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- 1 Specs
- 2 Which is better
When it comes to choosing a new TV, the battle often boils down to more than just screen size or resolution. Today, we're stacking the TCL 55S551F against the TCL 55Q681G to see if the extra cash for QLED really makes a significant difference in your viewing experience.
Both models boast 4K UltraHD resolution, so you can expect stunning detail, but the 55Q681G takes it a step further with Quantum Dot technology that promises a wider color gamut and superior vibrancy. On the other hand, the 55S551F offers enhanced colors, making it a solid contender for those who want impressive visuals without breaking the bank.
We'll also dive into their backlighting technology—while the 55S551F utilizes a high brightness LED backlight, the 55Q681G features full-array local dimming, which could mean deeper blacks and better contrast for movie nights.
So, which TV is actually worth your investment? Stick around as we dissect the specs and help you decide if the premium features of the Q681G justify the price tag over the more budget-friendly S551F.
Both models boast 4K UltraHD resolution, so you can expect stunning detail, but the 55Q681G takes it a step further with Quantum Dot technology that promises a wider color gamut and superior vibrancy. On the other hand, the 55S551F offers enhanced colors, making it a solid contender for those who want impressive visuals without breaking the bank.
We'll also dive into their backlighting technology—while the 55S551F utilizes a high brightness LED backlight, the 55Q681G features full-array local dimming, which could mean deeper blacks and better contrast for movie nights.
So, which TV is actually worth your investment? Stick around as we dissect the specs and help you decide if the premium features of the Q681G justify the price tag over the more budget-friendly S551F.
Specs
| Parameter | TCL 55S551F TV | TCL 55Q681G TV |
|---|---|---|
Picture |  |  |
Screen Size | 55 Inches | 55 |
Reference Price | $239.99 | $329.99 |
Model Year | 2024 | 2024 |
Specific Uses | Home Viewing | - |
Highlight | 4K UltraHD Resolution - Experience incredible detail with 4X the resolution of 1080p Full HDTVs. High Brightness LED Backlight - Enjoy a brilliant picture in any room. Enhanced Color - Enhanced color bringing rich, vibrant images to life. | 4K UltraHD Resolution - Experience incredible detail with 4X the resolution of 1080p Full HDTVs. QLED PRO – Quantum Dot Technology - Rich, vibrant colors covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space to bring images to life. Full Array Local Dimming - Up to 150+ zones that dynamically adapt to on-screen content for deep blacks and great contrast. |
Operating System | Linux | - |
Internet Applications | Netflix, HBO Max, Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube | Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube |
Remote Control | Bluetooth | - |
Controller Type | Voice Control | Voice Control |
Control Method | Voice | Voice |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
Display Technology | LED | QLED |
Screen Finish | Flat | Flat |
Resolution | 4K | 4K |
Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
HDR Format | HDR12, HLG, HDR10+, Dolby Vision | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG |
Maximum Brightness | - | 6E+2 Nit |
Backlight Technology | LED | LED |
Backlight Setting | direct lit | - |
Picture Enhancement | MEMC Frame Insertion | [Multiple] |
Motion Enhancement | MEMC Frame Insertion | MEMC |
Audio Channels | 5.1 or 7.1 | 5.1 |
Audio Output | [Multiple] | - |
Audio Input | HDMI | HDMI, USB |
Speaker Description | Built-in speakers with advanced audio capabilities including Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X | Built-In Speaker |
Surround Sound | Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X | Dolby Atmos |
Video Encoding | HEVC | H.264, H.265 (HEVC) |
Screen Mirroring | AirPlay 2 | - |
Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant | - |
Compatible Devices | Laptop, Gaming Console, Smartphone, Tablet | - |
Tuner Type | ATSC | ATSC |
Voltage | 1.2E+2 Volts (AC) | - |
Line Voltage | 110 VAC 60 Hz | 110 VAC 60 Hz |
Other Features | Built-In Speaker, Sleep Timer, Game Mode, Wide Color Enhancer, Bezel-Less Design | Built-In Speaker, Game Mode, Chromecast, Wide Color Enhancer, Bezel-Less Design |
D x W x H | 2.83"D x 48.27"W x 27.99"H | 2.76"D x 48.19"W x 27.95"H |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, HDMI | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, HDMI |
Bluetooth Version | 5 | - |
Wireless Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Usb Ports | 1 | 1 |
HDMI Ports | 4 | 3 |
Connector Type | HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi | - |
Signal Format | HDMI, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, ATSC, DVB | ATSC |
Which is better
| Parameter | TCL 55S551F TV | TCL 55Q681G TV |
|---|---|---|
Compare | System Experience Setting up the TCL 55S551F was incredibly straightforward, which I really appreciated. I had it mounted on the wall in no time, and the process was almost effortless. The TV automatically synced with my Amazon account, pulling in all my apps, which made the initial setup even smoother. I opted to hardwire it for internet access, but the Wi-Fi connection seemed solid as well. Overall, it felt like a breeze compared to other setups I’ve dealt with in the past. Viewing Experience Honestly, the picture quality blew me away. The colors are vibrant, and the clarity is impressive for a budget TV. It strikes a nice balance for me; it doesn’t go overboard with ultra-high-definition that can sometimes feel too sharp, and I appreciate that it maintains a natural look. Watching movies or shows feels immersive, and I love how well it handles both high-action scenes and quieter moments with equal finesse. Audio Experience Now, the sound quality is a bit of a mixed bag. While it’s decent enough for casual viewing, it left me wanting more depth, especially during action sequences. I had planned on getting a soundbar anyway, so it’s not a dealbreaker for me. But if you're looking for a robust audio experience straight out of the box, you might be a tad disappointed. Other Experience My overall experience with the TCL 55S551F has been positive, though there are some quirks I've had to adjust to. The interface can sometimes feel a bit sluggish when switching between apps, but it’s manageable. I did find the remote a bit tricky at first, especially coming from a different brand. The layout feels cluttered, and it took some time to get used to it. However, I’m gradually getting the hang of it. Conclusion Pros: One of the biggest pros for me is the price-to-performance ratio. You get a solid TV with great picture quality for under $500, which is hard to beat. It's lightweight, making installation a breeze, and the app selection is extensive. Plus, I love the smart features that come integrated—especially being able to access my favorite streaming services quickly. Cons: On the downside, the remote could definitely use some improvements. It seems a bit too sensitive and just feels awkward in my hands. Also, the auto power-off feature when paused is downright annoying. If I step away for a moment, I have to go through the hassle of restarting the show. It’s a design flaw that really impacts the user experience, especially for someone like me who often pauses things. Overall Evaluation: Overall, the TCL 55S551F is a fantastic TV for anyone on a budget who still wants quality. It has its flaws, particularly with the remote and the auto shut-off feature, but the picture quality and ease of setup more than make up for them in my opinion. If you can overlook some of its quirks, you’ll find a great value here. I’m genuinely satisfied with my purchase, and I look forward to enjoying many movie nights on it! | System Experience Setting up the TCL 55Q681G TV was a surprisingly straightforward experience for me. I had a friend help me unbox it since it’s quite hefty, and I definitely recommend that to anyone considering this model. Once it was out, I found that assembling it on the stand was simple and intuitive. Connecting it to my cable and streaming services was a breeze, which I appreciated, as I was eager to dive into my favorite shows right away. Viewing Experience Wow, the picture quality on this TV is outstanding! It really shines in bright room settings, which was a significant upgrade from my old Samsung that struggled with contrast and brightness during sunny afternoons. I find the colors so vibrant and the clarity impressive—I sometimes catch myself getting lost in the imagery. It’s delightful to watch movies and shows with such vivid detail; it feels like I’m part of the action rather than just a spectator. Audio Experience The sound quality is quite good on its own, and while I typically prefer to use a soundbar, I was pleasantly surprised by how decent it sounded without one. The audio is clear, and I didn't feel the need to crank up the volume too much, which is a nice change. The simplicity of the remote made it easy to adjust settings without fumbling around too much, which I appreciate. Other Experience I did run into a couple of snags, particularly with the automatic brightness adjustments. It can be a bit annoying at times, especially in a well-lit living room. I’ve also experienced a few moments where apps would buffer or fail to connect, which was frustrating. But overall, these minor issues didn’t overshadow the positive experiences I’ve had. The integration with my Roku soundbar and Firestick has been seamless, too, although the Firestick occasionally refuses to cooperate with powering the TV on and off. Conclusion Pros: The pros definitely outweigh the cons for me! The picture quality is stunning, it’s easy to set up, and the price point is fantastic for what you get. I love that it handles bright environments well, and the streaming apps are easy to navigate. Plus, I felt the remote was user-friendly, even with its many buttons. Cons: On the downside, I did notice the occasional buffering issue, and the automatic brightness adjustment can be quite bothersome. I also found out that it’s not the best choice for gaming due to some lag issues, but I primarily use it for movies and shows, so that hasn’t been a dealbreaker for me. Overall Evaluation In summary, the TCL 55Q681G TV has exceeded my expectations overall. It’s a fantastic value for the price, and I’m genuinely happy with my decision to purchase it. While there are a few quirks that need some getting used to, the picture quality and ease of use make it a worthwhile addition to my home entertainment setup. I’m already contemplating upgrading to a larger model for my living room because I’ve enjoyed this one so much. |
