TCL 43S405 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Roku Smart TV review for gamers and streamers

Description

Design and Build Quality: Slim and Modern Look

I have to admit, the TCL 43″ Class 4-Series 4K UHD HDR Roku Smart TV (43S405) caught my eye right out of the box. Its sleek black finish and thin bezels give it a premium feel that blends perfectly with modern decor. The TV’s 43-inch flat display strikes a balance between being large enough for immersive viewing but not overwhelming for smaller spaces. With a weight of just 16.8 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight, making the setup a breeze. I appreciated the stand’s sturdy design, though the 30-inch stand separation might make it tricky for narrower TV consoles. Wall-mounting is also a great option, thanks to the slim profile of just 2.9 inches.

The build quality, while not as robust as higher-end models, feels durable enough for everyday use. However, the matte plastic finish on the back doesn’t scream luxury—more functional than flashy, I’d say. Still, for a budget-friendly TV, it delivers a solid first impression.

Picture Quality: Vibrant 4K and HDR Performance

What really stood out to me was the crisp 4K Ultra HD resolution, paired with High Dynamic Range (HDR) support. Watching visually stunning shows or movies like nature documentaries felt almost lifelike. The contrast and color accuracy are impressive for a TV in this price range, especially when viewing vibrant scenes. Darker scenes, however, could use a bit more depth. I noticed some slight limitations in black levels, which is common in LED TVs at this tier.

The 120Hz refresh rate deserves a mention because it ensures smooth motion handling. Action movies and sports looked sharp with no noticeable motion blur, which was a pleasant surprise. Although I’m no professional gamer, the dedicated gaming mode and low input lag made my gaming sessions seamless. Firing up my console and playing games with vivid detail was a joy. HDR gaming features, combined with the resolution, added more realism to in-game environments.

Smart Features and Roku Integration

I’ve tested a fair share of smart TVs, and the Roku TV platform on this one is a standout. It’s incredibly intuitive and offers access to over 4,000 streaming channels and 450,000 movies and TV episodes. Navigating through Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube felt effortless, and the interface is clean and responsive. I particularly liked the ability to customize the home screen, pinning my most-used apps for quick access.

One feature that caught my attention was the option to program the TV to boot directly to an HDMI input instead of the Roku home screen. This made it convenient when switching between my gaming console and Fire Stick. It’s a small yet thoughtful touch for anyone juggling multiple devices.

On the downside, I did notice that loading heavier apps took a bit longer compared to pricier models. However, once the apps were running, streaming was smooth, and the built-in Wi-Fi held up well without any drops in connectivity.

Audio Performance: Decent but Not Exceptional

Audio quality is where this TV falls slightly short. The dual 8-watt speakers are fine for casual viewing, but they lack the depth and richness you’d want for a cinematic experience. Dialogue clarity is decent, but the bass feels underwhelming, especially during action-heavy scenes. I found myself reaching for the volume controls more often than I’d like.

Thankfully, the TV offers multiple audio output options, including HDMI ARC, optical audio, and a 3.5mm audio jack. I connected it to my soundbar, and it made a world of difference. For gamers and cinephiles, an external sound system is definitely recommended.

Positives

• Vibrant 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR compatibility enhances viewing.
• Roku TV interface is user-friendly, with access to thousands of channels.
• 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth motion for movies, sports, and gaming.
• Dedicated gaming mode with low input lag is great for gamers.
• Lightweight design and slim bezels add a modern aesthetic.

Weaknesses

• Audio quality is average, lacking depth and bass.
• Black levels in darker scenes could be improved.
• Loading times for certain apps can feel sluggish.
• The stand design may not fit narrower consoles.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to similar options like the Samsung TU7000 or Vizio V-Series, the TCL holds its ground well. While the Samsung model might offer slightly better black levels and contrast, it falls behind in terms of intuitive software. The Roku platform is miles ahead of Samsung’s Tizen OS in terms of usability and content availability. The Vizio V-Series, on the other hand, offers comparable picture quality but lacks the gaming-friendly features like TCL’s low input lag and dedicated mode.

The TCL also edges out competitors with its customizable startup settings and HDMI ARC support, making it a more versatile choice for those juggling multiple devices. However, if audio performance is a priority, some competing models with built-in subwoofers might be worth considering.

Value for Money

From my perspective, this TV delivers impressive value for its price point. You get a 43-inch 4K display, HDR support, and a responsive smart TV platform, all without breaking the bank. Sure, there are areas where premium models outperform it, but for anyone looking for an affordable upgrade to 4K, this TV ticks most of the boxes. Whether you’re a casual viewer, gamer, or streaming enthusiast, it’s hard to beat the cost-effectiveness this product offers.

Additional information