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

Description

Stunning Edge-to-Edge Design

I was immediately struck by the bezel-less design of this 55-inch TCL UHD 4K TV. It’s sleek, modern, and feels like it was crafted to blend into any living space. The FullView 360 metal frame adds a touch of elegance, making it look far more expensive than it actually is. Sitting in my living room, it’s like having a piece of art that just happens to stream my favorite shows. The black finish complements almost any decor, and the slim profile is perfect for wall mounting or sitting on a console. I noticed the TV doesn’t take up excessive space, yet it somehow draws attention thanks to its premium appearance.

4K Picture Quality That Pops

I couldn’t help but marvel at the HDR PRO+ technology, which supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG. Watching nature documentaries felt like having a window to another world—colors were vibrant, and the contrast between bright and dark areas was stunningly lifelike. The High Brightness LED backlight truly shines, even in a well-lit room. This is a game-changer for those who hate closing curtains during the day just to see their screen properly. The Motion Rate 240 with MEMC frame insertion ensures buttery-smooth clarity during fast-paced scenes, which I put to the test with some high-octane action movies. The level of detail, especially at this price point, left me genuinely impressed.

Impressive Audio Features

Audio can often be the Achilles’ heel of TVs, but this one surprised me. The Dolby Atmos support delivers a rich, immersive soundstage. While I expected to use my soundbar, the DTS Virtual:X technology created an impressive 3D sound experience using just the built-in speakers. I especially loved the Enhanced Dialogue Mode, which made conversations in movies and TV shows crystal clear. No more rewinding scenes because someone whispered their lines! However, while the audio is solid for casual viewing, audiophiles might still want to invest in an external sound system for that extra oomph.

Gaming Performance for Enthusiasts

As someone who enjoys gaming, I was thrilled to test the Game Accelerator 120 VRR feature. This TV automatically switches to Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which minimizes input lag and ensures smooth gameplay. Whether I was racing through virtual streets or battling enemies in fast-paced shooters, the performance was seamless. The 120Hz refresh rate made every move feel responsive, and the vibrant colors added to the immersive experience. If you’re into gaming, this TV delivers in spades without breaking the bank.

Fire TV Integration and Smart Features

Navigating the Fire TV interface felt incredibly intuitive. With quick access to over one million movies and TV episodes, it’s like the ultimate streaming hub. Switching between apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ was effortless, and adding live TV to the mix was a breeze. Alexa’s voice control made searching for content ridiculously easy—no more typing out long movie titles. The Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility was a bonus, letting me mirror content from my iPhone directly to the TV. It’s these small conveniences that make the experience feel polished and user-friendly.

Positive Features

• Impressive 4K resolution with vibrant HDR support for lifelike visuals.
• Sleek, bezel-less design that elevates any living space.
• Dolby Atmos and Enhanced Dialogue Mode for a well-rounded audio experience.
• Game Accelerator 120 and ALLM for smooth, lag-free gaming.
• Alexa integration and Apple AirPlay 2 for seamless smart features.

Areas for Improvement

• Built-in speakers, while good, may not satisfy audiophiles looking for deeper bass.
• The interface can occasionally lag when switching between multiple apps quickly.
• The stand feels a bit plasticky compared to the high-end look of the TV itself.

Product Rivals

Comparing this to other 55-inch 4K smart TVs, I noticed a few clear distinctions. Against similarly priced models like those from Samsung and LG, the TCL S5 excels in offering advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Some competitors only support basic HDR10, which doesn’t deliver the same level of detail. While Samsung’s QLED panels might have slightly better color accuracy, they come at a much higher price. LG’s offerings often boast superior sound systems, but they lack the Game Accelerator 120 VRR feature, making this TCL model a better choice for gamers. However, TCL could improve its app navigation speed, where brands like Sony tend to shine.

Bang for the Buck

This TV delivers exceptional value for its price. You’re getting a premium 4K HDR experience, advanced gaming capabilities, and integrated Fire TV features, all wrapped in a gorgeous design. Compared to pricier models, it holds its own in terms of picture quality and smart features, making it a budget-friendly option for anyone looking to upgrade their entertainment setup. While there are minor trade-offs—like the sound system—it’s hard to argue with the overall price-to-quality ratio this TV offers. It’s a fantastic option for anyone who wants high-end features without spending a fortune.

Additional information