TCL 98-Inch S5 4K Smart TV review Dolby Vision HDR and Gaming Features

Description

Massive Screen That Redefines Home Entertainment

The TCL 98-Inch Class S5 4K LED Smart TV (98S550G) is a behemoth of a television, and honestly, it’s hard not to feel a bit like royalty with this thing dominating my living room wall. The sheer 98-inch screen size is a game-changer, offering an almost cinematic experience right from your couch. I’ve used big TVs before, but this one didn’t just fill the space—it took over in the best way possible. Watching movies or playing games felt immersive, as if I’d been transported right into the action. And yes, it’s big enough that even my friends sitting at the far end of the room could still catch every detail.

Picture Quality That Amazes

The 4K Ultra HD resolution blew me away with its clarity and sharpness, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it felt like I could see every blade of grass during a nature documentary. The wide color gamut was another standout feature, making colors pop vibrantly without looking overly saturated. Paired with the HDR Ultra technology, which supports Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+, the contrast levels were spot on, and the darker scenes didn’t feel washed out. Watching sci-fi movies or shows with complex lighting designs was an absolute treat. The 120Hz refresh rate and Motion Rate 480 with MEMC frame insertion ensured that even fast-paced sequences, like car chases or sports games, looked buttery smooth.

Gaming Performance That Delivers

As a gamer, I was particularly intrigued by the Auto Game Mode (ALLM) and Game Accelerator 240. Turning on the gaming mode automatically reduced input lag, making my gameplay feel instantly more responsive. The 240 VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) was perfect for keeping up with fast-moving graphics, and I didn’t notice any screen tearing or stuttering, even when I was pushing my console to its limits. If you’re into competitive gaming or just want your games to look their best, this TV has you covered. Honestly, I could see this being a go-to option for gamers who want both size and performance.

Audio That Surprises

While I initially thought I’d need a soundbar or external speakers to do this massive screen justice, the built-in DTS Virtual:X audio system was surprisingly capable. The sound quality was rich and multidimensional, and I didn’t feel like I was missing out on the immersive experience. That being said, for audiophiles or those who want that extra bass punch, an external audio setup might still be a worthwhile investment. But for everyday use, the TV’s speakers held their own.

Favorable Aspects

• Stunning 98-inch screen size for a truly immersive viewing experience.
• 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR Ultra support for vibrant colors and deep contrasts.
• Auto Game Mode and Game Accelerator 240 for smooth, lag-free gaming.
• DTS Virtual:X audio delivers immersive sound without needing external speakers.
• Google TV integration makes navigating streaming platforms simple and intuitive.

Areas for Improvement

• Size and weight can make installation tricky without professional help or specialized mounts.
• The price point might not fit every budget, though it’s reasonable for a TV of this caliber.
• Some users may find the built-in speakers insufficient for a room this size, depending on their audio preferences.

Sleek and Modern Design

The bezel-less metal design of the TV is worth highlighting because it seamlessly blends into any space. It doesn’t feel clunky or outdated despite its size. I appreciated the minimalist aesthetic, and it really allowed the screen to take center stage. However, due to its massive size, it’s not exactly the type of TV you can just plop onto any stand. I had to ensure my wall mount was sturdy enough to support its 120.2-pound weight, and honestly, this isn’t something you’d want to tackle solo.

Competing Products

In the world of massive TVs, there are a few contenders worth mentioning. Compared to the Samsung QN90C Neo QLED, the TCL offers a better price-to-performance ratio, especially considering its wide color gamut and HDR Ultra support. However, Samsung’s Neo QLED might edge it out slightly when it comes to peak brightness levels. On the other hand, the LG OLED Evo G3 has unmatched black levels and color depth, but you’re paying a premium for those OLED pixels, and the size options don’t reach the jaw-dropping 98 inches like this TCL model. For gamers, TCL’s Game Accelerator 240 gives it a slight lead over some of these competitors, especially in terms of responsiveness.

True Value

For what you’re getting—cutting-edge technology, ultra-smooth performance, and a screen that could double as a small movie theater—the price feels justified. While it might not fall into the “budget” category, the TCL 98-Inch Class S5 offers excellent value for those looking to invest in a high-end television. Whether you’re a movie buff, gamer, or just someone who wants to take their home entertainment to the next level, this TV is worth every penny.

Additional information