When it comes to buying a new smart TV, it can be challenging to decide on the brand that suits your needs. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This is why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision between two of the most popular brands: Hisense and TCL.
In this guide, we’ll explore the latest models, features, picture quality, smart TV platforms, gaming capabilities, size options, after-sales support, and more. We’ll compare and contrast Hisense and TCL to give you a clear understanding of which brand suits your needs best.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing between Hisense and TCL can be overwhelming, but this guide will help you make an informed decision.
- We’ll explore the latest models, features, and picture quality of each brand, so you can make the right choice.
- The smart TV platform, gaming capabilities, size options, pricing, after-sales support, and future-proofing of each brand will also be examined.
- Ultimately, this guide will help you choose the best brand for your smart TV needs.
Understanding Hisense and TCL
Before we delve into the Hisense vs TCL debate, let’s take a closer look at what these two brands have to offer in 2021.
Hisense is a Chinese electronics company that has been around since 1969. They produce a wide range of products, including refrigerators, air conditioners, and televisions. Hisense’s TV lineup consists of both LCD and OLED models, with sizes ranging from 32 inches to 100 inches. In recent years, Hisense has gained popularity in the US market thanks to their affordable prices and feature-packed models.
TCL, on the other hand, is another Chinese electronics company that has been producing TVs since the 1980s. They’re known for their Roku TV platform, which offers a user-friendly interface and access to a wide range of streaming services. TCL’s TV lineup includes both LCD and OLED models, with sizes ranging from 32 inches to 85 inches. Their TVs are also popular for their affordable prices and excellent picture quality.
Hisense and TCL’s Latest Models
Both Hisense and TCL have released new models in 2021, with exciting features and upgrades.
| Brand | Model | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hisense | U8G | Quantum Dot technology, 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision HDR, Android TV platform |
| TCL | 6-Series | Mini-LED backlight technology, QLED color technology, 120Hz refresh rate, Roku TV platform |
The Hisense U8G features Quantum Dot technology, which produces more vivid and accurate colors. It also boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for fast-paced action scenes and gaming. The U8G runs on the Android TV platform, which offers access to a wide range of apps and the Google Assistant for voice control.
The TCL 6-Series features Mini-LED backlight technology, which enhances contrast and brightness. It also boasts QLED color technology, which produces a wider range of colors for more realistic images. The 6-Series also has a 120Hz refresh rate and runs on the popular Roku TV platform, which offers a user-friendly interface and access to over 500,000 movies and TV episodes.
Overall, both Hisense and TCL have impressive lineups in 2021, with models that cater to different needs and preferences.
Features Comparison
Choosing between Hisense and TCL 4K TVs can be a tough decision, given the vast array of features and options. Let’s take a closer look at what each brand offers in terms of 4K resolution:
| Hisense | TCL | |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 pixels | 3840 x 2160 pixels |
| HDR compatibility | ||
| Color technology | ||
| Refresh rate |
As we can see from the above table, both Hisense and TCL offer 4K resolution with Dolby Vision HDR compatibility. However, TCL offers more HDR options, including HDR 10 and HLG. Hisense offers ULED and QLED color technology, while TCL offers QLED and MicroLED. In terms of refresh rate, TCL has the edge with a maximum of 240 Hz, while Hisense offers up to 120 Hz.
If you’re looking for a 4K TV with a higher refresh rate and more HDR options, TCL might be the better choice for you. But if you prioritize color technology and prefer a maximum of 120 Hz, Hisense might be the way to go.
Performance and Picture Quality
When it comes to enjoying your favorite TV shows and movies, picture quality is a crucial factor. In this section, we’ll evaluate the performance and picture quality of Hisense and TCL TVs, including color accuracy, contrast, and motion handling.
Hisense and TCL use different technologies to deliver their picture quality. Hisense TVs generally use ULED panels, which offer superb contrast and brightness. TCL, on the other hand, uses QLED technology, which promises to deliver better color accuracy and wider viewing angles.
In terms of contrast ratio, both brands perform well. Hisense TVs tend to have higher contrast ratios, meaning they can display darker blacks and brighter whites simultaneously. TCL TVs, on the other hand, tend to offer a more uniform picture quality across the entire screen, thanks to their use of QLED technology.
In terms of color accuracy, TCL TVs have a slight edge over Hisense. With their QLED technology, TCL TVs can display a wider range of colors with greater accuracy. However, this difference may not be noticeable to the average viewer.
When it comes to motion handling, both brands offer similarly good performance. Hisense TVs use motion smoothing technology to reduce blur and judder, while TCL TVs use a combination of motion interpolation and backlight scanning to achieve the same effect.
Overall, both Hisense and TCL TVs offer excellent picture quality and performance. The choice between the two brands may come down to personal preference and specific features you’re looking for in a TV.
Smart TV Platform Comparison: Hisense vs TCL
When it comes to smart TV platforms, Hisense and TCL offer different options. Hisense has its own operating system, while TCL is known for its partnership with Roku. Let’s compare the two platforms to see which one offers a better user experience.
Hisense’s Operating System
Hisense’s operating system is called VIDAA. It offers a simple and easy-to-use interface with a clean layout. The home page features a row of frequently used apps and quick settings, such as Wi-Fi and picture mode.
To access all apps, you can scroll down to the app gallery, where you can download and install new apps. VIDAA also supports voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to use your TV hands-free.
However, the app selection may be limited compared to other platforms, and it may be challenging to find and discover new apps. Additionally, updates may not be as frequent as other operating systems.
TCL’s Roku TV Platform
TCL’s smart TVs are powered by Roku, a popular and well-established platform. Roku offers an intuitive and customizable interface with a vast selection of apps available in the app store. The home page features a row of frequently used apps and channels, and you can also customize this section to show your preferred content.
One of the benefits of using Roku is its universal search function. You can search for a TV show or movie, and it will display all the available options across different streaming services. Roku also offers voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
However, the interface may feel cluttered to some users, with too many options and ads. There may also be a learning curve when it comes to customization and navigation.
The Winner: TCL’s Roku TV Platform
Overall, TCL’s Roku TV platform offers a more extensive app selection and better customization options than Hisense’s VIDAA. While Roku may have a cluttered interface, it also offers universal search and a more intuitive user experience.
Gaming Features
Gaming on a smart TV has become increasingly popular over the years, and both Hisense and TCL offer features tailored to gamers. Let’s take a closer look at how these brands differ when it comes to gaming.
Input Lag
One of the most critical factors for gaming on a TV is input lag, which refers to the delay between pressing a button and the corresponding action on the screen. Hisense and TCL have made strides to reduce input lag in their latest models, with some models offering impressively low response times. For instance, the Hisense H9G has an input lag of around 16ms, while the TCL 6-Series clocks in at around 13ms.
Refresh Rate and Motion Handling
Another important factor for gaming is the refresh rate, which refers to how many times the screen updates per second. Higher refresh rates result in smoother motion and less motion blur, which can be especially useful when playing fast-paced games. Both Hisense and TCL offer TVs with high refresh rates, with some models offering up to 120Hz. Additionally, both brands have implemented technologies like motion smoothing and backlight scanning to help reduce motion blur.
Game Mode Settings
Most modern smart TVs come with a Game Mode setting, which optimizes the display settings for gaming. Both Hisense and TCL offer this feature in their latest models, allowing gamers to enjoy a better gaming experience without having to manually adjust the settings. The Game Mode setting typically reduces input lag, adjusts the screen to display dark scenes better, and disables any unnecessary video processing.
Variable Refresh Rate
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is a relatively new technology that synchronizes the refresh rate of the TV with the output of the gaming console or PC. This results in smoother gameplay, with fewer instances of screen tearing and stuttering. While VRR is still a relatively new technology, both Hisense and TCL offer TVs with VRR support, with some models, like the Hisense U8G, offering up to 120Hz refresh rate with VRR support.
When it comes to gaming, both Hisense and TCL offer impressive features that cater to gamers’ needs. However, with slightly lower input lag, higher refresh rates, and a strong focus on gaming-specific features like VRR, TCL might have a slight edge over Hisense for serious gamers.
Size Options
When it comes to choosing the right size for your smart TV, both Hisense and TCL offer a range of options. However, for this section, we will focus on their 55-inch models, which are a popular choice for many households.
| Brand | Model | Dimensions (W x H x D) | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hisense | 55U8G | 48.3″ x 27.9″ x 2.5″ | 35.7 lbs |
| TCL | 55R635 | 48.3″ x 28.1″ x 2.8″ | 36.2 lbs |
As you can see from the table above, both the Hisense 55U8G and the TCL 55R635 have similar dimensions and weight, making them easy to install and maneuver. In terms of design, the Hisense 55U8G has a sleek, minimalist look with slim bezels, while the TCL 55R635 features a more traditional design with slightly thicker borders.
When it comes to picture quality, both models offer 4K resolution with HDR support, and they both use Quantum Dot technology to enhance color accuracy. The Hisense 55U8G has a higher peak brightness, which makes it better for bright rooms, while the TCL 55R635 has better black levels, which is great for watching movies in a dark room.
In terms of smart TV platforms, the Hisense 55U8G runs on the Android TV operating system, which offers access to the Google Play Store and a wide range of apps. Meanwhile, the TCL 55R635 uses the Roku TV platform, which is known for its user-friendly interface and easy navigation.
Overall, both the Hisense 55U8G and the TCL 55R635 are excellent options for a 55-inch smart TV, with similar specs and features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and which platform you prefer, Android TV or Roku TV.
Operating System Comparison
When it comes to the smart TV operating system, Hisense and TCL offer two distinct options. TCL is known for its integration with Roku TV, while Hisense has developed its own operating system.
Let’s first take a closer look at Roku TV, which is built into many of TCL’s smart TVs. The Roku TV platform is highly popular among users due to its intuitive interface and a massive selection of apps. With Roku TV, you get easy access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as many other free and paid apps. Additionally, Roku TV offers frequent updates to its software, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and functionality.
On the other hand, Hisense has developed its own smart TV platform called Vidaa, which is available on most of their TVs. Vidaa offers a custom interface that is tailored to the needs of its users, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. While Vidaa’s app store may not be as extensive as Roku TV, it still offers access to popular streaming services and other apps. Vidaa’s app selection, however, is still growing, with more apps being added over time.
Comparison Table: Roku TV vs Vidaa
| Feature | Roku TV | Vidaa |
|---|---|---|
| App Availability | Extensive, including all major streaming services and thousands of other apps | Good, with access to most popular streaming services, but a smaller selection of other apps |
| Interface | Intuitive and user-friendly | Simple and easy to navigate |
| Updates | Frequent and automatic software updates, ensuring access to the latest features and functionality | Less frequent updates compared to Roku TV |
| Customization | Users can personalize their home screen, move apps around, and even use voice commands | Limited customization options |
| Overall User Satisfaction | High | Positive, with room for improvement in app selection |
Ultimately, both Roku TV and Vidaa offer a solid smart TV experience, with their respective strengths and weaknesses. Choosing between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences, such as app availability, user interface, and customization options.
Roku TV vs Hisense’s Own OS
Hisense and TCL offer two different smart TV platforms: Roku TV and Hisense’s own operating system. While Roku TV is a well-established platform, Hisense’s OS is a newer entrant to the market.
So, which is better: Roku TV or Hisense’s own OS?
Let’s take a closer look at each platform’s features and capabilities.
Roku TV
Roku TV is a popular choice among smart TV enthusiasts, with its user-friendly interface and wide range of apps. Roku TV offers a customizable home screen and access to over 500,000 streaming movies and TV episodes.
Additionally, Roku TV allows users to control their TV with voice commands through the Roku mobile app or compatible smart home devices like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Hisense’s Own OS
Hisense’s own operating system offers a fully integrated experience, with features like personalized recommendations, voice control, and access to popular apps like Netflix and YouTube.
Hisense’s OS also allows users to control their TV with voice commands through Amazon Alexa or other compatible devices.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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So, which smart TV platform should you choose?
Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a wide range of apps and customization options, Roku TV may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a fully integrated experience with personalized recommendations and voice control, Hisense’s own OS may be the way to go.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
When it comes to choosing between Hisense and TCL TVs, customer reviews and satisfaction ratings are essential factors to consider. Both brands have received a significant number of positive reviews from happy customers.
Hisense TVs have been praised for their affordability, excellent picture quality, and easy-to-use interface. Users have also highlighted the wide range of features available, including voice controls and integrated streaming services. On the downside, some customers have reported issues with the sound quality and occasional glitches or software bugs.
TCL TVs, on the other hand, have garnered praise for their impressive picture quality, intuitive Roku TV platform, and competitive pricing. Customers have also expressed satisfaction with the customer service offered by TCL. Some users have noted that the remote control can be challenging to use, and the sound quality could be improved.
To get a better idea of how these brands stack up against each other in terms of customer satisfaction, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular models from each brand and their respective reviews on a prominent e-commerce site.
| Model | Hisense H9G | TCL 6-Series |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $899.99 | $799.99 |
| Screen Size | 65 inches | 65 inches |
| Picture Quality | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Smart TV Features | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Sound Quality | 4.1/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Overall Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
As we can see from the table above, both the Hisense H9G and TCL 6-Series have received high overall ratings from customers, with only a small difference between them. The Hisense model has slightly better picture quality ratings, while the TCL model is slightly better for smart TV features.
Ultimately, customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the performance and user satisfaction of different TV brands. It’s worth considering these metrics alongside other factors like pricing, features, and after-sales support to make an informed decision about which brand is right for you.
Pricing and Value for Money
Price is a crucial factor when choosing a smart TV, and both Hisense and TCL offer affordable options across their product range. However, the pricing can vary significantly depending on the features, size, and model of the TV. In general, TCL TVs tend to be slightly more expensive than Hisense TVs, but they also offer a wider range of features and better overall picture quality.
For instance, the Hisense H8F 55-inch 4K TV is priced at around $399, while the TCL 55R617 4K TV costs around $499. While both offer similar features and performance, the TCL model comes with a better smart TV platform and offers superior picture quality with its full-array backlighting and local dimming technology.
However, it’s worth noting that pricing can be subjective, and what’s considered affordable to one person may not be the same for another. Additionally, both brands offer excellent value for money, delivering high-quality performance, features, and user experience at competitive prices.
| Brand | Model | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hisense | H8F | 399 |
| TCL | 55R617 | 499 |
| Hisense | H9F | 899 |
| TCL | 65R617 | 849 |
As the table demonstrates, Hisense offers more affordable options for those on a budget, while TCL has a slightly higher price point for its more high-end models. However, both brands provide excellent value for money and deliver a solid smart TV experience.
After-Sales Support and Warranty
When investing in a new smart TV, it’s important to consider the after-sales support and warranty options from Hisense and TCL. A reliable support system and warranty can provide peace of mind and assistance in case of any issues.
Hisense After-Sales Support
Hisense offers a variety of after-sales support options, including online support, phone support, and email support. Customers can also access a live chat feature on the Hisense website for quick assistance with any questions or concerns.
| Hisense After-Sales Support Options | Availability |
|---|---|
| Online Support | 24/7 |
| Phone Support | Monday-Friday, 9am-9pm Eastern Time |
| Email Support | 24-48 hour response time |
| Live Chat Support | Monday-Friday, 9am-9pm Eastern Time |
In addition, Hisense offers a 2-year limited warranty on all of their TVs. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, and customers can contact Hisense’s customer service to initiate a warranty claim.
TCL After-Sales Support
TCL offers similar after-sales support options to Hisense, including online support, phone support, and email support. Customers can also use the TCL support bot for quick assistance with basic troubleshooting.
| TCL After-Sales Support Options | Availability |
|---|---|
| Online Support | 24/7 |
| Phone Support | Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm Pacific Time |
| Email Support | 24-48 hour response time |
| TCL Support Bot | 24/7 |
TCL also offers a 1-year limited warranty on their TVs, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Customers can contact TCL’s customer service to initiate a warranty claim.
Overall, both Hisense and TCL offer solid after-sales support options and warranties. Hisense’s 2-year warranty provides an additional year of coverage compared to TCL’s 1-year warranty, which may be a factor to consider when making your choice between the two brands.
Future-Proofing and Upgradability
With technology advancing at a rapid pace, it’s important to consider the future-proofing and upgradability options of Hisense and TCL TVs before making a purchase.
One factor to consider is software updates – does the TV model receive regular updates to ensure it remains compatible with new technologies? Both Hisense and TCL offer software updates to their smart TVs, but it’s worth checking the frequency and duration of these updates before making a decision.
Another consideration is the TV’s compatibility with emerging technologies. For example, as gaming consoles and streaming devices continue to evolve, it’s important to choose a TV that can handle these new technologies. Hisense and TCL both offer TVs with HDMI 2.1 ports, which support 4K at 120Hz and variable refresh rates, making them ideal for gaming.
Expandability is also an important consideration. Does the TV have enough ports to support all of your devices? Both Hisense and TCL offer TVs with multiple HDMI and USB ports, allowing you to connect a variety of devices like gaming consoles, soundbars, and streaming devices.
Finally, it’s worth considering the lifespan of the TV. While both brands offer reliable products, it’s worth checking the warranty and after-sales support options to ensure that you’re covered in case of any issues down the line.
In summary, Hisense and TCL offer future-proofing and upgradability options to varying degrees. By considering factors like software updates, compatibility with emerging technologies, expandability, and warranty options, you can ensure that your investment will last for years to come.
Conclusion
After carefully evaluating the features, performance, customer satisfaction, and other important factors, it’s clear that both Hisense and TCL offer excellent smart TV options. Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
If you’re looking for a smart TV with exceptional picture quality and color accuracy, Hisense may be the better choice for you. Their 4K resolution and motion handling capabilities make them a great option for movie and TV show enthusiasts. On the other hand, TCL is known for their Roku TV platform, which offers a wide range of apps and a user-friendly interface that many find appealing.
When it comes to gaming, both brands have options that offer low input lag and high refresh rates. However, TCL’s variable refresh rate technology can provide a smoother gaming experience, making them a better choice for gamers who prioritize performance.
Overall, Hisense and TCL offer good value for money, with competitive pricing for their feature-packed smart TVs. Hisense’s proprietary operating system provides customization options, while TCL’s Roku TV platform offers a wide range of apps. Both brands offer reliable after-sales support and warranty coverage.
Ultimately, the decision between Hisense and TCL comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Regardless of which brand you choose, you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality smart TV that will provide years of entertainment.
FAQ
What are the main differences between Hisense and TCL smart TVs?
While both brands offer a range of smart TVs, they differ in terms of features, performance, and operating systems. Hisense has its own proprietary operating system, while TCL is known for its Roku TV platform.
Which brand offers better picture quality?
Both Hisense and TCL TVs offer good picture quality, but the specific model and series you choose will determine the level of picture quality. It’s recommended to compare the specifications and read customer reviews to make an informed decision.
Can I use gaming consoles with Hisense and TCL TVs?
Yes, both Hisense and TCL TVs are compatible with gaming consoles. However, it’s important to consider the gaming features and capabilities of the specific models you are interested in, such as low input lag and high refresh rates, to enhance your gaming experience.
How do Hisense and TCL TVs compare in terms of size options?
Both brands offer a variety of sizes for their smart TVs. It’s recommended to check the available sizes for the specific models you are interested in to find the perfect fit for your space.
Can I access popular streaming services on Hisense and TCL smart TVs?
Yes, both brands offer smart TV platforms that provide access to popular streaming services. Hisense TVs come with their own proprietary operating system, while TCL TVs are known for their integration with the Roku TV platform, which offers a wide selection of streaming apps.
How do Hisense and TCL compare in terms of customer reviews and satisfaction?
Both Hisense and TCL have a solid reputation in the market, but customer experiences and satisfaction can vary. It’s a good idea to read customer reviews and ratings specific to the models you are considering to get a better idea of customer satisfaction for each brand.
Are Hisense and TCL TVs priced similarly?
Hisense and TCL TVs are generally competitively priced and offer good value for money. However, pricing can vary depending on the specific model, size, and features you are looking for. It’s recommended to compare prices and features to find the best deal for your budget.
What kind of after-sales support and warranty do Hisense and TCL offer?
Both brands provide after-sales support and warranties for their smart TVs. The specific terms and conditions may vary, so it’s important to check the warranty details provided by the manufacturer or retailer when making your purchase.
Can I upgrade the software and technology on Hisense and TCL smart TVs?
Both Hisense and TCL smart TVs offer software updates to ensure compatibility with new technologies and advancements. However, the extent of upgradability may vary depending on the specific model and series. It’s recommended to check for software update availability and future-proofing options before making your decision.