Budget TV Reviews: TCL LE42FHDE5300

The TCL LE42FHDE5300 is one of the few 42 inch HDTVs that you will find for under $400. With this price point, you are making some sacrifices, including a sluggish TV remote, but you can easily replace it with a better one. However, don’t expect a lot of features packed into this TCL series TV.

This is one of the few inexpensive TVs that look the part of an expensive model. The panel is very thin, but widens at the bottom, where the down facing speakers are located. The glass base looks nice, but it does not swivel. The included remote is large, at 8 inches, and contains 37 buttons that are slow to respond. When changing settings and when navigating the menu, there is a very noticeable lag.

The picture quality is decent for a budget TV, but the contrast ratio is low. Color accuracy is also not that great, but expected. Otherwise, the TV offers sharp image detail and good viewing angles.

Pros:

  • Very budget friendly
  • Energy efficient
  • Good image detail for the price
  • Large TV for the price
  • Sharp 1080p picture

Cons:

  • Color accuracy not great
  • Remote is sluggish
  • Only two HDMI ports
  • Lack of features

Overall, you get a lot for little with this LCD TV. It is large for the price, at 42 inches, and offers a decent picture. It also looks nicer than many of the more expensive TVs. The lack of features and few HDMI ports is disappointing, but if you need an extra no-frills TV, this one makes a good choice.

To replace your remote for a better one, contact us at Replacement Remotes.