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Updated
Pros
  • Exceptional color accuracy
  • AI-driven picture and sound
  • Wide range of smart features
  • Stylish design
  • Outstanding picture quality
  • Wide color gamut
  • Roku smart platform
  • Supports multiple HDR formats
Cons
  • Limited refresh rate
  • Sound quality could be improved
  • User interface can be slow
  • Sound could be better
Bottom Line
LG's NanoCell 80 Series offers stunning 4K picture quality with NanoCell technology and AI-driven features for an enhanced viewing experience.
TCL's 6-Series offers impressive 4K performance with QLED technology and Roku integration for a seamless streaming experience.
Screen Size
55 inches
55 inches
Resolution
4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
HDR
HDR10, HLG
Dolby Vision, HDR10
Refresh Rate
60Hz
120Hz
HDMI Ports
4
4
Smart TV
Yes
Yes
Height
30.9 inches
31.1 Inches
Length
10.4 inches
13.7 Inches
Weight
41.2 Pounds
43.7 pounds
Width
48.5 inches
48.3 Inches
Part Number
55SM8600PUA
55R635
Model
55SM8600PUA
55R635

When it comes to choosing a high-quality television, there are numerous options available on the market. For those looking for exceptional performance without breaking the bank, the LG NanoCell 80 Series and TCL 6-Series R635 are two top contenders in the realm of 4K TVs under $1000. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, picture quality, and overall value of these two models to help you make an informed decision.

Picture Quality

Both the LG NanoCell 80 Series and TCL 6-Series R635 boast impressive picture quality, but they differ in their approaches. The LG NanoCell 80 Series utilizes LG's proprietary NanoCell technology, which uses tiny particles to absorb unwanted light wavelengths, resulting in more accurate colors and improved contrast. This leads to a wider color gamut and better overall color accuracy.

On the other hand, the TCL 6-Series R635 features a Mini-LED backlight system, which provides excellent contrast and black levels. The Mini-LED technology allows for more precise control over the backlight, resulting in deeper blacks and improved overall picture quality. Additionally, the R635 supports HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of content.

Color Accuracy and Gamut

In terms of color accuracy, the LG NanoCell 80 Series has a slight edge. Its NanoCell technology provides a wider color gamut, covering around 95% of the DCI-P3 color space. This results in more vivid and lifelike colors, making it ideal for watching movies and TV shows with complex color palettes.

The TCL 6-Series R635, on the other hand, covers around 90% of the DCI-P3 color space. While this is still an impressive achievement, it falls slightly short of the LG NanoCell 80 Series. However, the R635's Mini-LED backlight system helps to compensate for this by providing excellent contrast and black levels.

Smart TV Features

Both TVs run on their respective smart TV platforms: LG's webOS and TCL's Roku TV. LG's webOS is known for its intuitive interface and robust app selection, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, webOS supports voice control through LG's Magic Remote or compatible smart speakers.

TCL's Roku TV platform, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined and user-friendly experience. The R635 comes with built-in support for thousands of streaming channels, including all major services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Roku TV also features a robust search function and personalized recommendations, making it easy to find new content.

Gaming Performance

For gamers, the LG NanoCell 80 Series and TCL 6-Series R635 offer different strengths. The LG NanoCell 80 Series supports HDMI 2.1, which enables features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto-low latency mode (ALLM). This makes it an excellent choice for console gaming, particularly with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.

The TCL 6-Series R635 also supports HDMI 2.1, but its gaming performance is slightly more limited. While it still offers VRR and ALLM, its input lag is slightly higher than the LG NanoCell 80 Series. However, the R635's Mini-LED backlight system provides excellent contrast and black levels, making it well-suited for fast-paced games.

Value

When considering 4K TVs under $1000, value is a crucial factor. The LG NanoCell 80 Series typically retails between $800-$900 for the 55-inch model, while the TCL 6-Series R635 can be found for around $600-$700 for the same size. While the LG NanoCell 80 Series offers superior picture quality and more advanced features, the TCL 6-Series R635 provides an excellent balance of performance and affordability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the LG NanoCell 80 Series and TCL 6-Series R635 are outstanding options in the realm of 4K TVs under $1000. The LG NanoCell 80 Series offers superior picture quality, wider color gamut, and more advanced features like HDMI 2.1 support. However, its higher price point may be a deterrent for some buyers.

The TCL 6-Series R635, on the other hand, provides an excellent balance of performance and affordability. Its Mini-LED backlight system delivers impressive contrast and black levels, and its Roku TV platform offers a streamlined and user-friendly experience. While it may not match the LG NanoCell 80 Series in terms of picture quality, its lower price point makes it an attractive option for those on a budget.

Ultimately, the choice between these two TVs will depend on your individual priorities and preferences. If you're willing to invest in superior picture quality and advanced features, the LG NanoCell 80 Series is an excellent choice. However, if you're looking for an affordable and feature-rich TV with impressive performance, the TCL 6-Series R635 is a compelling option in the world of 4K TVs under $1000.