TCL 50S446 4-Series 4K UHD Smart TV review stunning features and performance

Description

Introduction to the TCL 50″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Google TV (50S446)

I recently had the chance to test out the TCL 50″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Google TV (50S446), and I must say, it’s been an experience worth sharing. This 2022 model promises stunning 4K resolution, seamless streaming, and the convenience of Google Assistant integration. As someone who uses tech regularly for both work and entertainment, I was curious to see how well this TV would hold up under daily use, and I wasn’t disappointed—though, like with any product, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my attention was the clean and modern design. The thin bezels and sleek black finish give the TV a premium look, making it an attractive addition to any room. At 50 inches, it strikes a balance between being large enough for an immersive viewing experience and not overwhelming smaller spaces.

The build feels solid, though at 20.7 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight, which made it easy to set up. The TV comes with a flat design, which not only saves space but also looks great whether mounted on a wall or placed on a stand. However, I noticed that the plastic construction of the stand isn’t the sturdiest—it’s functional but could feel wobbly if bumped.

Visual Performance: Stunning 4K Ultra HD and HDR

The 4K resolution on this device is nothing short of impressive. Watching content in Ultra HD offered crisp details and vibrant colors, and the 16:9 aspect ratio made movies and shows feel cinematic. The HDR (High Dynamic Range) feature stood out for its ability to deliver bright, accurate colors and improved contrast, especially noticeable during nature documentaries and action-packed sequences.

That said, I did notice that the brightness levels could falter slightly in rooms with a lot of natural light. While the colors remain vivid, the lack of an advanced panel (like OLED or QLED) slightly limits its performance in such environments.

Smart Features and Google Assistant Integration

Having the Google Assistant built-in is a game-changer for convenience. I found it incredibly useful to use voice commands to search for movies, control smart home devices, and even check the weather. Simply pressing the dedicated button on the remote activated the assistant, and it worked seamlessly every time.

The Google TV interface is another highlight. It organizes content from over 700,000 movies and shows across various apps, so everything feels interconnected. It even curates watchlists and provides recommendations based on what you’ve previously watched. I loved how easy it made finding something to watch, though the system can feel a bit overwhelming at first with so many options available.

Audio Performance and Built-In Speakers

The built-in speakers are decent for casual viewing. Dialogue is clear, and the overall sound quality is acceptable. However, audiophiles or anyone seeking an immersive sound experience might find the audio lacking in depth and bass. Pairing this TV with a soundbar or external speakers would enhance the experience significantly.

Connectivity and Streaming Options

One of the key benefits of this TV is its connectivity. With multiple HDMI inputs, I was able to connect my gaming console, streaming stick, and sound system without any hassle. It supports Wi-Fi, which ensured smooth streaming, and the advanced digital TV tuner is perfect for cord-cutters who want access to free, over-the-air HD content.

Streaming content was effortless thanks to the Google TV OS, which supports thousands of apps, including Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more. I even explored niche apps for fitness and foreign language content, which worked flawlessly.

Highlights

• 4K Ultra HD resolution provides stunning clarity.
• Built-in Google Assistant makes navigation and smart home control seamless.
• HDR support delivers vibrant, lifelike colors.
• Access to thousands of streaming apps ensures endless entertainment.

Areas for Improvement

While the TCL 50S446 has a lot going for it, there are some pitfalls that are hard to ignore.

• The stand quality feels a bit flimsy, especially for households with kids or pets.
• Brightness levels aren’t as strong in well-lit rooms, limiting the HDR performance.
• The sound quality is average and could benefit from external speakers.

Product Comparisons

When compared to Samsung’s TU7000 series or LG’s UP8000, the TCL 4-Series offers a more affordable entry point into the 4K smart TV market. The Google TV interface is arguably more intuitive than Samsung’s Tizen or LG’s webOS. However, Samsung’s panels tend to offer better brightness, while LG’s color accuracy edges out TCL’s.

On the other hand, Vizio’s V-Series is a strong competitor, providing similar features at a comparable price. The Vizio model, however, includes Dolby Vision support, which enhances HDR content significantly better than TCL’s standard HDR.

Affordable Quality

For its price point, this TV delivers excellent value for casual users and families. While it’s not perfect, the combination of 4K clarity, smart features, and a sleek design makes it a competitive option. Considering you also get access to thousands of apps, it’s hard to argue against the investment.

If you’re someone who prioritizes picture quality and smart integration but doesn’t need the absolute top-tier specs, this TV ticks most of the right boxes. It’s not just a screen—it’s a versatile hub for all your entertainment needs.

Additional information