Bellmeister
New member
When it comes to budget-friendly TVs, the TCL 43" Class 5-Series often gets lost in the shuffle, overshadowed by more expensive brands touting their high-end features. But is that really fair? Today, we’re diving into this 4K UHD smart TV, equipped with Dolby Vision HDR and a host of streaming options through Roku, to see if it truly delivers on its promises or if it’s just another case of "you get what you pay for." With gaming features like auto mode and a surprisingly lightweight design, the TCL 43S525 invites us to challenge our perceptions of value in the TV market. Let’s unpack whether this model is a hidden gem or simply a compromise too far.
I'm considering picking up the TCL 43" Class 5-Series 4K UHD Dolby Vision HDR Roku Smart TV (43S525) and could really use some advice! I’ve heard great things about its picture quality, especially with the 4K clarity and Dolby Vision HDR. How does it hold up in real-world settings? Is the color and contrast as impressive as advertised?
Also, I'm curious about the sound quality. Does it deliver a decent audio experience, or will I need to invest in a soundbar to really enjoy movies and gaming? Speaking of gaming, the auto game mode sounds promising—any gamers out there who can share their experiences with the performance?
Lastly, are there any potential downsides I should be aware of? I’d love to hear your thoughts before I make a decision. Thanks!
Spec
| Parameter | TCL 5-Series TV |
|---|---|
Picture |  |
Screen Size | 55 Inches |
Reference Price | |
Model Year | 2019 |
Specific Uses | Home Viewing |
Built-In Media | Stand, Remote |
Highlight | Smart functionality offers access to thousands of streaming channels featuring more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes via Roku TV Pairs 4K Ultra HD picture clarity with the contrast, color, and detail of Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR) for the most lifelike picture Product size (WxHxD) with stand: 48.4" x 30.6" x 10.0", 28.8 pounds; Product Size (WxHxD) without stand: 48.4" x 28.1" x 3.0", 28.6 pounds Inputs: 4 HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2 (one with HDMI ARC), 1 USB (media player), RF, Composite, Headphone Jack, Optical Audio Out, Ethernet Auto game mode automatically enhances performance by offering the smoothest action, lowest latency and the best picture settings for gaming |
Operating System | Roku OS |
Internet Applications | Roku TV |
Remote Control | Bluetooth |
Controller Type | amazon_alexa |
Control Method | Voice |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Display Technology | LED |
Screen Finish | Flat |
Has Color Screen | Yes |
Resolution | UHD |
Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
Viewing Angle | 170 Degrees |
HDR Format | Dolby Vision |
Backlight Setting | Dynamic |
Picture Enhancement | Dolby Vision HDR, HDR Dynamic Contrast |
Audio Channels | [Advanced Surround Sound] |
Audio Encoding | Dolby Digital Plus |
Audio Output | Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos |
Audio Input | USB, Optical, HDMI |
Speaker Description | Superior audio quality |
Speaker Output Power | 16 Watts |
Video Encoding | HEVC Main 10 |
Screen Mirroring | Miracast |
Tuner Type | ATSC |
Power Consumption | 0.49 Watts |
Line Voltage | 110 VAC 60 Hz |
Other Features | Flat |
Mount Standard | 400 x 200 mm |
Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi, HDMI |
Wireless Technology | Wi-Fi |
Usb Ports | 1 |
USB2.0 Ports | 1 |
Audio Out Ports | 1 |
HDMI Ports | 4 |
Connector Type | Composite, Headphone Jack, RF, USB, Ethernet, HDMI, Optical Audio Out |
Signal Format | Dolby Vision HDR |
Hardware Interface | USB, Ethernet, HDMI |
D x W x H | 48.4"D x 10"W x 30.6"H |
Item Weight | 28.8 Pounds |
Also, I'm curious about the sound quality. Does it deliver a decent audio experience, or will I need to invest in a soundbar to really enjoy movies and gaming? Speaking of gaming, the auto game mode sounds promising—any gamers out there who can share their experiences with the performance?
Lastly, are there any potential downsides I should be aware of? I’d love to hear your thoughts before I make a decision. Thanks!
