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

Description

Design and Build Quality

I was immediately struck by the sleek yet straightforward design of this 55-inch smart TV. The minimalist black frame offers a clean and modern aesthetic that fits perfectly in any living room, whether mounted on a wall or placed on its sturdy stand. Weighing in at 30 pounds, it’s manageable to set up even without assistance. The dimensions—49.1 x 8.7 x 30.8 inches—make it a perfect fit for medium to large spaces. I appreciated the flat design, which eliminates any unnecessary bulk and keeps the focus on the screen itself. While the build doesn’t feel premium compared to high-end competitors, it’s solid enough for its price range.

Picture Quality and Display Features

The 4K Ultra HD resolution is one of the best features of this TV. Watching content on it feels like a treat. The HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology delivers vivid, accurate colors, and I couldn’t help but notice how lifelike the images appeared, especially during nature documentaries and action-packed movies. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures a widescreen view, making it perfect for movie nights or binge-watching sessions. The 4K Upscaling feature impressed me—it took my regular HD content and made it look significantly sharper. However, darker scenes sometimes lacked depth, and the blacks weren’t as rich as I’d hoped, which might bother you if you’re a stickler for cinema-quality visuals.

Interface and Functionality

This TV’s Roku Smart TV platform is where it really shines. The intuitive interface makes navigating through streaming apps and inputs incredibly simple. I loved having access to over 450,000 streaming movies and TV episodes without needing an external streaming device. Switching between my cable box, Blu-ray player, and gaming console was effortless, thanks to the menu’s clear layout. However, the remote could’ve been a little more intuitive. While it’s functional, it feels a bit basic and lacks additional customization options that some higher-end models offer.

Audio Performance

The built-in speakers are decent, delivering clear audio for most content. Dialogue in TV shows and movies comes through without distortion, and the volume range is adequate for everyday use. But if you’re an audiophile or someone who enjoys immersive soundscapes, you might find the audio lacking in depth and bass. Adding a soundbar or an external speaker system would make a noticeable difference, especially for action movies or music performances.

Key Benefits

• 4K Ultra HD resolution ensures crisp, detailed visuals.
• HDR technology enhances color accuracy and brightness.
• The Roku Smart TV interface makes streaming simple and intuitive.
• 4K Upscaling improves the quality of HD content.
• A lightweight design makes it easy to set up.

Areas for Improvement

• Blacks in dark scenes could be deeper for better contrast.
• The remote control feels overly simplistic.
• Audio performance lacks bass and richness, requiring external solutions.

Competing Products

Comparing this TCL Roku Smart LED TV to other 55-inch TVs in its category, it has some strong points but also areas where it could improve. For example, a similar model from Samsung boasts better black levels and enhanced HDR performance, but it comes at a higher price point. On the other hand, budget-friendly brands like Hisense offer nearly identical features but without the seamless Roku integration. This TV stands out for its streaming capabilities and user-friendly interface, but it lags behind competitors in terms of audio quality and contrast levels. If you’re looking for a TV that balances affordability with functionality, this one is a solid contender.

True Value

Given its feature set and performance, I feel this product delivers good value for its price range. The combination of a 4K display, HDR support, and the Roku platform makes it a bargain for anyone keen on streaming content. While it doesn’t match the premium quality of high-end models, it offers reliable performance for everyday use. If you’re not overly concerned with having the absolute best in picture and sound quality, this TV is a smart investment that delivers where it matters most.

Additional information