TCL S4 55" vs Vizio V-Series 43"
The Verdict
Both budget 4K TVs deliver solid value, but serve different needs. TCL S4 offers a larger 55-inch screen with brighter 400-nit panel and Google TV's intuitive interface, making it ideal for spacious living rooms and content streaming. Vizio V-Series 43-inch compensates with superior gaming features,ALLM support and 16ms input lag versus TCL's 30ms,plus stronger HDR support (HDR10+) and better portability at 16.3 lbs. Audio output is nearly identical (15W vs 16W, both 2.0ch). Picture brightness advantage goes to TCL, though Vizio's lower nits may disappoint in bright rooms. For gaming-focused buyers or smaller spaces, Vizio edges ahead; for general viewing and screen real estate, TCL wins. Choose TCL S4 if screen size matters; pick Vizio V-Series if gaming responsiveness and space efficiency are priorities.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Vizio V-Series 43" if…
- →4K Dolby Vision TV for under $200 is the cheapest way to get premium HDR
- →Chromecast and AirPlay 2 built-in for wireless casting
- →Perfect size for bedrooms, kitchens, or small apartments
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Vizio V-Series 43"
Pros
- 4K Dolby Vision TV for under $200 is the cheapest way to get premium HDR
- Chromecast and AirPlay 2 built-in for wireless casting
- Perfect size for bedrooms, kitchens, or small apartments
- Light enough to mount anywhere at 16 lbs
- Dolby Vision + HDR10+ support punches above its price
Cons
- 250-nit brightness means HDR is barely noticeable
- 60Hz — no gaming features whatsoever
- SmartCast OS is slow and occasionally buggy
- 16W speakers are very quiet — external audio is needed
Full Specifications
| Spec | TCL S4 55" | Vizio V-Series 43" |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 200 x 200mm | 200 x 200mm |
| Weight | 28.7 lbs | 16.3 lbs |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 48.5 x 32.4 x 9.2 inches | 38.0 x 24.6 x 8.1 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 15 | 16 |
| Speakers | 2.0ch | 2.0ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 30 | 16 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG |
| Size | 55" | 43" |
| Type | LED | LED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 400 | 250 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Google TV | SmartCast OS |
| Voice assistant | Google Assistant | Google Assistant, Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | AiPQ Lite Processor | IQ Processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| USB ports | 1 | 1 |
| HDMI ports | 3 | 3 |
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.
Explore more in tvs, see all TCL products or all Vizio products. View full details for the TCL S4 55" or the Vizio V-Series 43".