMI
• Simple HD SDI streaming, no recording needed: Ultra Encode SDI
• 4K HDMI encoding with recording and higher bitrates: Ultra Encode HDMI Plus
• 4K SDI encoding with recording and higher bitrates: Ultra Encode SDI Plus
• Dual-input (HDMI + SDI), 4K, mix/compose, record and stream: Ultra Encode AIO

The Ultra Stream Family — Simple, Powerful, One-Click Streaming

While the Ultra Encode family targets professional systems integrators and broadcast engineers who need multi-protocol, multi-destination, 4K-capable encoding, the Ultra Stream family is designed for simplicity and accessibility — enabling non-technical users to stream professional video with a single button press. Both families share the same hardware DNA but serve distinctly different operational profiles.

Ultra Stream vs Ultra Encode — The Core Difference

The fundamental difference between the two families is operational complexity versus simplicity. Ultra Encode devices are configured via web interface, offer extensive protocol options, multiple simultaneous destinations, dual-stream encoding and API control — ideal for technical professionals building IP infrastructure. Ultra Stream devices prioritise ease of use — a smartphone app and one-click button operation make them accessible to non-technical users while still delivering professional H.264/H.265 encoding.

Full 7-Product Comparison — Ultra Encode & Ultra Stream

When to Choose Ultra Stream vs Ultra Encode

Choose Ultra Stream when: the operator is non-technical, simplicity of operation is the priority, the deployment is a fixed single-destination stream (YouTube/Facebook/Twitch), on-device button control or smartphone app management is needed, or budget is a key consideration. Houses of worship, small education institutions and corporate event teams are typical Ultra Stream users.

Choose Ultra Encode when: the operator is technically proficient, multiple simultaneous streaming destinations are required, 4K encoding is needed, SRT with AES encryption is required, file recording to NAS is part of the workflow, or the installation will be centrally managed via Control Hub. Broadcast engineers, systems integrators and IP production teams are typical Ultra Encode users.