The TCL A400 Pro is introduced as a 2026 lifestyle television, combining art TV aesthetics with mid-range QD-Mini LED performance. It is priced at £1,149 for the 65-inch model reviewed and represents an upgrade from its predecessor, the A300W. The set is available in sizes up to 75 inches.
A key feature is its physical design. Unlike rivals that use customisable snap-on frames, the A400 Pro includes a fixed walnut-effect bezel integrated into the set. Measuring 39.9mm deep, it maintains a slim profile for a Mini LED TV and features a flat rear panel facilitating close-to-wall installation. Furthermore, the design incorporates a matte, non-reflective screen treatment and dedicated cable management.
In terms of connectivity, the television offers four HDMI inputs, although only two support 4K at high frame rates; one of these doubles as the eARC connection. Additional ports include USB, optical digital audio output, Ethernet, and both terrestrial and satellite tuners. Wireless support is provided via dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Apple HomeKit. However, the unit notably lacks Freeview support.
The user experience utilizes the Google TV platform, praised by the reviewer as one of the most reliable smart platforms available. The interface includes Gemini AI smart assistant access, multiple user profiles, and curated content rails. While streaming support is comprehensive for all major UK catch-up and global services, the art mode feature is limited, offering only 184 images in total, with just 79 recognized as museum pieces.
Gaming capabilities are robust, featuring a 144Hz refresh rate, VRR, ALLM, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Game Accelerator 240Hz support. Input lag was measured at 13.3ms at 1080p/60, positioning the set as responsive for casual gaming.
Picture quality marks a significant improvement due to the shift to QD-Mini LED technology. The TV displays richer colours, stronger contrast, and higher brightness, achieving a measured HDR brightness of 727 nits on a 10% window. The matte anti-glare coating effectively diffuses reflections but cannot eliminate them entirely in bright daylight. The Movie preset was deemed the most convincing picture setting, while the Sports and Vivid presets showed oversaturation.
Sound quality is described as functional but unremarkable; the stereo system delivers crisp dialogue and bass down to around 50Hz but lacks scale and immersion. Due to technical limitations, the TV cannot simultaneously power both the built-in speakers and connected Bluetooth headphones. The reviewer strongly recommends connecting an external soundbar for enhanced film or gaming audio.
The review concludes that the A400 Pro occupies a value middle ground, blending attractive style with genuine picture performance at a competitive price point. While lacking integrated art ecosystems and cinematic sound, its design-led appeal makes it highly recommended by the reviewer for those prioritizing aesthetics and quality.
Source: Trusted Reviews