TCL 40-Inch S3 1080p LED Smart TV review with Roku features

Description

Merits of the TCL 40S350R LED Smart TV

The TCL 40-Inch S3 1080p LED Smart TV (40S350R) has been a game-changer in my living room setup. This 1080p Full HD resolution display delivers an impressive level of clarity and detail, making every movie night feel like a mini-theater experience. The FullView bezel-less design is not just aesthetic but also functional, as the edge-to-edge screen maximizes viewing space without unnecessary distractions. With a sleek black finish, it blends seamlessly into any living room or bedroom, elevating the overall vibe of the space.

The direct LED backlighting provides consistent brightness across the screen, eliminating those frustrating dark spots that some edge-lit TVs tend to suffer from. Watching shows with dynamic lighting, like crime dramas or nature documentaries, felt immersive and vivid. I also loved the dynamic contrast feature, which adjusts on-screen content for deeper blacks and brighter whites, adding a punch of realism to the visuals.

Performance in Gaming and Streaming

As someone who enjoys casual gaming, I was thrilled with the Game Mode on this TV. It lowers input lag and latency, making gameplay smooth and responsive. Whether I was racing in “Mario Kart” or battling it out in “Call of Duty,” the reduced lag made a noticeable difference. The sharpness of the 1080p resolution paired with low latency created an engaging gaming experience I didn’t expect at this price point.

For streaming, the built-in Roku TV OS was a pleasant surprise. Having access to 250+ live TV channels, along with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, right out of the box was incredibly convenient. I didn’t need an additional streaming stick or box, saving me both money and setup time. The inclusion of Apple AirPlay 2 allowed me to effortlessly share content from my iPhone, whether it was a funny TikTok video or a slideshow of vacation photos.

Good Points

• Bezel-less design gives it a modern look and maximizes screen space.
• Dynamic contrast enhances image quality with vibrant colors and deeper blacks.
• Game Mode ensures smooth, lag-free gaming sessions.
• Roku TV OS provides access to vast streaming options, including free channels.
• Direct LED backlighting offers consistent brightness across the screen.

Areas for Improvement

While the TV has a lot going for it, there are a few shortcomings worth pointing out.

• The built-in speakers, while decent for casual viewing, lack the depth and bass that audiophiles might expect. I found myself relying on an external soundbar for a fuller audio experience.
• The 1080p resolution, while great for this size, might feel limiting to users accustomed to 4K displays, especially for streaming high-resolution content.
• Switching between inputs can feel slightly sluggish at times, which may bother users who frequently toggle between consoles or streaming devices.

Competing Products

Comparing this to other TVs in the market, like the Vizio D-Series 40-inch Smart TV or the Samsung UN40N5200AFXZA, it holds its ground pretty well. The TCL 40S350R shines with its Roku OS integration and Game Mode, which the Vizio lacks. On the other hand, Samsung offers slightly better audio quality and color accuracy, but at a higher price point. Both competitors have their merits, but the TCL’s bezel-less design and value-packed feature set make it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.

True Value

What impressed me most was the cost-efficiency of this TV. It’s rare to find a product that combines a sleek design, smart features, and solid performance at such an accessible price. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of higher-end models, like 4K resolution or advanced HDR support, it delivers everything a casual viewer or gamer would need without breaking the bank.

For anyone in search of a reliable, affordable TV that doesn’t skimp on essential features, this one is hard to beat.

Additional information