julioche64
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In a market saturated with smart TVs, the TCL 55S421 55-inch Class 4-Series stands out not just for its affordability but for what it offers—or doesn't offer—compared to more premium options. The allure of 4K UHD HDR at this price point raises an interesting question: can a budget TV truly deliver a quality viewing experience that rivals its more expensive counterparts? In this review, we'll dive into the TCL 55S421’s features, performance, and the often-overlooked trade-offs that come with choosing a budget-friendly option. Are you really getting a good deal, or is this just another case of “you get what you pay for”? Let's find out.
One of the standout features for me is the value for money. The picture quality is exceptional for a TV in this price range, and the Roku functionality adds a lot of value with its vast streaming options. I also appreciate how lightweight and slim the TV is, making it easy to mount on the wall.
Cons:
On the downside, I’ve experienced a few minor software glitches, but resetting the TV usually fixes them. I’ve also heard some concerning stories about TCL’s customer support and product longevity, which does leave me a bit apprehensive about the future. I hope I won’t have to face any major issues down the line.
Overall Evaluation:
Overall, I’m quite happy with my Roku TV. It has delivered a fantastic viewing experience and has become a staple in my home. While there are a few drawbacks, the positives far outweigh them. I feel like I made a solid investment, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable TV that offers great picture quality and an easy-to-use interface.
Spec
| Parameter | TCL 4-Series TV |
|---|---|
Picture |  |
Screen Size | 55 Inches |
Reference Price | $316.43 |
Model Year | 2018 |
Built-In Media | Stand, TV |
Highlight | |
Operating System | Roku OS |
Internet Applications | roku tv, Roku TV |
Remote Control | WiFi Direct |
Controller Type | Voice Control |
Control Method | Voice |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Display Technology | LED |
Screen Finish | Flat |
Resolution | 4K |
Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
Viewing Angle | 178 Degrees |
HDR Format | HDR10 |
Backlight Technology | LED |
Picture Enhancement | HDR10 |
Motion Enhancement | 120Hz CMI |
Audio Channels | 5.1 |
Surround Sound | Dolby Digital |
Audio Input | USB |
Speaker Description | 2-channel audio system with 8 watts of power per channel |
Video Encoding | H.265/HEVC |
Screen Mirroring | Miracast |
Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant |
Tuner Type | ATSC |
Line Voltage | 110 VAC 60 Hz |
Other Features | Flat |
Mount Standard | 200 x 200 mm |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
Wireless Technology | Wi-Fi |
Usb Ports | 1 |
USB2.0 Ports | 1 |
Audio Out Ports | 1 |
HDMI Ports | 3 |
Signal Format | ATSC, NTSC, Clear QAM |
Sharing Direction | Mobile to TV |
System Experience
Setting up my new Roku TV was a breeze, which I truly appreciated. The packaging was solid, and everything I needed was included right out of the box. I love when I can get a product up and running quickly without any headaches. It felt like a relief after dealing with complex setups in the past. However, I did face a small inconvenience when I realized I didn’t have the necessary adapter for my surround sound system, forcing me to make an extra purchase.Viewing Experience
The picture quality absolutely blew me away. The colors are vibrant, and the sharpness is impressive, especially for the price point. Watching movies and playing video games on this TV has been a game-changer for me. The gaming mode is a fantastic touch, making everything feel ultra-responsive. I was initially worried about the quality given its affordability, but it has far exceeded my expectations.Audio Experience
While the sound quality is decent, I wish it were a bit better. It can sometimes feel flat, especially during action scenes or while watching dialogue-heavy shows. I’ve noticed I’m often reaching for my soundbar remote to enhance the audio experience. It’s not a deal-breaker for me, but I do think it’s an area where the TV could improve.Other Experience
My experience with the Roku interface has been largely positive. I find it intuitive and easy to navigate, which is a relief since I’ve encountered some frustrating TV interfaces in the past. However, I did have a minor issue with the remote - it’s a bit small for my liking, and I’ve accidentally turned off the sound a few times. It hasn’t been a major inconvenience, but it’s something I’ve noticed.Conclusion
Pros:One of the standout features for me is the value for money. The picture quality is exceptional for a TV in this price range, and the Roku functionality adds a lot of value with its vast streaming options. I also appreciate how lightweight and slim the TV is, making it easy to mount on the wall.
Cons:
On the downside, I’ve experienced a few minor software glitches, but resetting the TV usually fixes them. I’ve also heard some concerning stories about TCL’s customer support and product longevity, which does leave me a bit apprehensive about the future. I hope I won’t have to face any major issues down the line.
Overall Evaluation:
Overall, I’m quite happy with my Roku TV. It has delivered a fantastic viewing experience and has become a staple in my home. While there are a few drawbacks, the positives far outweigh them. I feel like I made a solid investment, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable TV that offers great picture quality and an easy-to-use interface.
