TCL 55-Inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV review for budget-friendly entertainment

Description

Stunning Design and Build Quality

The TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR LED Smart Roku TV – 55S451 immediately caught my eye with its sleek FullView edge-to-edge glass design. It gives a modern, premium feel that easily elevates the aesthetics of any living room. The TV is lightweight at 22.5 pounds, which made it surprisingly easy to mount on the wall using its VESA wall mount pattern (200mm x 200mm). The base stand is sturdy and well-designed, though the 41.5-inch stand separation distance might make it tricky to fit on smaller TV consoles. However, I found the compact depth of just 3.2 inches without the stand a major plus for saving space.

The black finish complements most interiors, and the minimalistic frame puts all the focus on the screen itself. While the materials used in construction feel solid, they aren’t exactly luxurious. This is something to keep in mind if you’re someone who values ultra-premium build quality.

Picture Quality that Impresses

The 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160) on this TV is undeniably sharp, and I couldn’t stop admiring the clarity while streaming my favorite shows. The HDR10 and HLG support enhanced the color depth and contrast, especially during darker scenes or high-action sequences. Watching documentaries on this screen almost felt like looking through a window, thanks to the 1.07 billion display colors capability.

That said, the 60Hz panel refresh rate might feel limiting for hardcore gamers who prefer buttery-smooth motion for high-speed games. The TV does a decent job with regular content, but certain scenes in fast-paced movies occasionally showed faint motion blur, which might bother more detail-oriented viewers.

Unmatched Entertainment Options

With Roku TV built-in, the variety of streaming channels available is mind-blowing. I could access thousands of channels featuring movies, live news, sports, and even family-friendly content. The simple, customizable home screen made flipping between apps and my gaming console hassle-free.

I especially loved the Live TV Channel Guide, a feature that allowed me to pause live TV for up to 30 minutes when connected to an antenna. This functionality is a game-changer for cord-cutters who still enjoy live programming. Pairing the TV with my Apple devices using AirPlay was seamless, and sharing photos or videos with friends became a breeze.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 4K picture quality enhances the viewing experience.
• Customizable home screen keeps all entertainment options organized.
• Voice control compatibility with Siri, Alexa, and Hey Google makes navigation easier.
• Dual-band WiFi and Ethernet ports ensure stable connectivity.
• Multiple HDMI inputs, including eARC, cater to versatile setups.

Audio Performance and Features

The Dolby Digital Plus audio system deserves a mention. While the 10W + 10W speakers are sufficient for casual viewing, they might fall short for audiophiles who crave cinematic sound. Pairing the TV with a soundbar, particularly those that are Roku TV Ready, dramatically boosts the audio experience. I tested it with the Alto Sound Bars, and the improvement in sound clarity and bass depth was undeniable.

One of my favorite features was the private listening option via the Roku mobile app. It allowed me to enjoy late-night movies without waking up the household by streaming audio directly to my headphones.

Areas for Improvement

• The 60Hz refresh rate isn’t ideal for fast-paced gaming or sports.
• Speaker output could be more powerful, especially for larger rooms.
• Remote control design is functional but feels a bit basic compared to other models.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to other options like Samsung’s Crystal UHD series or LG’s UN7300, the TCL 4-Series holds its ground in terms of affordability and features. While Samsung offers slightly better build quality and superior motion handling, it comes at a higher price point. LG’s models shine with their AI-enhanced picture quality, but their interfaces can feel a bit clunky compared to Roku’s intuitive layout.

The TCL 55S451 excels in areas like streaming capabilities and smart features, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers. However, if you’re a gamer or someone who prioritizes premium audio and visuals, you might lean toward pricier alternatives.

Cost Efficiency

For its price range, this TV offers excellent value for money. The inclusion of 4K UHD, HDR10, and a smart platform at this budget makes it appealing to those who want a feature-packed TV without breaking the bank. While it may not satisfy enthusiasts looking for cutting-edge specs, its cost-efficiency makes it a no-brainer for casual viewers or first-time 4K TV buyers.

In my experience, you’d be hard-pressed to find another TV at this price point offering such a versatile mix of features, from streaming to voice control.

Additional information