TCL 55-Inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV review for 2022

Description

Impressive Design and Build Quality

Testing the TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Google TV (55S446), I noticed right away how sleek and modern it looks. The thin bezels frame the screen beautifully, giving it a premium feel despite being positioned as a more affordable option. The black finish complements most living spaces, and the overall build feels sturdy. Setting it up on its stand was a breeze, though I opted to mount it on the wall, which also worked seamlessly thanks to its VESA compatibility.

What stood out to me was how lightweight the TV is for its size, weighing just 24.7 pounds. This makes handling and installation much easier compared to bulkier models I’ve dealt with in the past. While the design is minimalist, it doesn’t scream luxury—don’t expect ultra-premium materials here. That said, for a TV in this category, it’s a solid and attractive choice.

Picture Quality That Stands Out

The 4K Ultra HD resolution on this TCL TV is nothing short of stunning. Watching nature documentaries on streaming apps was an absolute treat, as the HDR capabilities brought out vivid and bright colors that felt incredibly lifelike. Shadows in darker scenes had great depth, though I did notice some minor inconsistencies with black levels in very dimly lit scenes. It’s not a dealbreaker but worth mentioning for those who are picky about contrast.

What impressed me most was the clarity of motion during sports games and fast-paced action scenes. The TV handles motion surprisingly well, ensuring minimal blur even during rapid sequences. For casual viewers or those upgrading from an older model, the improvement in picture quality will be very noticeable. While it’s not on par with OLED or higher-end QLED models, it delivers great value for its price point.

Smart Features That Deliver Convenience

The integration of Google TV OS sets this TV apart in terms of usability. Having access to 700,000+ movies and shows from popular apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube is incredibly convenient, and the interface is intuitive. The personalized recommendations feature really surprised me. After just a few hours of use, it started curating content based on what I enjoyed watching.

Voice control through the Google Assistant is a standout feature. Pressing the button on the remote, I could ask things like, “What should I watch?” or get updates like sports scores. It even worked with my smart home devices, letting me dim the lights or check my security cameras without leaving the couch. However, I found the voice recognition slightly laggy at times, requiring me to repeat commands occasionally.

Built-In Audio and Its Performance

The TV comes with built-in speakers, which are adequate for casual viewing. Dialogue is clear, and the sound fills a medium-sized room well. But let’s be honest—the audio isn’t spectacular. Testing it during an action movie, I felt the bass was lacking, and the overall sound profile was flat compared to TVs with dedicated soundbars or higher-end audio systems.

For those who care about immersive sound, I highly recommend pairing this TV with an external soundbar or a home theater system. The TV supports multiple HDMI inputs, so adding a sound system or gaming console is a straightforward process.

Key Benefits

• 4K Ultra HD resolution ensures crisp and vibrant visuals.
• Google Assistant integration simplifies navigation and smart home control.
• Access to thousands of streaming apps makes entertainment limitless.
• Lightweight design aids in easy setup and flexibility for mounting.
• Motion clarity is excellent, even during fast-paced content.

Areas for Improvement

• Black levels in darker scenes could be more consistent.
• Built-in speakers are underwhelming for those seeking rich audio.
• Occasional lag in voice recognition might frustrate some users.
• The remote control feels functional but not particularly premium.

Product Comparisons

Comparing this TCL TV to Samsung’s Crystal UHD series, it’s clear the TCL holds its own in terms of value and features. While Samsung may offer slightly better picture sharpness and more refined HDR, it comes at a higher price point. The intuitive Google TV OS on the TCL is also more user-friendly compared to Samsung’s Tizen OS, in my opinion.

On the other hand, LG’s NanoCell TVs deliver superior color accuracy, especially for vibrant scenes, but they fall short when it comes to ease of use and the variety of streaming apps available. The TCL shines in its ability to provide a well-rounded experience without overwhelming the user.

For budget-conscious buyers, the TCL offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability, though if picture perfection is a priority, upgrading to pricier models might be worth considering.

Bang for the Buck

This TV undoubtedly offers great value for money. While it doesn’t pack the advanced features of high-end models, it delivers a satisfying and balanced performance for what you pay. The combination of 4K resolution, Google TV OS, and voice control makes it an attractive option for families, casual viewers, and even gamers looking for a second screen. It’s perfect for those who want modern features without breaking the bank.

Testing the TCL 55S446 in a real-world setting, I was overall impressed by its ability to deliver a cinematic viewing experience while being user-friendly. It’s not without its flaws, but these are minor when you consider everything it gets right. If you’re hunting for a TV that’s smart, intuitive, and easy on the wallet, this one is definitely worth your attention.

Additional information