TCL C855 Review: Can It Compete with Top Brands?

Overview of Specifications

• The TCL C855 features a 144Hz mini LED display with CET technology and 1,344 backlight zones, indicating high-end specifications typically found in premium models from brands like Samsung, Sony, Philips, and LG.

• Priced under $1,500 at launch, the C855 follows its predecessor, the C845, which was well-received in shopping recommendations.

Market Positioning

• TCL aims to compete with leading manufacturers by promoting impressive specs such as HDR Premium 3300 for high brightness levels.

• The channel emphasizes unbiased reviews that rank TVs based on performance rather than marketing hype.

Design Features

• The design of the C855 is minimalistic; it has narrow bezels typical of premium TVs but lacks distinctive features at first glance.

• Unique elements include a company emblem on the right edge and a conveniently placed USB 3.0 port for easy access to peripherals.

Connectivity and Remote Control

• The TV uses a Mediatek MT5895 processor with two HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K at 120Hz and an additional port for connecting devices without occupying the main HDMI slots.

• A redesigned remote control minimizes buttons similar to Samsung's approach; however, traditional key layouts remain available.

Display Performance

• The glossy matrix enhances image saturation and clarity even in bright environments while effectively suppressing ambient light reflections.

• Although there are minor issues with light peeling when directly illuminated, overall brightness is exceptional for everyday viewing conditions.

Contrast and Black Levels Testing

• Initial tests focus on contrast and black levels—key factors influencing picture depth.

• With 1,344 dimming zones and V-type matrix technology, the C855 achieves impressive contrast ratios comparable to OLED displays.

Comparative Analysis

Comparison of TCL C855 and Competitors

Overview of TV Performance

• The Samsung Q95D is noted to be superior to the Sony Bravia 7, leading into a direct comparison with LG's OLED.

• Initial tests show that while the TCL C855 competes closely in brightness, it exhibits darker picture elements, affecting overall contrast perception.

Contrast and Brightness Analysis

• In scenes from "Gravity," the TCL C855 struggles to display stars against a dark sky, indicating potential issues in dimly lit frames.

• Despite some drawbacks, LCD TVs like the TCL C855 can still provide good visibility in black areas but may sacrifice detail for higher contrast.

Competing Models Comparison

• When compared to the Hisense U8N, both models exhibit similar blooming effects; however, TCL shows better detail retention in dark scenes.

• The Samsung Q92D and Sony Bravia 7 utilize different algorithms that impact detail preservation and light transitions differently.

Subjective Preferences in Viewing Experience

• Preference between models may depend on viewer taste regarding dimming algorithm performance; TCL offers aggressive algorithms that might not suit all viewers.

• Weaker results do not necessarily indicate inferiority; different compromises lead to varied viewing experiences across models.

Calibration and Measurement Insights

• The TCL C855 achieves high HDR brightness levels (3,300 nits for 65-inch), but dynamic mode distorts image fidelity significantly.

• Professional calibration is recommended for optimal performance; this can enhance color accuracy beyond factory settings.

Real-world Scene Performance

• After calibration, peak brightness measured at 2,360 nits surpasses many competitors but drops significantly during real movie scenes.

• Brightness consistency varies greatly depending on scene type; bright daytime scenes perform well while darker scenes suffer from diminished quality.

Final Thoughts on Competition

• Overall performance indicates that while TCL dazzles in bright scenes, it falters in cinematic contexts compared to rivals like Hisense U8N and Samsung Q92D.

• Viewer preference may lean towards stability over fluctuating brightness levels found in other models like Sony Bravia 7.

TV Comparison: TCL C855 vs. Competitors

Overview of TCL C855 Performance

• The TCL C855 is compared to the C4 and B4 models, with the former being classified as a TV with similar quality while the latter is noted as weaker.

Color Performance Analysis

• The TCL C855 utilizes quantum dot backlighting, achieving 97% DCI P3 and 79 BT2020 color gamut, which are standard for QLED TVs but not as vibrant as OLED displays.

• Accurate color rendering is crucial; issues arise when skin tones appear unnatural (too yellow or pink), indicating calibration problems.

Calibration and Image Quality

• Factory settings show significant differences in image quality compared to studio monitors, with TCL's brightness affecting depth and contrast negatively.

• Post-calibration results improve cinematic look but reveal that distortion from aggressive local dimming algorithms remains problematic.

Comparison with Competitors

• The high U8N model shares similar faults with the C855; however, Sony TVs outperform both in color accuracy despite having inferior blacks.

• OLED screens from brands like LG and Sony do not require local dimming algorithms, leading to better overall color fidelity than TCL.

Motion Handling and Sports Viewing Experience

• The TCL C855 excels in smoothness during transitions without posterization on high-quality materials but struggles with highly compressed content.

Entertainment and Gaming Features of the TCL C855 TV

Overview of Display Capabilities

• The TCL C855 TV supports a 144 Hz refresh rate in 4K, allowing for smooth visuals when connected to PCs or consoles.

• Clear fonts can be achieved by enabling PC mode in the TV menu; however, pixel division may cause horizontal lines to appear narrower on dark backgrounds.

Gaming Performance

• The TV is optimized for gaming with a low input lag, making it suitable for both 60 Hz and 120 Hz gameplay across HDR formats.

• The HGIG function enhances HDR game visuals by adjusting settings based on the capabilities of the display.

Color Reproduction Issues

• While the C855 offers many features for gamers, color reproduction can be overly brightened during console use, affecting image quality.

• Distortion issues may arise when playing games in dark environments, leading to glare on the screen.

Smart Features and Connectivity

• The TV runs on Google TV OS, providing extensive expandability with various file players and media center options.

• Notably missing features include built-in tuner recording and picture-in-picture (PIP), which are often expected by users.

Audio Quality and External Integration

• Sound quality is decent but not exceptional; while mids and highs are balanced at high volumes, bass response is limited.

• The C855 supports all audio formats via HDMI ARC, allowing seamless integration with external sound systems without compatibility issues.

Software Stability Concerns

• Users have reported software glitches such as automatic switching between modes that negatively impact viewing experience.

TCL C855 TV Review: Is It Worth Your Money?

Overview of TCL C855

• The TCL C855 TV is highlighted as a competitive model against high-end brands like Sony, Samsung, and LG, showcasing strong specifications.

• Compared to competitors such as the Sony Bravia 7 and Samsung Q92D, the TCL C855 is noted for being approximately 30% cheaper while still outperforming alternatives in its price range.

Pricing Insights

• The video suggests that while TCL has launched with promotional pricing, other brands may see price drops post-holidays. This could affect purchasing decisions.

• If all TVs were similarly priced, the speaker expresses a personal preference for either the Sony Bravia 7 or LG OLED B4 over the TCL C855 due to specific performance attributes.

Performance Comparison

• The speaker notes that while TCL offers better contrast with more dimming zones, Sony excels in digital image processing and minimizes negative phenomena in dark images.

• For viewers who prioritize color saturation and brightness, the TCL C855 is recommended; however, those sensitive to tonal richness might prefer Sony's offerings.

Alternatives Considered

• The discussion includes comparisons with Samsung Q92D and LG B4 models. While OLED technology provides perfect blacks for evening viewing, it struggles in HDR effects and bright environments.

• If a better OLED model (like C4 or S90D) were available at a similar price point to the TCL C855, it would be favored; however, current market prices make this unlikely.

Conclusion on Value Proposition