TCL 4-Series 4K UHD Smart Roku TV review is this budget-friendly option worth it

Description

Design and Build Quality

The TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV (55S455) left a solid impression on me in terms of design. Its sleek black finish is understated but modern, fitting effortlessly into my living room setup. At 55 inches, the screen size feels perfectly balanced—not overwhelmingly large, yet immersive enough for movie nights or gaming sessions. The thin bezels around the display are a nice touch, minimizing distractions and keeping the focus squarely on the screen. While the TV itself is relatively lightweight at 22 pounds, it feels sturdy and well-constructed.

The back panel includes multiple connectivity options like HDMI ports, USB, Ethernet, and even Wi-Fi capabilities, making it versatile for various devices. I particularly liked the flat design, which allowed it to sit flush against the wall when mounted. However, the included stand is functional but plain, which might not appeal to those looking for a more premium aesthetic.

Picture Quality and HDR Performance

The 4K Ultra HD resolution is undeniably one of the standout features of this TV. Watching content in 4K is genuinely a treat—details are crisp, and colors pop in a way that feels lifelike. The High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology truly enhances the viewing experience by delivering brighter highlights and more accurate colors. I tested it with a few HDR-enabled movies, and the results were stunning.

What surprised me was how well it handled upscaling. Even older HD shows looked sharper and more vibrant, which is a huge plus if you’re transitioning from a non-4K TV. That said, the display does struggle slightly in very dark scenes. While the blacks are deep, they sometimes lack uniformity, which might be noticeable to more discerning viewers.

Audio Quality and Speaker Performance

The built-in speakers are decent for casual viewing. With 10W + 10W output, the sound is clear and adequately loud for smaller rooms. I used it to stream a concert, and while the vocals were crisp, the bass felt a bit lacking. For anyone who enjoys richer soundscapes, I’d recommend pairing the TV with a good soundbar or external speakers.

One feature I appreciated was the dialogue clarity, which stayed sharp even at lower volumes. This makes it great for watching shows late at night without disturbing others. However, the audio isn’t as immersive as you’d find in higher-end models.

Features and Usability

This TV shines when it comes to usability. The Roku smart platform offers an intuitive interface that feels simple yet powerful. I loved how I could customize the home screen, placing my most-used apps like Netflix and Hulu front and center. The one-touch shortcuts on the remote are a small but thoughtful addition, making navigation even quicker.

Streaming is seamless, thanks to the 802.11ac dual-band Wi-Fi support, which provided a stable connection throughout my testing. The inclusion of over 250+ live TV channels and Roku Originals ensures there’s always something to watch. Plus, the ability to integrate my gaming console and Blu-ray player into the same system was a huge time-saver.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 4K resolution with advanced upscaling.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR) for vibrant and lifelike colors.
• Customizable Roku interface for effortless navigation.
• Wide range of connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and Ethernet.
• Access to 250+ live TV channels and free entertainment options.

Limitations

• Audio performance lacks depth, especially in bass-heavy scenes.
• Slight inconsistencies in black uniformity during dark scenes.
• The stand design feels a bit basic compared to the sleek display.

Competing Products

There’s no shortage of competition in this price range, and I’ve had the chance to compare this TV to a few other models. For instance, the Samsung TU7000 Series offers better contrast and more refined HDR performance, but its smart platform feels clunkier compared to Roku. On the other hand, the LG UN7300 stands out for its wide viewing angles, making it ideal for larger rooms. However, it falls short in providing the same level of 4K upscaling as the TCL model.

Where this product truly excels is in its user-friendly interface and customizable features, which outshine many of its competitors. While the audio isn’t as robust as some alternatives, the picture quality and smart functionality make it a strong contender in its class.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering its feature-packed performance, I’d say this TV offers excellent value for money. You get 4K resolution, reliable HDR, and one of the most intuitive smart platforms without breaking the bank. While it doesn’t have the premium build or advanced features of higher-end models, it delivers more than enough to justify its cost. For anyone on a budget who still wants a high-quality viewing experience, this is a solid choice.

In my experience, the combination of picture clarity, smart functionality, and affordability makes this a product worth considering. While there are a few compromises, they don’t overshadow the overall strengths of the TV.

Additional information