TCL 6-Series R655 55" (Mini-LED QLED) vs TCL S4 55"
The Verdict
Both TCL models deliver Google TV smart features in a 55-inch 4K package, but serve distinctly different audiences. The 6-Series R655 ($749) employs mini-LED backlighting with 1500 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision/HDR10+ support, and 120Hz refresh rate,ideal for gaming with 7ms input lag and VRR/ALLM support. Its 30W audio with Dolby Atmos and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity provide premium features. Conversely, the S4 ($279) offers basic LED technology at 400 nits brightness, 60Hz refresh rate, and 30ms input lag, making gaming less responsive. The budget model skips advanced HDR formats and gaming optimizations but maintains solid everyday viewing for streaming and casual use. For movie enthusiasts and gamers wanting superior contrast, brightness, and responsiveness, the R655's mini-LED technology justifies the premium. Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over performance should choose the S4, though it compromises picture quality and gaming smoothness.
Who Should Buy
Buy the TCL 6-Series R655 55" (Mini-LED QLED) if…
- →Best picture quality under $800 — Mini-LED at this price is remarkable
- →Supports both Dolby Vision AND HDR10+ — covers every HDR format
- →1500 nits peak brightness rivals TVs costing twice as much
Buy the TCL S4 55" if…
- →Extraordinary value at $279 for a 55-inch 4K Google TV
- →Google TV offers access to virtually every streaming service out of the box
- →Lightweight and easy to install — great for bedrooms, kitchens, or secondary rooms
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
TCL 6-Series R655 55" (Mini-LED QLED)
Pros
- Best picture quality under $800 — Mini-LED at this price is remarkable
- Supports both Dolby Vision AND HDR10+ — covers every HDR format
- 1500 nits peak brightness rivals TVs costing twice as much
- 4K@120Hz with VRR and ALLM — excellent for PS5 and Xbox Series X
- Google TV platform with wide app support and Chromecast built-in
Cons
- TCL software updates are slower and less frequent than Samsung/LG
- Build quality and remote feel budget-oriented
- Some blooming around bright objects on dark backgrounds
- Sound quality from 30W speakers is average — soundbar recommended
TCL S4 55"
Pros
- Extraordinary value at $279 for a 55-inch 4K Google TV
- Google TV offers access to virtually every streaming service out of the box
- Lightweight and easy to install — great for bedrooms, kitchens, or secondary rooms
- Decent picture for casual streaming at typical 8–10 foot viewing distances
Cons
- 60Hz panel is not suitable for gaming or fast-motion sports content
- Low peak brightness of ~400 nits struggles in bright, sunlit rooms
- No HDMI 2.1 — limits PS5 and Xbox Series X to 4K@60Hz only
- 15W audio output is thin and lacks bass — an external soundbar is recommended
- No VRR or ALLM means gaming performance is not a priority for this model
Full Specifications
| Spec | TCL 6-Series R655 55" (Mini-LED QLED) | TCL S4 55" |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 300 x 300mm | 200 x 200mm |
| Weight | 37.3 lbs | 28.7 lbs |
| Dimensions | 48.2 x 27.8 x 3.0 inches | — |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 48.2 x 30.4 x 11.3 inches | 48.5 x 32.4 x 9.2 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 30 | 15 |
| Speakers | 2.0ch | 2.0ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 7 | 30 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG |
| Size | 55" | 55" |
| Type | Mini-LED QLED (VA LCD) | LED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1500 | 400 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Google TV | Google TV |
| Voice assistant | Google Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| USB ports | 1 | 1 |
| HDMI ports | 4 | 3 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | — | AiPQ Lite Processor |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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