The Roku Pro Series OLED performs much better than its price tag implies, though it does involve a few minor compromises. Its dazzling colors and deep black levels make the screen stand out, while its software continues to provide the best user experience available. While it is not blindingly bright and size options are restricted to 55 or 65 inches, this television should generally satisfy anyone transitioning from an older, inferior display.
Setup and Design
Although Roku includes only a small printed quick-start guide, setting up this television is completely straightforward. The two tool-free feet attach using large thumbscrews and can be adjusted to two distinct heights, which is ideal if you need to elevate the screen slightly so that your soundbar does not obstruct it. From there, the friendly user interface guides you through the standard configuration steps, many of which can be completed directly on your smartphone rather than navigating on-screen menus with a remote.
Connectivity and Ports
Four clearly marked HDMI ports reside on the left side of the Roku Pro Series, positioned close enough to the edge for effortless access. The top port is clearly labeled eARC and painted in Roku’s signature purple for quick identification, while the bottom two are 120-Hz ports intended for gaming and colored white. Having two such ports is somewhat unusual, but fantastic for anyone operating multiple consoles. The television also supplies a coaxial input for cable or antenna connections, an optical audio input for legacy soundbars, and an Ethernet port to bypass Wi-Fi.
Software, Interface, and Ads
The Roku operating system continues to offer the most intuitive and novice-friendly viewing experience, highlighted by colorful, oversize app icons and simple menus. Compared to past Roku models, there is slightly more UI customization available now, such as the ability to display icons in four columns instead of three. There is also a touch of whimsy, including the lively Roku City screensaver that appears when the device is idle, alongside Roku Backdrops as an art-themed screensaver.
Ads do appear in various locations, covering nearly a third of the home screen and a banner at the bottom of the menu, but they primarily relate to streaming rather than obtrusive product promotions. One minor drawback is that certain streaming apps still do not let you sign into your account via app or QR code, requiring manual navigation using the on-screen keyboard and remote.
Remote and Audio Performance
Fortunately, the Roku remote remains exceptional, featuring a cheerful purple navigation pad, dedicated play and pause buttons, a programmable shortcut button, and side-mounted volume and mute controls. It is more comfortable and intuitive than most remotes and includes backlighting. Unfortunately, it is not rechargeable, which is a disappointing oversight for a Pro Series television. Furthermore, its voice controls are basic and confined to Roku's UI, meaning you miss out on advanced smart assistants, with the exception of controlling Roku's branded smart-home gear.
Picture Quality and Gaming
Testing the Roku Pro Series across a broad range of sports, movies, and TV shows alongside an Xbox Series X revealed that, much like other budget OLEDs, the colors impress while the peak brightness does not. Streaming Solo: A Star Wars Story on Disney+ revealed slightly dim contrast in darker scenes, whereas the white-hallway scene in Mythic Quest showcased excellent black levels and contrast. The 120-Hz refresh rate ensured sharp and smooth action during live sports, while low-latency game mode provided crisp visuals and fast response times for titles like Cuphead and Burnout Paradise.
Smart Picture Max and Conclusion
A notable Roku innovation is Smart Picture Max, which automatically detects content types and adjusts display settings accordingly, notably disabling motion-smoothing for movies and TV shows to prevent the soap-opera effect. Ultimately, Roku's first OLED won't sway die-hard fans of premium panels, but it remains a budget-friendly OLED offering vivid colors, pitch-black levels, and a stellar user experience.
