TCL 50-Inch 4K LED Smart TV Review Dolby Vision and Google TV Features

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

The TCL 50-Inch Class S4 (model 50S450G) immediately catches your eye with its FullView metal bezel-less design. This modern edge-to-edge glass appearance doesn’t just look premium; it actually blends seamlessly into any living space. I was particularly impressed by how slim the 3.2-inch profile of the TV is, giving it a sleek look whether mounted on the wall or sitting on its stand. The black finish adds a touch of sophistication, and though it’s lightweight at just 27 pounds, the TV feels sturdy and well-built. Moving it around was pretty straightforward, and the setup was a breeze, thanks to the clear instructions.

However, while the design is undeniably attractive, it does come with a small caveat: the metal bezel, although elegant, is a fingerprint magnet. I found myself wiping it down more often than I’d like. Still, this is a minor inconvenience for a TV that looks this good.

Stunning Visual Performance

The 4K Ultra HD resolution on this TV is jaw-dropping. Watching movies and shows felt like a completely immersive experience, with four times the resolution of 1080p HDTVs. Whether I was streaming a nature documentary or indulging in some late-night gaming, the HDR PRO support (Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG) really brought colors to life. The level of contrast and detail was something I didn’t expect at this price point.

What really stood out during testing was the Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion. Fast-paced action scenes in movies and sports events were buttery smooth, with no noticeable motion blur. However, I did notice that when using older content without HDR, the picture didn’t pop quite as much.

Audio Capabilities

While most TVs in this range tend to compromise on audio, I was pleasantly surprised by the DTS Virtual:X technology. It created an immersive 3D sound experience even though I was only using the built-in speakers. Dialogues were crisp, and background scores had a rich depth to them.

For those who enjoy private viewing, the Bluetooth Personal Audio feature is a game changer. Pairing my headphones was seamless, and the sound quality remained solid. That said, audiophiles might still prefer a dedicated soundbar or external speakers for an even richer experience.

Gaming and Connectivity

As someone who enjoys gaming, the Auto Game Mode (ALLM) was a standout feature. The TV automatically switched to game mode when I connected my console, delivering low input lag and latency. This made playing fast-paced games feel responsive and smooth.

The connectivity options are also impressive, with three HDMI inputs (one with eARC). This allowed me to connect my gaming console, streaming box, and sound system without constantly swapping cables. The Chromecast built-in is another handy feature, making it easy to stream content directly from my smartphone or laptop. However, I did face a slight hiccup when using one of the HDMI ports—it felt a bit snug, and I had to double-check connections.

Key Benefits

• 4K Ultra HD resolution delivers unparalleled clarity and detail.
• HDR PRO enhances contrast and color accuracy for stunning visuals.
• DTS Virtual:X audio provides a rich and immersive sound experience.
• Auto Game Mode (ALLM) ensures minimal input lag for gaming.
• FullView metal bezel-less design adds a modern touch to any room.

Areas for Improvement

• Metal bezel attracts fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning.
• Older non-HDR content doesn’t look as dynamic compared to HDR.
• HDMI ports could be slightly more user-friendly in terms of fit.

Market Rivals

Comparing this TV to competitors like the Samsung AU8000 and LG NanoCell 75, the TCL 50-Inch Class S4 holds its own remarkably well. Samsung’s model boasts slightly better upscaling for older content, but the HDR PRO support on the TCL gives it a significant edge for high-quality content. LG’s NanoCell technology produces vibrant colors, yet the TCL wins with its Motion Rate 240, offering smoother visuals for action-packed sequences.

In terms of audio, Samsung and LG both fall short compared to the DTS Virtual:X technology in the TCL. However, LG’s interface feels a tad more intuitive than Google TV, which could be a deciding factor for some users.

Price Performance

Looking at the features and performance, I’d say this TV offers excellent value for money. It’s rare to find such a well-rounded package—4K Ultra HD resolution, Dolby Vision, DTS Virtual:X, and ALLM gaming support—without breaking the bank. While there are minor drawbacks, they’re far outweighed by the sheer quality and versatility this TV provides. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet feature-packed option for your home entertainment setup, this is a strong contender.

Additional information