TCL 4-Series TV: Is Bigger Always Better with the 55" Model vs the 43" Compact Option?

[Stone_The_Rock]

Today, we're diving into a comparison of two identical contenders in the budget 4K TV arena: the TCL 4-Series TV. Yes, you heard that right—these two models boast the same stunning 4K Ultra HD resolution, high dynamic range for vibrant colors, and built-in Google Assistant for seamless voice control and smart features.

But let’s be real: when products are virtually identical on paper, how do you decide which one deserves a spot in your living room? Is it really just about the specs, or are there nuances in user experience, build quality, or even customer support that could sway your decision?

Join us as we dissect these two TCL 4-Series TVs, exploring not just the features, but the subtleties that could make all the difference in your viewing experience. Whether you’re a cinephile or just looking to binge-watch your favorite shows, we’ll help you figure out if these twins are truly interchangeable or if one has a secret edge over the other.

Specs Comparison​

Basic​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
Picture​	​	​
Screen Size​	43 Inches​	43 Inches​
Reference Price​	$268.64​	$268.64​
Model Year​	2021​	2021​
Specific Uses​	Home Viewing​	Home Viewing​
Operating System​	Google TV​	Google TV​
Internet Applications​	Netflix, Pandora, Hulu, Google TV, YouTube​	Netflix, Pandora, Hulu, Google TV, YouTube​
Remote Control​	Bluetooth​	Bluetooth​
Controller Type​	Remote Control​	Remote Control​
Control Method​	Remote​	Remote​
Highlight​	Stunning 4K Ultra HD: 4K resolution delivers stunning detail and remarkable visual experience. High Dynamic Range: HDR delivers bright and accurate colors for a lifelike viewing experience. Google Assistant Built-in: Your TV is more helpful than ever. Use your voice to find movies, stream apps, play music, and control the TV. Ask Google to find a specific title, search by genre, or get personalized recommendations by saying, “what should I watch?” Even get answers like sports scores, control smart home devices, and more. Press the Google Assistant button on the remote to get started.	Stunning 4K Ultra HD: 4K resolution delivers stunning detail and remarkable visual experience. High Dynamic Range: HDR delivers bright and accurate colors for a lifelike viewing experience. Google Assistant Built-in: Your TV is more helpful than ever. Use your voice to find movies, stream apps, play music, and control the TV. Ask Google to find a specific title, search by genre, or get personalized recommendations by saying, “what should I watch?” Even get answers like sports scores, control smart home devices, and more. Press the Google Assistant button on the remote to get started.

Display​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
Aspect Ratio​	16:9​	16:9​
Display Technology​	Standard LED​	Standard LED​
Screen Finish​	Flat​	Flat​
Has Color Screen​	Yes​	Yes​
Resolution​	4K​	4K​
Refresh Rate​	60 Hz​	60 Hz​
HDR Format​	HDR10, HLG​	HDR10, HLG​
Backlight Technology​	LED​	LED​
Backlight Setting​	direct_lit​	direct_lit​
Picture Enhancement​	HDR Compatible​	HDR Compatible​
Motion Enhancement​	60 Hz​	60 Hz​
Video Encoding​	HEVC (H.265) or VP9​	HEVC (H.265) or VP9​
Signal Format​	ATSC, NTSC, Clear QAM​	ATSC, NTSC, Clear QAM​
Screen Mirroring​	Chromecast Built-in​	Chromecast Built-in​

Features​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
Audio Channels​	2.1​	2.1​
Audio Encoding​	Dolby Digital Plus​	Dolby Digital Plus​
Audio Output​	Digital​	Digital​
Audio Input​	HDMI​	HDMI​
Speaker Description​	Dolby Digital Plus Audio​	Dolby Digital Plus Audio​
Surround Sound​	Dolby Digital Plus​	Dolby Digital Plus​
Compatible Devices​	Smartphone​	Smartphone​
Tuner Type​	ATSC​	ATSC​
Line Voltage​	110 VAC 60 Hz​	110 VAC 60 Hz​
Connectivity Technology​	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, HDMI​	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, HDMI​
Wireless Technology​	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi​	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi​
Usb Ports​	1​	1​
HDMI Ports​	3​	3​
Audio Out Ports​	3​	3​
Connector Type​	USB, HDMI​	USB, HDMI​
Other Features​	Flat,Voice Assisstent,Chromecast​	Flat,Voice Assisstent,Chromecast​
D x W x H​	3.3"D x 38.2"W x 22.3"H​	3.3"D x 38.2"W x 22.3"H​

Side-by-Side Comparison​

System Experience​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
System Experience	Setting up my TCL 4-Series TV was a breeze, which was a pleasant surprise. I loved that I could skip unnecessary steps that often come with other brands. The TV synced effortlessly with my Wi-Fi and accounts, and I appreciated the straightforward setup process. However, I found the need to switch the input to PC a bit cumbersome, requiring two clicks on the remote instead of one. It can be a minor annoyance, especially when I’m eager to get to work or unwind after a long day.	Setting up my TCL 4-Series TV was a breeze, which was a pleasant surprise. I loved that I could skip unnecessary steps that often come with other brands. The TV synced effortlessly with my Wi-Fi and accounts, and I appreciated the straightforward setup process. However, I found the need to switch the input to PC a bit cumbersome, requiring two clicks on the remote instead of one. It can be a minor annoyance, especially when I’m eager to get to work or unwind after a long day.

Viewing Experience​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
Viewing Experience	The picture quality on this TV is absolutely stunning. The clarity, depth of colors, and contrast levels truly enhance my viewing experience, whether I'm coding or enjoying my favorite shows. The 4K resolution is a game-changer, giving me the ability to see multiple windows clearly without needing to scale anything. However, I did have to adjust the sharpness settings to avoid that overly sharp look, which I found distracting. Once I dialed it down, everything looked just right, but it did take a little tinkering to get it there.	The picture quality on this TV is absolutely stunning. The clarity, depth of colors, and contrast levels truly enhance my viewing experience, whether I'm coding or enjoying my favorite shows. The 4K resolution is a game-changer, giving me the ability to see multiple windows clearly without needing to scale anything. However, I did have to adjust the sharpness settings to avoid that overly sharp look, which I found distracting. Once I dialed it down, everything looked just right, but it did take a little tinkering to get it there.

Audio Experience​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
Audio Experience	While the sound quality is decent, I’ve definitely found that I prefer using a soundbar for an enhanced audio experience. The TV’s built-in speakers are fine for casual watching, but when I’m really in the mood for some music or an immersive movie experience, connecting a soundbar makes all the difference. Honestly, if you’re looking for a rich audio experience, I’d recommend investing in external speakers, as the TV's sound can sometimes feel a bit flat.	While the sound quality is decent, I’ve definitely found that I prefer using a soundbar for an enhanced audio experience. The TV’s built-in speakers are fine for casual watching, but when I’m really in the mood for some music or an immersive movie experience, connecting a soundbar makes all the difference. Honestly, if you’re looking for a rich audio experience, I’d recommend investing in external speakers, as the TV's sound can sometimes feel a bit flat.

Other Experience​

Parameter	TCL 4-Series TV​	TCL 4-Series TV​
Other Experience	Overall, my experience has been mostly positive. The interface works well for me, especially since I’m not heavily reliant on the smart features. I tend to stream through my gaming console, so I don't have to deal much with Google TV. However, I can see how the interface might be a bit cluttered for someone who prefers a simpler layout. I did notice the occasional lag when navigating menus, which can be frustrating, but it’s manageable for my needs.	Overall, my experience has been mostly positive. The interface works well for me, especially since I’m not heavily reliant on the smart features. I tend to stream through my gaming console, so I don't have to deal much with Google TV. However, I can see how the interface might be a bit cluttered for someone who prefers a simpler layout. I did notice the occasional lag when navigating menus, which can be frustrating, but it’s manageable for my needs.

Our Verdict​

TCL 4-Series TV：​

Pros:
One of the biggest pros for me is the impressive picture quality combined with the 43" size—it's the perfect fit for my workspace without overwhelming the room. The affordability of this model also makes it an attractive option for anyone looking for a quality TV without breaking the bank. I also appreciate the easy setup process and how quickly it connects to my devices.

Cons:
On the downside, I have to say that the remote could use some improvement. The need to switch inputs manually can be a hassle, and I’ve heard stories of the TV not always remembering the last input, which is a minor annoyance. I’ve also experienced some issues with the software being a bit slow at times, which can disrupt the otherwise smooth experience. Additionally, the built-in audio might not meet everyone’s expectations.

Overall Evaluation:
In summary, I’m quite happy with my TCL 4-Series TV. It has met my expectations for a dual-purpose device that serves as both a TV and a computer monitor. While there are certainly some quirks to navigate, the picture and overall value make it a solid choice. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable yet high-quality display, just with the caveat to consider additional audio solutions for the best experience.

TCL 4-Series TV：​

Pros:
One of the biggest pros for me is the impressive picture quality combined with the 43" size—it's the perfect fit for my workspace without overwhelming the room. The affordability of this model also makes it an attractive option for anyone looking for a quality TV without breaking the bank. I also appreciate the easy setup process and how quickly it connects to my devices.

Cons:
On the downside, I have to say that the remote could use some improvement. The need to switch inputs manually can be a hassle, and I’ve heard stories of the TV not always remembering the last input, which is a minor annoyance. I’ve also experienced some issues with the software being a bit slow at times, which can disrupt the otherwise smooth experience. Additionally, the built-in audio might not meet everyone’s expectations.

Overall Evaluation:
In summary, I’m quite happy with my TCL 4-Series TV. It has met my expectations for a dual-purpose device that serves as both a TV and a computer monitor. While there are certainly some quirks to navigate, the picture and overall value make it a solid choice. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable yet high-quality display, just with the caveat to consider additional audio solutions for the best experience.

 

[Curtis_Baefield]

Yo, let me tell you about my new TCL 4-Series TV—it's seriously awesome! The refresh rate is on another level, making everything look super smooth and seamless. I snagged it on sale for just $450, which is a steal since it usually goes for around $800! The picture quality is incredible, and I’m just stoked about my upgrade from that tiny 32-inch screen. Huge shoutout to TCL for this gem!

 

[69Shelby1969]

So, I got my hands on the TCL 4-Series TV, and honestly, it's pretty decent. But there’s one thing that really bugs me—the audio output. Instead of the good ol' red and white cables, it’s got this output audio jack to hook up to my receiver and speakers. And let me tell you, the noise from the TV’s electromagnetic interference is super annoying. It totally messes with the listening experience, and I just wasn’t expecting it to be this underwhelming. I probably wouldn’t tell my friends to grab one of these.

 

[Trollatopoulous]

Hey, so I got this TCL 4-Series TV back in 2022, and guess what? It’s already conked out on me! The warranty’s only good for a year, so that’s a bummer. I’ve treated it like gold—never moved it, just chilling in the same spot for almost three years. Now it won’t even turn on, and we’ve tried everything to fix it. Super frustrating!

 

[jcwillia1]

So, I picked up this TCL 4-Series TV, right? Fast forward six months and—bam—the picture just goes out. I mean, I get it, it’s a budget TV shipped from who knows where; I didn’t expect it to last forever. But hey, it’s got a one-year warranty, so I figured I’d give it a shot.

I called customer service, and after what felt like an eternity on hold, I finally got through. We went through a bunch of troubleshooting stuff, and they promised to send me a return box. But then... crickets. I waited and waited, so I shot them an email. They wanted a video of the TV acting all wonky, which I sent over right away.

Fast forward again, and I follow up to see what’s up with my warranty claim. They tell me they’ll pass it along to the right team. Another couple of weeks go by with nothing. So, I call again, and the rep makes me dig the TV out of the shipping box to check if the light at the bottom’s on. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. Now she wants to send a technician to check it out.

But seriously? It’s a $200 TV! I told her I’m done with this whole mess and I’m just gonna toss it in the trash. It honestly feels like they’re playing a waiting game, hoping I’ll just give up. And you know what? Their little plan worked like a charm. We’ve wasted six hours trying to sort this out and I’ve been dealing with a broken TV for three months. I honestly wish I had just chucked it the day it died.

 

[JavierMnS]

Man, let me tell you about my experience with the TCL 4-Series TV. So, I’ve got Google TV on all my screens at home, even a Sony one that has it built right in. But wow, this TCL is a total snooze fest when it comes to how fast it reacts. I mean, you can literally count to three before the menu even thinks about moving to what you clicked on. It’s frustrating! The USPS dropped it off, and honestly, if it wasn’t such a pain to send it back to Amazon, I’d be returning it in a heartbeat. Ugh!