TCL vs Samsung Tv, which one is the best? Samsung comes with many options and in most cases is best for gaming. They include several gaming features, comes with a native refresh rate of 120Hz. Being one of the leading brands in the TV market, you can easily trust them. They also have an overall decent build quality.
You can also choose the new NEO QLEDs models which focus on each TV issue, like local dimming, color, sound, view angle, and gaming. Between TCL vs Samsung, Samsung is costlier than TCL and comes with a wide range of different designs from which you can choose.
Both the TV brands produce 4k and 8k TVs. Samsung has the tendency to allow the TV to blend with your interior and with updated and newer models Samsung tries to improve things like view angle. The mini-LED technology is used by both these brands.
This increases contrast of blacks and overall color representation. The 8k models or Samsung ‘specially designed’ models will definitely have high price but that is compensated by their fine work.
What to look for before buying a TV?
Image quality
Picture quality is the first and foremost factor to look into while choosing a TV. TVs with high color contrast along with local dimming improves color contrast vastly. TVs should support at least Dolby Vision or HDR 10+ along with HDR 10 and HLG.
Broader color gamut ensures several color representations with accuracy. QLEDS TVs are good choice along with AI processing and upscaling. For some user’s view angle is important as they always watch in group, in that case the TV should have wide view angle. Brightness is another major issue in picture quality. ideal brightness is close to 1000 nits.
TV speakers
TV speakers will not be as good as a dedicated soundbar. However, some TV brands have 2.2 or 2.2.2 channels with high power output compared to others. The woofer helps to produce little but some amount of bass.
TVs use different sound enhancement features like TCL supports Dolby Atmos passthrough, Samsung has Object Tracking Sound+ and Active Voice Amplifier to increase the vocals incase the surrounding is noisy.
While TVs with woofer and Dolby Atmos along with high SPL are a step ahead towards better audio, you can always have home theater experience with an affordable soundbar.
Smart OS
Different TV brand use different Smart OS. Samsung uses Tizen, TCL uses Roku or Android, Vizio uses SmartCast and so on. While most of the Smart OS are continuously adding apps which they previously lacked or changing user interface, you need to look for the one you with faster user interface.
This means the time needed between clicking an app (YouTube) and the time it takes to open. Or, the time needed to switch between apps, or select modes. The overall user interface navigation, app selection and usage should be faster. Sony X950H, Samsung Q80T, and Samsung Q90T all of the Samsung TVs use Tizen as Smart OS.
Consumers often like the Chromecast built-in because even if the OS doesn’t have some apps you can always cast it via your phone. Samsung uses Screen Mirroring which allows casting from your phone.
Gaming features
This is another crucial part while choosing a TV set. Because, TV sets is a prime choice among casual gamers to hard-core gamer. For new-gamers, a standard TV with lower input lag and faster response time is enough. If it supports native refresh rate of 120 Hz, then it is a plus point. Also find out abou the Differences Between TV and Monitor: Gaming vs Streaming
On the other hand, if you are a hardcore game and want a compatible TV for PS5 or Xbox, then it should support 4K@60 Hz, 4k@120 Hz or even 8k@ 60 Hz. Another factor is, it should support HDMI 2.1 along with other advanced gaming features to minimize screen tearing, stuttering and juddering.
Screen Size
Screen size might seem an ordinary factor but it plays huge role. You can’t simply place a small screen of 43” on a large room and sit far away. For small rooms the screen size should be 43” to 50” or 55”. For large rooms, 65” or above is a good choice. Learn Which one Should you Buy–55 or 65 Inches TV?
The problem is, not all TV series or brands have several TV screen options. For instance if you have a small room and you want to choose the TCL 6 series, then you will not have to option to choose 43” or 49” TV.
Design
For standard users who simply want a well-built TV, a sleek and slim TV with slim bezels will satisfy them. For aesthetics-enthusiasts, they might want to look for something exceptional then they can use the Samung Frame. In that way, they don’t have to look at a boring black box.
Other manufacturers like Philips comes with a very different and attractive model known as Ambilight. This Ambilight in Philips TV produces light in three different sides of the TV, the top and other two sides.
View angle
TCL or Vizio uses VA panels and so they have a poor view angle. This might not be a huge issue for you, but if you have a large family and often have get togethers to have movie night or watch sports, then a wide view angle is must.
Samsung uses Ultra View Angle to improve it and then you need to search for a TV with broad view angle.
Motion
Motion is already lightly discussed in the ‘Gaming’ factor. This motion is also important if you are watching fast-moving action movies, games, and sports. The TV should have low input and support Black Frame Insertion to minimize blurring further.
It should have a 360Hz or higher PWM frequency. The screen tearing and judder should be removed.
Voice search
We aren’t always in the mood to search with the remote. If you want more flexibility in your control options, then you should look for a TV remote that has built-in voice assistant. Like Samsung has Bixby or TCL has Roku.
However, it is best it hey have built-in Google Assistant or support Alexa because they can be used for wide range of options. You can ask the assistant for a nearby restaurant, sports score or corona update.
Quality
There are some TVs that have unsteady feet. So with a little nudge or force, then become unsteady. the TV feet should be strong and hold the TV firmly without any issues. Then, even if the TV is entirely made out of plastic, it should of good quality. a mixture of metal and plastic will be a good choice. Samsung 6 series and 7 series TVs have great build-quality.
The thickness is another issue when you place it on tabletop or when you wall mount it. It should come with cable management feature which a must nowadays to avoid messy wires.
Unique Features of TCL
- Mini-LED backlight technology enhances color contrast
- Uses AiPQ Engine which focuses on sharpness and clarity
- HDR compatibility of TCL is mostly limited in HDR 10. Moreover, HLG and Dolby Vision but 8k models support HDR 10+ as well.
- The 2020 models like TCL 6 series comes with THX certified game mode
- Quantum Dot Color ensures broader color gamut
- The latest models come with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos passthrough
- Roku remote is compatible with different voice assistants
- Models like 8k X915 TV uses IMAX ® Enhanced certified TV-X915 that basically improves audio and visual features.
- Other available features are Pop-up camera for video chat, TCL AI-IN for searching
- TCL comes with two Smart OS: Roku and Android
Unique Features of Samsung
- New NEO QLED comes with Quantum Matrix Technology Pro and mini-LED control zones
- Supports advanced gaming features including 120Hz native refresh rate, HDMI 2.1, FreeSync, G-Sync, VRR.
- Ambient Mode + helps the TV to blend with the surroundings
- Supports Quantum HDR 12x or 32x which varies model to model to ensure color accuracy
- Features like Anti-Reflection and Ultra View Angle helps to reduce glare and widen view at an angle
- Samsung continuously improves the processor from Quantum Processor 4k to Neo Quantum Processor 8K. These are powerful in terms of picture processing, upscaling, etc.
- Unlike TCL, Samsung uses Tizen in all TV models but each year it gets better.
- It uses gaming features like Motion Xcelerator Turbo+, Real Game Enhancer+™, Super Ultrawide GameView & Game Bar
- To improve sound, it uses SpaceFit Sound, Active Voice Amplifier (AVA), Object Tracking Sound+.
- New models come with sleekest design like Infinity One Design and Samsung NeoSlim Design
TCL vs Samsung: Product review
TCL 4 series 55S425 TV vs Samsung 55” RU8000 : 2019 models
Shape and material
TCL 4 series 2019 TV has an average-looking design. It has V-shaped legs but it becomes unsteady with slight force. The rear top part is made of metal and other parts are made of plastic. It has slim bezels but is slightly thicker compared to other TVs.
Samsung RU8000 has thinner bezels and is thicker compared to TCL 4 series. it is made of plastic and stays firm on the stand. It doesn’t become unsteady and you can mount it on the wall. Both these models have an average build quality without any major issues.
Comparing Samsung vs TCL screen sizes, the Samsung offers the larger82” with which you can enjoy movies in a home theater.
Picture representation
Between TCL 4k vs Samsung 4k TV, Samsung has relatively better picture quality. TCL uses 4k Creative Pro upscaling engine to upscale images and the upscaling is decent. However, it only supports HDR 10 and doesn’t have wide color gamut. The SDR and HDR brightness is poor and you can use them in less-illuminated rooms.
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Samsung SDR/HDR brightness is better than TCL 4 series and while the SDR brightness value is good, the HDR should be improved. Another difference between TCL TV vs Samsung TV is that, Samsung Ru8000 uses Dynamic Crystal Color and has wide color gamut but TCL S425 TV has a mediocre range.
With Samsung, the images are bright, vibrant and detailed even in dark scenes. They both uses VA panels so they have poor view angle but Samsung is slightly better than TCL. TCL shines in terms of color contrast and shows an average performance. Samsung RU8000, being a non-QLED shows excellent performance with high color contrast.
The Ultra Slim Array of Samsung ensures darkest blacks and purest whites. Between TCL vs Samsung motion handling, Samsung outperforms TCL. It is ideal for watching sports or gaming. They both can react faster in gaming commands but input lag of Samsung is slightly higher than TCL.
Samsung uses Real Game Enhancer to minimize stuttering, it supports VRR, FreeSync and ALLM. TCL doesn’t support these features but with minimum input lag, is shows average performance in gaming scenes.
If you compare between TCL 6 series vs Samsung 8 series, the 6 series 2020 seems to have better picture quality. Overall, the TCL 4 series S425TV is the best affordable 4k TV whereas, the Samsung RU8000 TV is best for picture quality.
Looking into other models and comparing TCL 8 series vs Samsung Q80, the Samsung Q80R has better image representation, broader view angle and advanced gaming features. The TCL Q825 is decent and has outstanding contrast ratio.
Speakers
Comparing TCL vs Samsung sound quality, they both have 2 channels but Samsung speakers are slightly powerful and can get lower than TCL. The loudness of Samsung is very good but TCL falls behind. None of them supports Dolby Atmos nor they have any woofer.
The major things like dialogues and vocals are produced with clarity. to improve the sound, you can add a soundbar.
Other features
TCL 55S425
- AV Input: Composite Video + L&R Audio In,
- Audio Output (RCA): No,
- VGA: No,
- RF Input (NTSC, ATSC): 1
- Ethernet: 1, USB: 1 USB2.0,
- HDMI: 3 HDMI 2.0 w/HDCP 2.2 (1 ARC),
- SPDIF Digital Audio Optical: 1
- Audio Output Headphone: 1
- YPbPr (Component Video) Input: No
- OS: Roku 9.0
- Remote control: Roku TV RC282
Samsung RU8000
- 4 HDMI, 2 USB, Ethernet, 1 Terrestial/RF, 1 Digital Audio Out, Audio Return Arc Support,
- RS232C: 1
- OS: Tizen 2019
- Remote control: TM1950A
between TCL vs Samsung Smart TV, Samsung uses Tizen whereas TCL comes with Roku TV. Roku TV is known to be the kind of all Smart OS platforms because it is user-friendly, easy to use, easy-to-navigate, and having flexibility in the number of apps.
Tizen is also very good and supports all major apps including Apple TV but it doesn’t have Freeview Play. Samsung has an advantage where you can search content with voice search, TCL doesn’t have this option. But overall, Roku is the clear winner.
They both have a small remote with a minimalist design. Roku TV remote comes with only 20 buttons with different colored buttons. The Roku TV remote has 4 dedicated buttons for Sling, Hulu, Netflix, and NOW. Samsung comes with 3 dedicated buttons for Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
Pros of TCL S425
- Affordable
- Excellent color contrast
- Faster response time
- Good upscaling
- Good reflection handling
Cons of TCL S425
- Poor brightness
Pros of Samsung RU8000
- Excellent picture quality
- Decent brightness
- Broad color volume
- Excellent support handling
- Supports VRR, FreeSync, ALLM
- Supports Bixby, Google Assistant, Alexa
Cons of Samsung RU8000
- No Dolby Vision
TCL 5 series 50S535 TV vs Samsung The Frame QN50LS03TAFXZA TV: 2020 models
Shape and material
TCL 5 series 2020 has thin bezels and looks quite standard. The top part is made of metal and others are made of plastic. It sits on a V-shaped reveetup without multiple wires.
The TV has built-in Motion Sensor which can realize when you walk into the room and then it will pop-up selected wallpapers. With 55” and 65” TV screen, you can buy the studio stand separately.
Picture representation
Between TCL vs Samsung picture quality, both these models use Artificial Intelligence in their processing. The difference between 4 series and 5 series TCL is that the TCL 5 has better contrast, brightness and color gamut.
TCL 5 uses AiPQ in picture processing. It uses Smart HDR, Smart 4K Upscaling and Smart Contrast to enhance the image quality. the Quantum Dot technology delivers broad color gamut which is higher than the Samsung The Frame.
Overall, TCL 5 series 2020 has excellent color contrast dues to control zones, wide color gamut and native color contrast. However, the brightness is a major issue for this model. With such low brightness level, the colors don’t quite reveal themselves. The upscaling of this model is decent.
The SDR and HDR brightness doesn’t exceed the standard value of 365 and 650 respectively. Samsung The Frame has excellent color contrast and wide color volume. It uses Quantum processor 4k AI for upscaling and the result is crystal clear and crisp images. The brightness is decent but not outstanding.
Usually QLED TVs can deliver brightness up to thousand nits but this model lacks this feature. As a result, objects in shadow or dark areas will not be so clear. The color accuracy of TCL is better than Samsung. Both these models have poor view angle and decent reflection handling.
Comparing TCL Roku TV vs Samsung, the Samsung is slightly better than TCL. With 60 Hz refresh rate, the motion processing will not be as better as 120Hz. It supports ALLM but doesn’t have VRR or FreeSync. Even so, you can easily get impressive performance in gaming.
This is due to faster response time, low input lag and broader color gamut. Auto Game Mode improves gaming. Samsung also has good response time and lag time. Furthermore, it uses VRR, FreeSync and ALLM. The fast-moving scenes look crispier and smooth. Also Read Which Monitor is Good for Xbox Series X
Speakers
TCL speakers is similar to that of TCL 4 series 2019. They deliver average sound quality with little bass. The dialogues are crystal and it is the best to use a soundbar. For Samsung, The Frame also sounds mediocre. CHeckout these Samsung Soundbars for better sound performance.
But the sound is slightly more powerful than The TCL and it can get very low in the low-frequency compared to the TCL. These models can get loud enough to use in large rooms or noisy environments.
Other features
TCL 50S535
- AV Input: Composite Video + L&R Audio In,
- Audio Output (RCA): No,
- VGA: No,
- RF Input (NTSC, ATSC): 1
- Ethernet: 1, USB: 1 USB2.0,
- HDMI: 3 HDMI 2.0 w/HDCP 2.2 (1 ARC),
- SPDIF Digital Audio Optical: 1
- Audio Output Headphone: 1
- YPbPr (Component Video) Input: No
- OS: Roku 9.0
- Remote control: Roku TV RC282
Samsung The Frame
- 4 HDMI, 2 USB, Ethernet, 1 Terrestial/RF, 1 Digital Audio Out, Audio Return Arc Support,
- RS232C: 1
- OS: Tizen 2019
- Remote control : TM1950A
What makes the TCL 5 series so appealing is the affordable cost. Comparing TCL vs Samsung 4k TV, the TCL 5 series costs around half of that of Samsung The Frame. Another plus point is the Roku Smart OS. It has apps like Netflix, Hulu, Sling TV and Amazon, Pluto.tv, tubi, Crackle, and others, streaming services like Peacock, HBO Max, Disney Plus, and Apple TV Plus.
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You can watch the Roku Channel and it works with Roku Assistant, Google Assistant and Alexa. The remote control looks like the previous models and it doesn’t have a voice control. You need to use the app to use a voice assistant. Tizen is very good as a Smart OS but Roku is better.
Tizen user interface comes with customizable apps in the rows where you can choose your favorite apps to comes first. If you are a cord cutter, you can use either Smart OS. The remote control has voice feature so you can easily use them with Bixby, or Alexa.
Pros of TCL 50S535
- Decent image quality at low cost
- Deep blacks
- Wide and vibrant color representation
- Decent motion handling
- Works with Roku assistant and Alexa
- Uses well-known Roku OS
Cons of TCL 50S535
- No HDMI 2.1
Pros of Samsung The Frame
- Outstanding and eye-catching design
- Clear vocals
- Decent brightness
- Uses AI in processing and upscaling
- Supports MultiView and Mobile mirroring
Cons of Samsung The Frame
- Poor view angle
TCL 6 series 55R635 TV vs Samsung QN75Q80TAFXZA Q80T Series TV 2020 models
Shape and material
TCL has a main frame for the panel is made of mixture of metal and plastic. The stands hold the TV firmly. The rear side is made of both shiny and matte plastic and overall the build quality is satisfying. Between TCL vs Samsung 2020, the TCL is much thicker than Samsung and both comes with cable management feature.
Samsung Q80T offers six different TV screen size so consumers with different needs will be met. Samsung has thin bezels and the feet is in the middle. It is much sleeker than TCL and better build quality.
Picture representation
TCL 6 series is one of the best TV for picture quality. In 2020, it uses mini-LED backlight technology which consists of thousands of small LED spreaded on the backlight system. Between TCL vs Samsung, the TCL 6 series has outstanding contrast.
The contrast doubles up with the help of mini-LED technology and reaches 10000. The colors will look pronounced and vibrant with darkest blacks and purest whites. The TCL screen has less hallowing and bleed. It uses AiPQ for upscaling and wide color gamut.
Comparing TCL vs Samsung TVs, the TCL has higher brightness but it should be much higher given that they are QLED TVs. You can easily use them in well-lit rooms. Overall, you will enjoy movies and shows with precise details even in dark scenes.
The lag time and reaction time of TCL is very good. With the inclusion of VRR, FreeSync, G-Sync, ALLM, you can easily enjoy smoother and clearer games. It reduces blur and screen tearing but it doesn’t have HDMI 2.1. between TCL 6 series vs Samsung Q80T, the Samsung has HDMI 2.1 and 4k@120Hz, TCL supports 4k @60Hz and 1440p@120Hz.
Samsung uses Quantum processor 4k and gas Quantum HDR 12X. the contrast doesn’t increase much even with local dimming. This might be due to the ‘Ultra Viewing Angle’ layer which improves the view from an angle and it is much better than TCL 6 series.
The brightness and the accuracy of color representation are average. The motion handling is slightly better with Samsung due to versatility and quick reaction time as well as reduced screen tearing. It is also a future-proof TV which will be compatible with PS5 and Xbox.
Comparing Samsung Q60 vs TCL 6 series, we see that the TCL 6 series has higher refresh rate, higher contrast ratio and brightness. Between these two, TCL 6 series is a better choice.
Speakers
Although TCL speaker or sound output remains the same as older models, this time, the speakers will work on bass by going as low as 80 Hz. Another advantage is that you can easily choose a Dolby Atmos soundbar to go with the TV because it supports Dolby Atmos passthrough. You can choose the Vizio SB36512-F6, Samsung HW-Q90R or others.
Samsung Q80T TV audio is also improved as it has a speaker configuration of 2.2.2. it has Object Tracking Sound where the sound will follow the action on screen. The digital room correction feature will adjust the sound according to room acoustics.
Other features
TCL 55R635
- AV Input: Composite Video + L&R Audio In,
- Audio Output (RCA): yes , RF Input (NTSC, ATSC): 1
- Ethernet: 1, USB: 1 USB2.0,
- HDMI: 3 HDMI 2.0 w/HDCP 2.2 (1 ARC),
- SPDIF Digital Audio Optical: 1, YPbPr (Component Video) Input: No
- OS: Roku 9.3.2
- Remote control: Voice Enabled Remote Control RC580
Samsung QN75Q80TAFXZA
- 4 HDMI, 2 USB, Ethernet, 1 Terrestial/RF, 1 Digital Audio Out, Audio Return Arc Support,
- RS232C: USB to Ex-Link Adapter
- OS: Tizen 2020
- Remote control: OneRemote
TCL Roku OS is nothing new to talk about. It supports Apple TV, Disney+, Google Play Movies & TV, Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, Sling TV, and YouTube, etc but it doesn’t have Twitch. The remote is similar to older models with a plus-shaped navigation pad and it also comes with a microphone to use Roku Assistant.
With Roku, the apps work smoothly and have less chance to be broken. Samsung uses decent Smart OS, Tizen. It comes with OneRemote with which you can control the TV along with other smart devices. The QLED TV also works with Samsung SmartThings to link other IoT devices. The Universal Guide helps you with popular suggested content so you don’t have to search frequently.
TCL 55R635 Pros
- Outstanding color contrast
- High brightness
- Decent motion handling
- Roku OS
- Impressive image display
- Reasonable cost
Cons
- No 4k @120Hz
Samsung QN75Q80TAFXZA Pros
- Very good contrast
- Decent view angle
- Smoother gaming scenes
- Reduced blur, stutter
- Good upscaling with AI
- Good brightness
Cons
- costly
Parting words
Between Samsung vs TCL, TCL tries to win the market by producing excellent picture quality at a low or reasonable cost. So, if you are on a tight budget yet don’t want to compromise picture quality, then TCL is best for you. Samsung, being an old and most famous brand, remains in the market by gaining trust of several consumers.
TCL has an attractive option where it has TV models with two different Smart OS. So if you are a TCL fan, then you can choose between Android TV and Roku. Roku is another attraction because it is known to be one of the best and smoothest Smart OS among all. The latest models of these TVs use Artificial Intelligence which is a big advantage in terms of picture.
Samsung focuses on the sound quality and most models have higher sound output than TCL. Both these brands fight to achieve the best picture quality and focuses on improving the backlight technology and include several thousand zones. This enhances sharpness and contrast.
Overall, Samsung is the brand you can always rely on, in terms of quality, features and functions. However, will slightly lower budget, TCL will win your heart.
Author’s Pick: TCL
FAQs
As you leave, we hope that our parting gift i.e this FAQ section will bring a smile to your face. May it be the first in what is sure to be many adventures of success! Best of luck with your purchase!
What can I adjust in Motion settings of TCL 6 series to improve it?
in TCL you will find an option in the settings known as Action Smoothing. You can change the settings and you can include soap opera effect. It has another option called LED motion clarity which will reduce blur.
What can I do with TCL picture settings?
to go to TCL picture settings, follow these:
- use the TCL remote and press on Picture
- to move up and down, press the ▲/▼
- the Picture preset allows you to choose a picture mode depending on what you are watching.
- With Brightness option you, you can change the level of brightness.
- Other options are: Color saturation, Advanced settings, Brightness settings, Color, Clarity, Screen settings, Apply all picture mode and Picture reset.
How to adjust sound settings in Samsung TV?
for basic sound settings, you can choose one from 3 Sound Mode presets
- Use the remote, then select Home
- Go to Quick Settings, then choose Sound Mode.
- Choosing the Standard Mode will focus on balanced sound
- The Optimized mode will add effects to make the sound wider or ‘spacious’
- The Amplify mode with amplify the mids and highs. It will improve vocals.
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