SunBrite Veranda 2 vs TCL 55R617: Which TV Truly Thrives Outdoors with 4K Clarity?

cleanyourclam

New member
Choosing the right television for your viewing habits can be a significant decision, especially when it comes to outdoor versus indoor use. On one hand, we have the SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV, designed specifically for outdoor environments with its weatherproof construction and 4K HDR capabilities. It promises a vivid picture in shaded spaces and is built to withstand the elements, from rain to extreme temperatures.

On the other hand, the TCL 55R617 offers a compelling indoor experience, featuring advanced contrast control technology for stunning picture quality and vibrant colors. While it may excel in delivering deep blacks and bright whites indoors, it lacks the rugged design required for outdoor use.

So, which TV truly stands out in its domain? Is it worth investing in an outdoor-specific model like the SunBrite, or can the TCL hold its own for casual outdoor viewing? Let's dive into the features, pros, and cons of each to help you determine the best fit for your needs.

Specs Comparison​

Basic​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
Picture​
SunBriteVeranda2OutdoorTV.jpg
TCL55R617TV.jpg
Screen Size​
43 Inches​
55 Inches​
Reference Price​
$1058.95​
-​
Model Year​
2019​
2018​
Operating System​
-​
Roku OS​
Internet Applications​
YouTube, Browser​
Netflix, Pandora, Vudu, Amazon Instant Video​
Remote Control​
-​
Wi-Fi (or similar technology)​
Controller Type​
Remote Control​
vera, amazon_alexa​
Control Method​
Remote​
Voice​
Highlight​
TRUE OUTDOOR TV. SunBrite's Weatherproof 4K HDR Television - the Veranda Series TV is optimal for full-shade outside living areas like a covered patio or screened gazebo.
UPGRADED ULTRA 4K HDR SCREEN. The latest model in the Veranda Series offers a premium 4K UHD HDR screen with direct LED backlight and is up to 50% brighter than indoor TVs to deliver a breathtaking, vivid picture in outdoor environments.
ENGINEERED TO HANDLE ALL WEATHER. Rugged case and components are designed for permanent outdoor installation. The durable aluminum case protects against rain, snow, extreme temperatures, dust, and salt; unlike the lightweight plastic of typical indoor TV cases.
Your purchase includes One TCL 55R617 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TV (2018 Model), One voice enabled remote control with batteries and One analog audio/video input adapter.
TV dimensions without stand: 48.5" W x 28.1" H x 2.9" D. TV dimensions with stand: 48.5” W x 30.6” H x 10.7” D. Stand separation distance: 47.9” TV weight without stand: 37.1 lbs
Our Contrast Control Zones (CCZ) is part of the powerful performance package available on our new six series TV. Simply put, and LED TV with Full array and contrast control zones is the only way in LED TV can have the blackest blacks and whitest whites on screen at the same time, delivering an amazing contrast, bright vibrant white, and deep rich blacks.

Display​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
Aspect Ratio​
16:9​
16:9​
Display Technology​
LED​
LED​
Screen Finish​
Matte​
Flat​
Resolution​
4K​
4K​
Refresh Rate​
60​
120 Hz​
HDR Format​
-​
Dolby Vision​
Backlight Technology​
LED​
-​
Picture Enhancement​
-​
Dolby Vision​
Video Encoding​
-​
HEVC (H.265)​
Signal Format​
ATSC, QAM, NTSC, HDMI
ATSC, NTSC, Clear QAM​

Features​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
Audio Channels​
-​
5.1​
Audio Output​
-​
Stereo, Digital​
Audio Input​
USB, HDMI
USB, Optical, HDMI
Speaker Description​
Built-in down-firing 20 watt speakers​
-​
Tuner Type​
ATSC​
ATSC​
Voltage​
2.3E+2 Volts​
-​
Line Voltage​
220 VAC 50 Hz​
-​
Connectivity Technology​
HDMI
Wi-Fi, HDMI
Wireless Technology​
Infrared​
Wi-Fi​
Usb Ports​
1​
1​
HDMI Ports​
3​
3​
Audio Out Ports​
-​
2​
Connector Type​
USB​
HDMI
Other Features​
Flat​
-​
D x W x H​
3.4"D x 38.67"W x 22.77"H​
10.7"D x 48.5"W x 10.7"H​

Side-by-Side Comparison​

System Experience​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
System ExperienceI just recently set up my new SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV, and I have to say, the installation process was smoother than I anticipated. I opted for a floor stand since wall mounting wasn’t an option for me, and that worked out perfectly. The build quality feels solid, and I appreciate the thoughtful design with the back compartment housing all the connections, although it could use a bit more space for my devices. I love that it’s designed for outdoor conditions, especially since I live in an area with high humidity, which has been a concern for my previous TV.Setting up the TCL 55R617 was surprisingly straightforward. I appreciated how quickly I could get everything going—just a matter of attaching the legs and connecting it to my WiFi. The Roku interface felt familiar and intuitive, making it easy to navigate between my streaming services and cable. I was pleasantly surprised by the overall build quality, especially the sleek metal finish that gives it a modern touch. However, I did encounter some initial frustrations with the remote not syncing properly, which took a little troubleshooting. Ultimately, the setup was a breeze, but a few hiccups left me feeling a tad anxious about the quality.

Viewing Experience​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
Viewing ExperienceThe picture quality of this TV is simply fantastic! It’s bright and vibrant, making it easy to see even in shaded areas. The clarity and color reproduction have really impressed me, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it performs during outdoor movie nights. I do find it a tad bright for my bedroom, but it’s manageable, and I appreciate that it’s built to withstand the elements while still delivering a good viewing experience.When it comes to picture quality, I have to say I was blown away! The colors are vibrant and the details are crisp, especially when watching 4K content. I noticed a significant improvement over my previous HD TV, and gaming on my Xbox One X felt immersive. However, I can relate to the concerns about vertical banding—while I was lucky enough to have a unit without severe issues, I did catch some light banding during specific test patterns. In regular viewing, it’s hardly noticeable, but it’s something that can be distracting if you're looking for it. Overall, when the picture is good, it’s really stunning, and I feel it competes well with much pricier models.

Audio Experience​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
Audio ExperienceNow, the sound quality is where I feel a bit let down. Even when I crank up the volume to the max, it doesn’t quite fill the space as I’d hoped. I’ve read other reviews echoing the same sentiment, so I guess I’m not alone in this. I’m definitely considering investing in an external soundbar to enhance the audio experience, especially for movie nights or when entertaining friends.The built-in sound quality is adequate for everyday viewing, but it certainly doesn't wow me. I opted to use the internal speakers for the time being, and while they get the job done, they lack depth and clarity, especially during action scenes. I plan to invest in a soundbar to enhance the audio experience, as I believe that’s crucial for getting the most out of this TV, particularly for movies and gaming. I could see how some might be disappointed with the sound if they’re used to better setups.

Other Experience​

Parameter
SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV​
TCL 55R617 TV​
Other ExperienceOverall, my experience with the SunBrite Veranda 2 has been positive so far. I’m excited to dive into some gaming sessions and see how well it performs in that realm. The customer service I’ve encountered has been responsive, and I appreciate that they have a good support system in place. It’s nice to know that if I run into any issues, I can reach out for help.Using the TV for streaming and gaming has been a generally positive experience. The Roku interface is user-friendly, and I love that I can easily switch between apps without a hitch. The TV responds quickly when I switch inputs, which I appreciate. However, I did notice some lag when navigating through the Roku menus, which can be a bit frustrating. The remote control, while functional, has a few quirks—sometimes it doesn’t respond right away, and I’ve accidentally muted the TV more times than I’d like to admit.

Our Verdict​

SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV:​

Pros:
The standout features for me have been the exceptional picture quality and the sturdy build that can handle the outdoor elements. I also love that it fits perfectly in my planned setup for the shaded area in my home, allowing me to enjoy TV without worrying about the weather too much. Plus, the ease of connecting devices like my Fire Stick has been a breeze.

Cons:
On the downside, the sound quality is definitely lacking, which is a bit disappointing given the price point. I also wish there were more options for mounting or standing since I’m limited in that regard. Lastly, the brightness might be a little too much for indoor use, but that’s a minor issue for me personally.

Overall Evaluation:
In conclusion, I’m really happy with my SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a solid outdoor viewing experience. While there are some drawbacks, particularly with the sound quality, I believe that with a soundbar, it’ll become a fantastic addition to my entertainment setup. I’m optimistic about how it will hold up to the humidity over time, and I can’t wait to make the most out of it in the coming months.

TCL 55R617 TV:​

Pros:
What stands out to me about this TV is the incredible value for the price. The picture quality is excellent for 4K content, and it’s a solid choice for gaming, especially given the low input lag. The Roku OS is intuitive and offers a wide variety of apps. The sleek design also adds a nice aesthetic to my living room. Overall, I think it’s a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a high-quality viewing experience without breaking the bank.

Cons:
On the downside, the sound quality leaves much to be desired, requiring the addition of external speakers for a richer audio experience. There are also known quality control issues, such as vertical banding and dirty screen effects, which seem hit or miss depending on the unit you receive. I’m also not a fan of the remote design—it's too small and the layout could be more ergonomic. Lastly, the slight lag in the Roku interface can detract from an otherwise smooth experience.

Overall Evaluation:
In summary, the TCL 55R617 has exceeded my expectations in many areas, particularly in terms of picture quality and value for money. While there are some drawbacks, such as sound quality and potential panel issues, I feel satisfied with my purchase. It’s a budget TV that performs well, especially for gaming and streaming, and I’m excited to continue using it. If you're willing to tweak settings and possibly invest in a soundbar, I believe this TV can be a fantastic addition to your home entertainment setup.
 

Elfman72

New member
Just got my hands on the TCL 55R617 TV, and I was super pumped to upgrade from my old 6-year-old TV to this shiny new 4K HDR beauty! I set everything up with my dad helping out, and he asked if there was any plastic film to peel off. I’d watched all those unboxing videos, so I knew there was some around the edges, but not on the screen itself. Then I did a walk-around, and my heart just dropped. There was no film at all—just a cracked screen at the edges! I noticed some scuff marks too, which made me think I might have gotten a used TV sold as new. Total bummer! I hit up Amazon, though, and they’re sending me a replacement for free. I’ll keep you posted when the new one shows up.

Update 11/10/18
The replacement just arrived today! Amazon sent it via FedEx this time, and I was kinda nervous watching the delivery dude open the van. The TV was just laying flat in the box—not wrapped in bubble wrap like the last one. But guess what? No cracked screen this time! I set it up, and man, the video and games look incredible!

Update 11/13/18
I’m seriously loving this TV! I’ve been playing on my Xbox X and PS4 Pro, plus binge-watching 4K movies, and everything looks stunning. I did notice a tiny bit of vertical banding just to the left of the center, but it’s really faint and only shows up on super bright white screens. Honestly, for the price, I’d totally recommend it!
 

AwesomenessDjD

New member
So, I just gotta share my thoughts on the TCL 55R617 TV. Every January, I get all hyped up to see what the big TV brands are dropping for the new year. It’s wild watching giants like Panasonic dip out of the U.S. and seeing Sony stumble for a bit, while upstarts like Vizio and TCL step up to take the spotlight.

The first 4K TV I ever bought was a Vizio that broke the sub-$1000 mark, which definitely shook things up in the industry. Suddenly, Samsung and others were rushing to keep up, but with fewer bells and whistles.

Now, let’s talk about the TCL 55R617 4K/HDR smart TV. This bad boy has features that used to be only for the fancy, high-end models, and it’s impressive!

It’s got a VA panel that boasts a killer static contrast ratio of 5200:1, and with its full-array local dimming (FALD) and 96 dimming zones, it pumps that up to 6100:1. The way they control the local dimming is top-notch. After tweaking a bit, the shadows look fantastic, and the HDR highlights pop like crazy.

This TV gets super bright, hitting around 1100 nits at its peak and about 850 nits for a full screen. That’s almost double what Vizio offers with their M-series Quantum, which maxes out at 600 nits for the 55-inch model.

So, you’re getting picture quality that’s on par with some of those high-end TVs, but for under $500. That’s nearly $200 less than the closest competition, the Vizio M-series.

Design-wise, the 6 series keeps it classy with a brushed gunmetal bezel and a simple power/control button in the lower right corner. Yeah, it’s not as fancy as some toggle switches you see on other models, but it gets the job done.

Now, it is a bit thicker than what you’d find from Sony or Samsung, but that’s just because of the full-array backlight. Honestly, who cares? We’re watching from the front anyway.

The HDMI inputs are a little limited with just 3 HDMI 2.0 ports (one being HDMI 3 ARC), but that should be plenty for most folks.

The screen is semi-gloss, which means it doesn’t do a great job at cutting down glare, but it’s not terrible either. I’ve seen some reviews pointing out quality issues when it comes to screen uniformity, but I haven’t noticed much dirty screen effect or banding on mine while watching regular stuff. Just keep in mind, it can vary from unit to unit.

The VA panel runs at 60hz, but thanks to some neat tricks like black frame insertion and backlight strobing, it effectively feels like 240hz. It’s not quite as good as a native 120hz panel, but this one holds its own.

When it comes to film content, there’s hardly any unnatural blur or judder. The TCL can refresh at 48hz, which means you can enjoy a smooth 24p film experience. That’s a huge win for movie lovers.

As for gaming, the 60hz is perfect for the action-adventure and FPS games I’m into. The pixel response time is lightning-fast, so there’s barely any smearing or trailing.

Input lag is super low at around 15ms, so gaming feels snappy and responsive.

Honestly, I’m blown away by how well this TV performs, especially for what I paid. I’ve been steering a bunch of my friends toward the 6 series when they’re looking for a new TV. I’m so glad I finally jumped on the bandwagon!
 

pricelesslambo

New member
So, I’ve got this SunBrite Veranda 2 Outdoor TV, and let me tell you, it’s been a real headache. The screen has crapped out on me more times than I can count. I had a warranty, but honestly, it’s just not worth the hassle anymore. I’ve got two of these TVs, and I’m fixing them one last time. From here on out, I'm switching to Sylvox. Lesson learned!
 
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