The TCL 55C745K TV is a feature-packed, high-performance television that offers a rich viewing experience through its advanced technologies and impressive specifications. As part of TCL’s C-Series, it combines stunning picture quality, immersive audio, and smart functionality, making it a competitive choice in the mid-range TV market. This guide will provide a thorough overview of the TCL 55C745K TV, covering its design, display features, smart capabilities, connectivity options, audio performance, and user interface, along with tips for setup and optimization.
Design and Build Quality
The TCL 55C745K boasts a sleek, modern design that fits seamlessly into any home decor. Its slim bezels enhance the screen-to-body ratio, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The TV is supported by a sturdy, elegant stand that ensures stability while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. The rear panel is well-organized, with ports easily accessible, making cable management straightforward.
- Dimensions: The TV measures approximately 1227 mm in width, 706 mm in height, and 68 mm in depth without the stand.
- Weight: It weighs around 14 kg without the stand.
- Material: The TV features a combination of high-quality plastic and metal, contributing to its durability and stylish appearance.
TCL 55C745K
Display Features
The centerpiece of the TCL 55C745K is its 55-inch 4K UHD display, which delivers stunning picture quality with vibrant colors and sharp details. The TV is equipped with several advanced display technologies that enhance the viewing experience:
1. 4K UHD Resolution
With a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, the TCL 55C745K offers four times the resolution of Full HD, providing exceptional clarity and detail. This high resolution is perfect for enjoying 4K content from streaming services, Blu-ray discs, and gaming consoles.
2. Quantum Dot Technology
Quantum Dot technology delivers a wider color gamut and more accurate colors by using nano-sized semiconductor particles. This results in richer, more lifelike colors and improved brightness, making the TV suitable for HDR content.
3. High Dynamic Range (HDR)
The TCL 55C745K supports multiple HDR formats, including HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. HDR enhances the contrast and color accuracy of the TV, allowing for more detail in both bright and dark scenes. This makes HDR content, such as movies and games, more immersive and visually striking.
4. Full Array Local Dimming
Full Array Local Dimming (FALD) improves contrast and black levels by dynamically adjusting the backlight in different zones of the screen. This results in deeper blacks and brighter whites, enhancing the overall picture quality, especially in dark scenes.
5. Motion Clarity
The TV features a high refresh rate and motion enhancement technologies that reduce blur and judder during fast-moving scenes. This makes it ideal for watching sports, action movies, and playing video games, providing smooth and fluid motion.
Smart TV Features
The TCL 55C745K is a smart TV powered by Google TV, offering a wide range of smart features and access to popular streaming services and apps.
1. Google TV Interface
Google TV provides a user-friendly interface that integrates content from various streaming services, making it easy to discover new shows and movies. The home screen is customizable, allowing users to personalize their viewing experience.
2. Voice Control
The TV comes with a voice-enabled remote control that supports Google Assistant. This allows users to search for content, control the TV, and even manage smart home devices using voice commands. The TV also supports Amazon Alexa for those who prefer using Alexa-enabled devices.
3. App Support
The TCL 55C745K offers access to a vast library of apps through the Google Play Store. Popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, and HBO Max are readily available. Additionally, users can download games, music apps, and other entertainment options to enhance their viewing experience.
4. Chromecast Built-in
With built-in Chromecast, users can easily cast content from their smartphones, tablets, or laptops directly to the TV. This feature is useful for sharing photos, videos, and presentations on the big screen without the need for additional hardware.
55 inch QLED 4K Ultra HD
Connectivity Options
The TCL 55C745K is equipped with a variety of connectivity options to accommodate different devices and enhance its versatility.
1. HDMI Ports
The TV features four HDMI ports, including one with eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) support. These ports allow users to connect multiple devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and soundbars, providing high-quality audio and video signals.
2. USB Ports
There are two USB ports available for connecting external storage devices, such as USB flash drives or external hard drives. Users can play media files directly from these devices, including videos, music, and photos.
3. Ethernet and Wi-Fi
The TV supports both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) internet connections. This ensures a stable and fast internet connection for streaming content, downloading apps, and browsing the web.
4. Bluetooth
Bluetooth connectivity allows users to connect wireless headphones, speakers, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices to the TV. This is particularly useful for private listening or enhancing the audio experience without the need for cables.
5. Audio Output
In addition to HDMI eARC, the TV has an optical audio output and a 3.5mm headphone jack. These options provide flexibility in connecting external audio systems, such as soundbars or home theater systems.
Audio Performance
The TCL 55C745K delivers impressive audio quality, complementing its excellent display performance. The TV is equipped with a 2.0 channel speaker system with a total output of 20 watts. For a more immersive audio experience, the TV supports Dolby Atmos, which creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the audio feel like it’s coming from all around you.
1. Dolby Atmos
Dolby Atmos enhances the audio experience by adding overhead sound effects, creating a more immersive and dynamic soundstage. This is particularly effective in movies and TV shows with complex soundscapes, as well as in gaming.
2. Audio Customization
The TV provides various audio settings and presets that allow users to customize the sound according to their preferences. These settings include options for different content types, such as movies, music, and sports, optimizing the audio output for each scenario.
User Interface and Experience
The TCL 55C745K offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and customize. The Google TV platform is intuitive, providing seamless access to content and apps.
1. Home Screen Customization
Users can personalize the home screen by adding their favorite apps, channels, and content. This makes it easier to access frequently used services and discover new content tailored to their interests.
2. Universal Search
The universal search feature allows users to search for content across multiple streaming services simultaneously. This saves time and effort, making it easier to find specific shows, movies, or genres without switching between apps.
3. Content Recommendations
Google TV provides personalized content recommendations based on the user’s viewing history and preferences. These recommendations appear on the home screen, helping users discover new content that matches their interests.
4. Parental Controls
The TV includes parental control features that allow parents to restrict access to certain content and apps. This is useful for families with young children, ensuring a safe and appropriate viewing experience.
Setup and Optimization Tips
Setting up the TCL 55C745K is straightforward, but there are several tips to optimize its performance and ensure the best possible viewing experience.
1. Initial Setup
- Placement: Position the TV on a stable surface or mount it on the wall at eye level for optimal viewing comfort.
- Connections: Connect the TV to power and attach any external devices, such as a gaming console or Blu-ray player, using the HDMI ports. Connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Power On: Turn on the TV and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup, including language selection, Wi-Fi setup, and Google account login.
2. Picture Settings
- Picture Mode: Select the appropriate picture mode based on the content you are watching. Modes such as Standard, Movie, and Game offer different settings optimized for various types of content.
- Calibration: For advanced users, consider calibrating the TV’s picture settings to achieve the best color accuracy and contrast. This can be done using calibration tools or by hiring a professional.
3. Audio Settings
- Sound Mode: Choose the sound mode that best suits your content, such as Movie, Music, or Standard.
- External Audio: If using a soundbar or home theater system, ensure it is properly connected and configured to work with the TV’s audio settings.
4. Smart Features
- Update Software: Regularly check for software updates to ensure the TV is running the latest firmware and has access to new features and improvements.
- App Management: Download and organize your preferred streaming apps and services. Remove any apps that are not in use to keep the interface clean and efficient.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the TCL 55C745K is designed to provide a seamless user experience, users may occasionally encounter issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. No Picture or Sound
- Check Connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected and that the TV is powered on.
- Input Source: Verify that the correct input source is selected on the TV.
- Restart: Try restarting the TV by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in.
2. Internet Connectivity Issues
- Check Network: Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is functioning correctly and that the TV is within range of the router.
- Re-connect Wi-Fi: Try disconnecting and reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network through the TV’s settings menu.
- Restart Router: Restart your router to resolve any temporary network issues.
- Wired Connection: If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection for a more stable and faster internet connection.
3. Remote Control Not Working
- Check Batteries: Ensure that the remote control batteries are not depleted and are inserted correctly.
- Obstructions: Make sure there are no obstructions between the remote control and the TV sensor.
- Pairing: If the remote uses Bluetooth, try re-pairing it with the TV. Refer to the user manual for specific pairing instructions.
- Replacement: If the remote is damaged, consider purchasing a replacement from TCL or a compatible third-party remote.
4. Picture Quality Issues
- Picture Mode: Check and adjust the picture mode settings to suit the content being viewed.
- Resolution: Ensure the source device (such as a Blu-ray player or streaming service) is outputting at the correct resolution (4K UHD).
- Firmware Update: Make sure the TV’s firmware is up to date, as updates can include fixes for picture quality issues.
5. Audio Issues
- Volume Settings: Check the TV and external audio device volume settings.
- Audio Output: Ensure that the correct audio output settings are selected on the TV, especially if using an external sound system.
- Cable Check: Verify that all audio cables are securely connected and not damaged.
- Sound Mode: Try different sound modes to see if one provides a better audio experience for the content being watched.
Advanced Features and Customization
The TCL 55C745K offers several advanced features and customization options that can enhance the overall user experience.
1. Gaming Features
The TCL 55C745K is a great choice for gamers due to its low input lag, high refresh rate, and support for various gaming technologies.
- Game Mode: Activate Game Mode to reduce input lag and enhance responsiveness, providing a smoother gaming experience.
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): The TV supports VRR, which helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering during gameplay, ensuring a more fluid visual experience.
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode): When connected to a compatible gaming console, the TV automatically switches to low latency mode for optimal gaming performance.
2. Custom Picture and Sound Profiles
For users who want to fine-tune their viewing and listening experience, the TCL 55C745K allows for custom picture and sound profiles.
- Picture Customization: Adjust settings such as brightness, contrast, color saturation, and sharpness to create a personalized picture profile.
- Sound Customization: Modify equalizer settings and sound modes to suit your audio preferences and the type of content you are watching.
3. Voice Assistant Integration
Leverage the full potential of Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa to control your TV and smart home devices using voice commands.
- Google Assistant: Use voice commands to search for content, control playback, adjust settings, and manage compatible smart home devices.
- Amazon Alexa: If you prefer Alexa, the TV can also be controlled using Alexa-enabled devices, providing similar functionality to Google Assistant.
4. Parental Controls and Profiles
For households with multiple users, the TCL 55C745K allows for the creation of individual profiles and parental controls.
- Profiles: Set up individual profiles for different family members, each with their own app preferences, content recommendations, and watchlists.
- Parental Controls: Restrict access to specific apps and content for younger viewers, ensuring a safe and appropriate viewing experience.
The screen is very responsive, too – input lag with 60Hz feeds in Game mode is just 13.2ms, which more than halves with 120Hz game feeds.
The only gaming limitations we found are that only two of the TV’s four HDMI ports support every gaming feature, and that it wasn’t possible to game in Dolby Vision at 120Hz. Our resident Xbox invariably reverted back to HDR10 when we tried to use 120Hz frame rates.
We’ve already mentioned that the C745K supports Dolby Vision HDR alongside the basic HDR10 and HLG systems. It turns out, though, that TCL’s TV also supports the HDR10+ system which, like Dolby Vision, adds extra scene-by-scene picture information to the HDR feed. This is an excellent bit of format versatility to find on such an affordable TV.
The format support doesn’t end there either, as the 55C745K has also been certified by IMAX as delivering picture quality good enough to do justice to the specially mastered IMAX Enhanced films found on a few 4K Blu-ray titles and some streaming platforms.
Despite its price, the 55C745K is able to power its pictures with an AI-powered processor, specifically the third generation of TCL’s AIPQ system. This processor influences most key elements of TV picture quality, though its integration into the TV’s menus is somewhat opaque.
The TCL 55C745K is a versatile and feature-rich TV that delivers exceptional performance in both picture and sound quality. Its combination of advanced display technologies, smart features, and connectivity options makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of users, from movie enthusiasts and gamers to families seeking a high-quality home entertainment solution. By following the setup and optimization tips provided in this guide, users can ensure they get the most out of their TCL 55C745K TV, enjoying an immersive and personalized viewing experience.
TCL 55C745K Technical Specifications
General
- Brand: TCL
- Model: 55C745K
- Screen Size: 55 inches
- Display Type: LED
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Display Features
- HDR Support: HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
- Quantum Dot Technology: Yes
- Full Array Local Dimming: Yes
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz (Native), with Motion Enhancement
Audio
- Speaker System: 2.0 Channel
- Total Output: 20W
- Dolby Atmos: Yes
- Sound Modes: Standard, Movie, Music, etc.
Smart TV Features
- Operating System: Google TV
- Voice Control: Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa
- Chromecast Built-in: Yes
- App Store: Google Play Store
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Quad Core ProcessorAiPQ 3.0 Processor
Connectivity
- HDMI Ports: 4 (1 with eARC)
- USB Ports: 2
- Ethernet: Yes
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Audio Output: Optical, 3.5mm Headphone Jack
Dimensions and Weight
- Without Stand: 1227 mm x 706 mm x 68 mm
- Weight Without Stand: 14 kg
Additional Features
- Game Mode: Yes
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): Yes
- Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Yes
- Custom Picture and Sound Profiles: Yes
- Parental Controls: Yes
By utilizing this comprehensive guide, users will be well-equipped to take full advantage of the TCL 55C745K TV’s capabilities, ensuring an enjoyable and optimized viewing experience for years to come. Price: £578
