TCL 55R617 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TV review for 2023

Description

A Versatile Smart TV with Stunning Features

The TCL 55R617 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TV (2018 Model) became a centerpiece in my living room, and I’ve had the pleasure of exploring its features thoroughly. While I’m not someone who jumps on every tech trend, this TV’s combination of 4K HDR and the Roku Smart platform caught my attention. After using it extensively, I’ve gathered my thoughts on what works well and what could be improved.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the sleek brushed metal design immediately stood out. It’s not just about looks; the build feels sturdy and well-crafted, which adds a premium vibe to the TV. At 55 inches, the screen size is perfect for mid-sized to larger living rooms, and the dimensions with the stand (48.5″ W x 30.6″ H x 10.7″ D) make it easy to set up without it feeling intrusive. I appreciated the thoughtful addition of stand separation distance (47.9″), which ensures stability even on narrow surfaces.

One small gripe lies in the bezels. While they’re reasonably thin, they’re not as invisible as you’d find on some higher-end competitors. That said, it doesn’t detract much from the overall viewing experience.

Picture Performance and Contrast

This TV excels in delivering stunning visuals. The Contrast Control Zones (CCZ) technology is a game-changer, providing rich, deep blacks and vibrant whites. Watching movies with heavy contrast scenes, like space-themed blockbusters, was an absolute treat. The HDR Pro Gamma further enhances the picture by adapting to the room’s lighting, ensuring clarity whether you’re watching during the day or at night.

One feature that surprised me was the iPQ Engine, which ensures precise color replication. Colors appear natural and well-balanced, and while some TVs tend to oversaturate reds and greens, this one stayed true to life. I even tested it with a nature documentary, and the lush greens of the rainforest were mesmerizing.

Performance During Action Scenes

Action movies and sports events are where many TVs falter, but this one handles them impressively. The 120 Hz Clear Motion Index, which combines a 60 Hz panel with backlight scanning, prevents the dreaded soap opera effect while ensuring smooth motion. Whether it was car chases, fight scenes, or a fast-paced basketball game, the action remained clear, without any noticeable blurring.

However, I wouldn’t say it’s flawless. In particularly fast-moving sequences, there were occasional moments where the clarity dipped slightly. This isn’t a deal-breaker but something to keep in mind if you’re a stickler for perfect motion handling.

Smart Features and Usability

The Roku operating system is undoubtedly one of the highlights here. It’s intuitive, fast, and packed with thousands of apps, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and YouTube. I loved how easy it was to switch between apps and inputs without navigating through complicated menus. The voice-enabled remote control made it even more convenient; I could search for movies, change channels, and adjust settings with simple voice commands.

While the TV does not include Bluetooth connectivity, it’s not a dealbreaker. You can still connect external audio devices using HDMI ARC, digital optical audio out, or the 3.5 mm audio jack. I tested it with a soundbar using HDMI ARC, and the synchronization was seamless, significantly enhancing the audio experience.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 4K HDR visuals with vibrant contrast and color accuracy.
• Roku Smart TV platform offers a seamless, app-rich experience.
• Voice-enabled remote simplifies navigation and adjustments.
• Multiple audio connection options, including HDMI ARC and optical out.
• Adaptive HDR Pro Gamma ensures great picture quality in any lighting.

Areas of Concern

• The lack of Bluetooth connectivity could be a drawback for some users.
• Occasional motion clarity dips during extremely fast action scenes.
• Bezels are slightly thicker compared to some premium competitors.
• No Dolby Atmos support, which might disappoint audiophiles.

Competing Products

When comparing this model to Samsung’s RU8000 or the Vizio M-Series Quantum, there are a few notable differences. The Samsung RU8000 offers slightly better motion handling and thinner bezels but falls short in terms of color brightness and contrast. On the other hand, the Vizio M-Series Quantum delivers comparable picture quality but lacks the streamlined usability of the Roku interface.

This TCL model stands out due to its Contrast Control Zones and the Roku Smart platform, which I found to be more user-friendly than Samsung’s Tizen or Vizio’s SmartCast. However, if you’re an audiophile or prioritize motion clarity above all, Samsung might edge it out slightly.

Quality for Price

Considering the features packed into this TV, it’s hard not to appreciate the value for money it offers. The 4K HDR performance, coupled with a user-friendly smart interface, makes it a strong contender in the mid-range TV market. While it lacks some premium features like Dolby Atmos or Bluetooth, these omissions are understandable given the competitive price point. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly 55-inch 4K TV, this one delivers a fantastic price-to-quality ratio.

Additional information