Cheap QLED TV with a 55″ diagonal: This TCL got a great discount, why you should (not) want it?

The TCL brand has drastically reduced the price of its 55-inch QLED TV T69C, which is now selling for just 7,990 CZK. This represents a 47% drop from its original launch price of 14,990 CZK. At this price, the TV is currently the third cheapest QLED model of this size.

Record discount makes TCL 55T69C a price hit

The current price of 7,990 CZK represents a historic low for this model. The TV originally launched at 14,990 CZK, gradually dropped to 10,990 CZK, and has now reached its price floor.

For this price, you get a 139cm QLED panel with 4K Ultra HD resolution (3840 × 2160 pixels), which uses quantum dots to display a wider color spectrum. TCL has integrated the AiPQ Pro processor into the TV, which optimizes the image using algorithms to adjust sharpness, colors, and contrast. The equipment also includes an advanced HVA panel (High Vertical Alignment), which ensures better viewing angles and minimizes unwanted reflections.

QLED panel offers quality picture with support for all HDR formats

The TV supports a complete range of HDR standards including HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision. This allows it to display content from various streaming services in optimal quality. Motion Clarity technology with the MEMC algorithm calculates intermediate frames for smoother motion display, which is especially appreciated when watching sports broadcasts or action scenes.

The HVA panel offers several advantages over standard VA panels. In addition to wider viewing angles, it also provides higher contrast and effectively suppresses ambient light. TCL has also implemented eye protection technologies labeled as Multiple Eye Care, which include blue light reduction, flicker-free operation, and brightness optimization according to ambient lighting.

Gaming features hit the 60Hz refresh rate limit

For gamers, the TV offers Game Master mode with HDMI 2.1 support, ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technologies. TCL mentions a feature called “120Hz Game Accelerator”, which, however, only works at Full HD resolution, not native 4K. The panel’s basic refresh rate remains at 50/60 Hz, which is the main compromise of this TV.

The lower refresh rate is likely the main reason for the extremely low price. While more expensive QLED models already offer 120Hz panels, the TCL 55T69C has to make do with half the frequency. For casual TV or movie watching, this is not such a problem, but more demanding gamers will appreciate higher values. On the other hand, a 1 ms GTG response time and variable refresh rate support partially compensate for this shortcoming.

Google TV and Dolby Atmos surround sound complete the features

The TV runs on the Google TV platform with access to all popular streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and the Czech service Oneplay. Voice control is provided by Google Assistant, which allows content searching or smart home control. An interesting feature is Google Meet support for video calls (requires purchasing a compatible webcam) and the Multisound function, which can simultaneously send audio to the TV speakers and wireless headphones.

The sound system consists of 20W speakers with support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X surround sound. For sharing content from mobile devices, the TV supports both Google Cast and Apple AirPlay 2. Connectivity is provided by 3× HDMI ports (including HDMI 2.1), 1× USB, LAN, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. HbbTV 2.0.3 support for interactive TV services and DVB-T2/S2/C tuners are also included.

Who is the TV suitable for?

The TCL 55T69C will be ideal for you if you are looking for an affordable TV with an average screen diagonal, but at the same time want more than an ordinary LED panel. With QLED technology, you will simply be able to enjoy slightly better content quality, which will also be aided by features like Dolby Vision or Motion Clarity.

The main disadvantage of the panel is its refresh rate, which is stuck at a native 50/60 Hz. If you only want to watch movies and series on the TV and are not particularly fond of sports matches or games, then this shortcoming will not limit you in any way. However, if you plan to connect a console to the TV, it would definitely be advisable to consider buying a TV with a higher frequency.

Would you buy a QLED TV with a 60Hz panel at this price?