Is TCL 6 Series better than Samsung?

Comparing brands in the TV market is a bottomless pit that can be a waste of time and money if you’re no expert. And while TV manufacturers like TCL offer more affordability, can they match the features of a top-tier brand like Samsung? In this TCL and Samsung TV review, our team will evaluate each option to determine the best TV selection out there.

TCL or Samsung?

History and Track Record

As you may already know, Samsung TVs have been in the industry for a long time. Although this company only entered the electronics scene in 1969, it took just a year later before they were known as a top-tier brand that ships televisions worldwide. To this day, they have reported approximately 50 million in TV sales annually. 

On the other hand, we do not doubt that the TCL brand can match Samsung models in terms of industry experience and track record. Founded in 1981, this company has consistently delivered future-proof TV selections and pioneered Quantum Dot technology in 2014. They also recorded 30 million in television sales last year.

Comparing TCL and Samsung TVs

TCL and Samsung: Up to $300

Diverse Streaming

TCL 32S327

TCL 32S327

  • Easy voice assistant
  • TCL Roku TV smart platform
  • 60 Hz Native Refresh Rate
  • Traditional remote control
  • 1080p Full HD Resolution

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Multiple Connectivity

SAMSUNG UN32M4500A

SAMSUNG UN32M4500A

  • Motion refresh rate: 60 Hz
  • Fluid Content Browsing
  • HyperReal Picture Processing
  • High Dynamic Range (HDR)
  • Basic Game Mode

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Size and Design

Coincidentally, both Samsung and TCL TVs that we found and tested are sized around 32 inches. In fact, most TVs falling under $300 are rarely massive because the increase in screen size also means higher costs [1]

Upon comparing Samsung UN32M4500A and TCL 32S327, our resident cinephiles noticed that the latter has thinner bezels compared to its competition. With this type of frame, TCL’s main advantage is its boundless display that cannot compare with Samsung TVs under this price range. 

Besides their similarity in screen size, both smart TV options are compatible with wall-mount setups as well. 

Image Quality and Technology

More than anything else, TV manufacturers are keen on elevating the picture quality of their products. Although both 32-inch models have a better picture than other TVs under this price range, our testers could easily tell that 32S327 has superior visual details to the other brand.

SAMSUNG UN32M4500A

As a model displaying with 1080p Full HD TV resolution, there’s no denying that the UN32M4500A’s 720p HD average picture quality fades in comparison during the TCL vs Samsung evaluations. 

However, it’s also worth noting that this Samsung model has HDR brightness and contrast support that delivers precise colors even in dark scenes, which the TCL 3 series does not have. Its ultra-clean view is also a picture mode that displays content on higher algorithms. 

Despite being cheaper televisions, both models have a smart TV interface like Samsung’s Smart Hub and TCL’s Roku TV. Through these platforms, we were able to stream different streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. 

Connectivity Options

Next to picture quality, connectivity is a feature that’ll break or make your selected television. Both smart TV options are engineered with Wi-Fi, so our resident cinephiles have no hassle connecting wireless devices into each of their systems.

TCL 32S327

Despite the limited buttons of the TCL remote control,  32S327 still noticeably has more HDMI and USB ports than its Samsung competitor.

Winner:TCL 32S327

Despite its affordable price, the TCL 32S327 Smart TV not only delivered better picture quality but also emerged superior with its easy-to-access Roku TV interface, Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, and diverse connectivity. 

TCL and Samsung: Up to $500

Best Contrast Ratio

TCL 43S435

TCL 43S435

  • Google Assistant
  • Native refresh rate: 60 Hz
  • Low Input Lag
  • Balanced Sound Quality
  • Contrast ratio: 6,067 : 1

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Best Gaming Option

Samsung UN43TU7000FXZA

SAMSUNG UN43TU7000

  • High Dynamic Range
  • Auto Game Mode
  • 4K picture quality
  • Lower input lag
  • Built-in Wi-Fi

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Size and Design

As both TVs are in the spectrum of new models released in 2021 and 2020, it didn’t surprise us that these 43-inch TV options have similar modern designs. Upon taking a closer look, our team noted that Samsung TVs under $500 have a better build than its TCL alternative. 

Even though their screen sizes and thin bezels fall into the same category, Samsung UN43TU7000’s stand supports the TV better and lessens the wobbling. On top of that, this TV brand has a thinner design than TCL, which makes it easier to mount on the walls. 

Image Quality and Technology

Given that the two models under this price range have 4K TV resolution, their higher picture quality is something to be expected. And while these new TV options have no full-array local dimming feature, both display a great contrast ratio. 

Samsung UN43TU7000FXZA

We also based our TCL vs Samsung TV evaluations on the panel technologies equipped in their systems. Given that they’re both VA panels, a slower response time is expected with dark scene transitions despite low input lag. On the bright side, experiencing burn-in is very unlikely for both. 

Smart Features and Connectivity

Between the Roku and Samsung Tizen Smart TV interface, the latter option showed more ease of usage and smoothness during our testing. Because the Tizen OS has fewer animations, it was more responsive in comparison. 

Although TCL 43S435 has more HDMI ports, Samsung UN43TU7000 supports HDR10+ input specifications that enable dynamic metadata, such as Dolby Vision. 

Winner: Samsung UN43TU7000

While both Samsung and TCL models under $500 have an excellent picture quality, UN43TU7000 has an enhanced high dynamic range format and auto game mode that TCL lacks. 

TCL and Samsung: Up to $1000

Best for Mixed Usage

TCL 55R635

TCL 55R635

  • HDR Dolby Vision
  • Wide color gamut
  • Local dimming Feature
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz
  • 4K TV resolution

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Best for TV shows

Samsung QN50Q60AA

Samsung QN50Q60AA

  • Exceptional color gamut
  • Reflection handling
  • Native contrast: 4,653 : 1
  • Auto noise reduction
  • Burn-in risk immunity

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Size and Design

In this part of the TCL vs Samsung TV review, our team picked two QLED TVs under the $1000 price mark. Given that Samsung QN50Q60AA only has a 50-inch screen size compared to TCL 55R635’s 55-inch display, it’s no wonder why the latter brand costs more than some may expect. 

Design-wise, the exterior of TCL 55R635 stood out to us more than Samsung QN50Q60AA. Although both have aesthetically pleasing construction, we couldn’t help but admire the metal and plastic frame of this TV that gives off a premium vibe. 

The overall build quality of TCL and Samsung television models are pretty much the same when compared to each other. Unlike most of the TCL 6 series TVs, most Samsung televisions have an adjustable TV stand. But the TCL alternatives have a much solid construction that would prevent any wobbling, so they reign as better options for design.  

Image Quality and Operating System

When shopping for TVs, it’s crucial to determine which has better contrast and brightness level to enhance the overall picture quality of its display. After comparing the test results of Samsung vs TCL, the TCL model emerged as the victor for its higher native contrast and peak brightness. 

TCL 55R635

On the other hand, operating systems running on both TVs operate pretty smoothly and have multiple access to streaming channels. The only difference between the two is that TCL 55R635 runs with the Roku platform while Samsung QN50Q60AA runs with Tizen OS. 

Smart Features and Connectivity Options

Our testers noticed that Samsung QN50Q60AA has more accuracy in configuration commands. Selecting specific content on streaming channels through voice appears to be complicated for both brands under this price. 

As for connectivity, neither of the two lacks wired or wireless connectivity. In fact, they have enough HDMI and USB ports to accommodate external audio and video connections. 

Winner: TCL 55R635

There’s no doubt that both models have lots of similarities, but TCL reigns superior with its visually pleasing construction and picture quality. More than its smart functions, the precise visual details still remain the most crucial factor when choosing a better TV option.

(Having connectivity issue with your Roku TV? Well, here’s how you can fix TCL Roku TV that fails to connect to Wifi) 

TCL and Samsung: Up to $1500

Best for HDR Movies

TCL 65R635

TCL 65R635

  • Mini LED technology
  • Voice Command Assistant
  • Certified Gaming Mode
  • Multiple connections
  • Wide color volume

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Best for wide viewing

Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA

Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA

  • Wide viewing angle
  • Multiple Input/Output
  • Quantum Dot TV Technology
  • AirSlim construction
  • Quantum 4K processor

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Size and Design

Like other TCL 6 series, everyone can tell that 65R635 has a more premium-looking construction than Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA. Despite being in the same price range, TCL offers a five-inch wider screen size than its competitor. On top of that, it has a more sturdy TV stand as well. 

Image Quality and Operating System

While both televisions operate with QLED technology, TCL 65R635 delivers more enhanced contrast and brightness during the test that our experts conducted. Its incredible viewing optimization is greatly owed to its Mini LED, and Dolby Vision features that Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA lacks.

As previously stated, the operating systems of both brands were quite similar in terms of responsiveness and accessibility. 

Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA

Some complicated voice commands cannot be properly encoded through both systems, so we rated them the same in terms of this feature. However, Samsung has a better voice function comprehension when it comes to configurable commands like raising volume and turning the TV on or off. 

Smart Features and Connectivity Options

The adaptive sound of Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA is probably the most exciting feature we tested during this product evaluation. While TCL has standard smart functions like voice commands, this Samsung model audio intelligence automatically adjusts the sound to fit the scene and your room’s acoustics. 

In contrast, TCL focuses more on optimizing image qualities than sound. It has an AiPQ Engine that allows your TV to learn algorithms to deliver the highest quality 4K HDR visual experience. 

Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA Ports

For connectivity, users of both TVs can expect an adequate amount of HDMI and USB ports suited to accommodate your external wired connections. On top of that, Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA has PC on TV capabilities that enable our testers to connect any device on the screen seamlessly. 

Additional Features

If you’re a gamer, it’s time to rejoice. Both of these Samsung and TCL TVs are engineered with gaming mode features that are solely dedicated to high-motion and smooth gameplay. 

While testing its interface, our team even had an easier time optimizing gaming settings thanks to Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA’s accessible game bar. Everything can be configured conveniently in its interface, from the input lag, screen ratio up to its headphone settings. 

On the other hand, TCL 65R635’s Certified Gaming Mode isn’t so bad either. While it’s not as configurable as Samsung, it has VRR functionalities that enhance the overall gaming responsiveness of the TV. 

Winner: Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA

It was a close comparison. While TCL’s image processing was indeed a top-tier suited for HDR movies, Samsung QN60Q60AAFXZA has more diverse smart functions and connectivity perfect for a modern home. 

Overall Winner: Samsung

Samsung UN43TU7000FXZA

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Picking between Samsung and TCL TV options wasn’t an easy task as both brands offer unique and reliable viewing convenience. However, after the tests, our home theater experts decided to hail Samsung as the overall winner for its multiple connectivity options, responsiveness, unique additional features, and superior brand quality. 

For related topics, we also have these pages below: 

  • Samsung TV versus LG TV 
  • Sony TV versus Samsung TV 
  • TCL versus LG TV 
  • Android versus Roku TV
  • UHD TV versus QLED TV

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Writer

Willie Greer

Willie Greer

Willie Greer is the founder of The Product Analyst. A cinephile, he has made it a personal quest to achieve the awesomest home theater possible. He now shares what he has learned through the years on the site, and has enlisted the help of tech-savvy colleagues in providing more insight about today’s most sought-after gadgets.

Is TCL or Samsung TV better?

Home » TV » TCL vs Samsung – Which TV brand is better in 2022? TCL and Samsung rank at the very top of the biggest TV manufacturers in the world. Still, when comparing the two brands, Samsung stands out as the more reputable and more trusted brand.

What TV is better than TCL 6 Series?

The LG C1 OLED is much better than the TCL 6 Series/R646 2021 QLED.

Is TCL a good brand for TVs?

Overall, TCL TVs offer good picture quality and great features at a low price. Although some models aren't as feature-packed or as well-built as more expensive options, their TVs typically offer great value compared to similarly-priced options.

Is TCL as good as Sony?

The Sony has much more accurate colors, handles gradients a lot better, and has a lower input lag. However, the TCL displays deeper blacks, gets brighter, and displays a wider color gamut.