TCL 98-Inch S5 4K LED Smart TV Review Dolby Vision and Gaming Performance

Description

Immersive Display and Outstanding Visuals

Testing the TCL 98-Inch Class S5 4K LED Smart TV (98S550G) felt like stepping into a cinematic universe. The sheer size of the 98-inch screen immediately pulls you in, providing an immersive, larger-than-life viewing experience. With 4K Ultra HD resolution, every detail pops off the screen, making even mundane scenes look vibrant and sharp. The Wide Color Gamut and HDR ULTRA (Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, & HLG) ensure colors are rich, contrast is deep, and brightness feels just right. Watching nature documentaries or blockbuster movies on this TV felt like being part of the action. While it excels in delivering vivid visuals, I did notice that the High Brightness Direct LED Backlight, while impressive, could occasionally feel overpowering in dimly lit rooms.

Smooth Performance for Fast-Paced Action

The 120Hz Panel Refresh Rate and Motion Rate 480 with MEMC Frame Insertion make this TV a dream for anyone who loves fast-moving content. Whether it’s action-packed movies, high-speed car chases, or sports games, the motion clarity is unparalleled. I ran a few high-action sequences and noticed zero motion blur, which is particularly satisfying. Gamers will also appreciate the Auto Game Mode paired with Game Accelerator 240, delivering up to 240 VRR (Variable Refresh Rate). This feature ensures reduced input lag and ultra-responsive gameplay. I tested it with a gaming console, and the responsiveness was top-tier—it felt like the TV was built with gamers in mind.

Audio Quality That Surrounds You

One thing that surprised me was the DTS Virtual:X technology. The built-in speakers produce an impressive 3D sound experience, making external soundbars feel almost unnecessary for casual use. I played a mix of genres, from heavy bass music tracks to dialogue-heavy dramas, and the sound was consistently clear and immersive. However, audiophiles might still crave the depth of a dedicated sound system for an even more robust audio experience.

Highlights

• Massive 98-inch display ensures an immersive cinematic experience.
• 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR ULTRA for incredible detail and vibrant colors.
• 120Hz refresh rate and Motion Rate 480 for blur-free, smooth visuals.
• Auto Game Mode and Game Accelerator 240 cater to gamers with ultra-responsive input.
• DTS Virtual:X audio technology delivers impressive sound directly from the TV speakers.

Areas for Improvement

• The brightness levels in darker rooms might feel overwhelming without adjustments.
• While the sound quality is excellent for built-in speakers, external sound systems could elevate the experience further.
• Wall mounting such a massive screen can be a challenge due to its size and weight.

Sleek Design and Build Quality

The FullView Metal Bezel-less Design is undoubtedly sleek and modern. It blends seamlessly into any living space, giving the TV a premium feel. At 120.2 pounds, the unit is hefty but feels sturdy and well-built. I found that the slim profile makes it look stunning when wall-mounted, though you’ll need a robust mount to handle its size and weight. The black finish adds a classy touch, ensuring that it doesn’t dominate the room despite its enormous size.

Competing Products

I compared this TCL 98-Inch TV with a few other models on the market, such as Samsung’s Neo QLED series and Sony’s Bravia XR line. While the Neo QLED offers slightly better black levels for darker scenes, it doesn’t match the TCL’s Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode for gaming enthusiasts. Sony’s Bravia XR excels in sound quality and AI upscaling, but it comes at a significantly higher price point. What sets the TCL apart is its balance of performance, advanced features, and a competitive price that undercuts many rivals.

Cost-Effectiveness

For what it offers, the TCL S5 98-Inch TV provides excellent value. Features like Dolby Vision IQ, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Motion Rate 480 are usually found in much pricier models. While it’s not an impulse purchase, this TV strikes a great price-to-quality ratio. Considering its size, picture quality, and gaming features, I’d say it’s worth every penny for someone looking to invest in a premium home entertainment setup. However, if you’re not in need of such a massive screen, smaller and more affordable options might suit you better.

This TV is a beast, and using it feels like stepping into the future of home entertainment. From jaw-dropping visuals to gamer-friendly features, it checks many boxes. Still, its sheer size and brightness might not be for everyone, so it’s worth considering your room size and setup before diving in.

Additional information