TCL 55 Inch 4K Roku Smart LED TV 55S401 detailed review

Description

A Stunning Visual Experience with the TCL 55″ Class 4K Roku Smart TV (55S401)

I recently tested the TCL 55″ Class 4K Roku Smart LED TV (55S401), and it definitely left an impression, both good and bad. As someone who spends a significant portion of my day streaming shows, gaming, and occasionally binging a good old-fashioned movie marathon, I had high hopes for this product. Spoiler alert: while it has a lot going for it, there are a few quirks.

Design and Build Quality

The sleek black finish of the TV gives it a modern, minimalist vibe that blends well with almost any room décor. Measuring 49.1 x 8.7 x 30.8 inches and weighing 30 pounds, it’s slim enough to fit snugly on a stand or mounted on the wall. I appreciated its flat screen design, which enhances viewing angles, especially when the whole family is gathered around. However, I did notice that the plastic casing doesn’t feel as premium as some higher-end models. It’s sturdy, yes, but it lacks that high-end polish.

Picture Quality: 4K Brilliance with HDR

This TV delivers stunning Ultra HD 4K picture quality, boasting four times the resolution of Full HD. The high dynamic range (HDR) technology really shines here, offering vivid colors, deep contrasts, and an overall lifelike image that’s hard to ignore. Watching nature documentaries felt like peering out of a window into another world.

That said, the 4K Upscaling feature works well for most HD content. While older shows looked sharper than usual, I did notice some artifacts in scenes with fast motion. This doesn’t ruin the experience, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re a pixel-perfectionist like me.

User Interface and Smart Features

The Roku TV interface is where this TV really stands out. It’s simple, intuitive, and packed with options. With access to over 450,000 streaming channels, there’s genuinely something for everyone. I loved how effortlessly I could switch between apps, my Blu-ray player, and my gaming console without dealing with complicated menus or multiple inputs.

One thing I need to highlight is the Roku remote. It’s compact, easy to use, and even has shortcut buttons for popular streaming services. However, I did miss having a built-in microphone for voice commands. Considering how many TVs are integrating voice assistants these days, this felt a bit outdated.

Performance for Gamers and Streamers

As a casual gamer, I tested it with my PS5, and the results were… decent. While the 16:9 aspect ratio and 55-inch screen size make for an immersive gaming experience, the refresh rate is capped at 60Hz, which might not satisfy competitive gamers. Input lag was acceptable but not exceptional. For streaming, though, it’s a dream come true. Whether it’s Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube, everything loads quickly and runs smoothly without buffering.

Key Benefits

• 4K HDR technology enhances clarity and colors.
• Roku interface simplifies navigation with a vast library of streaming options.
• Easy integration with multiple devices (gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, etc.).
• Slim, modern design fits well in most spaces.
• Affordable price point compared to similar models.

Areas for Improvement

• Plastic build quality feels a bit cheap.
• No voice control on the remote—a missed opportunity.
• Artifacts in 4K upscaling during fast motion scenes.
• 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for hardcore gamers.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to its market rivals, like Samsung’s TU8000 series or LG’s UN7300, a few differences stood out. Samsung’s TU8000, for instance, offers a more refined build quality and slightly better HDR performance, but its interface isn’t as user-friendly as Roku’s. On the other hand, LG’s UN7300 includes a robust voice control feature and better gaming performance, but it often comes at a higher price without a noticeable jump in picture quality.

The 55S401 excels in providing a budget-friendly 4K experience without cutting corners on essential features like HDR and smart streaming options. While it may not outshine competitors in every category, it holds its own remarkably well for its price range.

Affordable Quality

For the features it offers, the price-to-quality ratio is impressive. You’re getting 4K resolution, HDR technology, and a versatile Roku interface at a fraction of the cost of more premium brands. If you’re looking for a TV that delivers solid performance without breaking the bank, this one is worth considering.

However, if gaming or high-end aesthetics are your priorities, you might want to explore other options. For me, though, the TCL 55″ Class 4K Roku Smart LED TV strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality. It’s not perfect, but it’s hard not to appreciate what it brings to the table.

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