Roku Smart TV Pro Series Review: More Than Just a Platform

The Roku platform has long been synonymous with affordable, accessible streaming. But the Roku Smart TV Pro Series aims for more. It’s not just a portal to your favorite apps; it’s designed to be a complete entertainment hub, packing a punch with features usually reserved for higher-priced competitors. Does it succeed in elevating the Roku experience? Let’s dive in.

The Pro Series makes a strong first impression with its picture quality. The QLED display delivers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, making movies and games pop. While it might not compete with the top-tier OLEDs, for its price range, the picture is undeniably impressive. HDR performance is solid, though shadow detail can sometimes get a little lost in darker scenes. Overall, image processing is very competent, handling upscaling with aplomb and minimizing artifacts even with lower-resolution content.

Aesthetically, the Pro Series adopts a minimalist design that should blend seamlessly into most living rooms. The bezels are slim, and the stand is sturdy, though perhaps a little utilitarian. Build quality feels adequate, but doesn’t scream premium. This isn’t necessarily a knock; Roku clearly prioritized performance and features over luxurious materials. The remote, a Roku staple, remains intuitive and familiar.

Beyond the picture, the integrated Roku OS is, as always, a breeze to navigate. The sheer number of available apps and channels is staggering. The Pro Series also boasts features like Dolby Vision and Atmos support, enhancing the cinematic experience. Voice control is responsive and helpful, allowing you to quickly search for content or adjust settings. The inclusion of far-field microphones means you don’t even need the remote to control the TV.

One area where the Pro Series could improve is its audio. While the built-in speakers are decent for casual viewing, serious audiophiles will likely want to invest in a soundbar or dedicated audio system to truly unlock the TV’s potential. The upscaling feature, while good, isn’t the best available in the market, so viewing older content might not be ideal.

Ultimately, the Roku Smart TV Pro Series offers excellent value for its price point. It delivers a compelling combination of picture quality, features, and ease of use. This isn’t a TV aimed at the ultra-high-end market, but it’s a fantastic option for those seeking a smart, capable, and affordable entertainment solution. It’s especially appealing to users already invested in the Roku ecosystem.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon