The TCL measures about 10% brighter, but even in side-by-side comparisons you can't really tell that. Both have highly accurate colors and color temperature out of the box. I connected all three via a Monoprice 1x4 distribution amplifier and viewed them side-by-side-by-side.Īs you'd probably expect, the Vizio and TCL are very close. My intention was to give buyers an idea what they can get if they spend a bit more. The Samsung QN55Q60A is its entry-level QLED model, but 'entry-level' is different for Samsung, and the Q60 is more than twice the price of the S435. I compared the TCL 4-Series against two TVs: the Vizio V555-J and the Samsung QN55Q60A.The Vizio V555 is a direct competitor and roughly 10% more expensive. It's one of the few things that reminds you that this is a budget TV. The hard plastic buttons also feel cheap and make a cheap-sounding click. Once you get used to how easy Wi-Fi and Bluetooth remotes are (point anywhere!), IR feels like a step back. TCL's version looks similar, but feels far cheaper and depends on infrared signals - so you'll need to remember to aim it at the TV.

Myself, I've used a Roku media streamer for years and have found the small pill-shaped remotes work great. The only major difference between this and a Roku streaming device like the Roku Express 4K Plus is the remote itself. Its marriage of television and streamer frees up the number of devices you need to plug in.

If you're buying this TV because you've used Roku in the past, you'll be right at home here. Its best feature, Roku's smart TV interface, is CNET's favorite, with large icons for both streaming services and the television's various inputs. The S435 is a basic 4K TV - no fancy extras here like next-gen gaming perks, local dimming, wide color gamut or tons of light. See all photos Basic features and connections

Tcl 4 series rtings