TCL 55S455 4-Series 4K UHD Smart TV review is it worth buying

Description

A Reliable Entertainment Upgrade with the TCL 55″ 4-Series Smart Roku TV (55S455)

I’ve had the chance to put the TCL 55″ 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV through its paces, and honestly, it’s been an experience worth sharing. This 55-inch flat panel TV offers a balance of modern features, sleek design, and user-friendly functionality. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a movie enthusiast, this screen has a lot going for it.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this TCL 4-Series TV was its attractive, minimalistic design. The slim bezels make the screen the focal point, minimizing distractions while viewing. Its black finish complements most living room setups, blending seamlessly into any decor. While it’s not the slimmest TV out there, its 3.2-inch depth is still acceptable for wall mounting or using with a stand. It’s sturdy but not overly heavy at 22 pounds, making it manageable for one person to set up.

One thing to note is that the plastic build might not feel as premium as higher-end models, but for the price range, it’s more than adequate.

Picture Quality That Delivers

The 4K Ultra HD resolution is undoubtedly the star of the show here. Watching movies and shows on this TV feels like a treat, thanks to the high dynamic range (HDR) technology. The colors pop, and the brightness levels are just right for an immersive experience. I tested it with a mix of action-packed blockbusters and vibrant animated films, and the level of detail was impressive.

What stood out to me was the 4K upscaling feature, which enhances regular HD content to near-4K quality. Even older shows and sports broadcasts looked sharper and more defined. While the HDR performance was satisfactory, I did notice that the darkest scenes in some movies lacked the depth and contrast seen in more expensive TVs with advanced local dimming features.

User-Friendly Interface

Navigating this Roku-powered smart TV is a breeze. Its customizable home screen consolidates all your streaming channels, gaming consoles, and other devices in one place. I appreciated not having to flip through inputs or scroll through complicated menus to find what I needed. The Roku platform offers an extensive range of apps, from Netflix and Hulu to free TV channels like Pluto TV.

The remote control is another highlight. It’s simple, with just the right number of buttons, and includes one-touch shortcuts to popular apps. However, I do wish it had a backlight for easier use in dim lighting.

Audio Performance

The built-in speakers on this TV provide 10 watts of output power, which is fine for casual viewing. Dialogues are clear, and the sound fills a medium-sized room adequately. That said, audiophiles or anyone who enjoys cinematic sound may want to invest in a soundbar or external speakers for that extra punch.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 4K resolution with upscaling for HD content.
• HDR technology delivers vivid and accurate colors.
• Extensive streaming options via the Roku platform.
• Simplified and intuitive interface with a customizable home screen.
• Lightweight design makes it easy to set up or mount.

Areas of Concern

• HDR performance could be better with darker scenes.
• Audio output is basic, lacking depth and bass.
• Plastic build doesn’t feel premium.

Competing Products in the Market

When compared to Samsung’s Crystal UHD series or LG’s UHD TVs, the TCL 4-Series holds its ground in terms of affordability and simplicity. Samsung’s models typically offer better HDR with their Dynamic Crystal Color technology, while LG boasts advanced image processors for smoother motion. However, both of these brands come at a higher price point.

The Vizio V-Series, another competitor, offers comparable picture quality with Dolby Vision but lacks the user-friendly Roku interface that TCL integrates so well. If ease of use and cost-efficiency are priorities, this TCL model has the edge.

Affordable Quality

One of the biggest draws of this TV is its value for money. With its 4K resolution, HDR technology, and Roku integration, it packs a punch at a fraction of the cost of premium models. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of high-end TVs, it delivers solid performance for everyday viewing.

If you’re looking for a TV that combines stunning visuals, ease of use, and a price point that doesn’t break the bank, this 55-inch Roku-powered screen is hard to beat.

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