As an experienced tech writer and Roku user for over 5 years, I’ve learned the ins and outs of customizing the Roku interface and settings to optimize the streaming experience. One important setting that can dramatically affect your viewing pleasure is properly configuring the screen size.
Whether you just set up your Roku or notice the picture doesn’t fit your screen correctly, adjusting the screen size is thankfully quick and easy on all Roku models. Below I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to change the screen size along with extra troubleshooting tips.
Table of Contents
Check Current Screen Size Setting
Before changing any settings, it’s good to check what your current screen size is set to.
To view the current screen size:
- Navigate to Settings from Roku home screen
- Select Displays
- Choose Screen Size
This will show the current screen size set for your Roku. The options include:
- Automatic
- 16:9
- 4:3
If it’s already set to the ideal or native size of your TV, you may not need to change anything.
Set Optimal Screen Size
However if the picture doesn’t properly fit or fill up your entire TV/monitor screen, you’ll want to adjust the screen size setting.
To set the best screen size:
- From the Screen Size menu, select the option that matches your display. For example:
- 16:9 for widescreen HDTVs
- 4:3 for older standard definition TVs
- If unsure, choose Automatic and let Roku auto-detect correct size
Once selected, the Roku will briefly show a black screen as it restarts the video output using the new setting.
Troubleshoot Screen Size Issues
Sometimes even after setting the screen size, you may still experience problems like:
- Black bars on the edges
- Cut off or cropped picture
- Stretched or distorted image
Here are some things to try if the picture still isn’t right:
Adjust TV settings
- Check for a “Screen Fit”, “Picture Size”, or “Aspect Ratio” setting on your actual TV and adjust accordingly. This controls how the video input is displayed.
Match content formatting
- Note that if you are watching 4:3 content on a 16:9 screen, black bars are expected
- Similarly, 16:9 video on a 4:3 screen may be cropped
- Select programming in the matching format for your display
Try different resolutions
- From Roku Settings > Displays, try different resolutions like 720p or 1080p
- Use automatic resolution to let the Roku pick the best resolution
Use zoom feature
- Some Roku models and TVs allow zooming in/out of video
- Look for a zoom or picture sizing function on your TV remote or Roku remote if available
Factory reset
- As a last resort, a Roku factory reset will clear all settings
- You can then reconfigure the screen size from scratch
Contact support
- If you still can’t resolve screen size problems, contact Roku customer support
Following these tips should allow you to successfully set the ideal screen size. Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions!
Frequently Asked Questions About Roku Screen Size
Here are answers to some common questions about configuring the screen size on your Roku player:
What is the best screen size setting for Roku?
The best setting is usually either 16:9 for widescreen TVs or 4:3 for older standard screen TVs. Match the inherent aspect ratio of your display.
Why is my Roku video stretched or zoomed in?
If the video looks strangely stretched or zoomed in, it typically means there is a mismatch between the content aspect ratio and your screen size setting. Try toggling settings on both the Roku and TV to find an optimal match.
How do I get rid of black bars on Roku?
Black bars usually indicate a mismatch between the aspect ratios of your TV and the video content. To potentially remove them, adjust the screen size to suit the content or select programming formatted for your display.
What causes screen size issues on Roku?
Common culprits include conflicting settings between the Roku and TV, watching content in the wrong format, outdated cables/ports, and selecting the incorrect resolution. Review the troubleshooting tips above to isolate the issue.
Why does Roku screen size keep changing?
If your Roku screen size randomly keeps reverting or changing, it could be due to automatic software updates or bugs. Try power cycling the device and double check for any settings that automatically adjust display configurations.
How do I zoom in on Roku?
Some Roku streaming players and connected TVs allow zooming directly from the remote control. Check if your remote has a zoom, aspect ratio, or picture size button. This lets you manually zoom and pan around the screen as needed.
Can I change Roku screen size without remote?
Yes, you can change the screen size from the Roku mobile app or from the Roku website even without the remote handy. This allows adjusting display preferences from your phone or laptop if the remote is lost.
