TCL 50-Inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV review with HDR features

Description

Eye-Catching Design and Build Quality

The TCL 50″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Smart Google TV – 50S446 has a sleek and minimalistic design that fits seamlessly into any modern living room. Its thin black bezels give it a clean and sophisticated appearance, making it look more expensive than it actually is. I found the flat panel design and its sturdy build reassuring, especially when setting it up on my entertainment center. The unit feels solid but isn’t overly heavy at 20.7 pounds, making it manageable to move around if needed.

The 3.3-inch depth of the screen means it doesn’t protrude much when wall-mounted, which is a definite plus for those who prefer a cleaner aesthetic. However, I noticed that the stand legs are placed quite far apart, which could be an issue for those with narrower tables. That said, the overall design is simple yet functional, and it aligns well with the price range.

Visual Performance and Picture Quality

I must say, the 4K Ultra HD resolution is the star of the show here. Watching movies and TV shows on this screen felt like a treat, with bright and accurate colors that truly brought scenes to life. For example, the High Dynamic Range (HDR) feature ensures that contrast levels are well-balanced, so you get deeper blacks and vibrant highlights. While testing it with a nature documentary, I could clearly see the intricate details in every frame, whether it was the texture of an animal’s fur or the ripples on water.

However, I did notice that the HDR performance isn’t quite as robust as what you’d find in high-end models. In very dark or extremely bright scenes, there was a slight loss of detail. But for casual viewing, it’s more than adequate. The viewing angles are also decent, though the colors can appear slightly washed out if you’re seated off to the side.

Smart Features and Usability

One of the best aspects of this TV is the Google TV interface. It’s incredibly intuitive and organizes content in a way that’s easy to navigate. With over 700,000 movies and shows available, I felt spoiled for choice. Whether it’s Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, or even live TV options like YouTube TV, everything is right at your fingertips. Using the Google Assistant built into the remote, I could simply speak commands to find a show, play music, or even control my smart home devices. Saying, “What should I watch?” gave me personalized recommendations that were surprisingly accurate.

On the downside, the interface isn’t as snappy as I hoped. Occasionally, there’s a slight lag when opening apps or switching between menus, which can be frustrating. The built-in streaming apps work well overall, but I had to wait a moment for some of them to load fully.

Sound Quality: A Mixed Bag

The built-in speakers are decent for everyday use. Listening to dialogue-heavy shows was fine, with voices coming through clearly. However, the bass is practically non-existent, and action scenes or music-heavy content lack that immersive punch. If you’re someone who enjoys a cinematic audio experience, investing in a soundbar or external speakers is a must. I hooked mine up to a soundbar, and it made a world of difference.

Key Benefits

• 4K Ultra HD resolution delivers crisp and detailed visuals.
• HDR support enhances color accuracy and realism.
• The Google TV interface is intuitive and organizes content intelligently.
• Voice control with Google Assistant adds convenience for hands-free operation.
• Access to thousands of streaming apps, catering to every genre and preference.

Shortcomings

• HDR performance isn’t as strong in extreme lighting conditions.
• The interface can lag during app navigation or menu transitions.
• Built-in speakers lack depth and bass, making external audio equipment almost necessary.
• Stand placement may not suit narrower entertainment centers.

Competing Products

When it comes to competitors, brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio come to mind. For instance, the Samsung TU8000 offers a comparable 4K resolution and similar smart features but tends to have slightly better HDR performance. However, it’s priced higher, which might not appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

The Vizio M-Series is another strong contender, boasting Dolby Vision HDR for superior color and contrast. That said, it doesn’t have the same level of integration with Google services, and its user interface isn’t as polished.

Compared to these, the TCL model excels in providing a solid balance of features at an affordable price. While it might not match the premium performance of its competitors, it offers excellent value for casual viewers who want a modern, feature-packed TV without overspending.

Value for Money

For what it offers, this TV is a smart spending choice. It’s perfect for someone who wants a large screen with 4K resolution and smart features but doesn’t need the absolute best in HDR or audio performance. The integration of Google Assistant and streaming apps makes it incredibly user-friendly, and the overall visual quality is impressive for the price range. While it does have its limitations, they feel minor when you consider how much you’re saving compared to higher-end models.

Additional information