In the past, I haven’t been a fan of smart TVs for cutting the cord. Generally, I find the operating system on the smart TV either doesn’t support all the apps I want, the WiFi isn’t optimal, or other issues that make me miss my Roku. That was until TCL build a TV around the Roku OS.
Everything in One Screen
The most requested feature readers ask for in cord-cutting tech is the ability to have everything in one interface. The TCL Roku TV delivers on that by treating everything as an app. Just look at the picture below.
Every port on the Roku TV shows up as an app on your Roku Menu. If you connect an antenna your your Roku TV, you can use “Live TV” app and channel surf with your Roku remote. There is even a way to pause and rewind live TV. I plugged my Xbox One into one of my TCL HDMI ports, and now “Xbox One” shows as it’s own option.
This setup will work with any device you plug into an HDMI port on your Roku TV. I find this a lot more intuitive than the cycling of input screens typically found on most Smart TVs. This configuration makes it easy to hop from Netflix to live TV on the antenna, then over to my Xbox to play Minecraft with my kids. Furthermore, Volume control and power are all controlled from your Roku remote.
TCL Roku TV Specs
There are quite a few TCL Roku TVs on the market. However, I’ll make it easy for you. The series 5 and series 6 are the models made in 2020, so those are the ones I’d recommend considering if you are in the market for a new TV. While I’ll go over each, the significant differences are the addition of Mini-QLED display technology in the Series 6 TCL Roku TV.
Roku TV TCL Series 5
This model is available in a 50, 55, 65, and 75-inch screen. The 50-inch model is a bargain at $399 for 4K Resolution, HDR10, and Dolby Vision in a Roku TV. Here is a list of specs on the TCL Series 5
- Roku OS, which is essentially a built-in Roku device
- Pairs 4K Ultra HD with both HDR (HDR10) or Dolby Vision
- QLED: Quantum dot technology delivers better brightness, and color volume over Direct-lit LED
- Wi-Fi:802.11ac 2×2 Dual Band (support 2.4 GHz & 5GHz)
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Inputs: 4 HDMI inputs (1 eARC) 1 USB (media player), RF, Composite, Headphone Jack, Optical Audio Out, Ethernet, coaxial antenna/cable connection
Pricing:
Below is the approximate pricing of the various screen sizes of the TCL series 5:
- 50-inch: $399
- 55-inch: $497
- 65-inch: $630
- 75-inch: $1200
Roku TV TCL Series 6
The noticeable difference between the TCL Series 6 and Series 5 is the Series 6 leverages Mini-QLED display technology. This feature allows more LEDs behind the screen for better color and brightness over a standard QLED television like the Series 5. This model is available in a 55, 65, and 75-inch screen. Other than the Mini-LED display, most other specs are similar to the series 5:
- Roku OS, which is essentially a built-in Roku device
- Pairs 4K Ultra HD with both HDR (HDR10) or Dolby Vision
- Mini-QLED: better brightness and color volume over QLED
- Wi-Fi:802.11ac 2×2 Dual Band (support 2.4 GHz & 5GHz)
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Inputs: 4 HDMI inputs (1 eARC) 1 USB (media player), RF, Composite, Headphone Jack, Optical Audio Out, Ethernet, coaxial antenna/cable connection
Pricing:
Below is the approximate pricing of the various screen sizes of the TCL series 5:
- 55-inch: $650
- 65-inch: $900
- 75-inch: $1400
How I Use my TCL Roku TV
The TCL Roku TV got me down to one remote. I have a Tablo DVR connected to my antenna, which allows live TV to broadcast on my network. I use the Tablo App on my Roku TV to watch TV. I then have my Xbox One for gaming and Blue Rays. Essentially, the only devices I have in my TV room are Roku TV and the Xbox. Since the Tablo only needs to connect to my network, it is out of sight closer to where my antenna enters the house. It’s made cord-cutting even more effortless.