- Table of Contents
- Intro
- Design
- Picture Quality
- Motion
- Inputs
- Sound Quality
- Smart Features
- Sizes and Variants
- Compared
- Conclusion
- Discussions
Reviewed on Aug 14, 2017
By Daniel O'Keeffe
, Ian Cumming, Mehdi Azzabi, Martin Leduc, Eric Bousquet
TCL 1 Series/D100
TV REVIEW
Sub-Type
:
VA
What it is:
Type of display technology used by the TV.
When it matters:
Different technologies have different performance and are suited to different uses
Good value:
IPS maintains good color accuracy at an angle, but has a poor contrast ratio from in front. VA has great picture quality in front, but loses saturation at an angle. OLED maintains good color accuracy at an angle without any of the other issues seen with IPS and VA, as they keep good brightness and contrast at an angle.
The TCL D100 is a basic 1080p TV with decent picture quality. It lacks many of the features found in higher end TVs to improve the picture quality further, and has sub-par motion performance. Unlike most other TCL TVs, it almost completely lacks a smart platform.
Test Results
| Design | 6.0 |
| Picture Quality | 6.3 |
| Motion | 5.8 |
| Inputs | 7.4 |
| Sound Quality | 5.4 |
| Smart Features | 3.6 |
- Great contrast makes blacks look deep
- Could be brighter
- Image quality degrades when viewed from an angle
- Cannot play 24p content without judder
Update 2/28/2019:
Converted to Test Bench 1.3. Learn more about our versioned test bench system here.
Update 3/12/2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2. Learn more about our versioned test bench system here.
Update 3/12/2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2. Learn more about our versioned test bench system here.
Check Price
Design
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
The TCL D100 is a very basic looking TV, and certainly won't be the centerpiece of any room. It has a wide plastic stand, with a similar design to other TCL TVs such as the S305. It appears a bit thick when viewed from the side, but the HDMI inputs are fairly easy to access.
Temperature
What it is:
It is the average and maximum operating temperatures we measured on the TV. If there is an external device, like a One Connect box in some Samsungs, we measure the temperature of that as well.
When it matters:
If the temperature of your TV is much higher, check that nothing is blocking the vents.
Maximum Temperature
:
95 °F (35 °C)
What it is:
The peak temperature found on the TV.
When it matters:
If the TV is placed in an enclosed space.
Good value:
<35°C
Noticeable difference:
5°C
Average Temperature
:
91 °F (33 °C)
What it is:
The average temperature measured on the TV.
When it matters:
If the TV is placed in an enclosed space.
Good value:
<35°C
Noticeable difference:
5°C
The TV runs fairly cool, only getting warm to the touch in a few places on the back. The bottom is full of vents, which exit midway up the back.
6.0
Build Quality
What it is:
It represents our perception of the quality of the construction of the TV, of the materials used, and how they all blend.
When it matters:
Poor build quality might lessen the expected lifetime of the TV, or make it more prone to faults due to mishandling.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
Picture Quality
Score components:
- 11% Contrast
- 6% Local Dimming
- 6% SDR Peak Brightness
- 6% HDR Peak Brightness
- 6% Gray Uniformity
- 7% Viewing Angle
- 4% Black Uniformity
- 6% Reflections
- 4% Pre Calibration
- 1% Post Calibration
- 6% 480p Input
- 9% 720p Input
- 11% 1080p Input
- 5% 4k Input
- 4% Color Gamut
- 4% Color Volume
- 2% Gradient
- 1% Temporary Image Retention
- 1% Permanent Burn-In Risk
Score distribution:
The TCL D100 1080p LED TV has a decent picture quality. Dark room performance is very good since it has a great contrast ratio and an excellent black uniformity which in turn makes for very good dark scenes with deep blacks. When set in a bright room, the D100 doesn't perform as well since it can't get that bright and it can't deal that well with reflections. The gray uniformity is okay and dirty screen effect not too strong, which is good new for sports fans out there. The viewing angle is disappointing and unfortunately, it relegates the best picture quality to narrow zone right in from of the TV.
8.5
Contrast
What it is:
Brightness difference between white and black. This is the main component of picture quality.
When it matters:
Always, but especially when watching dark scenes.
Score components:
Score distribution:
Native Contrast
:
4287 : 1
What it is:
Ratio of the white brightness divided by the blacks measured on our checkerboard test pattern with a white target of 100 cd/m².
When it matters:
Dark scenes in a dark room.
Good value:
> 3,000
Noticeable difference:
500
Score distribution:
Contrast with local dimming
:
N/A
What it is:
Ratio of the white brightness divided by the blacks measured on our checkerboard test pattern with local dimming turned on (maximum) with a white target of 100 cd/m².
When it matters:
Dark scenes in a dark room.
Good value:
> 3,000
Noticeable difference:
500
Score distribution:
The TCL D100 has a great contrast ratio and with a contrast ratio hovering around 4300:1, this means it can produce blacks that are very deep. When set in a dark room, the D100 can reproduce dark scenes very well.
0
Local Dimming
What it is:
The lights behind the LCD layer adapt to the picture displayed, improving the contrast ratio.
When it matters:
Dark scenes viewed in a dark room.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
Local Dimming
:
No
What it is:
Whether it has a feature that controls the LEDs behind the LCD layer, to match the picture and darkens the dark portion of it.
When it matters:
On LED TVs only. Dark scenes viewed in a dark room.
Backlight
:
Direct
What it is:
Configuration of the lights of the backlight.
When it matters:
Effectiveness of the local dimming.
Good value:
Full-array/direct lighting is better for local dimming. As for the uniformity of the screen, it depends on the implementation. Some edge-lit TVs have more uniform blacks than some full-array TVs.
The TCL D100 does not have a local dimming feature. The video is for reference only.
6.7
SDR Peak Brightness
What it is:
How bright the screen can get. Measured with local dimming and with SDR content.
When it matters:
Bright living rooms; bright objects; SDR content.
Score components:
- 64% SDR Real Scene Peak Brightness
- 5% SDR Peak 2% Window
- 5% SDR Peak 10% Window
- 5% SDR Peak 25% Window
- 5% SDR Peak 50% Window
- 5% SDR Peak 100% Window
- 2% SDR Sustained 2% Window
- 2% SDR Sustained 10% Window
- 2% SDR Sustained 25% Window
- 2% SDR Sustained 50% Window
- 2% SDR Sustained 100% Window
- 1% SDR ABL
Score distribution:
SDR Real Scene Peak Brightness
:
227 cd/m²
What it is:
The maximum luminosity the TV can obtain while playing a movie or while watching a TV show. Our Real Scene was selected to represent a more regular movie condition. All measurements are made with the TV set to be as bright as possible, but with a 6500k white. Measured with local dimming on, max backlight and with an SDR signal. Scene: here.
When it matters:
When watching movies and TV shows in SDR.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Peak 2% Window
:
265 cd/m²
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 2% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
Bright highlights, present on screen for a short time
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Peak 10% Window
:
262 cd/m²
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 10% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
Bright objects, present on screen for a short time
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Peak 25% Window
:
260 cd/m²
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 25% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
When watching in a bright room.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Peak 50% Window
:
258 cd/m²
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 50% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
When watching in a bright room.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Peak 100% Window
:
258 cd/m²
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 100% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
When watching in a bright room.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Sustained 2% Window
:
263 cd/m²
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 2% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
Bright highlights, persistent during a scene.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Sustained 10% Window
:
260 cd/m²
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 10% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
Bright objects, persistent during a scene.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Sustained 25% Window
:
259 cd/m²
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 25% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
When watching in a bright room.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Sustained 50% Window
:
258 cd/m²
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 50% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
When watching in a bright room.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR Sustained 100% Window
:
258 cd/m²
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 100% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over SDR signal.
When it matters:
When watching in a bright room.
Good value:
> 300 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
30 cd/m²
Score distribution:
SDR ABL
:
0.001
What it is:
The coefficient of variation of the SDR sustained brightness, after linearizing for noticeable differences in luminosity
When it matters:
Content with large bright areas, such as for PC or video game use, and sports such as hockey
Good value:
<0.07
Noticeable difference:
0.01
Score distribution:
Okay SDR peak brightness. The brightness remains constant no matter the content shown, which is good (the real scene brightness is measured near the edge of the screen where it's not as bright). Unfortunately this brightness, while good enough for a dim room, isn't good enough for a very bright room. However few budget TVs like this are any brighter, in fact the D100 is brighter than the pricier TCL S305 and S405.
0
HDR Peak Brightness
What it is:
How bright the screen can get. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright living rooms; bright objects; HDR content.
Score components:
- 63% HDR Real Scene Peak Brightness
- 5% HDR Peak 2% Window
- 5% HDR Peak 10% Window
- 5% HDR Peak 25% Window
- 5% HDR Peak 50% Window
- 5% HDR Peak 100% Window
- 2% HDR Sustained 2% Window
- 2% HDR Sustained 10% Window
- 2% HDR Sustained 25% Window
- 2% HDR Sustained 50% Window
- 2% HDR Sustained 100% Window
- 2% HDR ABL
Score distribution:
HDR Real Scene Peak Brightness
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum luminosity the TV can obtain while playing a movie or while watching a TV show. This scene was selected to represent a more realistic movie condition. All measurement are made with the TV set to be as bright as possible, but with a 6500k white. Measured with local dimming, max backlight and over HDR signal. Scene: here.
When it matters:
When watching movies or watching TV show in HDR.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Peak 2% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 2% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright highlights, present on screen for a short time; especially for HDR content.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Peak 10% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 10% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright objects, present on screen for a short time; especially for HDR content.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Peak 25% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 25% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright rooms; bright objects in HDR video.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Peak 50% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 50% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright rooms.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Peak 100% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum luminosity, even if only maintained for a short time, of a white square covering 100% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright rooms.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Sustained 2% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 2% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright highlights, persistent throughout a scene; especially for HDR content.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Sustained 10% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 10% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright objects, persistent throughout a scene; especially for HDR content.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Sustained 25% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 25% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright rooms; bright objects in HDR video.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Sustained 50% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 50% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright rooms.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR Sustained 100% Window
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest maximum luminosity (usually after it has stabilized) of a white square covering 100% of the screen, with the TV set to be as bright as possible. Measured with local dimming and over HDR signal (if supported).
When it matters:
Bright rooms.
Good value:
> 550 cd/m²
Noticeable difference:
80 cd/m²
Score distribution:
HDR ABL
:
N/A
What it is:
The coefficient of variation of the HDR sustained brightness, after linearizing for noticeable differences in luminosity
When it matters:
HDR content with large bright areas, such as HDR gaming
Good value:
<0.07
Noticeable difference:
0.01
Score distribution:
The TV does not support HDR.
6.8
Gray Uniformity
What it is:
Evenness of colors onscreen (not just gray).
When it matters:
Solid colors. Sports, panning shots.
Score components:
- 40% 50% Std. Dev.
- 40% 50% DSE
- 10% 5% Std. Dev.
- 10% 5% DSE
Score distribution:
50% Std. Dev.
:
4.834 %
What it is:
Average squared difference of pixels when displaying a mid 50% gray.
When it matters:
Solid colors. Sports, panning shots.
Good value:
< 2.5%
Noticeable difference:
1%
Score distribution:
50% DSE
:
0.203 %
What it is:
Dirty Screen Effect. High-frequency variance of uniformity. Dark spots on the screen.
When it matters:
Solid colors. Sports, panning shots.
Good value:
< 0.165%
Noticeable difference:
0.025%
Score distribution:
5% Std. Dev.
:
1.232 %
What it is:
Average squared difference of pixels when displaying a mid 5% gray.
When it matters:
Dark scenes.
Good value:
< 1.15%
Noticeable difference:
1%
Score distribution:
5% DSE
:
0.107 %
What it is:
Dirty Screen Effect. High-frequency variance of uniformity. Dark spots on the screen.
When it matters:
Dark scenes.
Good value:
< 0.116%
Score distribution:
The gray uniformity is average for the D100. Looking at our 50% gray uniformity picture, you can clearly see that most of the uniformity issues are from the corners being too dark. The center is more even though and although dirty screen effect is present at some level, is not too distracting.
Looking at the 5% gray test picture, we see that the edges are a bit brighter, but this is not very apparent in dark scenes with normal content.
6.6
Viewing Angle
What it is:
Color accuracy when viewed from the side.
When it matters:
Large living rooms with multiple viewing positions.
Score components:
- 20% Color Washout
- 16% Color Shift
- 24% Brightness Loss
- 16% Black Level Raise
- 24% Gamma Shift
Score distribution:
Color Washout
:
38 °
What it is:
The angle at which some colors drop to 80% of their original chroma.
When it matters:
When viewing colorful content from the side.
Good value:
> 45°
Noticeable difference:
10°
Score distribution:
Color Shift
:
44 °
What it is:
The angle at which some colors hue shift by 3° (meaning they change color, such as becoming more blue-ish).
When it matters:
When viewing colorful content from the side.
Good value:
> 45°
Noticeable difference:
10°
Score distribution:
Brightness Loss
:
46 °
What it is:
The angle at which the TV's lightness drops to 75% of its original lightness.
When it matters:
When viewing any content from the side.
Good value:
> 45°
Noticeable difference:
10°
Score distribution:
Black Level Raise
:
41 °
What it is:
The angle at which the black level doubles its lightness, leading to dark shades looking washed out.
When it matters:
When viewing dark content from the side.
Good value:
> 45°
Noticeable difference:
10°
Score distribution:
Gamma Shift
:
16 °
What it is:
The angle at which some grayscale shades shift by 3% of their relative position between the black and white levels.
When it matters:
When watching any content at an angle.
Good value:
> 45°
Noticeable difference:
10°
Score distribution:
Poor viewing angle, not as good as TVs with an IPS panel but better than most TVs with a VA panel. Blacks turn grey and colors shift when viewed from a moderate angle, with brightness dropping to half soon after. This TV is not a good fit for a room where people often view the TV from the side.
7.9
Black Uniformity
What it is:
Evenness of blacks.
When it matters:
Dark scenes viewed in a dark room.
Score components:
- 75% Native Std. Dev.
- 25% Std. Dev. w/ L.D.
Score distribution:
Native Std. Dev.
:
0.910 %
What it is:
Average of the squared difference of the blacks.
When it matters:
Dark scenes viewed in a dark room.
Good value:
< 1%
Noticeable difference:
1%, but keep in mind that it varies a lot by unit, even of the same model; yours likely will not end up exactly like ours.
Score distribution:
Std. Dev. w/ L.D.
:
N/A
What it is:
Average of the squared difference of the blacks with Local Dimming enabled
When it matters:
Dark scenes viewed in a dark room.
Good value:
< 1%
Noticeable difference:
1%, but keep in mind that it varies a lot by unit, even of the same model; yours likely will not end up exactly like ours.
Score distribution:
Excellent black uniformity for the TCL D100. Not much clouding can be seen on our test picture besides some brighter edges along the screen, similar to what was present on the 5% gray uniformity picture. Overall, this is a very good result and great for movies, especially in dark scenes.
7.6
Reflections
What it is:
How much light is reflected by the TV.
When it matters:
Bright rooms.
Score components:
Score distribution:
Screen Finish
:
Semi-gloss
What it is:
Type of coating on the screen.
When it matters:
Bright objects in the direct reflection path (for example, opposite the TV).
Good value:
Glossy is good for ambient light, but not for direct reflections.
Total Reflections
:
6.0 %
What it is:
The amount of light which is reflected off the screen, in all directions.
When it matters:
When watching TV in a bright room, with lamps, windows or walls which reflect directly off the screen.
Good value:
4.5 %
Noticeable difference:
0.5 %
Score distribution:
Indirect Reflections
:
0.4 %
What it is:
The amount of light reflected off the screen, ignoring direct (mirror-like) reflections
When it matters:
Watching TV in a bright room, without sunlight or lamps directed at the TV
Good value:
1.0 %
Noticeable difference:
0.5 %
Score distribution:
The D100 is decent at handling reflections. It has a semi-gloss finish which slightly reduces the intensity of direct reflections by diffusing them across the screen. It is okay for an average room, but for a room with a few wide windows or lots of light this may be an issue.
4.5
Pre Calibration
What it is:
TV's color accuracy before a full calibration. The only settings that are changed are those that don't vary from unit to unit, like picture mode, color temperature and gamma.
When it matters:
All video on an uncalibrated TV. This represents most people's use cases.
Score components:
- 46% White Balance dE
- 45% Color dE
- 9% Color Temperature
Score distribution:
White Balance dE
:
5.95
What it is:
Average inaccuracy of shades of gray.
When it matters:
Overall color temperature of all video.
Good value:
< 3
Noticeable difference:
1
Score distribution:
Color dE
:
4.90
What it is:
Average inaccuracy of colors.
When it matters:
All colors.
Good value:
< 3
Noticeable difference:
1
Score distribution:
Gamma
:
1.85
What it is:
Brightness of shades of gray.
When it matters:
Shadows.
Good value:
Between 2.1 and 2.3 (our target is 2.2)
Noticeable difference:
0.1
Color Temperature
:
7478 K
What it is:
The color temperature is a measure of the color of light. A colder color temperature (7000K) will look bluer and a warmer color temperature (4000K) will look yellower/redder. 6500K is the standard color temperature use in the TV and film industry as program, film, and photography directors usually work on monitors calibrated on the 6500k color temperature and do their color correction base on what they see on those monitors.
When it matters:
To get the most accurate picture when watching TV shows, movies or video games. This is particularly for skin tones.
Good value:
6500K
Noticeable difference:
400K
Score distribution:
Color Temp Setting
:
Warm
What it is:
The best value for the TV's color temperature setting. The setting name differs between brands; for some it's "Color Temperature", for others its "White Point".
When it matters:
All content on screen
Gamma Setting
:
N/A
What it is:
The best value for the TV's gamma setting; the setting name differs between TV brands.
When it matters:
Shadows, accurate grayscale performance.
Out of the box, TCL D100 accuracy is sub-standard and the white balance, even when set to the color temperature 'Warm', the final temperature color is cooler than what is usually preferred. With a white balance dE of 5.95, this level of inaccuracy is high enough that most people could notice it. As a result of the bad white balance, since the gamma and white balance are closely related, the gamma is also off our 2.2 target.
Unfortunately, the color dE is not better. With a dE 4.90, the color accuracy is high enough so that almost anybody could notice that the color are wrong. Most of the issues start with the fact that the white point is off target and the same drift can be seen for all the other color, resulting in a high dE for all of them.
4.5
Post Calibration
What it is:
TV's color accuracy after a full calibration with a spectrophotometer.
When it matters:
All video on a TV that has been professionally calibrated. This isn't that useful, because most TVs can achieve a pretty good calibration if you spend enough time on them.
Score components:
- 46% White Balance dE
- 45% Color dE
- 9% Color Temperature
Score distribution:
White Balance dE
:
5.95
What it is:
Average inaccuracy of shades of gray.
When it matters:
Overall color temperature of all videos.
Good value:
< 3
Noticeable difference:
1
Score distribution:
Color dE
:
4.90
What it is:
Average inaccuracy of colors.
When it matters:
All colors.
Good value:
< 3
Noticeable difference:
1
Score distribution:
Gamma
:
1.85
What it is:
Brightness of shades of gray.
When it matters:
Shadows.
Good value:
Between 2.1 and 2.3 (our target is 2.2)
Noticeable difference:
0.1
Color Temperature
:
7478 K
What it is:
The color temperature is a measure of the color of light. A colder color temperature (7000K) will look bluer and a warmer color temperature (4000K) will look yellower/redder. 6500K is the standard color temperature use in the TV and film industry as program, film, and photography directors usually work on monitors calibrated on the 6500k color temperature and do their color correction base on what they see on those monitors.
When it matters:
To get the most accurate picture when watching TV shows, movies or video games. This is particularly for skin tones.
Good value:
6500K
Noticeable difference:
400K
Score distribution:
White Balance Calibration
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV's white balance can be finely calibrated.
When it matters:
When calibrating the TV.
Color Calibration
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV's color tone mapping can be finely calibrated.
When it matters:
When calibrating the TV.
Auto-Calibration Function
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV has an auto-calibration function that can be used with a measurement device. Note that this is not used during testing, as we calibrate the TV manually.
When it matters:
When calibrating the TV.
Unfortunately, there is no calibration option on the TCL D100, so it is impossible fix those imperfections.
You can see our recommended settings here.
8.0
720p Input
What it is:
Quality of a 720p input.
When it matters:
HD channels, some streaming videos.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
720p content such as cable looks good (but a bit soft) once upscaled. The native resolution isn't a multiple of 720p, so the TV applies a zoom and it isn't possible to fit to the screen. This also causes some added softness, so it may be worth increasing the sharpness slightly for low quality content. An example of sharpness 10 can be seen here.
0
4k Input
What it is:
Quality of a 4k UHD input.
When it matters:
Streaming video, UHD Blu-rays, PC use.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
The D100 is a 1080p TV.
6.5
Color Gamut
What it is:
How many colors the TV can display.
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos and UHD Blu-rays.
Score components:
- 25% DCI P3 xy
- 25% DCI P3 uv
- 25% Rec 2020 xy
- 25% Rec 2020 uv
Score distribution:
Wide Color Gamut
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV has an option to enable wide color gamuts.
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos and UHD Blu-rays.
DCI P3 xy
:
73.13 %
What it is:
Coverage of the DCI P3 colorspace on CIE 1931 xy.
When it matters:
DCI P3 content. Includes HDR, UHD Blu-rays.
Good value:
> 90%
Noticeable difference:
5%
Score distribution:
DCI P3 uv
:
77.84 %
What it is:
Coverage of the DCI P3 colorspace on CIE 1976 u' v'.
When it matters:
DCI P3 content. Includes HDR, UHD Blu-rays.
Good value:
> 90%
Noticeable difference:
5%
Score distribution:
Rec 2020 xy
:
52.49 %
What it is:
Coverage of the Rec.2020 colorspace on CIE 1931 xy.
When it matters:
Rec.2020 content. Includes HDR, UHD Blu-rays.
Good value:
> 90%
Noticeable difference:
5%
Score distribution:
Rec 2020 uv
:
56.79 %
What it is:
Coverage of the Rec.2020 colorspace on CIE 1976 u' v'.
When it matters:
Rec.2020 content. Includes HDR, UHD Blu-rays.
Good value:
> 90%
Noticeable difference:
5%
Score distribution:
Narrow color gamut, only good enough for SDR content. However the TV doesn't support HDR, so this is not an issue.
5.6
Color Volume
What it is:
How many colors a TV can display at different luminosity levels.
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos, UHD Blu-rays and HDR games.
Score components:
Score distribution:
Normalized DCI P3 Coverage ITP
:
65.0 %
What it is:
How much of the DCI-P3 colorspace a TV can display at different luminosity levels
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos, UHD Blu-rays and HDR games.
Good value:
80%
Noticeable difference:
5%
Score distribution:
10,000 cd/m² DCI P3 Coverage ITP
:
18.7 %
What it is:
How much of the DCI-P3 colorspace a TV can display at different luminosity levels when compared to an ideal 10,000 nit TV
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos, UHD Blu-rays and HDR games.
Normalized Rec 2020 Coverage ITP
:
46.1 %
What it is:
How much of the Rec. 2020 colorspace a TV can display at different luminosity levels
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos, UHD Blu-rays and HDR games.
Good value:
80 %
Noticeable difference:
5 %
Score distribution:
10,000 cd/m² Rec 2020 Coverage ITP
:
13.2 %
What it is:
How much of the Rec 2020 colorspace a TV can display at different luminosity levels when compared to an ideal 10,000 nit TV
When it matters:
HDR content. Includes some streaming videos, UHD Blu-rays and HDR games.
Poor color volume. The TV's already narrow color gamut narrows further for very dark colors, and fully saturated red can't get bright enough.
7.0
Gradient
What it is:
How finely levels of color can be displayed.
When it matters:
Details in shadows, sky and skin tones. Matters more for HDR content.
Score components:
- 25% Red (Std. Dev.)
- 25% Green (Std. Dev.)
- 25% Blue (Std. Dev.)
- 25% Gray (Std. Dev.)
Score distribution:
Color Depth
:
8 Bit
What it is:
Number of bits per pixel to represent a specific color. Note: we consider 8-bit with dithering to be equivalent to 10-bit, as long as the 10-bit gradient looks smooth.
When it matters:
HDR content like UHD Blu-ray players. Won't matter for cable TV, regular Blu-ray movies, video game consoles or content displayed from a Windows PC. Those are limited to 8-bit color.
Good value:
10-bit.
Noticeable difference:
1 bit.
Red (Std. Dev.)
:
0.132 dE
What it is:
The standard deviation of the color differences (dE) between subsequent 10 bit red shades.
When it matters:
Details in skin tones, sunsets, and other reddish objects. Matters more for HDR content.
Good value:
< 0.12 dE
Noticeable difference:
0.01 dE
Score distribution:
Green (Std. Dev.)
:
0.172 dE
What it is:
The standard deviation of the color differences (dE) between subsequent 10 bit green shades.
When it matters:
Details in ocean shades and other greenish objects. Matters more for HDR content.
Good value:
< 0.12 dE
Noticeable difference:
0.01 dE
Score distribution:
Blue (Std. Dev.)
:
0.125 dE
What it is:
The standard deviation of the color differences (dE) between subsequent 10 bit blue shades.
When it matters:
Details in skies, water and other blueish objects. Matters more for HDR content.
Good value:
< 0.12 dE
Noticeable difference:
0.01 dE
Score distribution:
Gray (Std. Dev.)
:
0.144 dE
What it is:
The standard deviation of the color differences (dE) between subsequent 10 bit gray shades.
When it matters:
Details in dull colors, such as shadows, glow and urban scenes. Matters more for HDR content.
Good value:
< 0.12 dE
Noticeable difference:
0.01 dE
Score distribution:
The TCL D100 has an 8-bit panel, as the banding usually seen with 8-bit panel is visible on our test picture. Beside the 8-bit panel, the D100 is very good at displaying our test image, as no real tint or color shade issues can be noticed.
10
Temporary Image Retention
What it is:
How much a static image is retained on a TV screen after a certain amount of time.
When it matters:
When watching TV show, playing video games or when using your TV as a PC monitor.
Note that this is different to permanent burn-in, learn more about permanent burn-in here.
Score components:
Score distribution:
IR after 0 min recovery
:
0.00 %
What it is:
Image retention measured right after the static image exposure, without recovery time.
When it matters:
When changing channels while watching TV, right after changing the type of content (i.e. stopping playing video game to watch a movie) or changing input.
Good value:
0 is perfect.
Noticeable difference:
0.015%
Score distribution:
IR after 2 min recovery
:
0.00 %
What it is:
Image retention measured after a recovery time of 2 minutes.
When it matters:
When changing channels while watching TV, right after changing the type of content (i.e. stopping playing video game to watch a movie) or changing input.
Good value:
0 is perfect
Noticeable difference:
0.015%
Score distribution:
IR after 4 min recovery
:
0.00 %
What it is:
Image retention measured after a recovery time of 4 minutes.
When it matters:
When changing channels while watching TV, right after changing the type of content (i.e. stopping playing video game to watch a movie) or changing input.
Good value:
0 is perfect.
Noticeable difference:
0.015%
Score distribution:
IR after 6 min recovery
:
0.00 %
What it is:
Image retention measured after a recovery time of 6 minutes.
When it matters:
When changing channels while watching TV, right after changing the type of content (i.e. stopping playing video game to watch a movie) or changing input.
Good value:
0 is perfect.
Noticeable difference:
0.015%
Score distribution:
IR after 8 min recovery
:
0.00 %
What it is:
Image retention measured after a recovery time of 8 minutes.
When it matters:
When changing channels while watching TV, right after changing the type of content (i.e. stopping playing video game to watch a movie) or changing input.
Good value:
0 is perfect.
Noticeable difference:
0.015%
Score distribution:
IR after 10 min recovery
:
0.00 %
What it is:
Image retention measured after a recovery time of 10 minutes.
When it matters:
When changing channels while watching TV, right after changing the type of content (i.e. stopping playing video game to watch a movie) or changing input.
Good value:
0 is perfect.
Noticeable difference:
0.015%
Score distribution:
Perfect result for the image retention on the D100 as no image retention could be noticed at all during our test.
10
Permanent Burn-In Risk
What it is:
The risk of developing a persistent image retention, also known as burn-in, after being exposed to a static image for a prolonged time
When it matters:
When watching TV shows, playing video games or when using your TV as a PC monitor where static content is present
Score components:
Score distribution:
Permanent Burn-In Risk
:
No
What it is:
If the TV faces a risk of developing permanent burn-in after being expose, for a long period of time, to static images.
When it matters:
When watching TV shows with static logos or banners (news or sports channels), when playing video games with a HUD (head up display), and when using a TV as a PC monitors.
We don't expect VA panels to experience permanent image retention, as the VA panel in our long-term test appears immune.
Pixels
What it is:
The smallest element a screen can display is called a pixel. In color TVs, this consists of three (or more) subpixels. This is a picture of the TV's pixel structure.
When it matters:
It can help explain some display behaviors and can provide an indication of whether two panels are the same or not.
Motion
Score components:
- 53% Response Time
- 11% Flicker-Free
- 3% Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
- 5% Motion Interpolation
- 12% Stutter
- 11% 24p Judder
- 5% Variable Refresh Rate
Score distribution:
The motion handling of the D100 is lacking. The response time is good, resulting in a short trail of blur following fast moving objects and the response has some overshoot, resulting in a pale trail following dark objects moving against a lighter background. The TV flickers at 120 Hz to dim, so motion isn't as smooth as some other TVs but most people won't notice it. This TV is unable to play movies at 24p without judder, even directly from a 24p source such as a movie played on a DVD player. The D100 cannot interpolate lower frame rate content and is therefore unable to produce any soap opera effect.
7.9
Response Time
What it is:
Amount of blur in fast motion.
When it matters:
Sports, video games.
Score components:
- 50% 80% Response Time
- 50% 100% Response Time
Score distribution:
80% Response Time
:
5.6 ms
What it is:
How quickly pixels can reach 80% of a full transition from one color to another.
When it matters:
Fast movement.
Good value:
< 8 ms
Noticeable difference:
4 ms
Score distribution:
100% Response Time
:
21.2 ms
What it is:
How quickly pixels can fully transition from one color to another.
When it matters:
Fast movement.
Good value:
< 20 ms
Noticeable difference:
10 ms
Score distribution:
The response time of the D100 is good, resulting in a short trail following moving objects. This is adequate for most people when watching fast-paced content. It also has some overshoot, visible as a lighter trail following our logo in the above picture. This is a better response than the 1080p TCL S305, but worse than the 4K S405.
4.0
Flicker-Free
What it is:
How noticeable flicker is on the screen, when all optional flicker has been disabled.
When it matters:
All usages, but particularly when viewing fast motion (such as in sports and video games) or when using the TV as a PC monitor.
Score components:
Score distribution:
Flicker-Free
:
No
What it is:
Whether the screen will be perceived as having no flicker during normal viewing conditions.
When it matters:
When flicker is especially bothersome, such as when using the TV as a PC monitor.
Good value:
Yes
PWM Dimming Frequency
:
120 Hz
What it is:
The flicker frequency of the screen, when all optional flicker has been disabled.
When it matters:
All usages, but particularly when viewing fast motion (such as in sports and video games) or when using the TV as a PC monitor.
Good value:
0 Hz or very high frequencies (> 300 Hz). Frequencies that are multiples of 60Hz are better.
Score distribution:
The TV uses PWM at 120Hz to dim the backlight, starting at 100/100 backlight setting. Lowering the setting shortens the duty cycle, while amplitude remains constant. Backlight PWM helps clear up motion slightly, but results in duplications following moving objects.
5.4
Black Frame Insertion (BFI)
What it is:
How effective the TV's flickering capabilities are in making motion look clearer, when flicker is desired.
When it matters:
When flicker is desired by the user. Flicker is especially useful to make motion look clearer when viewing 60 fps content (sports, video games) and when using motion interpolation.
Score components:
Score distribution:
Optional BFI
:
No
What it is:
Option to turn the screen black between frames.
When it matters:
When flicker is desired by the user. Flicker is especially useful to make motion look clearer when viewing 60 fps content (sports, video games) and when using motion interpolation.
Good value:
Yes
Min Flicker for 60 fps
:
120 Hz
What it is:
Lowest possible frequency of flickering pattern when playing 60 fps content.
When it matters:
When viewing fast motion such as sports and video games.
Good value:
60 Hz
Noticeable difference:
20 Hz
Score distribution:
60 Hz for 60 fps
:
No
What it is:
Whether the screen can flicker at 60 Hz when playing 60 fps content.
When it matters:
When playing 60 fps content, such as sports and video games.
Good value:
Yes
120 Hz for 120 fps
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the screen can flicker at 120 Hz when playing 120 fps content.
When it matters:
When playing 120 fps content, such as when using motion interpolation on a 120 Hz TV.
Good value:
Yes
Min Flicker for 60 fps in Game Mode
:
120 Hz
What it is:
Lowest possible frequency of flickering pattern when playing 60 fps content in Game Mode.
When it matters:
When playing video games with fast motion.
Good value:
60 Hz
Noticeable difference:
20 Hz
Score distribution:
The D100 has no options to reduce its flicker frequency to 60 Hz, although its 120 Hz PWM does help somewhat to make motion look more clear.
0
Motion Interpolation
What it is:
Also known as 'Soap Opera Effect'. It is an optional feature that increases the frame rate of the video, smoothing movement.
When it matters:
If you like the look of smoothed video. Not everyone does.
Score components:
Score distribution:
Motion Interpolation (30 fps)
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can take a 30 fps input and heighten the frame rate to at least 60 fps.
When it matters:
30 fps or lower videos. Includes movies, TV shows, some video games.
Motion Interpolation (60 fps)
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can take a 60 fps input and heighten the frame rate to at least 100 fps.
When it matters:
60 fps videos. Includes some video games, some sports channels.
The D100 has a 60 Hz panel and has no interpolation options for lower frame rate content. People who like the smoother motion known as soap opera effect may be disappointed.
8.5
Stutter
What it is:
Jarring effect caused by static frame time during motion sequences
When it matters:
When watching content with long panning shots and other smooth movement
Score components:
Score distribution:
Frame Hold Time @ 24 fps
:
20.5 ms
What it is:
Time that frame is static during 24Hz videos such as movies
When it matters:
When watching movies and other low frame rate content which contain panning shots
Good value:
< 24 ms
Noticeable difference:
5 ms
Score distribution:
Frame Hold Time @ 60 fps
:
0.0 ms
What it is:
Time that frame is static during 60 fps content such as TV shows
When it matters:
When watching 60 fps content containing slow panning shots (such as field sports)
Good value:
< 24 ms
Noticeable difference:
5 ms
Score distribution:
The TCL D100 is great at displaying content smoothly. Even 24 fps content, which has long static images between frames, appears smooth as the pixel response time helps to blur the transitions.
0
24p Judder
What it is:
Whether 24p content can play without any judder.
When it matters:
Only 24p content (mostly just movies).
Score components:
Score distribution:
Judder-Free 24p
:
No
What it is:
Judder-free movies over 24p signal.
When it matters:
Blu-ray and DVD movies; 24 hz PC signal.
Judder-Free 24p via 60p
:
No
What it is:
Judder-free movies over 60p signal.
When it matters:
Movies from streaming devices (Apple TV, Fire TV, etc.); 60 hz PC signal.
Judder-Free 24p via 60i
:
No
What it is:
Judder-free movies over 60i signal.
When it matters:
Movies from cable/satellite boxes.
Judder-Free 24p via Native Apps
:
N/A
What it is:
Judder-free movies when playing from native apps.
When it matters:
Movies from streaming native apps (Netflix, Amazon TV, etc.).
The TCL D100 can't remove judder from 24p movies regardless of the frame rate of the source.
0
Variable Refresh Rate
What it is:
How frequently the TV can refresh and show new frames, and whether it can vary its refresh rate in real time using technologies like HDMI Forum's Variable Refresh Rate.
When it matters:
Mostly for gaming, but does provide a little better motion during normal usage.
Score components:
- 25% 4k VRR Maximum
- 25% 4k VRR Minimum
- 25% 1080p VRR Maximum
- 25% 1080p VRR Minimum
Score distribution:
Native Refresh Rate
:
60 Hz
What it is:
The out-of-the-box maximum refresh rate; how frequently the TV can refresh and show new frames.
When it matters:
When playing content with a frame rate that matches the TV's refresh rate (ex. 60 fps on a 60 Hz TV, 120 fps on a 120 Hz TV), or when using the TV's motion interpolation feature (soap opera effect).
Good value:
60 Hz
Variable Refresh Rate
:
No
What it is:
Feature that allows the TV to synchronize its refresh rate with the input device's output and reduces stuttering and screen tearing.
When it matters:
Almost every usage, but is most noticeable when gaming where constant fluctuation in framerate cause distracting artifacts.
4k VRR Maximum
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum frequency covered by the Variable Refresh Rate feature of the TV when the input signal is 4k.
When it matters:
Any time the VRR feature is enabled and 4k is sent.
Good value:
Matches maximum refresh rate at 4k.
Noticeable difference:
10 Hz
Score distribution:
4k VRR Minimum
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest frequency covered by the TV's Variable Refresh Rate feature when the input signal is 4k.
When it matters:
When using the VRR feature of the TV at lower frame rates when sending a 4k signal.
Good value:
30 Hz
1080p VRR Maximum
:
N/A
What it is:
The maximum frequency covered by the Variable Refresh Rate feature of the TV when the input signal is 1080p.
When it matters:
Any time the VRR feature is enabled and 1080p is sent.
Good value:
Matches maximum refresh rate at 1080p.
Noticeable difference:
10 Hz
Score distribution:
1080p VRR Minimum
:
N/A
What it is:
The lowest frequency covered by the TV's Variable Refresh Rate feature when the input signal is 1080p.
When it matters:
When using the VRR feature of the TV at lower frame rates when sending a 1080p signal.
Good value:
30 Hz
VRR Supported Connectors
:
N/A
What it is:
The inputs which support a variable refresh rate (eg. HDMI, DisplayPort)
When it matters:
When gaming with different consoles or graphics cards.
This TCL TV has a 60Hz panel, and doesn't support any variable refresh rate features.
Inputs
Score components:
- 86% Input Lag
- 14% Supported Resolutions
Score distribution:
The D100 is unfortunately a 1080p SDR TV, so it cannot play 4k or HDR content. It does have low input lag, though not as low as many TVs that have a 'Game Mode' setting.
8.4
Input Lag
What it is:
Delay between input and onscreen reaction.
When it matters:
Video games; when TV is used as PC monitor.
Score components:
- 36% 1080p @ 60 Hz
- 1% 1440p @ 60 Hz
- 38% 4k @ 60 Hz
- 19% 4k @ 60 Hz + HDR
- 3% 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
- 1% 1080p @ 120 Hz
- 1% 1080p with Variable Refresh Rate
- 1% 4k with VRR
Score distribution:
1080p @ 60 Hz
:
30.7 ms
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1080p @ 60 Hz input signal.
When it matters:
Gaming and PC use.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
1080p @ 60 Hz Outside Game Mode
:
30.7 ms
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1080p @ 60 Hz input signal when in a fully featured picture mode.
When it matters:
For gaming and PC use, while retaining access to all features of the TV.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
1440p @ 60 Hz
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1440p @ 60Hz input signal.
When it matters:
Gaming and PC use.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
4k @ 60 Hz
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 4k @ 60 Hz input signal.
When it matters:
Gaming and PC use.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
4k @ 60 Hz + HDR
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 4k @ 60 Hz + HDR input signal.
When it matters:
Gaming and PC use in HDR.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible when displaying 4k @ 60 Hz with proper full 4:4:4 chroma, without subsampling. For this test a 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4 signal is usually used, but a 4k @ 60 Hz @ Full RGB signal may be used if it's required for the TV to show proper 4:4:4 chroma subsampling.
When it matters:
PC use and gaming where fine text display (ClearType) is needed.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
4k @ 60 Hz Outside Game Mode
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 4k @ 60 Hz input signal when in a fully featured picture mode.
When it matters:
For gaming and PC use, while retaining access to all features of the TV.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
4k @ 60 Hz With Interpolation
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 4k @ 60 Hz input signal, when motion interpolation is turned on.
When it matters:
When you want to play video games with motion interpolation (Soap Opera Effect) enabled.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
8k @ 60 Hz
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for an 8k @ 60Hz input signal.
When it matters:
PC use.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
1080p @ 120 Hz
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1080p @ 120 Hz input signal.
When it matters:
Console gaming and PC gaming.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
1440p @ 120 Hz
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1440p @ 120 Hz input signal.
When it matters:
Console gaming and PC gaming.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
4k @ 120 Hz
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 4k @ 120 Hz input signal.
When it matters:
Console gaming and PC gaming.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
1080p with Variable Refresh Rate
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1080p input signal when using Variable Refresh Rate (FreeSync, etc).
When it matters:
When gaming with a device that supports Variable Refresh Rate, such as the Xbox One X or a PC.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
1440p with VRR
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 1440p input signal when using Variable Refresh Rate (FreeSync, etc).
When it matters:
When gaming with a device that supports Variable Refresh Rate, such as the Xbox One X or a PC.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
4k with VRR
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for a 4k input signal when using Variable Refresh Rate (FreeSync, etc).
When it matters:
When gaming with a device that supports Variable Refresh Rate, such as the Xbox One X or a PC.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Score distribution:
8k with VRR
:
N/A
What it is:
Lowest input lag possible for an 8k input signal when using Variable Refresh Rate (FreeSync, etc).
When it matters:
When using a PC that supports Variable Refresh Rate.
Good value:
< 40 ms
Noticeable difference:
15 ms
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
:
No
What it is:
Whether a source (such as a game console) can request the TV switch into a low latency mode (such as game mode).
When it matters:
Console gaming; both PS4 and Xbox One S/X support ALLM.
Low input lag, though not as low as many TVs with a 'Game Mode' option like the TCL S405. As the TV does not have a game mode and shows 4:4:4 color in any picture mode, the input lag is always the same.
One flaw is that the TV's input lag cycles by ~6 ms: it starts at 27.9 ms, increases to 33.5 ms then loops back to 27.9 ms. This isn't really a concern though, and should only be noticeable by very competitive gamers who are sensitive to input lag. Most TVs do not show this cycling, they maintain a constant input lag (though some take a minute or so to settle, like Samsung TVs).
Another interesting detail is that the TV refreshes the screen from the bottom to the top, so the bottom has the lowest input lag. This is the opposite of most TVs because they refresh from the top to the bottom. We always measure input lag at the center of the screen so this doesn't affect our measurements.
1.7
Supported Resolutions
What it is:
Different resolutions supported by TV.
When it matters:
PC monitor usage.
Score components:
- 17% 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
- 8% 1080p @ 120 Hz
- 8% 1440p @ 60 Hz
- 4% 1440p @ 120 Hz
- 34% 4k @ 60 Hz
- 25% 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
- 4% 8k @ 30 Hz or 24 Hz
Score distribution:
1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
:
Yes
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4 signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
ClearType text display for PC productivity and gaming with fine text.
1080p @ 120 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 1080p @ 120 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
Console gaming and PC gaming.
1440p @ 60 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 1440p @ 60 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
Gaming and PC use.
1440p @ 120 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 1440p @ 120 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
Console gaming and PC gaming.
4k @ 60 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 4k @ 60 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
4k Blu-rays, gaming, PC use, etc.
4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4 signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
ClearType text display for PC productivity and gaming with fine text.
4k @ 120 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display a 4k @ 120 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
PC gaming.
8k @ 30 Hz or 24 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display an 8k @ 30 Hz or 24 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
PC use.
8k @ 60 Hz
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can properly display an 8k @ 60 Hz signal sent from a physical input (HDMI, etc).
When it matters:
PC use.
The TV has a 1080p @ 60 Hz panel, so the best resolution it can show is 1080p @ 60 Hz @ 4:4:4. 4:4:4 color is supported globally, in any picture mode, which is great.
HDR10
:
No
What it is:
Standard HDR format.
When it matters:
Most common format. All UHD Blu-ray discs are required to have it.
HDR10+
:
No
What it is:
Enhanced version of HDR10, adds dynamic metadata like that found in Dolby Vision.
When it matters:
When playing HDR10+ content, such as from Amazon Video and some Blu-ray disks.
Dolby Vision
:
No
What it is:
Better format, due to its dynamic nature.
When it matters:
Dolby Vision mastered content. Current available from streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Video), some Blu-Ray players, the Apple TV 4k and ChromeCast Ultra.
HLG
:
No
What it is:
HLG or Hybrid Log Gamma is a broadcast HDR format.
When it matters:
HLG capable sources such as Youtube or OTA broadcasts in specific regions. Backwards compatible with SDR TVs.
HDMI 2.0 Full Bandwidth
:
No
What it is:
HDMI 2.0 is the main used HDMI standard and supports a range of video resolutions and refresh rates up to 4k@60Hz, with a total maximum bandwidth up to 18Gbps.
HDMI 2.1
:
No
What it is:
Whether the manufacturer advertises HDMI 2.1 support.
When it matters:
When using an HDMI 2.1 source that takes advantage of its new features.
USB 3.0
:
No
What it is:
USB 3.0 is the latest USB standard which can transfer data up to 5 Gbit/s, and is easily recognizable due to its blue color-coding of the connector.
The TV does not support DTS, only Dolby Digital, which shouldn't be a concern because most sources and Blu-rays support both formats.
Audio Passthrough
What it is:
Whether the specific audio format (ex. Dolby Digital) can be sent by the source, pass through the TV, and be re-sent to an audio sink (such as a receiver) with all its functionality intact.
When it matters:
When playing surround sound using a receiver or soundbar, from a source that is connected to the TV.
ARC
:
Yes (HDMI 2)
What it is:
Audio Return Channel (ARC) enables a TV to transmit, via an HDMI cable, audio data to an A/V receiver, without the need for any extra audio cables.
When it matters:
When connecting your audio/video receiver directly to your TV via an HDMI cable.
eARC support
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV supports Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC).
When it matters:
Passthrough of Dolby Atmos/TrueHD and DTS-HD MA / DTS:X .
Dolby Atmos via TrueHD via eARC
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can receive and pass a Dolby Atmos signal to a receiver via HDMI eARC, when Dolby TrueHD is used as the carrier signal.
When it matters:
Blu-rays and video games with Dolby Atmos audio.
DTS:X via DTS-HD MA via eARC
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can receive and pass a DTS:X signal to a receiver via HDMI eARC, when DTS-HD MA is used as the carrier signal.
When it matters:
Blu-rays and video games with DTS:X audio.
5.1 Dolby Digital via ARC
:
Yes
What it is:
Whether the TV can receive and pass a Dolby Digital 5.1 signal to a receiver via HDMI ARC.
When it matters:
5.1 audio on DVDs, Blu-rays and video games.
5.1 DTS via ARC
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV can receive and pass a DTS 5.1 signal to a receiver via HDMI ARC.
When it matters:
5.1 audio on DVDs, Blu-rays and video games.
Sound Quality
What it is:
How well and accurately the audio is reproduced.
When it matters:
When a good and accurate sound reproduction is needed.
Score components:
- 75% Frequency Response
- 25% Distortion
Score distribution:
Unfortunately, the TCL D100 sounds quite bad. It has a poor frequency response which greatly impacts the sound quality of the TV. Any sort of external sound system will probably be an upgrade.
5.1
Frequency Response
What it is:
How accurately the sound level of each frequency is being produced.
When it matters:
For a balanced and neutral sound.
Score components:
- 30% Low-Frequency Extension
- 5% Std. Dev. @ 70
- 20% Std. Dev. @ 80
- 15% Std. Dev. @ Max
- 20% Max
- 10% Dynamic Range Compression
Score distribution:
Low-Frequency Extension
:
190.27 Hz
What it is:
The lowest frequency at which the frequency response reaches -3dB of the target response.
When it matters:
Movies, Gaming. Shows how extended the bass is.
Good value:
< 60Hz
Noticeable difference:
10Hz
Score distribution:
Std. Dev. @ 70
:
6.92 dB
What it is:
The amount of deviation (weighted standard deviation) in frequency response measured at 70dB SPL, as compared to a target response that would sound perfectly balanced to most people.
When it matters:
Shows the TV's frequency response at quiet listening levels
Good value:
< 4 dB
Noticeable difference:
0.5 dB
Score distribution:
Std. Dev. @ 80
:
6.64 dB
What it is:
The amount of deviation (weighted standard deviation) in frequency response measured at 80dB SPL, as compared to a target response that would sound perfectly balanced to most people.
When it matters:
Shows the TV's frequency response at moderate listening levels
Good value:
< 4 dB
Noticeable difference:
0.5 dB
Score distribution:
Std. Dev. @ Max
:
5.44 dB
What it is:
The amount of deviation (weighted standard deviation) in frequency response measured with the TV at maximum volume, as compared to a target response that would sound perfectly balanced to most people.
When it matters:
Shows the TV's frequency response at under maximum load
Good value:
< 4 dB
Noticeable difference:
2 dB
Score distribution:
Max
:
90.0 dB SPL
What it is:
Maximum volume reached by the TV at their optimum viewing distance (size dependent)
When it matters:
For listening to loud audio.
Good value:
> 88 dB
Noticeable difference:
2 dB
Score distribution:
Dynamic Range Compression
:
2.28 dB
What it is:
The amount of difference between the TVs frequency response performance at 70dB SPL and Max dB SPL. Too much compression will result in pumping in the sound.
When it matters:
When an accurate and free-of-pumping performance is required at higher volumes
Good value:
< 3dB
Noticeable difference:
0.5
Score distribution:
Poor frequency response. The D100's higher frequencies are subdued giving it a dark signature. Its bass does not extend very far either, which means it will lack a lot of thump and presence. Unfortunately, there is no self-calibration feature available to take care of these issues.
6.3
Distortion
What it is:
Deformation of an output signal compared to its input, usually clipping, harmonic distortion, or inter-modulation distortion caused by non-linear behavior of the sound system.
When it matters:
When a clean, pure and transparent reproduction is desired.
Score components:
- 40% Weighted THD @ 80
- 25% Weighted THD @ Max
- 10% IMD @ 80
- 25% IMD @ Max
Score distribution:
Weighted THD @ 80
:
0.055
What it is:
The overall amount of harmonic distortion measured at 80dB SPL. To make the score more perceptually relevant, more weight is given to the higher frequencies.
When it matters:
How pure the sound is at moderate listening levels.
Good value:
< 0.100
Noticeable difference:
0.100
Score distribution:
Weighted THD @ Max
:
1.922
What it is:
The overall amount of harmonic distortion measured at the TV's maximum SPL. To make the score more perceptually relevant, more weight is given to the higher frequencies.
When it matters:
How pure the sound is at moderate listening levels.
Good value:
< 0.100
Noticeable difference:
0.100
Score distribution:
IMD @ 80
:
5.86 %
What it is:
The average amount of inter-modulation distortion produced by the TV under maximum load. The percentage shown here is the average result of 3 separate test signals/standards: SMPTE, DIN, & CCIF
When it matters:
When a clean and free of aliasing reproduction is desired
Good value:
< 5%
Noticeable difference:
2
Score distribution:
IMD @ Max
:
30.47 %
What it is:
The average amount of inter-modulation distortion produced by the TV under maximum load. The percentage shown here is the average result of 3 separate test signals/standards: SMPTE, DIN, & CCIF
When it matters:
When a clean and free of aliasing reproduction is desired
Good value:
< 5%
Noticeable difference:
2
Score distribution:
Average distortion performance. While it won't be noticeable in most cases, the TCL D100 does have a fair amount of distortion at higher volumes. IMD shows a strong bump when volume is maxed which is in part caused by the TV's use of aliasing in the higher frequencies.
Smart Features
Score components:
- 42% Interface
- 2% Ad-Free
- 37% Apps and Features
- 16% Remote
- 3% Remote App
Score distribution:
The TCL D100 is not a smart TV, its only smart feature being the ability to play photos and music files from a USB drive (but not videos). To use apps and streaming services users will need an external device like a Chromecast or Roku TV. It also lacks many advanced settings such as color calibration. Still, it's able to perform all basic TV functions such as playing HDMI and component inputs, and tuning to antenna and cable channels. The interface also responds lightning fast because it has no animations.
5.0
Interface
What it is:
The usability, features and performance of the main interface of the TV, not including the interfaces of the apps themselves.
When it matters:
Anytime when using the TV, but especially when changing settings and using apps.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
Ease of Use
:
Easy
What it is:
How easy the interface is to navigate, affected by the organization of its layout, placing frequently accessed elements in areas that are faster to access, etc.
When it matters:
When using the smart features.
Smoothness
:
Very Smooth
What it is:
How smooth the interface is to navigate, affected by lag and frame drops.
When it matters:
When using the smart features.
Time Taken to Select YouTube
:
N/A
What it is:
How long it takes to select YouTube for launch, starting from HDMI 1 input, when YouTube is placed first on the list of apps or added as a shortcut. This does not include app launch time, and does not use a fixed YouTube button on a remote. This serves as an indication of the time needed to select any app.
When it matters:
When launching any app.
Time Taken to Change Backlight
:
4 s
What it is:
The time it takes to navigate to the 'Backlight' setting ('Brightness' on Sony TVs). This serves as an indication of how long it takes to navigate to basic TV settings.
When it matters:
When changing TV settings.
Advanced Options
:
Few
What it is:
Whether advanced options and settings are available, such as color calibration.
When it matters:
When customizing the TV and using the smart features.
The TV's interface is very basic, only containing TV centric options and settings. It is very responsive, reacting almost instantly to button presses on the remote, partly because there are no animations.
10
Ad-Free
What it is:
Whether or not ads can be found on the TV's smart platform.
When it matters:
When using the smart features.
Score distribution:
Ads
:
No
What it is:
Whether the TV's main interface has ads. This does take into account ads in third-party apps.
When it matters:
When using the smart features.
Opt-out
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether or not you can opt out of all ads. A TV only passes this test if it allows you to remove them completely, not just disable the personalized advertising.
When it matters:
When using the smart features.
Suggested Content in Home
:
No
What it is:
Whether suggested content appears in the TV's home menu or main menu. Suggested content can include recommended movies, TV shows, YouTube videos etc.
Opt-out of Suggested Content
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the suggested content feed in the home menu can be removed or hidden
The TV has no ads or suggested content in its interface.
1.0
Apps and Features
What it is:
The usability, features and performance of apps and other smart features.
When it matters:
Only when using smart features such as apps, casting and USB playback.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
App Selection
:
N/A
What it is:
The number and variety of apps available to download for the smart platform.
When it matters:
When downloading new apps.
App Smoothness
:
N/A
What it is:
How smooth it feels to navigate the interfaces of apps, affected by lag and frame drops.
When it matters:
When using apps.
USB Drive Playback
:
Limited Support
What it is:
Whether the TV can play content from a drive connected to one of the TV's USB ports.
USB Drive HDR Playback
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether HDR files played from a USB drive can be displayed properly.
HDR in Netflix
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether HDR content on Netflix can be played back in HDR using the native Netflix app.
HDR in YouTube
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether HDR content on YouTube can be played in HDR using the native YouTube app.
The TV does not support apps. It can play photos and music from an attached USB drive, but not videos.
6.0
Remote
What it is:
The usability and features of the TV's physical remote.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
CEC Menu Control
:
Yes
What it is:
Whether the remote can act as a universal remote for HDMI CEC enabled devices. This was tested on our Samsung UBD-K8500 4K Blu-ray player, and may not be valid for other CEC devices as implementations vary by manufacturer.
Other Smart Features
:
No
What it is:
Whether the remote has any other smart features, such as a pointer, universal remote support for non HDMI CEC devices, etc.
The TV's remote is rather large, but unfortunately it doesn't make very effective use of that size. Its buttons aren't as wide as on similarly sized remotes, and so aren't as easy to press; and there's a lot of wasted space between the buttons, so there's fewer buttons than on comparable remotes like the large Sony remotes. Also the LG basic remotes are smaller yet have more buttons than the TCL remote, because they make more effective use of space.
0
Remote App
What it is:
The features of the official phone and tablet app for the TV.
Score components:
Subjectively assigned
Score distribution:
Acts as the Remote
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the remote app can emulate all the buttons of the physical remote.
Directly Launches Apps and Inputs
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the remote app can directly launch the TV's apps and change between its inputs, without requiring any interaction with menus on the TV.
Inputs Text in YouTube
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the remote app can enter text for YouTube searches.
Inputs Text in Netflix
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the remote app can enter text for Netflix searches.
Streams Device Files
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the remote app can stream files from the phone or tablet to the TV, files such as pictures, music and video.
Controls TV Settings
:
N/A
What it is:
Whether the app can change all or some of the settings on the TV, such as the backlight.
This TV does not have a companion app.
Differences between Sizes and Variants
We tested the 40" (40D100). For the most part, we expect our review to be valid for the 32" (32D100) and 49" (49D100) versions. The 32 inch (32D100) has a 720p resolution.
If someone comes across a different type of panel or if their TCL D100 doesn't correspond to our review, let us know and we will update the review.
| Size | Model | Resolution |
| 32" | 32D100 | 720p |
| 40" | 40D100 | 1080p |
| 49" | 49D100 | 1080p |
Compared to other TVs
Top left: TCL S305 (40S305). Bottom left: Element Fire TV (EL4KAMZ5517). Middle: TCL D100 (40D100). Top right: LG LJ5500 (43LJ5500). Bottom right: Samsung MU6300 (UN55MU6300). Unlike our other photographs, this picture wasn't taken under a controlled environment, so do not draw conclusions from it.
The TCL D100 is a passable inexpensive TV that can suit those with basic needs for a TV quite well. It doesn't offer a load of features but it's also often much cheaper than its competition. See our recommendations for the best TVs under $300 and the best budget TVs.
TCL S Series/S305 2018
28" 32" 40" 43" 49"
The TCL 3 Series (S305) is marginally better than the TCL 1 Series (D100). The TCL S305 runs the Roku TV smart platform whereas the TCL D100 does not have a smart feature platform. If you wish to use it as a smart TV, you need to use an external box or dongle. The TCL S305 can remove 24p judder from movies whereas the TCL D100 can display crisp text when used as a monitor.
Samsung N5300
32" 43"
The Samsung N5300 is marginally better than the TCL D100. The Samsung N5300 has a good smart platform whereas the TCL D100 is a plain TV. The Samsung also has better viewing angles due to its IPS panel, and better reflection handling which makes it a better choice if your room has many small light sources. The TCL D100 has better dark room performance due to the high contrast ratio of its VA panel, and a lower input lag to please those who play video games.
Vizio D Series 1080p 2017
24" 32" 39" 40" 43" 48" 50" 55"
If you have a room with a wide seating arrangement, the Vizio D series 1080p 2017 is a better choice as it has better viewing angles. On the other hand, the TCL D100 has much better contrast and can display a better picture quality if you sit directly in front. The Vizio is a smart TV whereas the TCL D100 does not have a smart feature platform. If you wish to use it as a smart TV, you need to use an external box or dongle. The Vizio has a lower input lag, and this is great if you play video games, whereas the TCL D100 can display crisp text when used as a monitor since it supports 4:4:4.
LG LJ5500
43" 49" 55"
The TCL D100 is a better choice if you have a dim room and will be sitting right in front. The D100 has a better contrast ratio and a better black uniformity, and thus blacks look deep, and the overall picture quality is improved. On the other hand, if you will be viewing the TV from the side, then the LG LJ5500 is a better choice due to the better viewing angles. The LG LJ5500 is a smart TV and runs LG's WebOS, whereas the TCL D100 has no smart features. To get access to smart features on the D100, you must connect it to an external device or a dongle.
Samsung M5300
32" 40" 43" 49" 50"
The Samsung M5300 is somewhat better than the TCL D100 and is more suitable for a wide room as it has an IPS Panel with better viewing angles. The TCL D100 has a VA panel and thus better contrast and better black uniformity so it can display better blacks is a dark room. The Samsung M5300 is a smart TV whereas the TCL D100 has no smart platform and you need to use an external device so that you get smart features. Finally, the Samsung M5300 has a motion interpolation feature for the fans of the soap opera effect.
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Conclusion
SEE PRICE
Amazon.com
Mediocre TV for a mixed usage. 1080p TV with decent picture quality when viewed from directly in front, but degrades at an angle. Lacks features found on higher end TVs such as local dimming, and unlike most TCL TVs doesn't have a smart platform.
Poor for watching movies in a dark room. Great native contrast so blacks appear dark, but lacks local dimming to improve this further. Picture is inaccurate and doesn't support high quality 4k content.
Decent TV for casual viewing in a wide room. Image degrades rapidly when viewed at an angle. Won't be able to overcome reflections in a bright room, and lacks a smart interface.
Okay for watching sports. Picture quality is decent, and response time is good so only a short trail follows fast moving objects.
Decent for gamers. Doesn't support higher 4k resolutions of new consoles, but has low input lag. Picture quality is decent and response time is good so only a short trail follows fast action.
Doesn't support HDR. Can't get bright, doesn't have a wide color gamut and doesn't support 4k content.
No support for HDR gaming. Doesn't support HDR features such as wide color gamut or high peak brightness.
Okay choice for PC monitor. Doesn't support resolutions higher than 1080p but picture quality is decent. Narrow viewing angle so the sides of the screen lose accuracy when viewed from up close. Feels responsive with low input lag and fairly good motion blur.
