TCL C855 vs Hisense U8N comparison

TCL C855 vs Hisense U8N comparison

This is the heavyweight “Mini-LED” battle of 2024/2025. These two TVs are arguably the best value-for-money high-end screens you can buy in Kenya right now, significantly undercutting Samsung and Sony while offering similar (or better) specs.

Where to buy: Click here

The “Kenyan Market” Reality Check

Before looking at specs, we must address availability:

• TCL C855: Widely available in Nairobi (Price Point, Gadgets Leo, Brand dealers). It is the confirmed successor to the C845.

• Hisense U8N: Stock is trickier. Many Kenyan shops are currently flooding the market with the U7N (the step down) or still selling the older U8K. If you find the U8N, it is likely a new arrival or a parallel import.

  • Note: In Kenya/Europe, Hisense uses Vidaa OS. In the US, they use Google TV. This is a massive difference.

1. The Specs War (Paper Comparison)

2. Picture Quality: The “Sunlight” Test

• Brightness: The TCL C855 is an absolute light cannon. With 3,500 nits, it fights the glare from Kenyan afternoon sun better than almost any other TV.

• Black Levels: Both use Mini-LEDs to turn off specific zones for deep blacks. Hisense technically has more zones on some sizes, but TCL’s processing algorithm (AiPQ Pro) is currently slightly more aggressive at eliminating “blooming” (the halo around bright objects).

3. The Dealbreaker: Google TV vs. Vidaa

This is where TCL usually wins the Kenyan buyer.

• TCL (Google TV): You get the Play Store. You can install VLC, Kodi, Plex, and obscure streaming apps easily. It integrates with your Android phone perfectly.

• Hisense (Vidaa): Vidaa is incredibly fast and boots up in seconds, but the app selection is limited. You get Netflix, YouTube, DSTV Stream, and Showmax, but you cannot install Android APKs or niche apps. You might need to buy a Chromecast or Fire Stick to make it truly smart.

4. Gaming (PS5 / Xbox)

• Both support 144Hz and HDMI 2.1.

• TCL C855: Has a “Game Bar” that is very detailed.

• Hisense U8N: Also excellent, but check if the specific unit supports 144Hz effectively. (Some users report Vidaa OS can be finicky with specific gaming settings compared to Google TV).

Verdict for Your Audience

Winner: TCL C855

• Why? In Kenya, Google TV is king. The ability to sideload apps without buying an extra stick is huge. Plus, the C855 is currently easier to find with a valid warranty from local distributors compared to the elusive U8N. The brightness is also slightly higher for our bright living rooms.

Runner Up: Hisense U8N (if you find it)

• Why? If you strictly watch Netflix/Showmax and don’t care about extra apps, the picture quality is arguably slightly more “natural” out of the box. But the Vidaa OS holds it back for tech enthusiasts.

Conclusion:

• “The Techzone Verdict”: Buy the TCL C855. It’s the most complete package for the Kenyan user.

Where to buy: Click here