TCL 55S451 4K UHD LED Smart TV review packed with HDR and Roku features

Description

My Experience with the TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR LED Smart Roku TV (55S451)

Testing out the TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR LED Smart Roku TV (55S451) has been quite the adventure. As someone who appreciates a blend of functionality and style in tech, I was genuinely curious about how this smart TV would hold up in my daily routine. From its stunning 4K resolution to its customizable home screen, there’s a lot to unpack here—both the good and the not-so-great.

Design and Build Quality

Let’s talk about the edge-to-edge glass design on this TV. It’s sleek, modern, and fits perfectly into my living room setup. The 48.3 x 29.8-inch dimensions with the stand make it a manageable size—big enough to immerse you in movies but not so massive that it dominates the room. One thing I noticed, though, is that the TV is relatively lightweight at 22.5 pounds, which made wall mounting a breeze. The 200mm x 200mm VESA wall mount compatibility was a lifesaver for getting it securely up on the wall.

While the FullView glass design looks premium, it’s a magnet for fingerprints. I found myself wiping it down more often than I’d like, especially in a home with energetic kids who have an inexplicable need to point at the screen!

Picture Quality and HDR Performance

The 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160) on this TV is, quite frankly, impressive. Watching nature documentaries or action-packed movies feels like a cinematic experience, thanks to the HDR10 and HLG support. The colors are vibrant, and the 1.07 billion display colors really shine, especially in well-lit environments. However, the 60 Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for hardcore gamers or sports enthusiasts. While playing a few console games, I noticed some slight motion blur during fast-paced sequences.

On the upside, the advanced digital TV tuner allowed me to access free over-the-air channels with ease. Pairing this with the Live TV Channel Guide made switching between channels so straightforward.

Usability and Smart Features

This TV runs on Roku’s platform, and I have to admit—Roku TV is incredibly user-friendly. The customizable home screen ensures that all my favorite streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube are just a click away. Setting up the dual-band WiFi took less than five minutes, and I appreciated the option to use an Ethernet cable for added stability.

Voice control compatibility with Siri, Alexa, and Hey Google was another win. I tested it with both Alexa and Google, and while it wasn’t perfect every time, it handled most commands like switching inputs or launching apps without issues. The free Roku mobile app also deserves a shoutout. Private listening through my headphones via the app came in handy during late-night binge-watching sessions.

What I didn’t love was the remote control’s simplicity. While the shortcut buttons to popular channels are nice, the overall design feels a bit too basic. It gets the job done but doesn’t scream innovation.

Audio Quality

The Dolby Digital Plus audio is decent for casual TV viewing. If you’re someone who watches a lot of dialogue-heavy shows or sitcoms, the 10W + 10W output power will suffice. However, movie buffs might feel the need for a soundbar. TCL even markets its compatibility with Alto Sound Bars featuring Roku TV Ready, which I’m tempted to try next because I felt the bass was somewhat lacking during epic action scenes.

Key Benefits

• 4K UHD resolution delivers sharp and vibrant images.
• User-friendly Roku TV interface simplifies navigation.
• Multiple options for voice control (Siri, Alexa, Hey Google).
• Dual-band WiFi ensures excellent streaming quality.
• Allows private listening through the Roku mobile app.

Areas for Improvement

• 60 Hz refresh rate may not satisfy gamers or sports fans.
• Basic remote control design feels outdated.
• Audio lacks depth, especially for bass-heavy content.
• Fingerprint-prone glass design requires frequent cleaning.

Industry Competitors

Comparing this model to other 55-inch 4K TVs in the market, I’d say it holds its ground. For instance, it offers a more streamlined user experience than many Android-based TVs, which can feel cluttered. However, brands like Samsung and LG tend to deliver superior HDR performance and higher refresh rates, especially in their mid-range models.

While Samsung’s Crystal UHD models are known for their crisp color reproduction, they often lack the Roku integration, which simplifies streaming access. LG’s NanoCell TVs, on the other hand, come with faster refresh rates and better upscaling technology but are usually priced higher. The TCL 55S451 strikes a balance, offering premium features like HDR10 support at a more accessible price point.

Bang for the Buck

Considering the features packed into this TV, it’s hard to deny its value for money. The inclusion of 4 HDMI ports (1 eARC), a USB input, and Bluetooth compatibility means it’s versatile enough for most home setups. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, the cost-efficiency makes it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want a high-quality viewing experience.

Would I recommend it? If you’re looking for a reliable 4K smart TV with an intuitive interface, this is a great option. However, if you’re a gamer or someone who prioritizes top-notch audio, you might want to explore other alternatives or consider investing in complementary audio equipment.

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