Why the Roku Plus Series Beats the Select Series: A TV Buying Guide

The Roku TV Dilemma: Why Newer Isn't Always Better

As a senior TV editor with over a decade of industry experience, I have witnessed countless manufacturers chase the elusive 'budget-friendly' label. While I truly appreciate affordable displays that bring high-quality streaming to the masses, not all entry-level sets are created equal. The recent release of the 2026 Roku Select Series sparked high expectations, but after rigorous testing, it failed to impress, earning a mediocre 2.5-star review. If you are in the market for a new display, there is a far superior option within the same ecosystem.

Why the Select Series Fell Short

The Roku Select Series, while competitively priced, suffers from hardware limitations that impact the overall viewing experience. It relies on a basic, direct-LED backlighting system, which, while an improvement over edge-lit displays, lacks the depth and contrast required for a truly immersive cinematic experience. For those who prioritize picture performance, the cost-cutting measures here are hard to overlook.

The Case for the Roku Plus Series

If you have your heart set on the seamless, user-friendly Roku interface, I strongly recommend opting for the 2025 Roku Plus Series instead. Although it currently commands a slightly higher price point—roughly $80 more for the 55-inch model—the jump in performance is significant. The Roku Plus Series incorporates a superior Mini-LED backlighting system.

The Power of Mini-LED Technology

The primary advantage of the Plus Series is its use of local dimming. By utilizing a more sophisticated array of smaller LEDs, the TV can control contrast with far greater precision. This results in deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and a more dynamic image that makes a massive difference, whether you're watching a moody thriller or a brightly lit sports broadcast. If you are looking for the best bang for your buck without sacrificing image quality, the Plus Series is the clear winner.

The Roku Software Advantage

Regardless of which model you choose, the software remains the industry standard for ease of use. Roku continues to offer one of the most streamlined, ad-light interfaces available. It is refreshingly free of the bloatware and sluggish navigation that plagues many smart TV platforms. For users who simply want to turn on their TV and start streaming their favorite shows without technical headaches, the Roku ecosystem remains an easy recommendation.

Ultimately, while the $269 price tag of the Select Series is tempting, the long-term satisfaction provided by the superior visual fidelity of the Plus Series makes it the smarter investment for any household.