Is the TCL Class S4 4K LED Smart TV (S4 / S450G) Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Maybe—great features for the price, but limited brightness and no HDMI 2.1 could hinder future-proofing.
Is TCL Class S4 4K LED Smart TV (S4 / S450G) worth it? Is the TCL Class S4 4K LED Smart TV (S4 / S450G) worth it in 2026? For budget-conscious consumers looking for a decent 4K smart TV experience, this model presents a strong value proposition. With its solid native contrast and support for Dolby Vision, it caters well to casual viewers and gamers alike. However, the limited peak brightness and lack of advanced features may not satisfy those seeking the latest technology or high-end performance. PageBen aims to provide clarity on whether this TV justifies its price tag in today's market.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
The TCL Class S4 Smart TV offers a 4K resolution and a 4K Upscaling feature, delivering good performance for everyday viewing. Given the competitive landscape of 2026, this TV's price-to-performance ratio is compelling, especially for those who prioritize value over cutting-edge specs. However, the limited peak brightness of approximately 250 nits means that HDR content may not shine as brightly as it would on higher-priced models, which could be a dealbreaker for some buyers. In essence, while you get a lot for your dollar, the experience might fall short for HDR enthusiasts.
The TV's native contrast ratio of approximately 5000:1 to 8000:1 depending on screen size enhances dark room viewing, making it an strong fit for movie nights. This level of contrast is typically found in more expensive models, indicating that TCL is positioning this TV as a strong contender in the budget segment. However, without local dimming, the performance in very dark scenes might not meet the expectations of users looking for a premium viewing experience. Ultimately, the price is justified, but with caveats.
With Google TV as its operating system, the TCL S4 provides access to a rich array of apps through the Google Play Store. The integration of Google Assistant offers convenience for voice control, enhancing the overall user experience. This combination of features is often absent in similarly-priced competitors, making the TCL S4 a notable option for tech-savvy consumers. Still, the absence of HDMI 2.1 ports limits the television's compatibility with next-gen gaming consoles, which could deter serious gamers.
The low input lag of about 11 ms is another strong point for this TV, particularly for casual gamers and those watching fast-paced sports. This performance metric is impressive for a budget model and suggests that the S4 is designed with a broad audience in mind. However, the lack of features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) could pose challenges for gamers seeking a smoother experience with high-frame-rate content. In conclusion, while the price may be justified for everyday users, it might not satisfy those with specific high-end needs.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Strong Contrast Performance
The TCL Class S4 boasts a high native contrast ratio, which makes it capable of producing deep blacks, especially beneficial for dark room viewing. This feature enhances the viewing experience for movies and shows where detail in shadows is crucial. Many budget TVs struggle in this area, making the S4 a competitive option for consumers who prioritize contrast quality.
Additionally, the support for Dolby Vision at this price point is a significant advantage. It allows the TV to display HDR content with improved brightness and color accuracy compared to standard HDR formats. While the peak brightness is limited, the combination of high contrast and Dolby Vision support means that users can still enjoy a better picture quality than many similarly-priced models.
2. User-Friendly Smart Features
With Google TV as its platform, the TCL S4 offers a modern and responsive interface that provides easy access to a wide range of apps via the Google Play Store. The built-in Google Assistant enhances user experience by allowing for voice commands, making navigation and control more intuitive. This feature is particularly appealing for users who prefer a seamless smart TV experience without needing additional devices.
Moreover, the inclusion of Chromecast built-in and support for Apple AirPlay allows for easy content sharing from smartphones and tablets. This makes the TCL S4 versatile for various use cases, whether streaming from a mobile device or browsing apps directly on the TV.
3. Competitive Gaming Performance
The low input lag of approximately 11 ms in Game Mode positions the TCL S4 as a decent option for casual gamers. This responsiveness is particularly advantageous for fast-paced games, where every millisecond can impact performance. While it may not support advanced gaming features like VRR, it still delivers a satisfactory experience for those who game casually or enjoy watching sports.
Furthermore, the Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) feature helps optimize settings automatically for gaming, ensuring that users have a smooth experience without needing to adjust settings manually. This combination of features makes the S4 an attractive choice for families or individuals who enjoy gaming as part of their entertainment routine.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Limited Brightness for HDR
The peak brightness of approximately 250 nits significantly limits the S4's HDR performance. This low brightness means that HDR content may not exhibit the vibrant highlights and dynamic range that users expect from high-quality viewing experiences. For consumers who watch a lot of HDR films or gaming, this limitation could lead to disappointment, especially when compared to other models that offer higher brightness levels.
This drawback is particularly relevant for viewers who often watch television in well-lit environments. The limited brightness can result in washed-out images when viewing HDR content in bright rooms, making the viewing experience less enjoyable. Users who prioritize HDR performance should consider alternatives with better brightness specifications.
No HDMI 2.1 and Future-Proof Features
The absence of HDMI 2.1 ports restricts the TCL S4's compatibility with next-gen gaming consoles and high-bandwidth devices. This could be a significant limitation for gamers looking to take advantage of advanced gaming features, such as higher frame rates and resolutions. As gaming technology continues to evolve, the lack of HDMI 2.1 could hinder the TV's longevity in an ever-changing landscape.
Additionally, the lack of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) means that users may experience screen tearing or stuttering during gaming sessions, which can detract from the overall experience. For serious gamers or those planning to invest in next-gen consoles, this limitation suggests that the S4 may not be the best long-term investment.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The 43 to 85-inch screen sizes provide a broad range of options for buyers, catering to different room sizes and viewing preferences. The availability of multiple sizes allows consumers to choose based on their specific needs without sacrificing the core features of the TV. However, the 60 Hz native refresh rate may not appeal to gamers or sports fans who prefer higher refresh rates for smoother motion. This limitation is crucial to consider against competing models that offer 120 Hz refresh rates in the same price range.
In terms of audio, the 20 W audio power (and 30 W for the 85-inch model) with features like Dolby Atmos pass-through and DTS Virtual:X provides decent sound quality for casual viewing, but serious audiophiles may find it lacking. The two-channel audio setup is typical for budget TVs, but it may not deliver the immersive experience that larger home theater systems can provide. Users who prioritize sound quality might want to explore external sound systems.
The absence of local dimming is a significant downside, as it limits the TV's ability to produce deeper blacks in dark scenes. This feature is increasingly common in higher-end TVs and enhances HDR performance by increasing contrast. Users who watch a lot of dark films or shows may find this limitation frustrating, especially when compared to competitors that offer this feature at a slightly higher price point.
The standard color gamut of approximately 75% DCI-P3 is another area where the TCL S4 falls short compared to pricier options that offer wider color support. While this TV provides acceptable color reproduction for everyday viewing, it may not satisfy those who seek vibrant and accurate colors for movie watching or gaming. This could be particularly disappointing for consumers who plan to use the TV for HDR content.
The Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity options are sufficient for most users, allowing for a solid smart TV experience. However, with the increasing prevalence of Wi-Fi 6 in newer models, this could be seen as a drawback in terms of future-proofing. Buyers looking for longevity in their investment should consider how this affects streaming performance, particularly in households with multiple devices connected to the internet.
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Who Is This For?
The TCL Class S4 is best suited for budget-conscious consumers who prioritize value and are looking for a reliable smart TV for casual viewing. Its impressive contrast ratios and support for Dolby Vision make it appealing for movie enthusiasts who watch primarily in dark rooms. Additionally, its low input lag and user-friendly smart features are attractive for families and individuals who enjoy gaming without requiring the highest-end specifications.
However, it may not be ideal for serious gamers or those seeking the latest technology. The absence of HDMI 2.1 and limited brightness could hinder performance for users wanting to maximize their gaming experience or watch HDR content in bright settings. This TV is suitable for viewers who do not demand the latest features but appreciate a solid, budget-friendly option for everyday entertainment.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You need a budget-friendly 4K TV for regular viewing
- •You watch movies mainly in dark rooms
- •You want solid smart features without breaking the bank
✗ Skip if:
- •You are a serious gamer looking for advanced features
- •You watch a lot of HDR content in bright environments
In summary, while the TCL Class S4 4K LED Smart TV offers a commendable array of features for its price, it does have limitations that may affect long-term satisfaction. If you are considering this model, be sure to weigh its strengths against your specific needs and preferences. For more details and to check the current price, visit PageBen.