TCL 50-Inch 4K LED Smart TV 50S450G Review Stunning HDR and Dolby Atmos

Description

Design and Build Quality: Sleek and Modern Look

The TCL 50-Inch Class S4 4K LED Smart TV stands out with its FullView metal bezel-less design, making it a stylish addition to any living room. I was immediately drawn to the edge-to-edge display, which gives it a clean, modern aesthetic. Despite its size, the TV feels surprisingly lightweight at 27 pounds, making it manageable for one person to set up. Its flat design ensures it fits snugly on a wall or a TV stand without taking up unnecessary space. The black finish adds a classic touch, blending seamlessly with a variety of home decors. While the slim design is a highlight, I did notice the build feels slightly less sturdy than some premium models, though it’s not something that affects functionality.

Picture Quality: Vibrant and Detailed Viewing Experience

The 4K Ultra HD resolution on this TV is nothing short of impressive. Watching movies or sports on this screen is an immersive experience, thanks to the HDR PRO support, which includes Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. Colors appear more vivid and lifelike, and the contrast really brings out the finer details in darker scenes. I tested it with a mix of content, from nature documentaries to fast-paced action movies, and the Motion Rate 240 technology with MEMC frame insertion ensured smooth motion with no noticeable blur. The 16:9 aspect ratio complements the viewing experience, making everything look perfectly proportioned. On the downside, the brightness levels, while decent, may not match higher-end OLED TVs, especially in ultra-bright rooms.

Audio Performance: A Step Above Average

The audio on this TV genuinely surprised me. The integration of DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos creates a surround sound experience that feels rich and layered. I tested this by playing some high-action games and music videos, and the TV speakers delivered virtualized 3D sound that filled the room. While it’s not quite on par with a dedicated soundbar or home theater system, it’s more than sufficient for casual movie nights or gaming sessions. For those who prefer private listening, the Bluetooth personal audio feature allows you to pair headphones effortlessly, which I found particularly useful during late-night binge-watching sessions.

Smart Features and User Interface: Google TV Done Right

The inclusion of Google TV Smart OS elevates this TV to more than just a screen. It’s a full-fledged entertainment hub. With access to thousands of apps, I could seamlessly switch between streaming platforms, live TV, and even games. The Google Assistant built into the voice remote made navigating incredibly smooth—I just had to ask, and it delivered. I also appreciated the Chromecast built-in, which allowed me to stream content directly from my phone without a hitch. However, I did notice the interface can lag slightly when switching between apps, especially when multiple apps are running in the background.

Gaming Capabilities: Tailored for Gamers

Gaming on this TV is a treat, thanks to the Auto Game Mode (ALLM). The moment I connected my console, the TV automatically adjusted for low input lag and latency, ensuring I had the smoothest experience possible. I tested it with a few fast-paced games, and the responsiveness was stellar. The inclusion of three HDMI inputs, one of which supports eARC, is a bonus for gamers with multiple devices. However, hardcore gamers might notice the lack of VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support, which some competitors offer.

Positives

The key benefits of this TV make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment setup.

• Outstanding 4K resolution with vibrant color accuracy and contrast.
• DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience.
• Google TV integration offering seamless access to apps and streaming services.
• Auto Game Mode for optimized gaming performance.
• Modern bezel-less design that enhances any living space.

Critiques

While the TV shines in many areas, there are areas for improvement that potential buyers should consider.

• Brightness levels could be higher for sunlit rooms.
• Occasional interface lag when navigating multiple apps.
• Build quality, while sleek, feels slightly less robust than premium models.

Competitive Options

In the world of LED and LCD TVs, there are plenty of alternatives, and this model holds its own against some noteworthy competitors. Compared to models like the Samsung Crystal UHD TV, the TCL offers superior audio performance with its Dolby Atmos integration, but it falls short in terms of brightness and overall panel quality. On the other hand, the LG NanoCell series provides slightly better color accuracy, though it comes at a higher price point and lacks the same level of integrated gaming features. One area where this TCL model excels is its Google TV interface, which feels more intuitive and responsive than certain competitors’ proprietary operating systems.

Worth Every Penny

Considering the features packed into this TV, it offers quality for the price that’s hard to beat. The 4K HDR capabilities, coupled with its gaming-friendly features and smart interface, make it an excellent mid-range option. While it doesn’t quite reach the level of flagship models, it provides a great balance of performance and affordability, making it a solid choice for families, gamers, or anyone looking to enhance their viewing experience without breaking the bank.

Additional information