TCL 55-Inch 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV review

Description

Merits of the TCL 55S455 4-Series Smart Roku TV

I’ve had the chance to dive into the TCL 55S455 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV, and I can confidently say it packs a punch for its category. The 4K UHD resolution is not just a marketing gimmick; the clarity is genuinely stunning on this 55-inch display. Whether I’m streaming a blockbuster movie or catching up on the latest TV series, the High Dynamic Range (HDR) ensures that colors pop and contrasts feel lifelike. It’s like having a mini home theater in your living room.

The customizable home screen is a huge plus. Instead of endlessly scrolling through inputs, I can easily switch between my streaming channels, gaming console, or even live TV. The interface feels intuitive and, frankly, much less frustrating than traditional TV menus. With Roku integration, I get access to countless streaming options, including 250+ free live TV channels, which became an unexpected favorite feature for me when I wanted some quick entertainment without committing to a movie or series.

Good Points

• 4K UHD resolution delivers crisp visuals and enhances HD content with 4K Upscaling.
• HDR technology makes colors vivid and contrasts more realistic.
• The Roku streaming platform provides access to an endless library of free and premium content.
• The customizable home screen simplifies navigation between devices and apps.
• The super-simple remote is easy to use and includes one-touch shortcuts to major platforms like Netflix.

Areas for Improvement

While I genuinely enjoy using this TV, there are a few things that could be better. The 10W built-in speakers are serviceable, but they leave you wanting more depth and bass, especially during action-packed scenes. I found myself relying on an external sound system for a more immersive experience. Another area where it stumbles slightly is its Wi-Fi connectivity. While it supports dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), I noticed occasional buffering issues when streaming in ultra-high resolution, even with a strong network.

Critiques

• Built-in speakers lack power and depth, making an external sound system almost necessary.
• Wi-Fi performance could be more consistent for smoother 4K streaming.
• The plastic build feels a bit flimsy compared to other TVs in the same price range.

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetically, the TV is clean and minimalistic, which fits into most modern living rooms. The flat design and slim bezels give it a sleek look, though the overall plastic construction could feel a bit sturdier. At 22 pounds, it’s lightweight, making it easy to mount or reposition. However, the included stand feels slightly cheap, so wall mounting might be a better option for those looking for a more polished setup.

Performance and Features in Action

The Roku TV functionality is undoubtedly one of the top features here. It’s rare to find such a seamless integration of live TV, streaming, and gaming all in one interface. Switching between apps is smooth, and the 4K upscaling does a great job of enhancing older HD content. I threw on an old favorite movie, and honestly, it looked sharper and more detailed than I remembered.

Gaming on this TV is also a highlight. While it doesn’t offer the super high refresh rates of dedicated gaming monitors, the visuals are more than adequate for casual gamers. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures that games look expansive and immersive, and the 55-inch screen size is perfect for couch gaming sessions.

Competing Products

Looking at peer products, the closest competitors include Samsung’s Crystal UHD series and LG’s NanoCell TVs. The Samsung models tend to have a more premium build and slightly better sound quality. However, they lack the intuitive Roku platform, which makes content navigation so much easier with this TV. LG’s NanoCell series boasts superior color accuracy but comes at a noticeably higher price point, making the TCL 55S455 a more attractive option for those seeking affordable quality without compromising much on features.

Compared to Vizio’s M-Series, which is another budget-friendly option, the TCL model wins in terms of user interface and ease of use. Vizio TVs often come with a clunky interface that feels outdated compared to the sleek Roku system.

Price Worthiness

When you evaluate this TV’s features against its cost, it’s clear that it offers excellent value for money. The inclusion of HDR technology, 4K resolution, and the Roku platform at this price point is impressive. While it may not have the premium build or advanced sound systems of higher-priced models, it’s hard to argue against the incredible price-to-quality ratio it delivers.

For someone looking for a solid mid-range smart TV, this model checks most of the boxes. Yes, the sound and Wi-Fi could use some tweaks, but these are minor trade-offs for what you’re getting overall. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel “cheap” in its performance or visual quality.

If you’re after a TV that balances stunning visuals, smart functionality, and affordability, this one deserves a spot on your list. It’s not perfect, but for the price, it’s pretty close.

Additional information