Sharp FJ2K Review: Cheap Roku Smart TV

Price When Reviewed

Unavailable in the US

Sharp is determined to shine in the budget end of the screen pool, with this Roku-powered model the latest in a long line of low-cost large screens which favour value and ease of use.

The FJ2K model reviewed here builds on the Sharp FN2K, an Android-powered cheapie. So just how significant is the switch to a Roku-powered OS? Let’s take a closer look…

Design & Build

• Wide feet, slim bezel
• Three HDMI inputs
• Freeview Play

You wouldn’t expect overly much when it comes to the quality of materials at this price point, and to that extent, the Sharp FDJ2K doesn’t disappoint.

It’s relatively light for such a large screen, just 11kg for the 55-inch model tested, but generically finished and easy enough on the eye. The screen comes with widely placed plastic feet, so plan your furniture accordingly.

Alternatively, you can wall mount the telly if you like.

If you already have a Roku account you can import all your apps directly to the set.

Connectivity comprises three HDMI inputs, one with eARC (on HDMI 1), a digital optical audio output, two USB ports, analogue AV inputs and Ethernet (to support built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth). This is a 60Hz panel, so don’t expect High Frame Rate support. Gameplay will be limited to 4K 60Hz but many sets this price are Full HD at best.

The UK tuner is Freeview Play certified. There’s also a CI card slot, if required. 

This Sharp ships with a Roku-styled remote, complete with purple navigation pad and corresponding ‘kerplunky’ sound effects like Roku streaming sticks and boxes. It also has dedicated buttons for Freeview Play, Netflix, Apple TV+, Prime Video and Spotify.

However, in this instance, I suspect most users will simply hit the Home button, which takes you to the main EPG where you can select inputs, scroll through streaming apps, or watch live TV.

ITVX and iPlayer nestle alongside streaming staples, such as Netflix, Disney+ and Rakuten TV. If you already have a Roku account you can import all your apps directly to the set.

Specs & Features

• Roku Smart TV platform
• Wide Voice Assistant support
• Game mode

If you want a connected smart TV with rock-solid access to the world’s best-known streaming services, then you’re in the right place.

Roku has given Sharp an ultra-stable smart platform to work with, and while the Roku OS may lack some of the style flourishes that distinguish rivals, its no-nonsense, easy-to-navigate nature continues to impress.

In addition to the usual big-name streaming services, there’s a dedicated Roku channel with a blend of new TV shows and original movies, all free to watch.

The FJ2K is also compatible with Apple and Google voice assistants, as well as Apple AirPlay and Apple Home.

The set has a dedicated Game mode setting. Input lag was measured at 10.1ms (1080p/60fps) in Game mode, which can be considered extremely competitive. 

Picture Quality

• Low and High brightness settings
• Limited peak HDR performance
• Dolby Vision support

Out of the box, this set has its Picture Settings anchored in a Low Picture mode, which saves a smidgeon on power consumption but rather hampers its picture potential. Take time to restore some glow to the set’s cheeks by engaging the Standard brightness setting.

I measured HDR peak brightness, using a standard 10% window, at 390 nits. This is about average for budget screens like this.

The panel is quite successful when it comes to creating a cinematic image

Despite limited peak HDR brightness, its average picture level is actually quite agreeable making it suitable for bright room viewing.

There are Standard, Vivid, Sports, and Film presets, as well as Brightest, Bright, Normal, Dark and Darker viewing options.

The screen’s most obvious limitation is an inability to deliver a convincing black, which impacts its ability to distinguish near shadow detail. This can make shows which favour flat, naturalistic lighting, like Apple TV+’s Slow Horses (in Dolby Vision), come across as a bit flat.

Content with more overt contrast, like Vegas-based comedy actioner Obliterated on Netflix (in 4K Dolby Vision), works better. The panel is quite successful when it comes to creating a cinematic image. The zing of bright neon lights down the strip pop convincingly.

Sound Quality

• 2 x 10w of power
• Compatible with wireless rears

With 2x10W of amplification on board, the screen can make itself heard. Although sounds a little hollow at high volume.

In addition to an Auto sound mode, there are Standard, Speech, and Theatre audio presets. The latter gets my recommendation because it comes with slightly more pronounced bass and treble.

There’s also a Dialogue Enhancer, useful if you’re after a little more vocal clarity. The set can be partnered with compatible wireless rears, but given the lack of Dolby Atmos support, I’m not convinced that’s worth the investment.

Price & Availability

Available now, the Sharp FJ2K is available in 43-, 50- and 55in (with model numbers 43FJ2K, 50FJ2K and 55FJ2K), priced at £249, £299 and £349 respectively.

We were initially told it would come in 24-65in sizes and at the time of writing only the 50-inch model is available to purchase from Very or 55-inch at Richer Sounds. 

There is no direct equivalent of this model in the North American market as it’s produced under licence in Europe.

Find more options in our best budget TV chart. 

Should you buy the Sharp Roku FJ2K?

It may not represent the cutting edge of TV design, but the Sharp FJ2K is certainly remarkably good value. If you’re not obsessing over the latest in picture processing, then this cheerful cheapy is an easy recommendation.

The picture is punchy enough for daytime viewing and Dolby Vision helps keep select shows looking cinematic despite limitations when it comes to HDR.

More importantly, Roku is a bulletproof smart TV platform that anyone can use, and it doesn’t disgrace itself with 4K 60Hz gameplay either.

Consequently, this Sharp warrants a definite recommendation.

Specs

• Display technology: LCD LED
• Sizes: 43,50,55-inch
• Model tested: 55-inch
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 4k
• HDMI: x3
• HDR support: HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
• Smart platform: Roku OS
• Tuner: Freeview Play
• Dimensions: 1231(w) x 718(h) x 91(d)mm   
• Weight: 11kg