If you plan to purchase a new smart TV, you’ve probably come across two of the best brands available– Hisense and TCL. Considering the features these brands incorporate into their televisions, you’re probably having difficulty choosing which one you should buy.
Is Hisense better than TCL? In terms of comparison, there are a few notable similarities and differences. Keep reading for valuable insights to help you choose between a Hisense or a TCL TV.
7 Hisense vs. TCL Comparison
These are the seven Hisense vs. TCL TV comparisons:
1. Pricing
Hisense TV
Hisense and TCL both offer a range of budget-friendly TVs. However, in direct comparisons of TVs with similar features and sizes, Hisense TVs tend to be slightly more expensive. For instance, a 55-inch Hisense TV with 4K resolution costs $798, while a TCL TV with the same size and resolution is comparably less expensive.
TCL TV
TCL stands out for its affordability while maintaining quality and features. For example, a 55-inch TCL TV costs $448. This is $350 less than the similar Hisense model above. Therefore, TCL offers a cost-effective choice for buyers, making it a winner in the price comparison.
2. Display Quality
Hisense TV
Most of Hisense’s TV models have true HDR and UHD settings that display 4k resolution videos. They shine with smooth motion, making them ideal for gaming or watching movies.
HDR stands for High Dynamic Range, a television technology that enhances images’ contrast and color accuracy. Meanwhile, UHD or Ultra High Definition provides TVs with higher picture quality than Full HD.
TCL TV
TCL TVs stand out for their excellent color uniformity. When it comes to richer colors and greater contrast ratio, TCL wins over Hisense.
In addition, TCL TVs come with local dimming features that enhance the dark areas and details on their screen and add colors around the dimmed parts. Thus, the winner in terms of display quality is TCL TV.
3. Audio Quality
Hisense TV
Hisense has collaborated with audio brands such as Harman Kardon to enhance the audio quality of their TVs. This enables them to output advanced features such as Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual: X.
TCL TV
TCL has partnered with Dolby and Onkyo to incorporate sound technologies like Dolby Atmos that create a more immersive audio experience.
Moreover, let’s compare a Hisense 32H5500F TV with a 32S325 TCL TV of the same size and price range. The Hisense model has 6W speakers, while the TCL model only has 5W speakers. So, while both offer good sound quality, Hisense is better than TCL in this category.
4. Operating System
Hisense TV
Like most smart TVs, the Hisense TV has an Android operating system. This lets users enjoy games and music from Google and access popular streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, and YouTube. Many Hisense TVs also have a built-in Chromecast that lets users stream photos, videos, and other content.
TCL TV
TCL TVs use the Roku system as their native OS. This system provides users access to various streaming channels, including ESPN, HBO, and Netflix. Users can also enjoy over 500,000 shows and movies for free.
While both operating systems are beneficial, Hisense wins since it is more user-friendly than Roku because you can use Google to navigate it.
5. Design and Build
Hisense TV
Hisense has a bold approach to designing their TVs. Their sets have slim bezels, bold colors, and curved designs, which create an impression of a larger screen. Furthermore, they often have a brushed metal and chrome finish, giving them a premium look.
TCL TV
In contrast, TCL TVs opt for a minimalistic approach with slim bezels, providing a high screen-to-body ratio. They are clean, elegant, and go well with any home decor. TCL TVs also offer cable management that keeps wires organized and out of sight.
Although both brands pay attention to their design and build, Hisense TV stands out with its bold approach, making it the winner in this category.
6. Connectivity
Hisense TV
Hisense TVs stand out in terms of connectivity due to their number of HDMI ports. For example, the Hisense 40H4F, a model in the same price range as its TCL counterparts, boasts four HDMI ports. This allows users to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
TCL TV
TCL TVs, while also equipped with HDMI ports, tend to offer fewer options. For instance, a comparable model like the TCL 40S325 only provides users with three HDMI ports. This makes Hisense the winner in this category.
7. Durability
Hisense TV
Hisense TVs are designed with slimmer frames and narrower legs, giving them a sleek look. However, these design choices might affect the overall durability of the TV set. The relatively thinner frames and legs of Hisense TVs can make them more vulnerable to damage.
TCL TV
In contrast, TCL TVs are built with sturdier construction. They boast thicker frames and broader legs, enhancing their durability. The thicker frame design also protects the internal components and screen, making TCL TVs more resistant to accidental impacts and wear over time.
Therefore, TCL TVs are the clear winner when it comes to durability.
Note: While Hisense and TCL TVs offer affordable options, they may lack advanced features in more expensive models.
Strengths of Hisense TVs
Here are the strengths of Hisense TVs:
- Affordability.
Hisense TVs are relatively cheaper than other brands, making them excellent budget options. - Design.
Hisense TVs have a sleek and modern design with clean lines and slim bezels that complement any decor in the living room. - Picture Quality.
Hisense TVs utilize modern display technology like HDR and 4K to deliver high-quality images and videos. They also offer excellent contrast, color accuracy, and brightness, making them ideal for watching movies and gaming.
Read more about the strengths of TCL TVs from TCL.com.
Weaknesses of Hisense TVs
These are the weaknesses of Hisense TVs:
- Inconsistent Picture Quality.
While Hisense TVs have decent picture quality, some users have reported color accuracy, contrast, and brightness issues. - Hisense TVs Don’t Last Long. A 2019 Consumer Reports stated that Hisense TVs tend to have problems within their first five years of use, compromising their reliability. Check out this article to find the common issue Hisense TVs may have.
- Malware Vulnerability. When connected to the internet, Hisense smart TVs become susceptible to hacking and malware. When hackers get into your TV’s system, they could change its settings, volume, or even steal personal data.
Strengths of TCL TVs
Here are the pros of TCL TVs:
- Affordability. Like Hisense TVs, TCL TVs are a lot more affordable than well-known brands. If you need to get a TV on a tight budget, TCL is a perfect choice.
- TCL Makes Good Smart TVs. Many TCL TVs come equipped with platforms like Roku and Android. This gives you access to a longer channel list.
- Excellent Picture Quality. While affordable, TCL doesn’t sacrifice the picture quality of its TVs. You can even get a TCL TV with 4K resolution and HDR capability.
Weaknesses of TCL TVs
- TCL TVs Aren’t Available in All Regions. This weakness makes it difficult for many buyers to purchase a TCL TV. Fortunately, TCL is expanding its presence across markets.
- Sound Quality. While TCL TVs have good sound quality, they don’t have the depth and impact that TVs with high-quality audio systems can offer.
