TCL 40S350R 40-Inch LED Smart TV Review Roku Features and FHD Performance

Description

Sleek Design and Build

The TCL 40S350R immediately caught my eye with its bezel-less design, and I have to say, it’s a slick addition to any living room or bedroom. The edge-to-edge glass design gives it a modern and premium vibe, making it look like it should cost way more than it does. It’s also quite lightweight at just 15.72 pounds, which made it easy to set up without needing a second pair of hands. The black finish is understated yet elegant, blending seamlessly into most décor styles. I set this up in my guest room, and it almost feels like it belongs in a sleek tech showroom.

From a practical standpoint, I noticed the dimensions (3.6 x 35.7 x 20.3 inches) make it versatile for smaller spaces, like apartments or dorm rooms. While the build feels sturdy enough, the stand isn’t the most robust, so I’d recommend wall-mounting it for added safety and a cleaner look.

Performance That Surprised Me

The 1080p Full HD resolution is no joke. I streamed a couple of my favorite shows, and the clarity was impressive—details were crisp, and the colors popped without being overly saturated. The direct LED backlight ensures brightness uniformity, and I could easily watch in a well-lit room without straining my eyes. While there’s no 4K here, the dynamic contrast does a great job of enhancing the on-screen content, especially in darker scenes.

I also tried the Game Mode, and wow—it actually made a noticeable difference. The input lag was barely perceptible, allowing smoother gameplay. If you’re a casual gamer, this TV has got your back. However, for hardcore gamers who are used to 120Hz refresh rates, this might not be your ultimate choice.

Smart Features and Ease of Use

The Roku TV Smart OS deserves a medal for its simplicity. It’s intuitive, snappy, and loaded with content. I had access to 250+ live TV channels, and there were plenty of free movies and shows available. Pairing the TV with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit was straightforward. I personally used Alexa to control the TV, and it worked flawlessly—I could switch channels, adjust the volume, and even power it on/off hands-free.

Another feature I loved was Apple AirPlay2. Sharing photos and videos from my iPhone to the TV was seamless, and it added a layer of convenience for family gatherings. However, if you’re not already invested in the Apple ecosystem, this feature might not be as appealing.

Sound Quality

The built-in speakers are… decent. They’re fine for casual viewing but lack the depth and richness I was hoping for. Watching an action movie felt underwhelming as the bass wasn’t punchy enough, and the overall sound felt flat at times. I ended up connecting a soundbar via the HDMI ARC port, and it made a world of difference. If audio quality is a priority for you, I’d strongly recommend doing the same.

Good Points

• Bezel-less design gives it a premium look that’s hard to beat in this price range.
• 1080p Full HD resolution delivers sharp and vibrant visuals.
• Roku TV Smart OS is user-friendly and packed with content.
• Seamless integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
• Game Mode reduces input lag, making it an excellent choice for casual gamers.

Pitfalls

• Built-in speakers are underwhelming, especially for action-packed content.
• The stand feels a bit flimsy and might not be ideal for homes with pets or kids.
• Limited to 1080p resolution, which might not appeal to 4K enthusiasts.

Competitive Options

Looking at similar models, the Insignia 42-Inch Smart HD TV comes to mind. While it also offers a 1080p display and smart features, the design isn’t as sleek as this TCL model. Another contender, the Samsung 40-Inch Class 5 Series, boasts slightly better audio quality out of the box but comes at a higher price point. The TCL edges out with its Roku TV OS, which is miles ahead in terms of interface and content availability. If design and ease of use are priorities, this TV definitely stands out.

Bang for the Buck

For its price, this TV delivers an impressive value proposition. The combination of full HD resolution, smart features, and sleek design makes it a strong contender in the budget-friendly category. Sure, there are limitations like the audio quality and lack of 4K, but for most users, it’s more than sufficient. If you’re looking for an affordable upgrade without compromising on modern features, this TV is worth every penny.

Additional information