TCL 55R617 review
Apr 24, 2020
See price The TCL 55R617 was introduced to the market in 2018. It’s a 55-inch model from TLC’s R6 series which offers TVs with such features as Roku TV Smart Platform, Dolby Vision HDR, A...
Read MoreTCL 55S517 vs TCL 55R617 – Amazing TVs at Their Price Point
TCL 55S517 vs TCL 55R617 is a comparison of mid-range TVs 2018 from series S517 and R6 respectively. Both units are based on the “Roku TV” platform that provides thousands of movies. The current set of S517’s screen sizes are 43”, 49”, and 55” and 55 and 65-inches units represent the R6’s TVs. Both TVs have VA displays that are able to provide the good black levels and contrasts but have the insufficient viewing angle.
Picture
When comparing TCL 55R617 vs TCL 55S517’s picture, either 55R617 or 55S517 impress with excellent light intensity, black levels, and contrast – they are great whether you watch movies in HDR or 4K. The picture degrades when viewing at an angle that’s why it fits bedrooms more where it is possible to install it straight on with optimum viewing spot.
Some dark corners are visible in the model TCL 55R617 but only on static screens when the app is loading, for example. Its refresh rate is just 60Hz and it is perfect for gamers. TCL 55S517 has a few reflections during the daytime.
Features and Performances
While testing TCL 55R617 vs 55S517’s performance, no substantial shortcomings were found out. I checked different modes and 55S517 has a picture mode Movie, but the Normal mode produces the sharpest and more accurate picture.
TCL 55R617’s wireless connection is seamless so you can use the phone headphone jack instead of speakers without any problems. It has the good connectivity, in particular, the tuner for the local over the air broadcasts.
Both units’ sound is great without any speakers in case the TV is in a medium-sized room.
Build Quality and Design
Looking at TCL 55S517 vs 55R617, the difference in their borders is notable. TCL 55S517 has sleeker borders – 0.35” versus 55R617’s 0.47”. Both devices are thin enough and flat to create the illusion of a frame being mounted on the wall. TCL 55R617 has mounting holes almost at the complete bottom of the rear of the TV. So, it would mount higher than other TVs.
TCL 55S517 Pros & Cons
PROS:
- The setup instruction on the screen is easy to follow.
CONS:
- Too many adverts for shows, TV events, subscription channels because of the TV’s price (it is subsidized by ads).
- Cannot connect with the Apple TV remote.
TCL 55R617 Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Supports Dolby Vision and generic HDR movies and TV shows and they look flawlessly.
- All the hooks up are on the right and easy to get to.
CONS:
- No a single 4K collection of channels.
