Expert review: RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) - A compact marvel for the modern home

Exploring the RCA Roku TV 24-inch: A pint-sized powerhouse delivers unexpected delights

RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV straight angle on wooden TV rack showing sharks on screen
(Image: © What Hi-Fi? / Netlfix, Our Living World)
last updated May 22, 2024

Verdict

Though missing some finesse and high-end features, this 24-inch RCA TV offers reliable performance, a robust smart platform, and an affordable price for Canadian audiences.

Pros

  • + Affordable price
  • + Easy-to-use smart TV system
  • + Vivid, clear images

Cons

  • - Blue tint in dark scenes
  • - Lacks HDR for vibrant colors
  • - Feels less durable

The Perfect Blend of Affordability and Quality

Stepping into the realm of budget-friendly entertainment, the RCA RK24HF1 Roku TV hits the sweet spot with its enticing price tag of £136. It stands out in the bustling 24-inch TV market, not only for its affordability but also for its unmatched value. Compared to the Samsung UE24N4300, it saves you more than £30, making it a savvy choice for those looking to maximize their entertainment budget. This remarkable price point places it among the frontrunners alongside other Roku-powered TVs from TCL, Hisense, and Logic, all of which are aiming to capture the hearts of budget-conscious viewers.

In an era where bigger often means better in the world of televisions, RCA dares to cater to a unique market segment in the UK with its 24-inch offering. This signals a clear understanding that there's still a strong demand for compact, space-saving options in British homes, a niche that RCA adeptly fills with its RK24HF1 Roku TV.

RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV on wooden TV stand showing sand dunes on screen
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi? / Netlfix, Our Living World)

Let's Talk Design

When it comes to comparing the robust Samsung UE24N4300 with the RCA RK24HF1 24-inch TV, you're in for a surprise. The RK24HF1 is incredibly lightweight. Imagine a TV so light that even a toddler could carry it around without a second thought. But, let's be clear, it's not recommended to let kids turn your electronics into their playthings.

The lightweight nature of the RK24HF1 suggests it's super portable. This could be a game-changer if you love moving your tech from one spot to another. However, it also makes us ponder the durability of this device. Can it take a hit, or will it buckle under the first sign of trouble?

At first glance, the RK24HF1 won't outshine its competitors in the looks department. The use of basic black plastic for its bezel, rear, and feet give it an unpretentious, albeit slightly outdated, appearance. Yet, the sharp RCA and Roku TV branding adds a dash of sophistication, hinting at the technology housed within.

The remote control that accompanies the RCA RK24HF1 matches the TV's simplistic ethos. But, don't let its modest design fool you. The layout is intuitive, reflecting Roku's years of expertise in creating user-friendly remote controls.

Discover the World of Entertainment with RCA RK24HF1

Step into the affordable luxury of the RCA RK24HF1, your gateway to Roku's smart TV experience. Unpack the simplicity and user-friendly interface that's been designed to offer you a seamless browsing experience. Unlike the flashy interfaces of LG's webOS or Samsung's Tizen, Roku stands out with its straightforward, accessible design. It's the simplicity here that ignites the user's journey through an intuitive layout.

Enjoy the ease of customizing your viewing experience. The home page, adorned with content icons including streaming services, gaming apps, and TV inputs, allows for easy customization. This approach, free from the clutter of pop-up windows and aggressive content recommendations, breathes a refreshing simplicity into your entertainment experience - a stark contrast to the complexity found in other smart TVs.

Roku's platform doesn't stop there. It offers a vast library of content from popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Freeview Play. This blend of straightforward accessibility and rich selection makes the platform delightfully easy to live with, despite its unassuming presentation.

The RK24HF1 isn't just about smart features; it's also about delivering quality visuals. With its premium LED screen and VA panel, it offers vibrant colors and clear images at an HD Ready resolution of 1280x720 - proving that sometimes, simpler is better, particularly in a market saturated with 4K and 8K TVs. Its dedication to simplicity extends to its user interface, focusing on easy-to-understand settings over complex customization.

Though it may lack advanced features like high dynamic range (HDR) playback and cutting-edge gaming capabilities, its generous connectivity options, including three HDMI ports, a USB port, and various wireless connectivity platforms such as Apple AirPlay, Alexa, and Google Home, ensure you're well-equipped for a broad range of entertainment possibilities.

Experience the straightforward simplicity and comprehensive entertainment options of the RCA RK24HF1. Its user-centric design and ample connectivity make it a standout choice for those who value ease and efficiency in their entertainment setup.

RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV slight angle on wooden TV stand showing wildlife on screen
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi? / Netlfix, Our Living World)

Discover the Vibrant Display of the RCA RK24HF1 Roku TV

Enjoying a great viewing experience doesn't have to break the bank, especially with the RCA RK24HF1 Roku TV. This TV stands out in the budget-friendly category, offering a bright and colorful display that outshines its competitors.

One of the first things you'll notice is its brightness. Compared to other models, like the Samsung UE24N4300, the RCA RK24HF1 shines brighter, making it an excellent choice for well-lit rooms. Despite not supporting HDR content, the intensity and punch of its display mean you won't miss a beat, whether it's placed in a sunny kitchen or a bright conservatory.

The RCA boasts a premium color performance, presenting a wide range of vibrant colors that keep up with its luminosity. This ensures that colors remain vibrant and intense, rather than fading out as they get brighter. It's a delight to see such lively color reproduction in a budget-friendly TV.

Where some TVs might struggle with color accuracy and clarity, the RCA RK24HF1 excels. It avoids common issues like motion blur and poor color mapping, making it ideal for watching fast-paced sports or enjoying your favorite films. Its sharpness adds a sense of depth and makes it a great contender for gaming, offering a low input lag for a smooth gaming experience.

However, no TV is without its flaws. The RCA RK24HF1’s black levels could be deeper, with dark scenes sometimes appearing more grey or blue than true black. This is notable when comparing it to the Samsung UE24N4300. Yet, switching to the Movie preset significantly improves its performance in dark scenes.

Despite a few color and sharpness limitations, the RCA RK24HF1 represents incredible value. Its strengths in brightness, color performance, and clarity make it a strong option for those seeking an affordable yet enjoyable viewing experience. Perfect for any room, it demonstrates that you don't need to compromise on quality for price.

Discover the World of Sound with RCA's Roku TV

Step into the world where size doesn't limit performance. The RCA Roku TV may be compact, but it packs a punch where it counts. Unlike its peers, this small titan surprises with a volume that defies its slender frame, delivering sharp sound effects and a clarity that fills the room.

It's not all about the volume, though. The RK24HF1 brings a well-rounded tone to the table, ensuring every dialogue and soundtrack extends beyond mere noise, providing a immersive audio experience. Detail is the name of the game, but without the harshness that often accompanies high volume levels.

Enter the heart of the action with a midrange that knows when it’s time to grow, supporting escalating action in movies or games with a capacity that impresses. In the world of the RK24HF1, every sound, from the subtle to the complex, is staged with credibility.

Despite what its plastic exterior might suggest, audio distortions and cabinet buzz are surprisingly absent. Deep bass might introduce a hint of crackle, but the low ends this TV achieves are admirable, especially for its size. It’s a gentle reminder that good things do come in small packages, reaching depths that elude most of its similarly statured competitors.

There’s a touch of coarseness to the RCA RK24HF1’s sound, mirroring its visual performance. Yet, this minor note can't overshadow the fact that its audio capabilities remain consistently competent, marking a notable achievement for compact TV systems everywhere.

RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV close up of rear of set showing connections
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)

Our Take

Though the RCA RK24HF1 Roku TV may not deliver perfection in every aspect of its picture and sound quality, it smartly chooses its fights on the budget front. It focuses on what matters most to its target audience looking for a compact 24-inch TV. This strategic approach ultimately makes it a more promising option than initially anticipated.

RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV slight angle on wooden TV bench showing tiger on screen
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi? / Netlfix, Our Living World)
RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV slight angle on wooden TV bench showing volcanic eruption on screen
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi? / Netlfix, Our Living World)
RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV side angle on wooden TV bench in test room
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)
RCA Roku TV 24-inch (RK24HF1) small TV slight angle on TV bench showing whale on screen
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi? / Netlfix, Our Living World)
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