TCL 98-Inch S5 4K LED Smart TV review with Dolby Vision and HDR Ultra

Description

Impressive Visuals with the TCL 98-Inch Class S5 4K LED Smart TV

The sheer size of the TCL 98-Inch Class S5 4K LED Smart TV (98S550G) immediately makes an impact. At 98 inches, it transforms any living space into a full-on cinematic experience. The 4K Ultra HD resolution ensures that every pixel delivers stunning detail, and with 4 times the resolution of 1080p, even the smallest elements stand out. Watching nature documentaries on this screen felt like having a personal window to the world. The Wide Color Gamut technology brought colors to life, making greens, blues, and reds pop vividly without looking over-saturated.

The 120Hz panel refresh rate is a game-changer. Fast-paced sequences from movies or live sports appear incredibly smooth, free of the annoying motion blur I’ve seen in lower-quality televisions. Whether watching action-packed blockbusters or playing intense video games, the Motion Rate 480 with MEMC Frame Insertion provided clarity that felt almost surreal.

An Audio Experience to Match the Visuals

Sound quality is often where big-screen TVs tend to falter, but this one didn’t disappoint. The DTS Virtual:X technology creates an immersive 3D sound that genuinely surprised me. Sitting on the couch, it felt like the audio was coming from all directions, even though it was just the TV speakers doing the heavy lifting.

Dolby Atmos support further elevates the auditory experience. When I used it to watch a movie with a dynamic sound mix, such as a thriller, the audio depth and separation were on point, making the dialogue crisp while maintaining the impact of background scores and sound effects. While it’s still recommended to pair it with a soundbar or home theater for audiophiles, it’s more than adequate for casual viewers.

Gaming Performance: A Dream for Gamers

If you’re into gaming, this TV delivers features that feel tailored for enthusiasts. The Auto Game Mode (ALLM) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro ensure that input lag is virtually non-existent. There’s no frustration of delayed commands, which is crucial when playing fast-paced titles.

The Game Accelerator 240, offering up to 240 VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), is an absolute highlight. It makes gameplay feel incredibly responsive, and I genuinely noticed the difference compared to other TVs I’ve used. Whether I was navigating through a racing game or engaging in competitive multiplayer matches, the smoothness and reaction time were unmatched.

Design and Build: A Statement Piece

This TV is not just functional; it’s a design statement. The slim bezels give it a modern, minimalist aesthetic that doesn’t distract from the screen when it’s on. Despite its massive size, the direct LED backlight ensures high brightness, so it performs well even in brightly lit rooms.

One thing to note is its size—it’s enormous. Ensure you have adequate wall space or a strong stand to accommodate it. It’s not the kind of TV you can just casually place anywhere; it demands a dedicated spot in your home.

Favorable Attributes

• Incredible 4K resolution and color accuracy for a lifelike viewing experience.
• Features like Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ enhance contrast and detail.
• Smooth motion capabilities with a 120Hz panel and Motion Rate 480.
• Impressive gaming performance with ALLM, AMD FreeSync, and Game Accelerator 240.
• The audio system delivers rich, immersive sound with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos support.

Adverse Aspects

• The sheer size may not be practical for smaller living spaces.
• Audio quality is good but could benefit from an external sound system for a true cinematic experience.
• Installation is tricky due to its weight and dimensions, requiring extra hands or professional help.

Competing Products

Compared to other brands offering similar-sized TVs, this model stands out for its balance of features and performance. For instance, some competitors provide great visuals but lack the advanced gaming features like Game Accelerator 240 and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.

On the other hand, competitors like Samsung’s QLED series may offer slightly better color brightness, but they often come at a significantly higher price point. In terms of value for gaming and overall utility, this TV holds its own remarkably well.

Another rival in this space is LG’s OLED series, known for their deep black levels. However, OLEDs struggle with brightness in well-lit environments, something the TCL handles with its High Brightness Direct LED Backlight. The TCL edges out in offering a more versatile experience across various viewing conditions.

Worth Every Penny

Discussing its price relative to other options, the TCL 98-Inch Class S5 offers a fantastic price-to-quality ratio. While it’s undoubtedly an investment, the features it provides—ranging from HDR Ultra to its gaming capabilities—justify the cost. Some TVs in this category charge a premium for similar specifications, making this product feel like a smart choice for those who want both quality and performance without excessive spending.

For anyone who wants a true home theater experience, this TV feels like a splurge that pays off, especially if you’re into gaming or streaming high-quality content. It’s not the cheapest option, but the thoughtful inclusion of features makes it worth considering.