Roku TV is one of the most convenient smart TVs available in the market because it enables you to stream your favorite shows, apps, and channels directly on your TV. Nevertheless, there are some drawbacks associated with Roku TVs, which are worth considering before purchasing an integrated TV.
Limited App Options
However, one of the main drawbacks of Roku TV is that the library of applications and games is less diverse compared to some competitors. Although Roku TV furnishes almost all streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney +, Apple TV+, and HBO Max, it misses some of the specialized streaming platforms. For instance, there are no apps for Viki, boomerang, Fandor, and several sports streaming services.
As a result, if you wish to get your hands on additional specialty apps using your TV, then you have to consider other smart operating systems such as LG’s webOS or Android TV. The Roku is mainly directed towards the most popular mainstream applications but seems to lack some other services and applications that may not be as famous.
Lagging Software Updates
Roku is typically not the fastest when it chooses to release big software updates for the Roku TV line. However, waiting for hours, days, or weeks for new features and fixes is much different from getting an immediate update like receiving the latest software for your iPhone on Roku TVs. This can perhaps be attributed to the fact that before updates can be effected, it requires some more development and testing on the part of TV manufacturers.
However, as mentioned earlier, having outdated software also includes not getting the newest Roku features and interface as soon as possible. There may be instances where official statements regarding firmware updates could be made but it may take months before the updates manifest on your Roku TV.
Dolby Vision and HDR10+ formats of HDR are unavailable.
We can also conclude that if your primary need is the latest and greatest in HDR technologies that are currently available, then Roku TV is not as good as other TVs available on the market. Some of the Roku smart TVs that have been produced in the market do not have the support of Dolby Vision or HDR10+ for sound; they only support the more generic HDR10 format.
HDR10+ extends HDR10 with dynamic metadata for the TV to adjust its picture parameters on a scene-by-scene basis, while Dolby Vision optimizes picture settings based on dynamic metadata. The net effect is that there is enhanced contrast and color range for a better viewing of high dynamic range. However, it is also worth noting that in the absence of these formats, the image quality is not quite as high as it might be in better smart TV platforms.
Car buyers get fewer options for high-end trim-level models.
In the case of Roku TV technology, most models that are currently on the market are HD and 4K TVs that are cheap. However, there are very few options for more complex and expensive, powerful Roku TVs available on the market. For instance, if you’re looking for a high-end 4K OLED TV, an 8K TV, or a TV with a Mini-LED backlight, then Roku is most likely not the streaming platform for you.
This is because, unlike Samsung and LG, Roku has decided to license its smart TV software to budget-friendly middle-of-the-line sets for the average streamer. Therefore, those in search of absolute performance, graphical sophistication, and computing hardware will have to look at other brands and smart interfaces. But over the last couple of years, there have simply not been many premium Roku TV releases.
Basic Sound Quality
Sound output is another factor that most Roku TVs lack - especially given that they compete with brands such as LG, Sony, and Vizio among others that have invested so much in the acoustic department. Because most Roku sets cost less, they use standard sound systems that lack clarity, punch, and overall sound.
However, this audio matter could be easily mitigated with the help of a good sound bar or surround sound system. However, out of the box, do not look forward to the rich sound quality that the integrated speakers offer on the low-cost Roku TV series. Sound output in terms of loudspeaker performance is adequate but it can hardly be classified as class-leading on Roku sets.
Ads and Privacy Concerns
Last but not least, two issues that may be perceived as drawbacks by some users are the advertising basis of the platform as well as privacy issues. Roku channel store, home screen rows, and splash ads: Roku also uses ads within its platform, including the channel store, selected rows on the home screen, and before launching specific applications. There are complaints from some users who feel that these ads are destructive and irritating after some time.
Thirdly, Roku TV captures user information and several details, like programs they watch, for recommendation and advertising purposes. However, if you want to avoid this tracking of your viewing habit and sharing your usage data, then Roku TV is not for you. But for most average consumers, the ads that Roku displays and the data it collects are just acceptable given the outstanding smart TV platform offered.
Close to three-quarters of the respondents argued that it is important to weigh the pros and cons.
Of course, there are a few drawbacks to owning a Roku TV; nevertheless, said TVs offer arguably the best value and streaming experience that one can get now. In addition to these disadvantages, most buyers are likely to find Roku’s strengths such as ease of use of the software, the number of streaming apps, the frequency, and how cheap the devices are relative to their benefits far more compelling.
However, it is helpful to realize that the existing trade-offs and limitations you accept when deciding on Roku TV among the available alternatives. They include the type of content to be streamed, the accessibility of the smart TV platform, technical support, and system updates. As it pertains to the appearance and overall streaming experience, for most consumers this is an attractive option for Roku TV even with a few drawbacks.
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