TCL 40-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Fire TV (40S350F, 2023 Model), Alexa Built-in, Apple AirPlay Compatibility, Streaming FHD Television,Black
Want the best price and purchase timing?
Our AI advisor analyzes real-time pricing across all channels to find you the best deal.
AI Verdict
This 40-inch 1080p LED Fire TV with two HDMI inputs and Bluetooth audio is for budget-conscious users needing a secondary screen for streaming.
This 40-inch 1080p LED TV is a strong contender if your primary need is an affordable streaming device for a smaller space. Its Fire TV integration and AirPlay are convenient, but the lack of HDR and often-criticized audio mean it's not for main living room use.
If you need better picture quality or a more immersive experience, look for a TV with 4K resolution and HDR support.
Regret Score™
High RiskLower is better — measures purchase-regret risk from real buyer complaints, review credibility, and product maturity
Issues discovered after purchase
Critically weak dimension
Amazon rating vs actual quality
Chance this product isn't for you
Pros
- 1080p Full HD resolution delivers clear, sharp images for movies and shows.
- Fire TV platform provides access to over 1 million movies and TV episodes from services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+.
- Alexa voice remote allows hands-free control for content search and app launching.
- Apple AirPlay compatibility enables streaming photos, videos, and music from Apple devices.
- FullView Metal Bezel-less Design offers an edge-to-edge glass screen for a modern look.
- Bluetooth Personal Audio allows pairing compatible headphones for private listening.
Cons
- Built-in speaker audio quality is often described as average or poor, with some users needing external speakers.
- The display lacks High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology, limiting contrast and color depth.
- Fire TV OS responsiveness can be slower than expected for some users.
- The bright indicator light on the bottom of the TV can be distracting in dark environments.
- Only two HDMI inputs may limit connections for multiple gaming consoles or media devices.
Dimension Scores
The 1080p Full HD LED panel provides clear and sharp images for its price range, but lacks 4K resolution and HDR.
Built-in speakers are frequently described as inadequate, with many users suggesting external sound solutions.
Fire TV offers a wide range of streaming apps and Alexa voice control, though some users note occasional responsiveness issues.
The 40-inch screen size is suitable for smaller rooms, and it includes two HDMI inputs and Wi-Fi, but only two HDMI ports is average.
Best For
- Secondary TV for a bedroom or guest room for casual streaming.
- Dorm room entertainment for watching movies and shows.
- Budget-friendly option for a dedicated streaming display.
- Using as a large 1080p PC monitor for basic tasks.
Not Recommended For
- Users prioritizing high-fidelity audio without external sound systems.
- Competitive gamers who require high refresh rates or low input lag.
- Anyone expecting 4K resolution or HDR visual enhancements.
Watch Out For
- The built-in speakers often deliver poor sound quality, with some users calling it 'shockingly bad' and immediately buying a soundbar.
- A bright indicator light on the bottom of the TV can be 'VERRRRRY bright' and bothersome, especially in a dark bedroom.
- Some users report the Fire TV OS can be less responsive than anticipated, leading to minor delays.
- One user experienced 'two big lines right in the middle' of the screen upon initial setup, indicating potential quality control issues.
- The remote control has been criticized for requiring 'way too many steps' to access basic settings like picture or audio presets.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0C1J2SVKD |
| Brand | TCL |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries required. |
| Brand Name | TCL |
| Color Name | Black |
| Resolution | 1080p |
| Item Weight | 15.72 pounds |
| Screen Size | 40 Inches |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Refresh Rate | 60 |
| Speaker Type | Built-In |
| Special Feature | Bezel-Less Design |
| Special Features | Bezel-Less Design |
| Item model number | 40S350F |
| Display Technology | LED |
| Product Dimensions | 3.6 x 35.7 x 20.3 inches |
| Included Components | Stand, Remote Control, 2x Remote Control Batteries, Power Cord, Quick Start Guide |
| Connectivity Technology | HDMI, Wi-Fi |
| Standing screen display size | 40 Inches |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising recurring detail from users is the bright indicator light at the bottom, which many find distracting, especially in dark rooms. While the 1080p picture quality is generally praised for its clarity and brightness at this price, the built-in audio is a consistent point of contention, often prompting immediate soundbar purchases. The Fire TV interface and Alexa integration are seen as user-friendly and functional, providing easy access to streaming content. However, some users have noted occasional sluggishness with the smart TV's operating system.
“Honestly, for a hundred bucks, the picture is pretty good, but the sound is so bad I had to dig out an old soundbar just to hear dialogue. And that stupid light on the bottom? Blinding at night!”
Common Praise
- The 1080p picture is clear, bright, and sharp for watching movies and shows.
- Fire TV interface makes streaming apps like Netflix and Prime Video easily accessible.
- Alexa voice remote works well for searching content and launching applications.
- The bezel-less design gives it a modern and sleek appearance.
- Easy setup process gets the TV running quickly.
Common Complaints
- Sound quality from the built-in speakers is often poor, requiring a soundbar for better audio.
- The indicator light on the bottom of the TV is excessively bright and distracting in a dark room.
- The Fire TV operating system can sometimes be slow or unresponsive.
- Remote control navigation for settings is cumbersome, requiring too many steps.
- Lack of HDR support means less vibrant colors and contrast compared to other TVs.
Ownership Tips
- You'll probably want to invest in a soundbar or external speakers if audio quality matters to you.
- The bright standby light might need to be covered with tape if the TV is in a bedroom.
- Be prepared for occasional lag when navigating the Fire TV menus, especially after extended use.
- The remote isn't the most intuitive for adjusting picture or sound settings quickly.
- AirPlay works reliably for casting content from iPhones or iPads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this TV support 4K resolution?
No, this model features 1080p Full HD resolution, not 4K.
Can I connect Bluetooth headphones to this TV?
Yes, it includes Bluetooth Personal Audio, allowing you to pair compatible Bluetooth headphones for private listening.
How many HDMI ports does it have?
The TV comes with two HDMI inputs, one of which supports ARC for simplified audio connections.
Is Alexa built into the TV?
Yes, Alexa is built-in, and you can use the voice remote to control the TV and search for content.
Does it work with Apple AirPlay?
Yes, this TV has Apple AirPlay compatibility, allowing you to stream content from your Apple devices.
Is the sound quality good?
User feedback varies, but many report the built-in speaker sound quality is average or below average, often recommending external speakers.
Buying Guide
When looking at a TV like this, you're trading off some premium features for a lower price. You're getting a clear 1080p picture, which is perfectly fine for most streaming, but don't expect the super-sharp detail or vibrant colors of a 4K HDR TV. The smart platform is built-in, so you won't need extra streaming sticks, but the sound is where these budget TVs usually cut corners, so plan accordingly.
1080p Resolution
This means the screen has 1920 pixels horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically. It's considered Full HD, offering a clear image for most content, but it's not as detailed as 4K (which has four times as many pixels).
LED Display
This refers to the backlight technology. LED TVs use light-emitting diodes to illuminate the screen, resulting in a bright picture. It's a common and energy-efficient display type for TVs in this price range.
Fire TV Smart OS
This is the operating system that runs the TV's smart features. It's like the apps on your phone, giving you direct access to streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu without needing an external device. It also includes Alexa voice control.
60Hz Refresh Rate
This is how many times per second the screen can update its image. 60Hz is standard for most TV and movie content, providing smooth motion. Higher refresh rates (like 120Hz) are usually found on more expensive TVs and are beneficial for fast-paced video games.
Alternatives
If this TV doesn't fit, search for models with 4K resolution and HDR support for a better picture, or look for TVs with more HDMI ports if you have many devices.
You Might Also Like
Panasonic Z8BAP 77 Inch OLED 4K Smart Fire TV, 144Hz TV-77Z8BAP Bundle with 4 YR CPS Enhanced Protection, WN10 Wireless TV Neck Speaker, HDMI Cable & Deco Gear Home Theater Beginner's Guidebook
$600+This 77-inch Panasonic OLED 4K Fire TV with a 144Hz panel and 170W 360 Soundscape Pro is for cinephiles and serious gamers who want premium picture and sound.
VIZIO V4K50S-0810 50" Class V-Series 4K LED HDR Compatibility Chromecast Built-in, Bluetooth Limited Edition Smart TV (Renewed)
$150-$299A 50-inch 4K UHD LED TV with Dolby Vision HDR, 60Hz refresh rate, and built-in Chromecast, best for casual viewing and light gaming on a budget.
Voice Remote for Samsung-Smart-TV-Remote-Control-Replacement, Universal for Samsung Frame Crystal QLED OLED UHD 4K 8K Voice Smart TV
This is a Bluetooth voice remote replacement for Samsung Smart TVs with voice function, featuring dedicated streaming buttons and a 40-foot range.
Amazon Fire TV 50" Omni Series (newest model), 4K UHD smart TV, hands-free with Alexa + 4-Year Protection Plan
This 50-inch 4K UHD TV with HDR10 and HLG offers hands-free Alexa control for casual viewers and smart home users.