TCL 55S451 4K UHD HDR Smart Roku TV review for immersive streaming experience

Description

A Comprehensive Look at the TCL 55″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR LED Smart Roku TV (Model 55S451)

Design and Build Quality
The TCL 55″ Class 4-Series Smart Roku TV immediately impressed me with its sleek design. The FullView edge-to-edge glass panel is not only visually stunning but also adds a modern touch to any living room setup. It has a minimalist vibe that fits well whether you mount it on the wall or use the included stand. The thin bezels make the screen feel expansive, and the stand, while sturdy, might feel a bit wide for smaller TV stands due to the 41.5″ separation distance. At just 22.5 lbs, moving and setting it up was surprisingly easy—I managed it without breaking a sweat. The TV’s 200mm x 200mm VESA mount compatibility ensures you can easily wall-mount it if desired.

Picture Quality and Performance
The 4K UHD resolution is what truly shines here. Watching nature documentaries or action-packed movies was a visual treat. Thanks to the HDR10 and HLG technologies, the colors appear vibrant, and the contrast levels feel rich, making dark scenes immersive. Although the 60Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for hardcore gamers seeking ultra-smooth gaming performance, it works well for casual viewing and everyday use. The TV supports 1.07 billion display colors, which enhances the depth and realism of what you’re watching.

I did notice that the brightness could feel slightly muted in well-lit rooms, especially during sunny afternoons. However, tweaking the settings improved this to an extent.

Smart Features and Customization
The integration with Roku TV is seamless and intuitive. The customizable home screen is one of the best aspects of this TV—it allows me to group my apps, streaming services, and even my gaming console in a way that feels personal and efficient. With access to thousands of streaming channels, I never ran out of things to watch, from news to niche indie films.

One of my favorite features is the Roku mobile app. It transforms my phone into a remote, and the private listening option is a lifesaver during late-night binge sessions. I simply connect my headphones to my phone, and voila—no disturbing others in the house. Voice control works with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, but I found myself sticking to Alexa since it felt the most responsive.

Audio Performance
The Dolby Digital Plus audio delivered crisp and clear sound, though I’d recommend pairing the TV with a soundbar if you’re someone who craves rich bass. The 10W+10W speakers are decent but might feel underwhelming in larger rooms. I tested it with an Alto Sound Bar, and the integration was flawless, thanks to the Roku TV Ready feature.

Highlights

• 4 HDMI inputs (including 1 eARC) for connecting multiple devices.
• Dual-band WiFi ensures smooth streaming with minimal buffering.
• Live TV pause feature lets you pause antenna-based content for up to 30 minutes.
• AirPlay support makes it easy to share content from Apple devices.
• Compact remote control with shortcut buttons for quick access to popular streaming apps.

Areas for Improvement

• The 60Hz refresh rate might not appeal to those looking for smoother motion in fast-paced gaming or sports.
• Brightness levels could be better for rooms with excessive natural light.
• The remote control feels basic and doesn’t have backlit buttons, which can be inconvenient in low-light settings.
• Audio output is serviceable but lacks the depth audiophiles might seek.

Competing Products
Comparing this model to competitors like the Samsung TU7000 and LG’s UP7000 series, it holds its own in terms of affordability and features. The Samsung TU7000 offers better motion handling and slightly higher brightness levels, but it lacks the intuitive Roku interface, which I find easier to navigate. Meanwhile, the LG UP7000 has a marginally better audio system but doesn’t include private listening or as many HDMI ports. The TCL 55″ Smart TV stands out for its user-friendly Roku platform, AirPlay support, and Live TV pause feature, which are absent in many peers at this price point.

Value for Money
This TV strikes a great balance between features and affordability. While it may not cater to power users or gamers demanding top-tier specs, it’s perfect for families and casual viewers. The Roku integration, combined with solid 4K performance, makes it feel like a smart spending decision. It’s not just about the price—it’s about the value proposition you get with a product that offers customizable options, multiple connectivity features, and a reliable smart platform.

To sum it up, the TCL 55S451 is an excellent pick for anyone seeking a budget-friendly smart TV with a strong emphasis on convenience and entertainment variety. Just be mindful of its limitations in brightness and audio, and consider pairing it with complementary devices like a soundbar for a more immersive experience.

Additional information