TCL S4500A Smart TV Detailed Review with Pros and Cons

The TCL S4500A Smart TV is a budget-friendly offering designed to cater to consumers looking for essential smart features without breaking the bank. Despite being an entry-level model, it packs a surprising array of features typically found in higher-end models, including Android TV, Instant HDR Rendering, and Dolby Audio. In this detailed review, we will delve into each aspect of the TCL S4500A, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, and offering a comprehensive evaluation of its performance.

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Unboxing and Package Contents

Unboxing the TCL S4500A Smart TV

The unboxing experience of the TCL S4500A is straightforward, reflecting its position as a budget-friendly model. The TV comes securely packaged in a sturdy box, with sufficient padding to protect it during transit.

Package Contents

Upon unboxing, you will find the following items included:

TV Unit: The TCL S4500A Smart TV itself, featuring a 32-inch display with a slim profile.
Remote Control: A standard TCL remote that is intuitive and easy to use, featuring buttons for quick access to popular apps like Netflix and YouTube.
Power Cable: A detachable power cable that can be easily replaced if needed.
User Manual: A detailed manual with instructions on how to set up and operate the TV.
Wall Mount Brackets: Depending on the retailer, wall mount brackets may be included for easy installation on your wall.

Pros:

Secure Packaging: The TV is well-protected during shipping, reducing the risk of damage.
Comprehensive Contents: All necessary items for setup are included in the box.

Cons:

No Advanced Accessories: Lacks additional accessories like HDMI cables or premium remotes, which are often included with higher-end models.

Design and Build Quality

Design Overview

The TCL S4500A boasts a sleek, modern design that belies its budget-friendly price tag. The metallic bezel-less frame gives it a premium look, making it an attractive addition to any room.

Build Quality

Despite its lightweight construction, the TCL S4500A feels sturdy and well-built. The use of high-quality plastic and metal materials ensures that the TV can withstand regular use without showing signs of wear and tear.

Stand and Mounting Options

The TV comes with two V-shaped feet that provide stable support. These feet are easy to attach and do not require any special tools. For those who prefer wall-mounting, the TV is VESA-compatible, allowing for easy installation on most wall mounts.

Dimensions and Weight

Dimensions: The TCL S4500A measures approximately 28.8 x 17.1 x 3.3 inches without the stand, and 28.8 x 18.9 x 7.1 inches with the stand attached.
Weight: The TV weighs around 8.6 pounds, making it easy to handle during setup.

Pros:

Premium Design: The metallic bezel-less design gives the TV a high-end appearance.
Lightweight and Sturdy: Easy to handle during setup, yet durable enough for long-term use.
Versatile Mounting: Compatible with both stand and wall-mount installations.

Cons:

Basic Stand Design: The stand is functional but lacks the adjustability found in more expensive models.

Display and Picture Quality

Screen Technology

The TCL S4500A features a 32-inch LED display with HD resolution (1366 x 768 pixels). While it may not offer the 4K resolution seen in premium models, it provides clear and vibrant visuals that are more than adequate for everyday viewing.

Instant HDR Rendering

One of the standout features of this TV is its Instant HDR Rendering capability. This technology enhances the contrast and color range of the content, making HDR-compatible videos look more dynamic and lifelike. Even non-HDR content benefits from this feature, as the TV automatically adjusts brightness and contrast levels to improve the overall picture quality.

Ai-CLARITY Technology

To further enhance the viewing experience, the TCL S4500A is equipped with Ai-CLARITY technology. This feature works to sharpen images and reduce noise, resulting in clearer and more detailed visuals. Whether you’re watching a fast-paced action movie or a scenic nature documentary, Ai-CLARITY ensures that every detail is brought to life.

Multiple Viewing Modes

The TV offers several viewing modes tailored to different types of content. These include:

Standard: Balanced settings for everyday use.
Dynamic: Enhanced brightness and contrast for vivid images.
Movie: Softer settings optimized for dark room viewing.
Game: Reduced input lag and optimized color settings for gaming.
Sports: Enhanced motion clarity for fast-paced sports action.

Color Accuracy and Contrast

The TV covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, providing a wide range of colors that are accurate and natural-looking. The contrast ratio is also impressive for a TV in this price range, offering deep blacks and bright whites that enhance the overall viewing experience.

Viewing Angles and Anti-Glare

The TCL S4500A offers good viewing angles, with minimal color distortion when viewed from the sides. Additionally, the screen has an anti-glare coating, making it suitable for rooms with a lot of ambient light.

Pros:

Instant HDR Rendering: Improves the quality of both HDR and non-HDR content.
Ai-CLARITY: Enhances image sharpness and reduces noise.
Multiple Viewing Modes: Offers versatile settings for different types of content.
Good Color Accuracy: Covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color gamut.

Cons:

Resolution Limitations: The HD resolution may not satisfy viewers accustomed to 4K content.
No Local Dimming: The lack of local dimming may result in less precise contrast control in darker scenes.

Audio Performance

Built-in Speakers

The TCL S4500A comes with built-in stereo speakers that deliver a total output of 2 x 5W. While this may not rival the sound quality of a dedicated sound system, it is sufficient for casual viewing in small to medium-sized rooms.

Dolby Audio

To enhance the audio experience, the TV supports Dolby Audio technology. This provides clearer dialogue, richer bass, and an overall more immersive sound experience. Whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music, or playing a game, Dolby Audio ensures that the sound is well-balanced and enjoyable.

Sound Modes

The TV offers several sound modes that allow you to tailor the audio settings to your preference. These include:

Standard: Balanced audio settings for general use.
Music: Enhanced bass and treble for music playback.
Movie: Cinematic sound settings with enhanced dialogue clarity.
Voice: Optimized for clear dialogue in TV shows and news programs.
Game: Audio settings designed to enhance the gaming experience.

Audio Output and Connectivity

For those who want to connect external sound systems, the TCL S4500A offers an optical digital audio out port. This allows you to connect the TV to a soundbar or home theater system for an even better audio experience.

Pros:

Dolby Audio Support: Provides clear and immersive sound.
Multiple Sound Modes: Allows for customization based on content type.
Optical Audio Output: Easy connection to external sound systems.

Cons:

Limited Speaker Power: The built-in speakers may not be sufficient for larger rooms.
No Bluetooth Audio: Lacks the ability to connect wireless audio devices.

Connectivity

HDMI and USB Ports

The TCL S4500A is equipped with two HDMI ports, allowing you to connect multiple devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. Additionally, it features a USB port for media playback from external drives.

AV Input and Audio Output

For older devices, the TV includes a composite AV input, making it compatible with legacy equipment such as DVD players and VCRs. The optical digital audio output allows for connection to soundbars and other external audio systems.

Wi-Fi and Ethernet Connectivity

The TCL S4500A supports both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, providing flexibility in how you connect to the internet. The built-in Wi-Fi is sufficient for streaming content, but if you prefer a more stable connection, the Ethernet port allows for a wired connection.

T-SCREEN

The T-SCREEN feature enables easy screen mirroring from your smartphone or tablet. This allows you to share photos, videos, and even games directly on the TV screen, enhancing the versatility of the TV.

Pros:

Multiple HDMI and USB Ports: Supports multiple devices for a versatile setup.
Wi-Fi and Ethernet: Provides flexible internet connectivity options.
T-SCREEN: Easy screen mirroring from mobile devices.

Cons:

Limited HDMI Ports: With only two HDMI ports, you may need to use an HDMI switch if you have multiple devices.
No Bluetooth Support: Lacks the ability to connect wireless audio devices or peripherals.

Smart Features

Operating System

The TCL S4500A runs on Android TV, providing access to a wide range of apps through the Google Play Store. This includes popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+, as well as games, productivity apps, and more.

Pre-installed Apps

The TV comes with several pre-installed apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and Google Play Movies & TV. These apps are easily accessible through the home screen, allowing you to start streaming content right out of the box.

Voice Control and Google Assistant

While the TCL S4500A does not come with built-in voice control, it is compatible with Google Assistant. By using a Google Assistant-enabled device, you can control the TV with your voice, including turning it on or off, adjusting the volume, and launching apps.

Web Browser

The TV includes a basic web browser, allowing you to surf the internet directly on the big screen. While it may not be as fast or feature-rich as a desktop browser, it’s sufficient for casual browsing.

App Store and Updates

With access to the Google Play Store, you can download additional apps and games to customize your TV experience. The TV also supports automatic software updates, ensuring that you always have access to the latest features and security patches.

Pros:

Android TV OS: Provides access to a wide range of apps and services.
Google Assistant Compatibility: Allows for voice control through external devices.
T-SCREEN: Enhances the versatility of the TV with easy screen mirroring.

Cons:

No Built-in Voice Control: Requires an external device for voice commands.
Basic Web Browser: Limited functionality compared to desktop or mobile browsers.

Gaming Features

Gaming Performance

The TCL S4500A is not specifically designed as a gaming TV, but it offers features that make it suitable for casual gaming. The 60Hz refresh rate provides smooth motion, and the relatively low input lag ensures a responsive gaming experience.

Instant HDR Rendering

For gamers who play HDR-compatible titles, the Instant HDR Rendering feature enhances the visual quality of games by providing better contrast and more vibrant colors. This makes for a more immersive gaming experience, especially in visually demanding games.

Gaming Modes

The TV includes a dedicated gaming mode that optimizes the picture settings for gaming. This mode reduces input lag and adjusts the color settings to provide better visibility in dark scenes.

Connectivity for Gaming Consoles

With two HDMI ports, the TCL S4500A can easily accommodate a gaming console and another device such as a Blu-ray player or streaming box. However, gamers with multiple consoles may find the limited number of HDMI ports restrictive.

Pros:

Low Input Lag: Provides a responsive gaming experience.
Instant HDR Rendering: Enhances the visual quality of HDR games.
Gaming Mode: Optimizes picture settings for a better gaming experience.

Cons:

Limited HDMI Ports: May require an HDMI switch for multiple gaming devices.
No Advanced Gaming Features: Lacks features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM) found in higher-end gaming TVs.

Energy Efficiency

Energy Rating

The TCL S4500A is designed with energy efficiency in mind, making it a cost-effective choice for long-term use. The TV has a good energy rating, ensuring that it consumes minimal power during operation.

Power Consumption

Normal Operation: The TV consumes approximately 50-60 watts during normal use, which is low compared to larger and more feature-rich models.
Standby Mode: In standby mode, the TV consumes less than 0.5 watts, further contributing to its energy efficiency.

Eco Mode

The TCL S4500A includes an Eco Mode that reduces power consumption by adjusting the brightness and contrast levels. This mode is ideal for those who want to minimize their energy usage without significantly impacting picture quality.

Pros:

Low Power Consumption: Cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Eco Mode: Reduces energy usage for even greater efficiency.
Good Energy Rating: Ensures minimal impact on your electricity bill.

Cons:

Limited Advanced Energy-Saving Features: Lacks features like automatic brightness adjustment based on room lighting.

Additional Features

Parental Controls

The TCL S4500A includes parental control features that allow you to restrict access to certain content. This is especially useful for families with young children, ensuring that they only have access to age-appropriate content.

Sleep Timer

The TV comes with a sleep timer feature that allows you to set a specific time for the TV to turn off automatically. This is a handy feature for those who like to fall asleep while watching TV.

Electronic Program Guide (EPG)

The Electronic Program Guide provides an easy way to browse through TV schedules and find upcoming shows. This feature is particularly useful for those who still watch live TV.

T-SCREEN

As mentioned earlier, the T-SCREEN feature allows for easy screen mirroring from your smartphone or tablet. This adds to the versatility of the TV, allowing you to share content directly from your mobile devices.

Pros:

Parental Controls: Helps keep content appropriate for younger viewers.
Sleep Timer: Convenient for those who watch TV before bed.
T-SCREEN: Enhances the TV's versatility with screen mirroring capabilities.

Cons:

Limited Additional Features: While it covers the basics, the TV lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, such as voice control and smart home integration.

Pricing Overview

Affordability

The TCL S4500A is positioned as a budget-friendly smart TV, making it an attractive option for consumers who want essential smart features without spending a lot of money. Its affordability does not come at the cost of quality, as the TV offers good performance in key areas like picture quality and smart features.

Value for Money

Considering the features it offers, the TCL S4500A provides excellent value for money. While it may not have the advanced features of more expensive models, it delivers solid performance in areas that matter most to everyday users.

Pros:

Budget-Friendly: Affordable price without compromising on essential features.
Good Value: Offers a lot of features for the price, making it a cost-effective choice.

Cons:

Limited Premium Features: Some users may find the lack of advanced features a drawback, especially if they are accustomed to higher-end models.

Summary with Overall Pros and Cons

Overall Pros:

Affordable Price: The TCL S4500A is one of the most budget-friendly smart TVs on the market, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Good Picture Quality: Instant HDR Rendering and Ai-CLARITY technology enhance the visual experience, delivering vibrant and sharp images.
Android TV OS: Access to the Google Play Store and a wide range of apps, along with regular software updates, ensures that the TV remains up-to-date.
Dolby Audio: Provides clear and immersive sound, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Energy Efficient: Low power consumption makes it a cost-effective choice for long-term use.
T-SCREEN and Connectivity Options: The TV offers good connectivity options, including T-SCREEN for screen mirroring, making it versatile for various use cases.

Overall Cons:

Limited Advanced Features: The TV lacks advanced features such as 4K resolution, local dimming, and advanced gaming features like VRR and ALLM.
Basic Audio Performance: While Dolby Audio enhances sound quality, the built-in speakers may not be sufficient for larger rooms or those looking for a more robust audio experience.
No Bluetooth Support: The absence of Bluetooth limits the ability to connect wireless audio devices.
Limited HDMI Ports: With only two HDMI ports, users with multiple devices may need to invest in an HDMI switch.

Conclusion

The TCL S4500A Smart TV is a well-rounded option for those looking for a budget-friendly smart TV with essential features. While it may not offer the advanced capabilities of higher-end models, it excels in providing a solid viewing experience with good picture and sound quality, thanks to features like Instant HDR Rendering, Ai-CLARITY, and Dolby Audio. The Android TV operating system ensures access to a wide range of apps and services, making it a versatile addition to any home.

For budget-conscious consumers, the TCL S4500A offers great value for money, delivering reliable performance without breaking the bank. Its design, build quality, and energy efficiency further add to its appeal, making it a smart choice for those seeking an affordable yet capable smart TV.