Are you considering purchasing an Onn Roku TV but wondering about its connectivity options? Perhaps you already own one and want to connect your wireless headphones or speakers. The question "Does Onn Roku TV have Bluetooth?" is more common than you might think, and the answer isn‘t as straightforward as a simple yes or no.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll dive deep into the Bluetooth capabilities of Onn Roku TVs, explore alternative connection methods, and help you understand how to get the most out of your TV‘s audio capabilities.
What Is Onn Roku TV?
Before addressing the Bluetooth question, let‘s understand what Onn Roku TV actually is.
Onn is Walmart‘s in-house electronics brand that offers budget-friendly options for consumers. The Onn Roku TV line combines Walmart‘s hardware with Roku‘s operating system to create affordable smart TVs that don‘t sacrifice essential features.
These TVs come in various sizes, typically ranging from 24 to 75 inches, and offer 720p, 1080p, or 4K resolution depending on the model. They‘ve gained popularity due to their competitive pricing and the user-friendly Roku interface that provides access to thousands of streaming channels.
Onn‘s Market Position
Since launching in 2019, Onn has rapidly grown in the budget TV segment. According to retail analysis data:
- Onn TVs now account for approximately 11% of Walmart‘s TV sales
- The brand has captured roughly 4.7% of the overall U.S. budget TV market
- Sales have increased by 23% year-over-year in 2022-2023
- Customer satisfaction ratings average 4.1/5 stars across models
This growth is particularly impressive considering the competitive nature of the budget TV market, where brands like TCL, Hisense, and Vizio have established strong footholds.
Current Onn Roku TV Models (2023)
| Model | Screen Size | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onn 100012589 | 24" | 720p HD | 60Hz | $88-$108 |
| Onn 100012590 | 32" | 720p HD | 60Hz | $108-$128 |
| Onn 100012591 | 40" | 1080p FHD | 60Hz | $148-$178 |
| Onn 100012592 | 43" | 4K UHD | 60Hz | $198-$228 |
| Onn 100012593 | 50" | 4K UHD | 60Hz | $228-$268 |
| Onn 100012594 | 55" | 4K UHD | 60Hz | $268-$298 |
| Onn 100012595 | 65" | 4K UHD | 60Hz | $348-$398 |
| Onn 100083580 | 70" | 4K UHD | 60Hz | $448-$498 |
| Onn 100096700 | 75" | 4K UHD | 60Hz | $498-$598 |
The Importance of Bluetooth in Modern TVs
Bluetooth technology has become increasingly important in home entertainment systems for several reasons:
- Wireless Audio: Connect headphones for private listening or external speakers without cables
- Input Devices: Pair keyboards, game controllers, and other peripherals
- Smart Home Integration: Connect to other smart devices in your home ecosystem
- File Sharing: Transfer photos or videos from mobile devices to your TV
- Convenience: Eliminate cable clutter and position devices more flexibly
Bluetooth Adoption in TV Market
The integration of Bluetooth in TVs has grown significantly:
- In 2018, approximately 37% of new TV models featured Bluetooth
- By 2023, that number has risen to over 78% of new models
- Premium TV segments show nearly 96% Bluetooth adoption
- Budget TV segment shows more varied adoption at 52%
This trend reflects consumer demand for wireless connectivity options, particularly as the market for Bluetooth audio devices continues to expand.
Bluetooth Standards in Modern TVs
Most TVs with Bluetooth support implement these standards:
| Bluetooth Version | Features | Typical Range | Audio Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth 4.2 | Basic connectivity | 30-60 feet | Standard SBC codec |
| Bluetooth 5.0 | Improved range, dual audio | 120-240 feet | SBC, AAC support |
| Bluetooth 5.1 | Direction finding | 120-240 feet | SBC, AAC, aptX (some models) |
| Bluetooth 5.2 | LE Audio support | 120-240 feet | SBC, AAC, aptX, LC3 |
Higher-end TVs typically implement Bluetooth 5.0 or newer, while budget models that include Bluetooth often use version 4.2.
Does Onn Roku TV Have Bluetooth?
No, Onn Roku TVs do not have native Bluetooth connectivity. This applies to all current Onn Roku TV models available on the market as of 2023.
This might come as a surprise, especially since Bluetooth is a common feature in many modern smart TVs. However, Onn Roku TVs were designed with cost-efficiency in mind, and excluding Bluetooth capability was likely a decision to keep prices competitive.
Why Onn TVs Don‘t Include Bluetooth
According to industry analysis, there are several reasons why Onn Roku TVs lack Bluetooth:
- Cost reduction: Eliminating Bluetooth hardware saves approximately $8-12 per unit in manufacturing costs
- Licensing fees: Avoiding Bluetooth licensing fees reduces overhead
- Technical support: Fewer features mean fewer technical support issues
- Market differentiation: Creates distinction between budget and premium TV lines
- Focus on essentials: Prioritizing picture quality and smart features over connectivity options
A product development specialist who previously worked with budget TV manufacturers explained: "When designing TVs for the sub-$300 market, every component is scrutinized. Bluetooth is often seen as a ‘nice-to-have‘ rather than essential feature, especially when alternative solutions exist through the Roku platform."
The lack of built-in Bluetooth doesn‘t mean you can‘t connect wireless devices to your Onn Roku TV, though. There are several workarounds and alternative methods that we‘ll explore in detail.
Understanding Onn Roku TV‘s Available Connectivity Options
While Onn Roku TVs lack Bluetooth, they do offer several other connectivity options:
Physical Ports
Most Onn Roku TV models include:
- HDMI ports: Typically 2-3 ports depending on the model
- USB port: For connecting external storage devices
- Optical digital audio output: For connecting to sound systems
- 3.5mm headphone jack: For wired headphones or speakers
- Coaxial input: For antenna or cable connections
- Ethernet port: For wired internet connection (on some models)
Detailed Port Specifications by Model Size
| Model Size | HDMI Ports | HDMI-ARC | USB Ports | Optical Audio | Headphone Jack | Ethernet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24"-32" | 2 | No | 1 | No | Yes | No |
| 40"-43" | 3 | Yes (1) | 1 | Yes | Yes | No |
| 50"-55" | 3 | Yes (1) | 1 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 65"-75" | 3 | Yes (1) | 1 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Wireless Capabilities
Wi-Fi: All Onn Roku TVs have built-in Wi-Fi for internet connectivity
- Supports 802.11ac dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz)
- Maximum theoretical speed: 433 Mbps
- Practical streaming speed: 25-100 Mbps depending on conditions
Screen mirroring: Support for Miracast and other screen mirroring protocols
- Compatible with Windows 8.1/10/11 devices
- Works with Android 4.2+ devices
- Limited iOS support (requires specific apps)
HDMI-CEC: Control compatible devices connected via HDMI with your TV remote
- Allows single-remote operation of connected devices
- Supports auto-power functions
- Compatible with most modern HDMI devices
How to Connect Bluetooth Devices to Onn Roku TV: Workarounds
Despite the lack of native Bluetooth, you can still use Bluetooth devices with your Onn Roku TV through several methods:
1. Using the Roku Mobile App for Private Listening
The most straightforward solution is using the Roku mobile app‘s "Private Listening" feature:
- Download the Roku app on your smartphone (available for iOS and Android)
- Connect your Bluetooth headphones or speaker to your phone
- Open the Roku app and connect to your Onn Roku TV
- Tap the "Remote" tab
- Select the headphone icon to enable private listening
Your TV audio will now play through your Bluetooth device connected to your phone. This method works reliably and doesn‘t require additional hardware.
Performance Metrics for Roku App Private Listening
| Metric | Performance |
|---|---|
| Audio Latency | 45-120ms (noticeable but acceptable) |
| Battery Impact | 12-18% additional drain per hour |
| Range | Limited by phone‘s Bluetooth range (30-60 feet) |
| Audio Quality | Dependent on phone‘s Bluetooth version |
| Reliability | Occasional disconnects (1-2 per 3-hour viewing) |
Pros:
- No additional cost if you already have a smartphone
- Simple setup process
- Works with any Bluetooth audio device
Cons:
- Requires keeping your phone nearby and charged
- May experience slight audio delay
- Phone notifications might interrupt your viewing
2. Using a Bluetooth Transmitter/Adapter
Another effective solution is using a Bluetooth transmitter:
- Purchase a Bluetooth transmitter with 3.5mm or optical input
- Connect the transmitter to your TV‘s audio output port
- Put the transmitter in pairing mode
- Put your Bluetooth headphones or speakers in pairing mode
- Once paired, audio from your TV will transmit to your Bluetooth device
Recommended Bluetooth Transmitters for Onn Roku TVs
| Transmitter Model | Connection Type | Bluetooth Version | Multi-Device Support | Price Range | Latency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TaoTronics TT-BA09 | 3.5mm, Optical | 5.0 | 2 devices | $25-35 | Low (30ms) |
| Avantree Oasis Plus | 3.5mm, Optical, RCA | 5.0 | 2 devices | $45-60 | Very low (20ms) |
| 1Mii B03 | 3.5mm, Optical | 5.0 | 2 devices | $30-40 | Low (40ms) |
| Twelve South AirFly Pro | 3.5mm | 5.0 | 2 devices | $50-60 | Medium (60ms) |
| Anker Soundsync A3352 | 3.5mm, RCA | 5.0 | 2 devices | $20-30 | Medium (55ms) |
Pros:
- Works with any Bluetooth headphones or speakers
- Doesn‘t require using your phone
- Often provides better audio quality than the app method
- Some models support connecting multiple headphones simultaneously
Cons:
- Additional cost for the transmitter ($15-$60)
- Requires an available audio output port on your TV
- May need occasional repairing
- Some models require separate power source
3. Using HDMI-ARC with Compatible Audio Systems
If you have a Bluetooth-enabled soundbar or audio receiver:
- Connect the soundbar/receiver to your TV using an HDMI cable (in the HDMI-ARC port)
- Enable HDMI-CEC in your TV settings
- Pair your Bluetooth headphones with the soundbar/receiver
- Audio will flow from the TV to the soundbar/receiver and then to your Bluetooth device
HDMI-ARC Compatible Systems with Bluetooth Output
| Audio System | Price Range | Bluetooth Version | Headphone Support | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vizio V-Series 2.1 | $120-150 | 5.0 | Yes | Wireless subwoofer |
| Sony HT-S100F | $130-180 | 4.2 | Yes | Voice enhancement mode |
| TCL Alto 6+ | $80-130 | 5.0 | Yes | Roku TV ready |
| Yamaha SR-C20A | $150-200 | 5.0 | Yes | Clear Voice technology |
| Samsung HW-A450 | $150-200 | 5.0 | Yes | Game Mode |
Pros:
- Improved audio quality
- Can use the soundbar for regular viewing
- Single remote operation with HDMI-CEC
- Often includes additional audio enhancement features
Cons:
- Requires compatible equipment
- More expensive solution
- More complex setup
- Takes up an HDMI port
4. Using Roku Wireless Speakers
Roku offers its own wireless speakers that work with Roku TVs:
- Purchase Roku Wireless Speakers, Roku Wireless Soundbar, or Roku TV Wireless Speakers
- Follow the on-screen pairing instructions
- These connect directly to your Roku TV without Bluetooth
Roku Wireless Audio Products Compatible with Onn Roku TVs
| Product | Price Range | Audio Channels | Additional Features | Expandable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roku Wireless Speakers | $150-200 | 2.0 | Voice remote | Yes, with subwoofer |
| Roku Streambar | $100-130 | 2.0 | Built-in streaming | Yes, with speakers |
| Roku Smart Soundbar | $150-180 | 2.0 | Voice remote | Yes, with subwoofer |
| Roku Wireless Subwoofer | $150-180 | 0.1 | Requires speakers | N/A |
| Roku TV Wireless Speakers | $150-200 | 2.0 | TV-specific | Yes, with subwoofer |
Pros:
- Designed specifically for Roku TVs
- Simple setup through the TV interface
- Good audio quality
- Seamless integration with Roku ecosystem
Cons:
- Limited to Roku‘s own audio products
- More expensive than some alternatives
- Doesn‘t solve the issue for existing Bluetooth headphones
- Limited expandability compared to traditional audio systems
Technical Comparison: Onn Roku TV vs. Bluetooth-Enabled TVs
To put things in perspective, let‘s compare Onn Roku TVs with other TVs that do have Bluetooth:
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Onn Roku TV | TCL 5-Series | Hisense U6H | Samsung AU8000 | Vizio V-Series |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price ( |
