In one look
Expert rating
Benefits
- Roku streaming platform
- Dolby Vision support
- Cheap
- Decent gaming performance
The inconvenients
- Limited HDR performance
- Lack of real black
- Basic design and construction
Our Verdict
The Sharp 55FJ2K isn’t the smartest TV in the room, but it’s not the most expensive either. Indeed, this big screen does everything right when it comes to balancing performance, features and value.
Sharp is determined to shine in the budget end of the display pool, with this Roku-powered model, the latest in a long line of large, low-cost displays that prioritize value and ease of use.
The FJ2K model reviewed here is based on the Sharp FN2K, an inexpensive product running Android. So how important is switching to a Roku-powered operating system? Let’s take a closer look…
Design and build
- Wide feet, thin bezel
- Three HDMI inputs
- Free reading
You don’t expect much when it comes to material quality at this price point, and to that extent the Sharp FDJ2K doesn’t disappoint.
It’s relatively light for such a large screen, only 11 kg for the 55-inch model tested, but generic in finish and quite pleasant to look at. The screen comes with widely placed plastic legs, so plan your furniture accordingly.
Alternatively, you can wall mount the TV if you wish.
If you already have a Roku account, you can import all your apps directly into the bundle.
Steve May / Foundry
Connectivity includes three HDMI inputs, one with eARC (over HDMI 1), digital optical audio output, two USB ports, analog 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 at this price are Full HD at best.
The British tuner is Freeview Play certified. There is also a CI card slot, if necessary.
This Sharp comes with a Roku-style remote, complete with a purple navigation pad and matching “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 case I think most users simply press 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 sit alongside streaming essentials, such as Netflix, Disney+ and Rakuten TV. If you already have a Roku account, you can import all your apps directly into the bundle.
Specifications and Features
- Roku Smart TV Platform
- Extensive voice assistant support
- Game mode
If you want a connected smart TV with rock-solid access to the world’s most popular streaming services, then you’ve come to the right place.
Roku has given Sharp an ultra-stable smart platform to work with, and while the Roku operating system may lack some of the style flourishes that distinguish its rivals, its pragmatic, easy-to-navigate nature continues to shine. ‘impress.
Steve May / Foundry
In addition to the usual big-name streaming services, there’s a dedicated Roku channel with a mix 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.
Image quality
- Low and high brightness settings
- Limited maximum HDR performance
- Dolby Vision support
Out of the box, this set has its picture settings docked in a low picture mode, which saves a bit on power consumption but rather hampers its picture potential. Take the time to restore a little glow to the ensemble’s cheeks by activating the Standard brightness setting.
I measured HDR peak brightness, using a standard 10% window, at 390 nits. That’s about average for budget displays like this.
The panel does quite well when it comes to creating a cinematic image
Steve May / Foundry
Despite limited maximum HDR brightness, its average picture level is actually quite pleasant, making it suitable for viewing in a bright room.
There are Standard, Vivid, Sports, and Movie presets, as well as Brightest, Bright, Normal, Dark, and Darkest display options.
The screen’s most obvious limitation is its inability to deliver convincing black, which affects its ability to distinguish details from nearby shadows. This can make shows that favor flat, naturalistic lighting, like Apple TV+’s Slow Horses (in Dolby Vision), appear a bit flat.
Content with more overt contrast, like the Vegas-based action comedy Obliterated on Netflix (in 4K Dolby Vision), performs better. The panel does quite well when it comes to creating a cinematic image. The zest of the glowing neon lights on the tape appears convincingly.
Sound quality
- 2 x 10w power
- Compatible with wireless rears
With 2x10W of onboard amplification, the screen can be heard. Although it sounds a bit hollow at high volume.
In addition to an automatic sound mode, there are Standard, Speech, and Theater audio presets. The latter gets my recommendation as it comes with slightly more pronounced bass and treble.
There’s also a Dialogue Enhancer, useful if you’re looking for a little more vocal clarity. The set can be paired with compatible wireless rears, but given the lack of Dolby Atmos support, I’m not convinced it’s worth it.
Steve May / Foundry
Pricing and availability
Available now, the Sharp FJ2K comes in 43, 50 and 55 inch sizes (with model numbers 43FJ2K, 50FJ2K and 55FJ2K), priced at £249, £299 and £349 respectively.
We were initially told it would be available in sizes from 24 to 65 inches and at the time of writing only the 50 inch model is available to purchase from Very or 55 inch from Richer Sounds.
There is no direct equivalent of this model on the North American market since it is produced under license in Europe.
Find more options in our table of the best budget TVs.
Should you buy the Sharp Roku FJ2K?
It may not represent the cutting edge of TV design, but the Sharp FJ2K certainly presents remarkable value for money. If you’re not obsessed with the latest in image processing, then this cheapie is an easy recommendation.
The image is punchy enough for daytime viewing, and Dolby Vision helps keep certain shows looking cinematic despite the limitations of HDR.
Most importantly, Roku is a rock-solid smart TV platform that anyone can use, and it doesn’t shy away from 4K 60Hz gameplay, either.
Therefore, this Sharp deserves a definite recommendation.
Specifications
- Display technology: LCD LED
- Sizes: 43,50,55 inches
- Model tested: 55 inches
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 4k
- HDMI: x3
- HDR support: HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Smart Platform: Roku OS
- Tuner: Free playback
- Dimensions: 1231(w) x 718(h) x 91(d)mm
- Weight: 11 kg
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