Comprehensive review of the Hisense 65R6G 65-Inch 4K UHD Smart Roku TV

Description

Elegant Design Meets Functionality

The Hisense 65-Inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV immediately catches the eye with its sleek, minimalist design. A 65-inch screen is impressive, and the ultra-thin bezels make it feel even more immersive. Placed in my living room, it effortlessly blended with the decor. The black finish is subtle yet modern, giving it a sophisticated edge. While the design is aesthetically pleasing, the dimensions (2.9 x 57.2 x 32.8 inches) make it a bit challenging to fit into smaller spaces, especially if you’re working with limited wall or stand options.

The build quality feels robust, though not overly premium. At 36.4 pounds, it’s manageable for two people to set up, but I wouldn’t recommend doing it solo. For those considering wall mounting, the slim profile is a plus. However, the plastic stand it comes with feels a bit flimsy. It’s sufficient for stable surfaces but doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence if you have kids or pets running around.

Picture Quality That Stands Out

This TV excels in delivering 4K Ultra HD resolution, boasting over 8.3 million pixels. Watching action-packed movies or sports is a treat, thanks to the Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10 technologies. Colors appear vibrant, while contrasts are deep and nuanced. I tested it with a few high-definition nature documentaries, and the sharpness and realism were jaw-dropping. The Motion Rate 120 technology also ensures smooth transitions during fast-paced scenes, making it a favorite for gaming or high-speed sports enthusiasts.

That said, the darker scenes sometimes lose a bit of detail, which is noticeable in very dimly lit environments. The full array LED backlight, while powerful, doesn’t quite reach the same level of precision as more premium TVs equipped with OLED panels.

Seamless Smart Features with Roku OS

With the Roku TV operating system, navigating through apps and streaming platforms is a breeze. The interface is clean, intuitive, and responsive. I had access to thousands of streaming channels, and switching between Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube was seamless. The Roku mobile app came in handy, especially when I misplaced the remote (which seems to happen far too often).

Using the voice control feature with Alexa was a game changer. I could turn the TV on, switch channels, and even adjust the volume without lifting a finger. However, this feature does require a separate Alexa or Google Assistant device, which might be a consideration for those who don’t already own one.

One thing to note is the occasional delay when loading certain apps. While it wasn’t a dealbreaker, it could be mildly frustrating, especially if you’re in a rush to start watching something.

Sound Performance: A Mixed Bag

The built-in speakers with DTS Studio Sound deliver acceptable audio quality for casual viewing. Dialogue is clear, and the soundstage is decent for a TV in this price range. However, the bass felt somewhat lacking when tested during action movies or music performances.

If you’re an audiophile or someone who enjoys immersive sound, I’d suggest pairing this TV with a soundbar or external speakers. I connected it to my existing setup, and the difference was night and day.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional 4K resolution with Dolby Vision HDR for immersive visuals.
• Roku OS makes streaming and app navigation incredibly user-friendly.
• Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant enhances convenience.
• Motion Rate 120 ensures smooth transitions for fast-paced content.

Areas for Improvement

• Built-in speakers lack depth and bass, requiring an external sound system for audiophiles.
• Plastic stand feels less sturdy compared to the rest of the build.
• Occasional delays when launching certain apps on the Roku platform.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to Samsung’s Crystal UHD models, the Hisense holds its ground with a more affordable price point and similar 4K resolution. However, Samsung TVs tend to have slightly better build quality and more vibrant colors due to their QLED technology.

Against LG’s NanoCell TVs, the Hisense offers a simpler interface through the Roku OS, whereas LG’s WebOS can feel a bit cluttered for first-time users. That said, LG’s viewing angles and upscaling of non-4K content are noticeably better.

Finally, compared to TCL’s 6-Series, which also features Roku OS, the Hisense is a strong contender. TCL’s TVs typically offer better HDR performance and contrast, but they come at a higher price. If budget-friendliness is a priority, the Hisense is a solid choice.

Bang for the Buck

For its price, this TV delivers exceptional value. The combination of 4K resolution, Dolby Vision HDR, and Roku OS makes it a compelling option for anyone seeking a modern smart TV without breaking the bank. While it doesn’t offer the premium features of higher-end models, it more than holds its own within its segment.

If you’re someone who prioritizes streaming convenience, good picture quality, and affordability, this TV ticks all the right boxes. Investing in a soundbar or external audio setup, however, would elevate the overall experience dramatically.

Additional information