TCL 43S45 TV: Can 4K UHD HDR and Smart Roku capabilities outshine your current entertainment system?

Catalogs Hide

  1. 1 Spec
Choosing a TV isn't just about pixels and picture quality; it's about how it fits into our lives and how we consume content. The TCL 43" 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV has a lot going for it on paper—stunning picture quality, HDR technology, and an extensive array of streaming options. But is it truly the best choice for the average consumer, or does it fall short in ways that matter?

Today, we'll dive into the features that make this TV appealing, but we'll also address the elephant in the room: with so many options available, is buying a budget-friendly smart TV like this one a smart investment, or are we settling for less when we could be aiming for more? Let's unpack the reality behind this device, its performance, and whether it really lives up to the hype—or if it’s just another box in a sea of screens.

Spec​

Parameter
TCL 43S45 TV​
Picture​
TCL43S45TV.jpg
Screen Size​
43 Inches​
Reference Price​
$266.26​
Built-In Media​
Stand, TV​
Highlight​
Stunning 4K UHD picture quality
High dynamic range (HDR) Technology
Thousands of streaming channels
Stream free TV, live news, sports, movies, and more
Easy Voice Control works with Siri, Alexa and Hey Google
Operating System​
Roku OS​
Internet Applications​
Roku TV​
Remote Control​
Infrared (IR)​
Controller Type​
Remote Control​
Control Method​
Remote​
Aspect Ratio​
16:9​
Display Technology​
LED​
Screen Finish​
Flat​
Has Color Screen​
Yes​
Resolution​
4K​
Refresh Rate​
60​
HDR Format​
HDR10​
Backlight Technology​
LED​
Backlight Configuration​
Direct-Lit​
Motion Enhancement​
Motion Rate 120​
Audio Output​
Enhanced audio output modes (precise modes cannot be determined)​
Audio Input​
HDMI
Speaker Description​
10W + 10W audio power, Dolby Atmos support​
Video Encoding​
H.265/HEVC​
Screen Mirroring​
Airplay 2​
Compatible Devices​
Wi-Fi enabled devices, Roku TV compatible devices​
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​
HDMI Ports​
4​
Connector Type​
HDMI, RF antenna input, composite audio/video input, digital optical audio output, USB 2.0, Ethernet, headphones jack​
Signal Format​
ATSC, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, HDR10, HLG​
Sharing Direction​
Mobile to TV​
Item Weight​
13.9 Pounds​
I've been eyeing the TCL 43" 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV (model 43S45) and I’m hoping to get some insights from those who own or have tested it.

First off, how does the picture quality really stack up? I’m looking for that stunning 4K experience, but I’d love to hear about your experiences with the HDR technology—does it deliver vibrant colors and deep contrast, or is it more hype than reality?

Next, what about the sound quality? I know many TVs struggle in that department, so I’m curious if this one holds its own or if it’s a must to invest in a soundbar.

I’m also interested in the system itself. Is the Roku interface user-friendly and responsive? How well does it handle the thousands of streaming channels? Any favorites you recommend?

Lastly, I’d appreciate any insights into potential downsides. Are there any quirks or issues that have popped up for you?

Thanks in advance for your help! Looking forward to making a well-informed decision.
 
Man, these TVs are straight-up trash! Seriously, they’re nothing but headaches. They’re super laggy, and the remotes? They fall apart after just a few months of light use. I recently picked up a 70" TCL TV, and no joke, it crapped out on me after just six months. And when I tried to get help, customer service didn’t want to hear it—totally brushed me off on the warranty. I mean, I’ve got a Samsung TV that’s over 12 years old and my mother-in-law still uses it! Do yourself a favor: spend a little extra cash and get a brand you can trust.
 
I snagged this for 150 bucks at Target, and honestly, it’s been just what I needed for a monitor. It’s nice and big, the sound is solid, and it’s got enough HDMI ports for everything I want to hook up. I've been using it for over a year now, and it’s been smooth sailing!
 
Top