TCL Class 4-Series TV Review: Is This Smart Roku TV the Right Fit for Your Home?

First Impressions​

The TCL 50" 4K Roku TV showcases a sleek and modern design that fits seamlessly into any living space. With its minimalist aesthetic, the television features a thin bezel that maximizes the screen area, allowing for an immersive viewing experience. The overall build quality feels solid, and its lightweight nature makes it easy to mount or move as needed. However, some users noted that the remote control design could be improved, as it feels a bit cheap and lacks certain features that might enhance usability.

Introduce​

Parameter
TCL Class 4-Series TV​
Picture​
TCLClass4-SeriesTV.jpg
Reference Price​
$320.11​
Model Year​
2021​
Specific Uses​
Home Viewing​
Built-In Media​
Stand, Power Cord, Warranty Info, Remote, Quick Start Guide​
Highlight
Easy Voice Control: Works with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to help you find movie titles, launch or change channels, even switch inputs, using just your voice. Also available through the Roku mobile app.
Stunning 4K Ultra HD: 4K resolution delivers stunning detail and a remarkable visual experience.
High Dynamic Range: HDR delivers bright and accurate colors for a lifelike viewing experience.
Thousands of Streaming Channels: Enjoy the over 500,000 movies and TV episodes available to stream plus sports, news, music, kids and family, food, science and tech, fitness, foreign language and so much more.
Simple, personalized home screen: Your favorite broadcast TV, streaming channels, gaming console and other devices are front-and-center. No more flipping through inputs or wading through complicated menus. Like apps on a smartphone, all your favorites are at your fingertips from the instant you turn it on.

System​

Parameter
TCL Class 4-Series TV​
Operating System​
Roku OS​
Internet Applications​
Roku TV​
Remote Control​
Standard​
Controller Type​
google_assistant, amazon_alexa​
Control Method​
Voice​
System Experience
Setting up the TCL Roku TV is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 15 minutes. The package includes necessary components such as TV stand legs, screws, a power cord, and a pre-paired remote control with batteries. Users must create a Roku account to access streaming services, but the setup is intuitive, allowing for easy navigation through available channels. The built-in Roku interface is user-friendly, making it a suitable choice for those new to smart TVs.

Display​

Parameter
TCL Class 4-Series TV​
Aspect Ratio​
Unknown​
Display Technology​
LED​
Screen Finish​
Flat​
Has Color Screen​
Yes​
Resolution​
UHD​
Refresh Rate​
60 Hz​
HDR Format​
HDR10, HLG​
Backlight Configuration​
Direct-Lit​
Picture Enhancement​
HDR Compatible​
Motion Enhancement​
Clear Motion Index 120​
Viewing Experience
The viewing experience on the TCL 50" 4K TV is commendable, with vibrant colors and decent picture quality, particularly when streaming 4K content. The television boasts good upscaling capabilities for lower-resolution sources, making 720p or 1080p content look more appealing. However, some users experienced viewing angle limitations, where colors and contrast diminished when viewed from the sides. Overall, the TV performs well for everyday viewing and casual gaming.

Audio​

Parameter
TCL Class 4-Series TV​
Surround Sound​
Roku TV​
Audio Encoding​
Dolby Digital Plus​
Audio Output​
Digital​
Audio Input​
RCA, Optical, HDMI
Speaker Output Power​
8 Watts​
Audio Experience
Sound quality from the built-in speakers is acceptable for casual viewing but has been described as mediocre compared to dedicated sound systems. Many users recommend utilizing the HDMI ARC port to connect a soundbar for an enhanced audio experience, as the television may not produce the booming sound that some viewers desire. While the sound is clear enough for regular programming, those seeking a more theater-like experience may want to invest in external audio solutions.

Features​

Parameter
TCL Class 4-Series TV​
Video Encoding​
AVC​
Tuner Type​
ATSC, NTSC, Clear QAM​
Voltage​
120 Volts​
Other Features​
High Dynamic Range Technology; Easy Voice Control works with Siri, Alexa, and Hey Google; Advanced Digital TV Tuner with Live TV Channel Guide​
Mount Standard​
300 x 300 mm​
D x W x H​
11.8"D x 48.7"W x 30.4"H​
Motion & Gaming
The TCL 50" 4K Roku TV is suitable for gaming, particularly with its support for HDR content and decent refresh rates. Users have reported a good gaming experience with consoles like the PS4 Pro, noting sharp visuals and responsive gameplay. However, some have mentioned concerns about the TV's networking hardware, which could lead to slower internet speeds that may affect online gaming. Overall, it serves as a solid entry-level option for gamers looking to enjoy 4K gaming without breaking the bank.

Connectivity​

Parameter
TCL Class 4-Series TV​
Connectivity Technology​
Wireless, USB, Ethernet, HDMI
Wireless Technology​
Wi-Fi​
Usb Ports​
1​
USB2.0 Ports​
1​
HDMI Ports​
4​
Connector Type​
Ethernet, HDMI
Hardware Interface​
USB​
Compatibility
This Roku TV comes equipped with multiple ports, including three HDMI inputs, a USB port, and an Ethernet port, accommodating a variety of devices. The built-in Roku functionality allows for easy access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, and features like AirPlay support add convenience for Apple device users. The ability to customize input names for easier navigation is also a nice touch. However, some users noted limitations in the Roku Media Player and the absence of Bluetooth connectivity.

User Feedback​

Pros:
• Affordable entry-level 4K TV
• Easy setup and user-friendly Roku interface
• Good picture quality with vibrant colors
• Multiple HDMI ports and USB support
• Suitable for casual gaming

Cons:
• Mediocre built-in sound quality
• Limited viewing angles affecting picture quality
• Remote control design could be improved
• Networking hardware performance may be subpar

Overall Impression:
The TCL 50" 4K Roku TV is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable entry into the world of 4K television. Its easy setup, vibrant display, and user-friendly interface make it suitable for casual viewers and first-time smart TV buyers. While it may not compare to high-end models in terms of sound and picture quality, it provides excellent value for the price, especially for streaming and casual gaming. Overall, it’s a recommended buy for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable TV experience.
 

eat_a_burrito

New member
I’ve got a problem with my Roku that I wish I’d known about before buying it. The audio goes all static-y and sounds like people are chatting underwater for like 10 minutes. If I could do it over, I’d just spend a bit more on something better!
 
We've had our TV for about 3 years now and we love it! We got it when we were living in the city, but now we're in the country and with the antenna we picked up, we still get all the local channels without a hitch.
 

NetworkingJesus

New member
Awesome picture quality! If you've got a gaming console like an Xbox or PlayStation, they look amazing on this TV. Movies and shows pop with the 4K definition. Plus, it’s built to last!
 
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