TCL C655 Pro QLED 4K Smart TV Detailed Review with Pros and Cons

TCL C655 Pro QLED TV Detailed Review with Pros and Cons

The TCL C655 Pro QLED TV stands as a notable option in the mid-range segment, offering an exceptional balance of advanced features, impressive picture quality, and smart capabilities. This model is designed for consumers who desire a premium viewing experience without the hefty price tag associated with high-end televisions. Leveraging Quantum Dot technology, the C655 Pro aims to deliver vibrant colors, deep contrasts, and overall immersive visual performance, making it a compelling choice for diverse viewing needs. This comprehensive review delves into every aspect of the TCL C655 Pro QLED TV, covering its specifications, features, and performance across multiple dimensions.

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Unboxing and Package Contents

Unboxing Experience

Packaging: The TCL C655 Pro arrives in a robust and well-designed box that ensures the TV and its components are well-protected during transit. The packaging is eco-friendly and features clear labeling to guide the unboxing process.
Protection: Inside, the TV is securely nestled between foam inserts and plastic coverings to prevent any damage from shocks or scratches.

Package Contents

TV Unit: The central piece of the package is, of course, the TV itself. The unit is wrapped in a protective film to guard against scratches.
Remote Control: A standard TCL remote control is included, complete with batteries. The remote features a user-friendly layout with dedicated buttons for popular streaming services.
Power Cable: The package includes a power cable, essential for powering up the TV.
Quick Start Guide: A concise and easy-to-follow quick start guide helps users set up the TV with minimal hassle.
Wall Mount Brackets: Optional wall mount brackets are included for those who prefer to mount their TV on the wall.
Stand Legs: The package also comes with stand legs, allowing users to set up the TV on a table or TV stand.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Comprehensive Packaging: Ensures all necessary components are included.
Protective Measures: Effective protection during shipping.

Cons

No HDMI Cable: Does not include an HDMI cable, which may be needed for initial setup.

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetics and Materials

Slim Bezels: The TCL C655 Pro features slim bezels, which enhance the immersive viewing experience by minimizing distractions.
Sleek Profile: The TV boasts a sleek and modern design, making it a stylish addition to any living room.
Material Quality: The build quality is commendable, with high-quality plastic and metallic accents that give it a premium look and feel.

Stand and Stability

Stand Design: The stand legs are designed to provide stability and support. They are easy to attach and offer a sturdy base for the TV.
Wall Mounting: For those who prefer wall mounting, the included brackets are robust and provide secure mounting options.

Durability

Sturdy Construction: The TV feels solid and durable, indicating a build that can withstand regular use over time.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Modern Design: Slim bezels and sleek profile enhance the aesthetic appeal.
Durable Build: High-quality materials ensure longevity.

Cons

Plastic Components: Some parts are made of plastic, which might not feel as premium as metal.

Display and Picture Quality

Display Technology

Quantum Dot Technology: The C655 Pro uses QLED (Quantum Dot) technology, which enhances color accuracy and brightness.

Resolution and Clarity

4K Ultra HD: The TV offers a 4K Ultra HD resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels), providing sharp and detailed images.
Pixel Density: High pixel density ensures that images are crisp and clear, even when viewed up close.

Color and Contrast

Wide Color Gamut: Covers over 90% of the DCI-P3 color space, resulting in vibrant and lifelike colors.
High Dynamic Range (HDR): Supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, enhancing the dynamic range and providing deeper blacks and brighter whites.
Contrast Ratio: Excellent contrast ratio due to Quantum Dot technology, which delivers deep blacks and vivid colors.

Brightness and Viewing Angles

Peak Brightness: High peak brightness makes the TV suitable for both dark rooms and bright environments.
Viewing Angles: Wide viewing angles ensure consistent picture quality from different positions in the room.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Outstanding Picture Quality: 4K resolution and Quantum Dot technology deliver vibrant and detailed images.
Comprehensive HDR Support: HDR10 and Dolby Vision enhance the viewing experience.

Cons

Calibration Required: May require calibration out of the box for optimal picture settings.

Audio Performance

Built-in Speakers

Speaker Setup: The TCL C655 Pro is equipped with built-in speakers designed to provide a clear and immersive audio experience.
Audio Quality: The audio quality is satisfactory for most viewing scenarios, with clear dialogue and decent bass response.

Audio Technology

Dolby Audio: Supports Dolby Audio, which enhances the sound quality, providing a more immersive listening experience.

External Audio Support

HDMI eARC: Supports HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) for connecting to external audio systems and soundbars.
Optical Audio Out: Provides an optical audio out port for additional audio connectivity options.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Clear Audio: Built-in speakers provide clear and immersive sound.
Dolby Audio Support: Enhances overall audio performance.

Cons

Bass Response: Bass response may not be sufficient for audiophiles or those seeking deep bass.
External Speakers Recommended: For a truly immersive audio experience, external speakers or a soundbar may be necessary.

Connectivity

Ports and Inputs

HDMI Ports: Multiple HDMI ports (HDMI1.4 & HDMI2.0 & HDMI2.1, HDCP1.4 & HDCP2.2) for connecting various devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices.
USB Ports: Includes USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports for connecting external storage devices.
Ethernet Port: For wired internet connectivity.
Optical Audio Out: For connecting to external audio systems.
RF Input: For connecting to cable or satellite TV.

Wireless Connectivity

Wi-Fi: Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless internet connectivity.
Bluetooth: Supports Bluetooth for connecting wireless peripherals such as headphones and keyboards.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Comprehensive Port Selection: Multiple HDMI and USB ports cater to various connectivity needs.
Wireless Options: Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enhance connectivity options.

Smart Features

Operating System

Android TV OS: The TCL C655 Pro runs on Android TV OS, providing a user-friendly interface and access to a wide range of apps and services.
Customizable Home Screen: Allows users to personalize their home screen with favorite apps and content.

Voice Control

Google Assistant: Integrated Google Assistant for voice commands and smart home control.
Alexa Compatibility: Compatible with Amazon Alexa for additional voice control options.

Streaming Services

Pre-installed Apps: Comes with popular streaming services pre-installed, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.
Google Play Store: Access to the Google Play Store for downloading additional apps.

Screen Mirroring

Chromecast Built-in: Integrated Chromecast for casting content from mobile devices and laptops.
AirPlay Support: Supports AirPlay for streaming from Apple devices.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Robust Smart Features: Android TV OS with extensive app support and voice control.
Easy Streaming: Access to popular streaming services and built-in Chromecast.

Cons

Interface Lag: Occasional lag in the interface, especially with multiple apps running.

Gaming Features

Performance

Refresh Rate: 120Hz refresh rate, suitable for gaming needs.
Low Input Lag: Game mode reduces input lag, providing a responsive gaming experience.

Advanced Features

Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): Supports VRR up to 144 Hz for smoother gameplay.
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Automatically switches to low latency mode when a gaming console is detected.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Responsive Gaming: Low input lag and game mode enhance gaming performance.
VRR Support: Up to 144Hz Provides smoother gameplay.

Energy Efficiency

Power Consumption

Energy-Efficient Technology: QLED technology is designed to be energy-efficient, reducing power consumption.
Eco Mode: Available eco mode further reduces power usage during operation.

Standby Power

Low Standby Consumption: The TV consumes minimal power in standby mode, helping to save energy when not in use.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Energy Efficiency: Designed to consume less power, making it environmentally friendly.
Eco Mode: Additional power-saving mode for further efficiency.

Cons

Brightness vs. Efficiency: High brightness settings may increase power consumption.

Additional Features

Casting and Mobile Connectivity

Built-in Chromecast: Allows easy casting from mobile devices and laptops.
AirPlay 2 Support: Enables streaming from Apple devices.

Voice Commands

Integrated Microphone: Built-in microphone for hands-free voice control.
Voice Assistant Compatibility: Works with Google Assistant and Alexa.

Multi-View

Multi-View Feature: Allows watching multiple sources simultaneously, enhancing multitasking.

Home Automation Integration

Smart Home Integration: Compatible with various smart home devices, enabling seamless integration into existing smart home setups.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Casting Options: Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2 support enhance connectivity.
Voice Control: Integrated microphone and voice assistant compatibility offer hands-free operation.

Cons

Complex Setup: Some additional features may require a complex setup process.

Pricing of TCL C655 Pro QLED TV

Cost

Competitive Pricing: Positioned competitively within the mid-range QLED TV market.
Value for Money: Offers a good balance of features and performance for its price.

Size Options

Multiple Sizes: Available in various screen sizes to suit different needs and budgets.
Price Variance: Pricing varies based on screen size and region.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Affordable: Offers advanced features at a reasonable price point.
Variety: Multiple size options cater to different preferences and budgets.

Cons

Price Fluctuations: Pricing may vary significantly across regions and retailers.

Summary with Overall Pros and Cons

Overall Pros

Picture Quality: Excellent with 4K resolution, Quantum Dot technology, and HDR support.
Smart Features: Robust Android TV OS with voice control and extensive app support.
Design: Modern and sleek with slim bezels.
Audio Performance: Clear and immersive sound with Dolby Audio support.
Connectivity: Comprehensive port selection and wireless options.
Energy Efficiency: Designed to be energy-efficient with eco mode.

Overall Cons

Interface Lag: Occasional lag in the smart TV interface.
Calibration Needed: May require calibration out of the box for optimal picture settings.
Plastic Components: Some parts made of plastic, which might not feel as premium as metal.
Complex Setup: Additional features may require a complex setup process.

Conclusion

The TCL C655 Pro QLED TV delivers an impressive blend of picture quality, smart features, and value for money. It stands out as a strong contender in the mid-range market, offering a high-quality viewing experience that caters to a wide range of needs, from everyday TV watching to immersive gaming. While it has some limitations, particularly in high-end gaming features, its overall performance and feature set make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a well-rounded, affordable QLED TV.