Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 remains one of the most popular devices in the line of smart TVs from the Chinese brand, combining affordable price and solid specs. However, when choosing a model, many users are faced with the question: what matrix is used in this TV, and how it affects the quality of the picture? The type of matrix depends on key parameters such as viewing angles, contrast, color reproduction and even power consumption.
In this article, we will discuss in detail what kind of matrix is installed in the Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55, compare it with alternative options (VA vs IPS), analyze the specifications and give recommendations for setting up for optimal image, and learn how to determine the type of matrix in your TV and what to look for when buying.
Technical characteristics of the matrix Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55
The official specifications of the Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 indicate the use of a VA-matrix (Vertical Alignment) with a resolution of 3840×2160 (4K UHD). This type of matrix is known for high contrast (the ratio of brightness of white to black) and deep black colors, which makes it ideal for watching movies in dark rooms. However, the VA has disadvantages – viewing angles are narrower than IPS, and when viewed at an angle, color distortion and brightness can be possible.
The main parameters of the matrix:
- 📏 Diagonal: 55 inches (139.7 cm)
- 🎨 Resolution: 3840×2160[4KUHD]
- ⚡ Brightness: 300–350 cd/m2 (typical value for VA in this segment)
- 🖤 Contrast: 3000:1–4000:1 (dynamic contrast can reach 10,000:1)
- 🔄 Viewing angles: ~170° horizontally (with quality drop when deviating >30°)
- 🎛 Backlighting technology: Direct LED (no local dimming)
It is important to note that Xiaomi does not always list the manufacturer of the matrix in open sources. According to disassemblies and tests, panels from BOE, CSOT or HSD (a subsidiary of Huawei) could be installed in different batches of the Mi TV 4S 55, the quality between them may vary slightly, but the overall technology (VA) remains unchanged.
VA vs IPS: how the matrix Xiaomi 4S 55 different from competitors
Choosing between VA and IPS is a perpetual dilemma when buying a TV, and let’s compare their key features with the Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 and similar models with IPS-matrixes (for example, Xiaomi Mi TV 4A or LG UK6200).
| Parameter | VA-matrix (Xiaomi 4S 55) | IPS-matrix (competitors) |
|---|---|---|
| Contrast | 3000:1–5000:1 | 1000:1–1200:1 |
| Viewing angles | ~170° (with distortions) | ~178° (minimum distortion) |
| Color rendering | Deep black, but possibly dirty grey | More natural colors, but less saturated blacks |
| Illumination | Direct LED (uniform but without local dimming) | Direct LED or Edge LED (Possible lights) |
| Energy consumption | Low (VA more economical) | Higher than 10-15% |
A critical nuance for Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55: the lack of local dimming (Local Dimming) means that bright scenes in a dark background can be lights (the “blooming effect”), especially noticeable in movies with subtitles. This is a typical problem for VA-matrixes of the budget and mid-range segment, while IPS-matrixes suffer from “black illumination” (gray instead of black), which spoils the impression of dark scenes.
Which is better? It depends on the scenario.
- 🎬 For a cinema at home: VA is preferred because of the high contrast.
- 🎮 For games or side viewing: IPS will give a more stable picture.
- 💡 For bright rooms: VA loses due to worse readability in daylight.
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If you often watch TV at an angle (for example, from the kitchen or from the side of the sofa), check the model for distortion in the store. VA-matrix Xiaomi 4S 55 can “wash” the picture already at a deviation of 20-30 degrees.
How to determine the matrix type in your Xiaomi TV 4S 55
If you have already bought a TV and want to clarify what matrix is installed in it, there are several reliable ways:
- Check through service menu: Go to Settings → About TV → Software version and quickly press the Menu button 5 times on the remote. In some firmware, this opens the service menu with information about the panel (look for the Panel Type or LCD Model lines). Be careful - do not change the settings in this menu!
- Viewing angle test: Turn on a monochromatic image on your TV (like a black or white screen via YouTube). Step aside and look at the screen at an angle of ~45°. If the colors are noticeably distorted (gray instead of black, pink instead of white) it's VA. If the picture remains stable, IPS.
- Serial number check: Find the serial number on the box or sticker on the back of the TV. The first characters may indicate the batch and matrix type (e.g. HSD is a panel from Huawei, BOE is from BOE). The full list of transcripts can be found on profile forums (e.g. 4PDA).
⚠️ Warning: Some sellers may indicate "IPS" when the TV actually has a VA- matrix. This is due to marketing gimmicks or description errors. Always check the matrix type yourself!
Look at the screen from an angle (VA "soap")|Check the service menu|Use test images (black/white screen)|Verify the serial number with the database-->
Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 and how to solve them
Despite the advantages, the VA-matrix in Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 has several typical problems that can spoil the viewing experience.
1. Lights (bloaming) on a dark background
Because of the lack of local dimming, bright objects on a dark background create light halos, especially in subtitled movies or games with dark locations.
- 🔧 Solution: Reduce screen brightness in settings (Settings → Display & Sound → Brightness) to 70-80%, and enable Dark or Movie mode will also help.
- 🎛 Additional: In manual color settings, reduce the Contrast parameter by 5-10 units.
2. Color distortion when viewed from the side
VA-matrixes are known for the fact that when viewed at an angle of >30 °, the colors begin to “fad” or acquire a pinkish / greenish hue.
- 🔧 Solution: Place your TV so that the main viewing location is strictly in the center. If that's not possible, try increasing saturation by 5 to 10 percent.
- 🛋 Tip: For larger rooms with multiple viewing areas, it is better to consider models with a IPS-matrix (e.g., Xiaomi Mi TV 4A).
Uneven illumination (cloud effect)
Some Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55s have uneven backlighting, where the plain backgrounds (such as gray sky) show darker or lighter spots, which is a build defect and is not patched programmatically.
- 🔧 Solution: If the defect is very noticeable, contact the service center under warranty. In most cases, this is a sign of matrix defect.
- 📦 Prevention: When buying, check the TV for lights with test videos (such as this one).
⚠️ Warning: If you notice that the lights or clouds on the screen have come over time (rather than from the factory), this may indicate wear and tear on the backlight, which requires a replacement of the LED- tape, which will cost 30-50% of the cost of the TV.
Comparison with other Xiaomi models: which matrix is better?
To see how good the matrix is in the Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55, compare it to other popular models of the brand, which will help you decide on the choice if you have not bought a TV.
| Model | Type of matrix | Permission | Contrast | Viewing angles | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 | VA | 4K UHD | 3000:1–4000:1 | ~170° | 35 000–45 000 ₽ |
| Xiaomi Mi TV 4A 55 | IPS | 4K UHD | 1000:1–1200:1 | ~178° | 30 000–40 000 ₽ |
| Xiaomi Mi TV Q1 55 | VA + Local Dimming | 4K UHD | 5000:1+ | ~170° | 50 000–60 000 ₽ |
| Xiaomi Mi TV P1 55 | VA + Quantum Dot | 4K UHD | 6000:1+ | ~172° | 65 000–75 000 ₽ |
The table shows that the Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 is in the middle between the budget 4A (IPS) and premium models (Q1 and P1). If you want contrast and deep black, but the budget is limited, the 4S 55 is the best choice. However, if you are willing to pay extra, the models with local dimming (Q1) or quantum dots (P1) will offer significantly better image quality.
For gamers or those who often watch TV from the side, it is better to consider the Mi TV 4A with a IPS- matrix - despite the worst contrast, wide viewing angles and more natural color reproduction may be more important.
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Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55 is the best price-quality balance for moviegoers, but for games or watching from the side, you should choose a model with an IPS-matrix.
How to improve image quality on Xiaomi Mi TV 4S 55
Even with the VA-, you can get a great image if you set your TV up correctly. Here are some proven recommendations:
1. Optimal settings of the picture
Go to Settings → Display and Sound → Picture Modes and select:
- 🎬 Mode: Movie (for movies) or Standard (for everyday viewing).
- 🔆 Brightness: 70-80% (depending on room lighting).
- 🖼 Contrast: 85–90% (above is the risk of losing detail in dark scenes).
- 🎨 Color temperature: Warm (for natural skin tones) or Standard.
- 🔍 Sharpness: 0–10% (high values add artifacts).
Colour calibration
To fine-tune, use YouTube test videos (like this one) and follow the on-screen instructions to adjust:
- 🎛 White Balance: Achieve neutral gray without blue/red.
- 🔴🟢🔵 Color tone and saturation: Adjust the colors to look natural (e.g., grass is green, not turquoise).
3.Tune in for games
If you connect a game console (PS5, Xbox), activate the Game mode in the picture settings. This will reduce the input lag to ~15-20 ms.
- 🎮 Disable: All post-processing (Noise Reduction, Motion Improvement).
- 🔌 Use the HDMI 2.0 port (labeled ARC or eARC) for maximum bandwidth.
⚠️ Warning: When connecting PS5 or Xbox Series X in the console settings, select the output mode 4K @ 60Hz RGB rather than YCbCr. This will reduce latency and improve color reproduction.