It is not so easy to find a good, but not too expensive, 4K TV with a decent screen. The TCL C739 can be a good choice for you if you value a very good price-performance ratio. Because the budget TV is currently on Amazon and Galaxus* only 649 euros and that’s it 150 euros cheaper than the suggested retail price.
In this country, TV manufacturers such as TCL and Hisense are still scrutinized. But TCL in particular has now expanded one of the leading companies developed in this segment. In 2022 came according to Statista TCL accounted for 11.7 percent of all televisions sold worldwide; only Samsung had a larger market share with 19.6 percent.
TCL C739: With QLED display and up to 144 Hz
With the C739, TCL relies on one QLED display with a maximum refresh rate of 144 Hz. Not only can PS5 and Xbox Series X be connected without much input lag, but the QLED TV can also be used as a gaming monitor for a correspondingly powerful PC. Various gaming technologies such as VRR optimize the gaming experience. The TCL is also capable of upscaling content to 4K.
When streaming, the QLED panel of the TCL C739 scores with strong contrasts and clear color reproduction. Unlike the competition from Sony, LG and Samsung, the 4K television also supports the two important HDR formats HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. Anyone who uses a lot of streaming services can look forward to Android TV as an operating system from TCL. This gives you access to all common providers.
As a nice feature, TCL also has one on the C739 integrated camera with which you can make video calls. The lens can be closed with a flap, so you don’t have to worry about uninvited spectators.
Onkyo speakers and Dolby Atmos
In terms of sound, the TCL C739 obviously cannot compete with a good soundbar or a surround system. But at least there are Onkyo speakers built into the television Dolby Atmos can process. However, you should not expect miracles here. The speakers have a maximum power of 30 watts, so a soundbar probably sounds better.
You also have to make compromises when it comes to peak brightness. But given the low price, this is not surprising. Still, it has to be said that very bright HDR effects like muzzle flashes don’t reach the brilliance of more expensive TVs due to the TCL’s lack of peak brightness. But you also pay a few hundred euros more for such models.
QLED alternative from Samsung: the QN90B
An alternative to the TCL C739 is the Samsung QN90B for currently 989 euros on Amazon. A Neo QLED display is used here, which offers significantly higher peak brightness and stronger contrasts for maximum HDR effects.
The picture quality of the Samsung TV is better than that of the TCL C739 in most respects. He also offers the same four HDMI 2.1 inputs for fast signal processing while playing. The sound is also better than the TCL. However, the Samsung lacks support for Dolby Vision. Content in this HDR format will be played in HDR10 instead.