Repurposing a 4K TV as a computer monitor offers numerous advantages. It allows you to transform an unused television into an effective display for gaming, work, or streaming. However, merely connecting your TV via HDMI or utilizing a screencast feature may not deliver optimal performance right out of the box.
Upon my initial connection of a TCL TV, I noticed that the resolution did not meet expectations and didn’t align well with my PC’s capabilities. After adjusting the view, refresh rates, and some other settings, I was able to fully leverage the 4K experience. Here are some effective methods to ensure you achieve the same high-quality results.
Select Appropriate Cables and Settings
To fully utilize your TCL 4K TV as a monitor, choosing the right HDMI port is critical. TVs typically feature multiple HDMI ports, with some supporting different standards, like HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.0. For optimal performance, particularly if you need to achieve 120 FPS gaming, be sure to connect via the HDMI 2.1 port on both your computer and TV.
In addition, it’s essential to have an HDMI 2.1 certified cable from a trusted brand, such as Anker or Philips, ensuring it is long enough for comfortable use. If your laptop comes with a USB-C or mini-HDMI port, don’t forget to use an appropriate adapter.
Additionally, confirm that you select the right HDMI input on your TV settings. For instance, if you’ve connected to HDMI port 1, be sure to select it in the TV’s input menu.
Adjusting Scale, Resolution, and Advanced Settings
Many users find that their TCL TV does not default to the ideal 4K resolution, sometimes resulting in text appearing too small and difficult to read. Since you are likely viewing the TV from a distance of only 20-30 cm, it’s crucial that the settings align with your viewing comfort and requirements.
For Windows Users
Start by navigating to the Display settings on your Windows device. Under the Scale and layout section, adjust the scale to at least 150% to enhance the readability of fonts.
To set the resolution, choose Display resolution and select 3840 x 2160 to enable full 4K capabilities on your TV.
Leave the Display orientation section as it is, since it’s unlikely you’re using the TV in portrait mode. If your model supports HDR, toggle on the Use HDR option in the settings for enhanced color depth.
Finally, access the Advanced display section, adjust the refresh rate to match your TV, and select 120Hz for robust gaming performance.
For Mac Users
After you connect your TCL TV via HDMI, it will instantly mirror your MacBook’s display. However, you can opt to extend the display instead.
Click on the Display settings icon in your Dock, then select the Display and Dock option from the menu. From here, choose between Extended display or Main display based on your preferences.
Next, set the resolution to Scaled and match the refresh rate with your TV. If you want audio output through the TV, access the Sound settings and select your TCL TV as the output source. Don’t forget to adjust the output volume and to enable Show sound in menu bar for convenient access.
Optimizing Picture Quality
While the above adjustments focus on computer settings, fine-tuning your TCL TV is equally important for optimizing picture quality and frame rates.
Begin by cycling through different picture modes to determine which delivers the best color accuracy. Adjust the brightness and contrast settings as necessary to ensure vibrant visuals on your 4K monitor.
Consider enabling Game mode to enhance the TV’s performance and achieve up to 120 FPS, which can greatly improve your gaming experience. If you encounter lag, you might want to disable Game mode and revert your PC’s refresh rate to 60Hz. Additionally, explore the PC mode settings that allow the TV to power on automatically when your computer starts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How can I use a TCL smart TV as a monitor?
A: You can connect your TCL TV to your computer either through wired HDMI or wireless methods. However, for most users, a wired connection offers a more stable and higher-quality performance, especially for gaming and video playback.
Q: What are the optimal picture settings for a TCL 4K TV?
A: The best picture settings vary based on your room lighting, the specific TV model, and the type of content you are viewing. Therefore, personal adjustments may be necessary to achieve the best visual experience.
Q: How do I set my TCL TV to 144Hz?
A: To set up a refresh rate of 144Hz, access your computer’s display settings and select the 144Hz option. Note that only a limited range of TV models can support this refresh rate.
Conclusion
Factory default picture and display settings tend to suit only a portion of users. Implementing the suggestions outlined above can help you tailor the TV’s output and performance to your specific requirements. If you have additional tips for optimizing a TCL TV, feel free to share your insights in the comments section below.
Leave a Reply