TCL 85-Inch S5 4K UHD Smart TV review with Google TV features

Description

Stunning Display Quality that Redefines Home Entertainment

I recently had the chance to test out the TCL 85-Inch Class S5 4K UHD LED Smart TV (85S551G), and I have to admit, this thing is a beast. From the moment I powered it on, the 4K UltraHD resolution was the first thing that grabbed my attention. The level of detail it delivers is honestly jaw-dropping. Watching nature documentaries or action-packed movies felt like looking through a window rather than at a screen. The High Brightness LED backlight ensured that even in my sunlit living room, the picture remained vibrant and clear without any annoying glare.

The HDR PRO+ technology, which supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG, is no gimmick either. It delivers colors so vivid and contrast so sharp that I found myself rewinding scenes just to experience them again. Whether it’s the deep blacks in a nighttime scene or the striking reds of a sunset, the color accuracy left me genuinely impressed.

Sleek and Modern Design

I was also struck by the TV’s edge-to-edge FullView 360 bezel-less design. It’s not just a TV; it’s a statement piece for your living room. The thin black metal frame blends seamlessly into the background, giving all the attention to the incredible picture quality. Despite being massive at 85 inches, the TV doesn’t feel bulky. Its dimensions (2.87 x 74.41 x 42.87 inches) allow it to fit snugly into a modern entertainment setup. Plus, it’s surprisingly light for its size, weighing a manageable 77.38 pounds. It was relatively easy to mount on my wall with a little help.

Gaming Performance That Won Me Over

As someone who spends way too much time gaming, the Game Accelerator 120 VRR feature was a highlight for me. There’s nothing worse than input lag during a high-stakes match, and this TV handled fast-paced gameplay like a pro. The 120Hz variable refresh rate made everything buttery smooth, whether I was racing through futuristic cities or battling it out in first-person shooters. I also tested the Auto Game Mode (ALLM), which kicks in automatically to minimize input lag. Let’s just say, I had no excuses for losing to my younger sibling this time.

Audio That Matches the Stunning Visuals

It’s not just about the visuals. The audio on this TV is miles ahead of what I expected. The Dolby Atmos support creates a surround sound experience that’s genuinely immersive. You can hear when someone’s whispering behind you or when a plane is soaring overhead. The built-in subwoofer delivers deep bass, and the Enhanced Dialogue Mode is a lifesaver for those moments when characters seem to mumble under their breath. I didn’t feel the need to connect an external soundbar, which is rare for me.

Key Benefits

• Unrivaled 4K HDR clarity with vibrant colors and sharp contrasts.
• 120Hz VRR and ALLM for seamless, lag-free gaming.
• Dolby Atmos and Enhanced Dialogue Mode for a premium audio experience.
• Bezel-less design that enhances the sleek, modern aesthetic.

Areas of Concern

Not everything about this TV is perfect. While I’m over the moon with most of its features, there are some points to consider:

• The remote control feels a bit cheap compared to the premium build of the TV itself. It’s functional but lacks a luxurious feel.
• Wall mounting was easy, but the sheer size of the TV means you need a sturdy wall and a high-quality mount.
• The Google TV interface, while feature-rich, occasionally lags when switching between apps.

Product Alternatives

Naturally, I wanted to see how this TV stacks up against its peers, so I compared it to some other options. The Samsung QN90B Neo QLED is a strong competitor with its quantum dot technology, which delivers excellent brightness and color. However, it falls short in its gaming features when compared to the Game Accelerator 120 and ALLM on the TCL.

On the other hand, the Sony X90L, while offering great picture quality and a solid build, is considerably more expensive. Its audio performance didn’t quite match the Dolby Atmos on the TCL either. The LG C3 OLED is another popular choice, especially for its deep blacks and vibrant colors, but OLED panels are prone to burn-in, which isn’t an issue with the TCL LED display.

Cost Efficiency

Considering the sheer number of features packed into this TV, I’d say it offers incredible value for money. You’re getting a massive screen, advanced gaming capabilities, top-notch audio, and a design that looks like it belongs in a high-end showroom. Compared to similar TVs in its size range, the TCL feels like a smart spending choice. While it’s certainly an investment, the features make it worth every penny. If you’re looking for a centerpiece for your home theater without breaking the bank, this TV deserves serious consideration.

Additional information