What is TCL Roku TV?
Roku is a manufacturer of streaming media devices that enable users to watch apps and channels for their favorite streaming services. These are typically devices that connect to a TV using an HDMI cable or plug directly into an HDMI port. Roku also provides its technology to TV manufacturers to build affordable but high-quality smart TVs. For more information about the provider, read our guide to Roku devices, differences, prices, and more.
One such manufacturer is TCL, which provides a range of smart devices that enable users to stream their favorite movies and TV shows directly on their TV set. TCL first began working with Roku in 2014, when it released the original TCL Roku TV. It’s also the only TV manufacturer that uses mini-Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology, which offers enhanced contrast ratios and deeper dark colors than regular LED devices.
TCL’s range is led by the 2019 release of its top of the range 8-Series devices, which are available in either 75 inches (75Q825) or 65 inches (65Q825). It also has 3 screen sizes available in the 2020 release of the 6-Series family, which comes in 75 inches (75R635), 65 inches (65R635), and 55 inches (55R635). Other TCL Roku devices available include the 3-Series, 4-Series, and 5-Series.
TCL Roku pricing
TCL Roku TVs are available from $129.99 for the 32 inch 3-Series devices. The 4-Series family of TCL Roku devices begins at $140.99, and the 5-Series TVs are available from $399.99. The most recently launched 6-Series of TCL Roku TVs are available from $529.99, and high-end 8-Series TV sets begin at $1.999.99.
These devices are available to purchase from TCL directly, as well as popular online retailers like Amazon and BestBuy.
TCL Roku features
TCL Roku TV devices are loaded with features that streaming fans will love watching their favorite shows and movies on.
TCL Roku content
The TCL Roku TV devices benefit from having the Roku platform built into its smart TVs. This ensures access to more than 500,000 movies and TV shows through apps for a wide range of channels and streaming services. This includes popular on-demand services like Amazon Prime Video, Curiosity Stream, Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, and STARZ, as well as live streaming services such as fuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Philo, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. All of the user’s favorite and most-watched streaming channels are conveniently located on their homepage when the device turns on, making it easy to pick up where they left off.
TCL Roku design
TCL Roku 8-Series devices are slim and sleek, come in what TCL describes as Gun Metal, and are supported by a premium pedestal stand that enables it to be placed directly on a TV desk or table. It has a clean and contemporary design that uses TCL’s FullView glass display, which offers edge-to-edge viewing.
The TCL Roku 6-Series and 8-Series devices come equipped with 4 HDMI ports, one of which has HDMI ARC, and one USB 2.0 port. They also have 802.11ac dual-band Wi-Fi built directly into the devices and an ethernet cable port.
TCL Roku mobile control
TCL Roku TV users can pair their smartphone or tablet with their device to turn it into a streaming companion. Their mobile device can be used as a second remote control, a voice or keyboard search tool, an entertainment guide, or for private listening with headphones.
TCL Roku picture quality
The high-end TCL Roku 8-Series devices use machine learning algorithms and advanced video expertise to deliver a 4K High Dynamic Range (HDR) experience through the TCL AiPQ engine. This includes Smart HDR technology that ensures users get the maximum dynamic impact and color accuracy. It uses an AI-curated library of video content against which it carefully monitors and references each video frame to ensure optimal viewing experiences. The devices also use machine learning to not only deliver 4K viewing but also enhance and upscale lower-resolution video content. TCL Roku TVs use Contrast Control Zone performance to enhance the transitions between the brightest light and the deepest dark colors.
TCL’s use of mini-LED technology delivers a high picture quality on its devices. Its 6-Series devices feature up to 1,000 LEDs and 240 control contrast zones on its maximum 75-inch device, while the top of the range 8-Series has up to 10,000 mini-LEDs and 1,000 control contrast zones. TCL Roku device owners can enjoy content in high-definition range (HDR) and 4K, which is the highest level of video quality currently available.
TCL Roku remote control
The latest 6-Series and 8-Series devices use an enhanced TCL Roku TV remote control that has voice control built-in. This ensures users can change between streaming services, change the volume, stop and resume playback, and play a new movie or show without lifting a finger. Older devices use Roku’s easy-to-use remote, which doesn’t have voice control but are all compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Roku Voice.
TCL Roku setup
TCL Roku devices are relatively easy to set up but, larger options may require two people to get started. For example, with the TCL Roku 8-Series unboxed, the user needs to screw the TV stand into the device, connect the TV to the power outlet, install batteries into the remote, turn the TV on and follow on-screen instructions to get it online and install updates.
The final cut
The TCL Roku range of devices offers a wide range of smart TVs for users to enjoy their favorite streaming services directly on their TV set. They have Roku’s leading operating system built into the TV, which ensures there’s no need for cord-cutters to purchase a streaming device or gaming console to watch movies or TV shows.