Philips 55-Inch 4K Android Smart TV (PHI55PFL57): features and who it suits

The Philips PHI55PFL57 is a 55-inch 4K Ultra HD LED television that runs Android TV. It has a voice remote, HDR10 support, Google Assistant and Chromecast built in, and Bluetooth for headphones and soundbars. It is a living room or bedroom TV for people who watch mostly streamed content.

What 4K Ultra HD gives you

Philips points out that 4K has four times the resolution of Full HD, which means 3840 x 2160 pixels against 1920 x 1080. More pixels show finer detail, which is most noticeable on a screen this size when sitting reasonably close. The benefit depends on the content: 4K needs a 4K source, such as a streaming service that offers it, a 4K disc or a game console. Lower-resolution video is upscaled by the TV.

HDR10 explained

High Dynamic Range widens the gap between the darkest and brightest parts of the picture. Philips says HDR10, one of the common HDR formats, gives deeper shadows, brighter highlights and truer colours. How strong the effect looks depends on the panel's brightness and contrast, and on HDR10 content being available. Many streaming services and discs support it.

Android TV and voice control

The TV runs Android TV, which Philips says offers 700,000+ movies and shows across streaming services. With the voice remote and Google Assistant, you can ask for recommendations, search for a title or control the TV, and the listing adds that you can dim compatible lights. Philips also lists a catalogue of 5,000+ apps on Google Play for music, films, shows and games, and a customisable home screen. These counts are the brand's, and app availability can change with region and time.

Chromecast built in means you can send video or photos from a compatible phone or tablet directly to the screen.

Bluetooth for headphones and soundbars

Built-in Bluetooth lets you pair wireless headphones to watch without disturbing others, which suits late-night viewing or shared rooms. Bluetooth soundbars pair the same way, so there are fewer cables. Be aware that Bluetooth sometimes adds a slight audio delay, so check the manual for lip-sync settings.

Size and weight

The TV measures about 49.2 inches wide and 28.5 inches high, with a depth of 3.0 inches (approximately 125 x 72 x 7.6 cm) and weighs 23.6 lb (about 10.7 kg). The dimensions are listed for the unit, so the stand may add to the depth and height.

Who it suits

It suits people who want a mid-sized 4K screen for streaming, a household that likes voice search, and a second room where a smart TV replaces a set-top box. Serious film fans or gamers who want specific panel features, such as a high refresh rate, should check the manual for what this model supports.

What to check before you buy

• Space: measure the wall or stand, and check mounting holes and bracket requirements in the manual.
• Viewing distance: a 55-inch screen suits a medium-sized room.
• Inputs: check the number and type of HDMI ports for your console, player or soundbar.
• Apps: confirm your usual streaming services are available.
• Network: check the Wi-Fi or Ethernet needs for streaming in 4K.
• Accounts: Android TV typically asks you to sign in with an account during setup.

The short version

• A 55-inch 4K UHD LED TV, model PHI55PFL57, with HDR10.
• Android TV with a voice remote, Google Assistant and Chromecast built in.
• Bluetooth for headphones and soundbars.
• About 49.2 x 28.5 inches, 23.6 lb.
• 4K needs 4K content to show its full detail.

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