TCL 55-Inch S5 4K UHD LED Smart TV review with Dolby Vision

Description

Sleek Design with a Modern Touch

The TCL 55-Inch Class S5 4K UHD LED Smart TV (model 55S551G) immediately grabbed my attention with its bezel-less edge-to-edge design. It’s not just a TV; it’s a statement piece that fits seamlessly into any living room. I set it up in my family room, and the thin profile combined with the FullView 360 metal frame elevated the aesthetic of the entire space. This design doesn’t just look good—it feels premium. While assembling it, I noticed the TV is fairly lightweight at 23.15 pounds, making it easy for one person to handle. However, if you’re mounting it, you’ll want to double-check your bracket’s compatibility with the 48.19 x 27.87-inch dimensions.

Picture Quality That Pops

The 4K UltraHD resolution on this TV is no joke. Watching movies and shows on it feels like looking through a window into another world. The colors are vibrant without being oversaturated, thanks to the HDR PRO+ technology, which supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG. I tested it with everything from fast-paced action movies to serene nature documentaries, and the details were sharp and lifelike. What really stood out to me was the High Brightness LED backlight. My living room has plenty of natural light, and the screen remained crisp and clear even during the brightest parts of the day.

One night, I watched a football game, and the Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion made the motion buttery smooth. No ghosting or blurring, even during rapid camera pans. If sports and action scenes are your thing, this TV has you covered.

Gaming on Another Level

As someone who dabbles in gaming, the Game Accelerator 120 VRR feature was a dream. With up to 120Hz variable refresh rate, the gameplay felt responsive and fluid, especially during intense multiplayer matches. I noticed there was virtually no lag, which is a game-changer (pun intended) for competitive gamers. The Auto Game Mode (ALLM) is another handy feature—it automatically switches to the optimal settings for gaming as soon as I powered up my console. Whether you’re into RPGs or first-person shooters, this TV offers an experience that’s hard to beat.

Audio That Immerses You

The sound quality on this TV exceeded my expectations. The Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X support adds an immersive layer to the audio experience. I was watching a thriller, and the sound effects felt like they were coming from all around me, even though I wasn’t using external speakers. The Enhanced Dialogue Mode was another pleasant surprise. My dad, who struggles with hearing, immediately noticed how much clearer conversations sounded during shows. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference during family movie nights.

Key Benefits

• Bezel-less design makes it a stylish addition to any room.
• 4K HDR quality with Dolby Vision ensures stunning visuals.
• Game Accelerator 120 provides responsive and smooth gaming performance.
• Dolby Atmos audio delivers a cinematic sound experience.
• Enhanced Dialogue Mode improves clarity for conversations.

Areas for Improvement

While the TV is impressive, there are a few pitfalls worth mentioning.

• The built-in speakers, though good, may not suffice for audiophiles who prefer booming bass or surround sound.
• The remote control, while functional, felt a bit basic and could benefit from a more intuitive layout.
• The Google TV interface, while powerful, can sometimes feel overwhelming for those less tech-savvy.

These are minor gripes, but they’re worth considering based on your preferences and needs.

Competing Products

I’ve used competitors like the Samsung QN55Q60AAFXZA and the LG C2 OLED55 in the past, and each has its strengths. The Samsung offers Quantum Dot technology, which produces slightly punchier colors, but its price tag is notably higher. Meanwhile, the LG OLED delivers unmatched black levels and contrast due to its OLED panel, though it lacks the High Brightness LED backlight that makes the TCL stand out in well-lit rooms.

One area where the TCL clearly shines is its gaming performance, thanks to features like the Game Accelerator 120 VRR. Both Samsung and LG models in this price range don’t always include such gaming-focused features. However, if you’re an audiophile, the LG’s audio might edge out the TCL’s built-in speakers.

Bang for the Buck

This TV strikes an impressive price-to-quality ratio, making it an excellent choice for its feature set. It’s rare to find a TV that includes Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and a 120Hz refresh rate at this price point. While some competitors offer premium features like OLED or Quantum Dot technology, they often come at a significantly higher cost. If you’re looking for a balance of performance, design, and affordability, this TV delivers true value for your investment.

Overall, this TV is an excellent choice for families, gamers, and movie enthusiasts alike. Its blend of 4K HDR visuals, gaming optimizations, and immersive audio ensures it stands out in a crowded market. Whether you’re upgrading an old set or diving into smart TVs for the first time, this one is worth a serious look.

Additional information