TCL P655 4K UHD TV Detailed Review With Pros and Cons

The TCL P655 4K UHD TV is a budget-friendly television that brings a range of high-end features to consumers at an accessible price. With a 4K UHD resolution, advanced AI-powered processing, and a sleek, modern design, this TV aims to offer an immersive viewing experience without breaking the bank. This article will delve deeply into each aspect of the TCL P655, discussing its pros and cons in detail to provide a comprehensive review for potential buyers.

Introduction

The TCL P655 belongs to TCL's lineup of feature-rich 4K UHD smart TVs. TCL is known for delivering high-quality televisions at competitive prices, and the P655 is no exception. This model stands out for its inclusion of advanced picture processing, smart features powered by Google TV, and seamless integration with gaming consoles thanks to HDMI 2.1.

Key highlights:

4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160)
HDR10 support for enhanced color and contrast
AiPQ Processor for real-time optimization
Dolby Audio for immersive sound
Smart features include Google TV, Hey Google, and Chromecast built-in
Affordable pricing across all screen sizes

Unboxing and Package Contents

When unboxing the TCL P655, you’ll find the following contents:

TV Unit: Available in screen sizes ranging from 43” to 85”
Stand: Two feet for stable placement on a TV console
Remote Control: Google TV remote with voice assistant support
Power Cable
User Manual: Includes detailed instructions on setup and usage
Screws: For attaching the stand to the TV
Warranty Card

Pros:

Easy-to-assemble stand with clearly labeled parts
Remote control supports voice commands via Google Assistant

Cons:

Wall mount not included in the box, but the TV is VESA compatible

Design and Build Quality

The design of the TCL P655 is one of its most striking aspects, especially considering its price point. The TV features a metallic bezel-less design, giving it a sleek and premium look despite being a budget-friendly model. This aesthetic makes the TV look modern and stylish, seamlessly blending into various home settings.

Build Materials

Frame: Metallic, contributing to a sleek, bezel-less design that enhances the viewing experience by minimizing distractions
Back Panel: Plastic, which is common in TVs at this price range
Stand: Plastic feet provide stable support but could be more robust

Dimensions and Weight

The TV is relatively lightweight, making it easy to mount on the wall or move around if needed. The exact dimensions and weight vary depending on the size, but generally, the TV maintains a slim profile, even for the larger models.

Pros:

Slim, bezel-less design enhances the viewing area
Light and easy to install
Sturdy construction, especially with the metallic accents

Cons:

The plastic stand feels less premium compared to higher-end models
Wall mount sold separately

Display and Picture Quality

The TCL P655 offers impressive 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, providing a sharp and detailed picture across all screen sizes. This TV is packed with features aimed at improving picture quality, such as HDR10, the AiPQ Processor, and Dynamic Color Enhancement.

4K UHD Resolution

4K UHD delivers four times the pixels of Full HD, offering sharp and crisp images, even on larger screen sizes. The resolution ensures that every detail is captured, from the textures in nature documentaries to the fine details in blockbuster movies.

HDR10 Support

The P655 supports HDR10, a standard used to increase the dynamic range between dark and bright areas of the screen. This feature enhances color vibrancy and contrast, ensuring more lifelike images, particularly in high-contrast scenes.

AiPQ Processor

The AiPQ Processor uses AI-based algorithms to optimize picture quality in real-time, enhancing color, contrast, and clarity. This is especially noticeable in scenes with fast motion, as the processor adjusts the settings to minimize blurring and ensure smooth playback.

Dynamic Color Enhancement

TCL's Dynamic Color Enhancement feature automatically enhances color accuracy, offering richer and more vibrant colors. Whether you're watching a nature documentary or playing video games, this feature helps ensure that colors appear true-to-life.

Motion Clarity with MEMC

The P655 also includes MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation), which helps to reduce motion blur during fast-paced action scenes, sports, and gaming.

Viewing Angles

The TV offers wide viewing angles, meaning the picture remains consistent even when viewed from the side. This is particularly important for larger rooms or group settings where viewers may not always be seated directly in front of the screen.

Pros:

4K UHD resolution provides excellent clarity
HDR10 ensures enhanced contrast and color vibrancy
AiPQ Processor optimizes picture quality in real-time
Dynamic Color Enhancement makes colors pop

Cons:

The 60Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for fast-paced gaming

Audio Performance

The audio quality of the TCL P655 is decent for a TV at this price point. Equipped with Dolby Audio, the TV aims to provide a more immersive sound experience, especially when watching movies or playing games.

Built-in Speakers

The TV comes with dual-channel speakers that deliver clear and balanced sound. However, as with most flat-screen TVs, the bass levels can feel somewhat lacking, particularly during action scenes or music playback.

Dolby Audio

Dolby Audio technology enhances sound clarity, making dialogues crisper and delivering a more immersive experience. It also helps create a virtual surround sound environment, which can be beneficial when watching action-packed films or sports.

Sound Modes

Multiple preset sound modes allow users to customize the audio experience based on content. For example, you can switch between movie, music, and sports modes to get the best audio performance for each type of content.

Virtual Surround Sound

While the built-in speakers are adequate, the Dolby Audio enhancement helps provide a more spacious sound, giving the impression of surround sound even without external speakers.

Pros:

Dolby Audio enhances sound clarity and depth
Customizable sound modes for different types of content
Adequate volume for most room sizes

Cons:

Bass levels could be improved
External sound systems or soundbars may be needed for a more cinematic audio experience

Connectivity

The TCL P655 offers a good range of connectivity options, making it versatile and compatible with various devices. Whether you're connecting gaming consoles, sound systems, or streaming devices, the P655 is well-equipped.

HDMI 2.1 Ports

The TV features 3 HDMI 2.1 ports, which are essential for future-proofing your TV. HDMI 2.1 supports higher bandwidth, allowing for features like ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), which is particularly beneficial for gaming.

USB Ports

2 USB 2.0 ports are available for media playback or connecting external storage devices, such as hard drives and USB sticks.

Wireless Connectivity

Wi-Fi is built-in, allowing for seamless connection to the internet for streaming apps and online features.
Bluetooth connectivity enables users to wirelessly connect headphones, soundbars, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Ethernet Port

For those who prefer a wired internet connection, the TV includes an Ethernet port, providing a stable and fast connection for streaming or gaming.

AV Input and Digital Audio Output

An AV input is available for older devices such as DVD players, while an Optical Audio Output allows for high-quality audio connections to soundbars or home theater systems.

Pros:

HDMI 2.1 ports support next-gen gaming consoles
Multiple USB ports for external devices
Ethernet port for stable wired internet connection
Bluetooth for wireless audio

Cons:

Only USB 2.0 ports, no USB 3.0 for faster data transfer

Smart Features

The TCL P655 runs on Google TV, a robust platform that brings smart functionality and a vast ecosystem of apps and content to your fingertips.

Google TV Interface

Google TV offers an intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate and discover new content. The platform aggregates content from various streaming services, such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.

Voice Assistant: Hey Google

The built-in Hey Google voice assistant allows for hands-free control of the TV. You can use voice commands to search for content, control the TV settings, and even manage smart home devices.

Chromecast Built-In

The P655 also comes with Chromecast built-in, making it easy to cast content directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the TV. Whether you’re casting movies, photos, or presentations, Chromecast offers seamless functionality.

T-SCREEN

The T-SCREEN feature allows you to use your smartphone as a second screen, enabling you to mirror content or interact with the TV in real-time.

Big Memory for Massive Content

The TV is equipped with ample internal storage, allowing you to download and store a variety of apps without worrying about running out of space.

Pros:

Google TV interface is user-friendly and feature-rich
Hands-free control with Hey Google
Chromecast built-in for seamless casting from devices
Large storage capacity for apps and media

Cons:

Occasional lag when switching between apps
No support for Apple AirPlay

Gaming Features

While the TCL P655 may not be specifically marketed as a gaming TV, it comes equipped with several features that make it a solid choice for casual gamers.

Game Mode

The TV includes a Game Mode that reduces input lag, ensuring faster response times when playing fast-paced games. This mode is especially useful for gamers who value speed and responsiveness.

HDMI 2.1 and ALLM

Thanks to the HDMI 2.1 ports, the TV supports ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), automatically optimizing settings for gaming when a console is connected.

Refresh Rate

The P655 features a 60Hz native refresh rate, which is suitable for most gaming scenarios. However, hardcore gamers who prefer 120Hz or higher refresh rates might find this limiting.

Pros:

ALLM ensures low latency for gaming
HDMI 2.1 support for next-gen gaming consoles
Game Mode improves responsiveness during gameplay

Cons:

60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy competitive gamers

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers, and the TCL P655 does well in this regard. The TV is designed to consume minimal power while delivering high performance.

Energy Rating

The TCL P655 has a high energy efficiency rating, meaning it consumes less electricity compared to other models in the same class. This is particularly useful for long hours of usage, such as binge-watching or gaming sessions.

Standby Mode

In standby mode, the TV consumes very little power, ensuring that your electricity bills remain low even if the TV is left plugged in when not in use.

Auto Power Off

The TV features an Auto Power Off function, which turns off the screen after a period of inactivity to save energy.

Pros:

High energy efficiency rating
Low power consumption in standby mode
Auto Power Off feature for energy conservation

Cons:

None significant for this category

Additional Features

The TCL P655 comes with several additional features that enhance its functionality and user experience.

Parental Controls

The TV includes built-in Parental Control settings, allowing you to restrict access to specific content or limit screen time for younger viewers.

Sleep Timer

The Sleep Timer function allows you to set a specific time for the TV to automatically turn off, which can be helpful for conserving energy or setting limits on TV usage.

Voice Control

Voice commands through Hey Google make it easy to control TV functions without the need for a remote.

Pros:

Parental Controls for restricting content
Sleep Timer for automatic shutoff
Voice control for hands-free operation

Cons:

No additional advanced smart features like Apple HomeKit integration

Pricing

The TCL P655 is priced competitively, offering premium features at a mid-range price point.

Compared to other TVs with similar features, the TCL P655 offers excellent value for money. Its combination of 4K resolution, HDR support, smart features, and gaming-friendly connectivity makes it a strong contender in the mid-range TV market.

Pros:

Offers excellent value for its feature set
Affordable for a TV with premium features like HDR10, Dolby Audio, and Google TV

Summary with Overall Pros and Cons

The TCL P655 is an excellent choice for those looking for a feature-packed 4K UHD TV at an affordable price. It combines high-end features like HDR10, AiPQ Processor, Dolby Audio, and smart functionality with Google TV, making it a versatile option for both casual viewers and tech enthusiasts.

Overall Pros:

4K UHD Resolution: Delivers crisp, sharp images with excellent detail
AiPQ Processor: Enhances color, contrast, and clarity in real-time
HDR10: Adds vibrancy and depth to colors
Google TV: Offers an intuitive interface with access to a vast ecosystem of apps
Hey Google and Chromecast Built-In: Seamless smart integration for voice control and casting
Dolby Audio: Provides an immersive sound experience
HDMI 2.1: Future-proof connectivity for next-gen gaming consoles
Bezel-less Design: Sleek, modern aesthetic
Big Memory for Massive Content: Ample storage for apps and downloads
Energy Efficient: High energy rating and low standby consumption

Overall Cons:

60Hz Refresh Rate: Limits appeal for competitive gamers
Plastic Stand: Could be more robust
No Apple AirPlay: Missing integration for Apple device users
Limited Bass: Audio performance is decent but may require a soundbar for a more cinematic experience

Overall, the TCL P655 strikes an impressive balance between performance, features, and price. It's a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy 4K UHD content, smart TV features, and casual gaming without spending a fortune.