In a move aimed at stirring up the UK’s troubled smart TV market even further, Roku has launched a range of new Roku TV models in collaboration with Currys-owned brand JVC.
Announced today, the partnership combines JVC’s powerful hardware with Roku’s intuitive operating system to deliver a friendly smart TV experience.
And prices start from competitive £169.99These new smart TVs aim to provide an accessible entry point into the world of seamless streaming.
The new JVC Roku TV models, available in sizes ranging from 24 inches to 43 inches, come in HD or Full HD resolution.
So, while these models boast superior HDR10 image quality, they fall short of increasingly standard 4K resolution, which may deter consumers looking for a more future-proof purchase.
Then again, especially at these sizes, it seems like Roku and Currys aren’t really looking at the high-end market, but instead looking to dominate the budget-focused market, where lower-profile TVs are often more popular.
Roku, known for its easy-to-use streaming platform, has been gaining increasing traction in the UK TV market.
Roku’s primary hardware offering is streaming devices, with Roku Express, Roku Express 4K And Roku Streaming Stick 4K (See our full website Roku comparison).
However, Roku is also increasing the range of Roku-included TVs sold in the UK – and there are now models of sharp, TCL, Metz (see our review) And others – plus the recently announced Polaroid Roku TV sold at ASDA (see more on that below).
JVC Roku TV Features Overview: Mixed bag
Integration a Freeview tuneralong with Free play JVC Roku TV models offer live TV alongside a wide range of streaming options from native apps such as BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, My5 and ITVX.
And with Roku’s global reach, you can get what you want Extensive library of streaming apps and services, such as Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+ and almost all major (and minor) streaming services operating in the UK.
However, as is usually the case with Roku TVs, the Freeview Play pane isn’t fully integrated with the rest of the Roku interface – so you can’t use voice search to find Freeview shows from the EPG, for example.
Additionally, the TV doesn’t have live Freeview recording capabilities, as it doesn’t have any local storage space.
Furthermore, despite comprehensive support for streaming apps, the absence of 4K resolution may impact the streaming quality of 4K content available on platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube.
Looking at the specifications of the 40-inch model, JVC LT-40CR330 The Smart Full HD HDR LED TV, as its name suggests, delivers a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels on a direct lit LED screen.
This model uses HDR10 and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) technologies, in an effort to provide superior contrast and more vibrant images (but without 4K resolution).
The bezel is 5mm wide, providing a near edge-to-edge screen experience. However, with a native contrast ratio of 5,000:1 and a peak brightness of 300 nits, it may not reach the dazzling brightness and deep blacks shown by high-end models or those with 4K resolution.
In terms of sound, the TV is equipped with two speakers, providing a total audio power of 16W.
Although this setup should provide clear sound for everyday viewing, audiophiles may find it lacking in power compared to external audio system solutions (such as subwoofers).
Connectivity is a strong point, featuring three HDMI 1.4 ports (one of which is ARC-compatible), a composite input, a USB 2.0 port, an optical audio out, and a 3.5mm jack, along with WiFi and Ethernet for online connectivity.
JVC Roku TVs vs ASDA Roku TVs
The market saw a similar introduction recently when Roku launched a range of Budget-friendly smart TVs in ASDA stores, Using Polaroid brand.
Both the JVC and ASDA Roku TV models cater to budget-conscious consumers, but the JVC range offers a wider choice in terms of size and resolution.
However, the ASDA Polaroid TV offers a 4K model, unlike the JVC range.
While it’s difficult to directly compare the prices of the two – especially when ASDA has only unveiled a 55-inch 4K model so far – the Currys JVC Roku TVs certainly offer a wide range of budget-friendly models.
Paul Slatera vision expert at Currys, expressed optimism about the JVC launch, noting that it will complement their existing portfolio and enhance their smart TV offering.
With this launch, the Roku TV licensing program now includes seven Roku TV brands in the UK, each offered at a competitive price.
The JVC Roku HD and Full HD TV models will be available in Currys stores nationwide and online from today:
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