TCL 55S446 4-Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV review for 2022 buyers

Description

Advantages of the Design and Build Quality

Starting with the sleek and modern design, this TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Google TV (55S446) fits perfectly into any living room or entertainment setup. The black finish gives it a minimalist yet elegant look, and its thin bezels keep the focus solely on the screen. While setting it up, I appreciated the compact yet sturdy stand, which didn’t wobble even when I accidentally bumped into it. At just 24.7 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight for a 55-inch screen, making it easier to mount on the wall or move around if needed.

That said, the build materials feel slightly less premium compared to higher-end models. While this doesn’t affect performance, the plastic rear panel could have been sturdier. Still, for the price, it balances aesthetics with functionality well.

Picture Quality: A Feast for the Eyes

The 4K Ultra HD resolution on this TV is its biggest selling point. Watching nature documentaries and action-packed movies brought out the stunning detail and vibrant colors. The HDR (High Dynamic Range) feature enhances brightness and contrast, making dark scenes more immersive and bright areas pop without looking washed out. I found the color accuracy to be particularly impressive when streaming 4K content on platforms like Netflix and Disney+.

While the picture quality is excellent for most content, I did notice that non-4K content doesn’t upscale as crisply as some premium brands. Also, during very fast-paced scenes (think car chases or sports matches), there was minor motion blur, which might bother picky viewers.

Smart Features: Endless Entertainment Options

This TV shines when it comes to smart capabilities. The integration of Google TV means you get access to over 700,000 movies and shows, all intelligently organized based on your preferences. I loved how it made recommendations based on what I’d previously watched—it felt like it just “got me.” Browsing through apps like YouTube, Hulu, and Sling TV was smooth, and the interface is intuitive enough for even less tech-savvy family members.

The Google Assistant feature is one of my favorite aspects. With a simple press of the button on the remote, I could ask questions, pull up specific shows, or even control smart home devices like lights and thermostats. It’s genuinely convenient. However, the voice recognition sometimes struggled with accents or background noise, which can be mildly frustrating.

Sound Performance: Built-in Speakers

The built-in speakers, while decent, don’t offer a truly immersive audio experience. For casual viewing, the sound is clear, and I didn’t have trouble with dialogue or basic sound effects. However, when I tested it with action movies or music videos, the bass felt underwhelming. If you’re an audiophile or enjoy cinematic sound, pairing this TV with a soundbar or external speakers would elevate the experience significantly.

Good Points

• 4K UHD resolution delivers remarkable clarity and detail.
• HDR feature enhances both bright and dark scenes for a lifelike experience.
• Access to thousands of apps via Google TV OS.
• Google Assistant adds convenience with voice commands for searching or smart home control.

Areas for Improvement

• Audio quality needs a boost for bass-heavy or immersive sound experiences.
• Plastic build feels less premium compared to some competitors.
• Slight motion blur is noticeable during high-speed scenes.

Competing Products

Comparing this TCL model to similar TVs in its range, like the Samsung TU7000 or the LG UP8000, reveals interesting trade-offs. The Samsung TU7000 has slightly better motion handling, which makes it ideal for sports fans, but its interface isn’t as user-friendly as Google TV. Meanwhile, the LG UP8000 offers superior sound quality out of the box, but its color accuracy doesn’t quite match the TCL’s performance.

Where this TCL TV excels is in its smart capabilities and content organization, thanks to the deep integration with Google’s ecosystem. It’s the better choice if you want seamless connectivity with other smart home devices or enjoy having personalized recommendations. However, price-conscious shoppers might lean towards competitors if they prioritize features like premium build quality or motion clarity.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering its price point, the TCL 55S446 delivers impressive value for those seeking a large screen with 4K resolution and smart features. While it doesn’t match the premium feel or cutting-edge performance of higher-end models, it’s hard to argue with the balance of features it offers. The HDR support, Google integration, and app variety are standout features that make this TV a solid choice for families and casual viewers alike.

That said, if you’re someone who prioritizes high-end materials or top-notch sound, you might need to budget for additional accessories or explore other options. But for everyday use, this TV ticks most of the boxes without straining your wallet. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap.

Additional information