What makes a Mini-LED TV a Mini-LED TV? That’s the question at the heart of a recent lawsuit against Samsung, in which TCL alleges that two of Samsung’s Mini-LED TVs don’t actually use Mini-LED technology at all.

The complaint, filed Monday by Los Angeles law firm Larson LLP, states that “[Samsung] took a cheap, non-Mini LED model from a recycled product line and peddled it to the public as a ‘supreme’ Mini LED model at an attractive price point.”

Obviously, nobody wants to learn that the TV they thought they were buying isn't as advertised. But is there any truth to the claims laid out in TCL’s lawsuit? To better understand the situation, let’s start with which models are being called into question.

Samsung’s M Series TVs and “Supreme Mini LED Dimming”

The claim centers around Samsung’s 2026 M Series lineup, including the M70H, M80H and M90H TVs. In the complaint, TCL alleges that these models, specifically, “contain none of the technological advancements associated with Mini LED technology, including FALD [full-array local dimming].”

Instead, TCL says, “Samsung merely recycled its pre-existing low-end standard LED televisions, the Crystal UHD line, and re-labelled them as ‘Mini LED.’” The complaint cites a page on Samsung’s website that describes Mini-LED technology as involving both “backlight control” and “local dimming” — two features that, according to TCL, aren’t accounted for across Samsung’s M Series lineup.

In other words, TCL alleges Samsung’s edge-lit, Mini-LED-based TVs as not meeting Samsung’s own criteria for what makes Mini-LED technology worth buying over a standard QLED TV.

A spokesperson from Samsung stated that the brand intends to “vigorously defend against” the lawsuit, and that Samsung “stand[s] behind the quality and accuracy of our product descriptions.”

Samsung’s M Series lineup sits below the brand’s Neo QLED family of TVs, the latter of which has historically combined both Mini-LED backlighting and quantum-dot color — hence its higher-end status.

Curiously, when I compared Samsung’s official spec sheets for the M70H (the entry model in the M Series) and the QN70H (the brand’s entry-level Neo QLED TV), I noticed that the “Lighting Technology” labels differ, but their respective “Dimming Technology” classifications are the same.

You’ll notice, however, that the M70H’s “Supreme Mini LED Dimming” designation is joined by a footnote indicator. And, if you follow that footnote, you’ll find a disclaimer stating that the M70H’s “Supreme Mini LED Dimming” is “[s]oftware-based (not full-array hardware-based) technology.”

What we’re left with, then, are two TVs — currently separated by about $500 at the 65-inch size point — that are stated by Samsung to use the same dimming technology. However, on only one of these models is this technology described as being software-based rather than hardware-based.

This is called out directly in TCL’s complaint. It states:

"Samsung’s specification sheets identify the dimming feature available on its Mini LED televisions as 'Supreme Mini LED Dimming,' which, when coupled with its descriptions of Mini LED local dimming on its website, is purposefully designed to suggest dimming that is a better version of typical Mini LED FALD than that of its competitors such as TCL. This is reinforced by the fact that Samsung uses the same terminology— 'Supreme Mini LED Dimming'—to describe its high-end Neo QLED televisions."

It's worth noting that this wouldn't be the first time Samsung released a TV with edge-based lighting under the designation of "Mini-LED TV." One of the brand's latest lifestyle TVs — The Frame Pro — is billed as a Mini-LED-based set with some type of dimming, despite the fact that these LEDs are not arranged in a traditional, backlit array.

This raises an important question: Are edge-lit Mini-LED TVs — the sort that the M70H and M80H are alleged to be — truly a downgrade compared to Mini-LED models with proper local dimming?

Can "software-based dimming" be a stand-in for FALD?

TCL claims that the inclusion of "Supreme Mini LED Dimming" on the lower-end M70H misleads people into thinking that the M70H features the same dimming technology as the higher-end Neo QLED, or that the version of Mini-LED dimming found on the M70H is somehow superior to full-array, hardware-based dimming on TCL TVs.

Should this move to a trial, that'll be up for a court to decide how much water those claims hold.

For me, the more interesting question is: Are the higher-end QN70H also leveraging edge-lit Mini-LEDs driven by software-based dimming? After all, their spec sheets list identical dimming technologies.

Back in May, when I was evaluating the QN70H, I reached out to Samsung with this exact question, and a spokesperson from Samsung responded with the following: "Samsung can confirm that both the QN70H and M70H support software-based Supreme Mini LED Dimming."

While one can certainly make the argument that traditional, hardware-based dimming is driven in part by software, this could be the first time a TV-maker has used the term "software-based dimming" as a means to describe a TV with full-array local dimming.

We'll be following this story closely as it evolves, but let us know in the comments below if you purchased one of the aforementioned TVs and if you've seen any issues with its contrast.

In reporting this story, Tom's Guide reached out to Samsung to clarify TCL's claims and a spokesperson said that the brand will “vigorously defend against” the lawsuit, and that Samsung “stand[s] behind the quality and accuracy of our product descriptions.”

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• Best TV Brands 2026: We just graded them on price, performance and more — here’s how their report cards stack up
• Roku and TCL accused of 'bricking' TVs with poor software updates in new class action lawsuit
• Samsung TV report card 2026: 'You can rely on Samsung to deliver exceptional performance'

Calling it quits on my current smartphone and upgrading to a new one isn’t the kind of decision I make on a whim. Instead, it often amounts to months of research and then waiting for a sale before I finally pull the trigger. However, that wasn’t the case at all with the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro.

Now, while I know the ins and outs of the best phones, I’m not the type of person to drop a large sum of money on a flagship device. Part of the reason for this is that I prefer to buy my phones outright instead of going through my mobile carrier. This is why I usually go with a mid-range phone over a more premium one.

In the past, I’ve been tempted by the best cheap phones, but one shortcoming or another always held me back. With the NXTPAPER 70 Pro, even though it does skimp out on some of my favorite, more premium features like wireless charging and a USB 3.0 port capable of video out, I was more than willing to leave my Nothing Phone (2) behind for it.

Ever since I first saw TCL’s NXTPAPER tech in person at a mall in Taiwan, I’ve been enamored by the matte, glare-free displays the company uses for it. After trying out the larger NXTPAPER 11 Plus and NXTPAPER 14 tablets, I figured it was time to try using this unique display tech as my daily driver — and I’m glad I did.

Here’s what it’s been like using the NXTPAPER 70 Pro for a month and why it will be especially hard going back to a phone with a glossy screen, even if it is more powerful.

A more refined NXTPAPER phone

Now I’ll admit, this wasn’t my first experience with one of TCL’s NXTPAPER phones. Alongside those two tablets, the company also sent over its 60 XE. However, while that phone did the job, it wasn’t nearly as polished as the 70 Pro.

Available in blue or gold, the 70 Pro feels much more premium in hand thanks to its subtle curves and slimmer, dual-camera array. On the right side, there’s a volume rocker, a power button with an integrated fingerprint scanner, and a dedicated NXTPAPER Key that works more like a toggle switch. While under-display fingerprint sensors are the norm these days, I absolutely love having one right on the device’s power button — the second I pick it up, I’ve already securely logged in.

On the bottom of the device, there’s a speaker grille on the left, a USB-C port of the slower USB 2.0 variety in the center with a microphone next to it, and a SIM card slot on the right. What’s nice about the SIM card slot is that it supports either dual SIM cards or, if you’re only using one, you can add a microSD card to expand the device’s storage capacity. Speaking of storage, the 70 Pro is available with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage. If you have the 128GB model like I do, it’s nice knowing you can easily add more storage later on.

Even though the 70 Pro is definitely a budget phone, it has one feature that you won’t find practically anywhere else anymore: an IR sensor. Although they were quite popular in the mid-2010s, Samsung decided to drop them and the rest of the industry followed suit. Personally, I was glad to see one on the 70 Pro, but I never thought I’d actually use it. Little did I know, it ended up being my second favorite feature after the screen — which, of course, is the star of the show.

Glare free, smooth scrolling

Just like on TCL’s NXTPAPER tablets I tested, with a toggle of the NXTPAPER Key on the lower right side, you can instantly transform its display. There are three modes to pick from: Color Paper Mode, Ink Paper Mode, and Max Ink Mode. Color Paper and Ink Paper give you the same functionality you normally have — albeit with either a slightly desaturated or black-and-white screen — while Max Ink Mode gives you an almost full e-reader-like experience while limiting you to just a handful of essential apps.

Even if you don’t decide to use one of these specialized display modes, the 70 Pro looks and feels unlike any other phone. While the iPhone 17 and Galaxy S26 have glossy and much more reflective screens, this one has a matte, glare-free panel that feels much smoother while scrolling. Another big benefit with the 70 Pro is outdoor use. Even on a bright, sunny summer day, I could clearly make out its screen. In fact, it looked almost vivid in those conditions compared to other phones.

TCL gives you an almost stock Android experience with a few small tweaks and some useful first-party apps. One small change I found particularly useful was the sidebar. If you swipe in from either side and hold, this brings up the sidebar, which you can customize to your liking. I decided to put all my smart home apps there to make it easier to quickly turn off the lights or pull up a live feed from one of my security cameras.

On the 70 Pro, there are also a number of pre-loaded wallpapers that really take advantage of its unique display too. Likewise, within the settings, instead of having to cycle through all the different NXTPAPER modes, you can set the toggle to immediately switch to your favorite one.

Speaking of which, I found Max Ink Mode to really come in handy when I was out and about. Not only did it extend the device’s battery life significantly — all the way up to 51 hours in the photo above — but by limiting which apps you can use, this also helped me avoid getting distracted by my phone. Phone calls and messages still come through, but you won’t find yourself endlessly scrolling on social media when there’s a lull in the conversation or while you’re waiting for a drink at the bar.

I really thought I would miss wireless charging a lot more than I did. However, as it turns out, just giving the device a quick charge every now and then kept my battery topped off. Even at the end of a long, phone-heavy day, I usually still had about 30% battery life left by the time I reached for my charger.

Now, I believe TCL sells the 70 Pro in a bundle with a case and a stylus in Europe. In the U.S., though, I just got the phone itself in the box. I was slightly disappointed at first, since scrolling with a stylus feels fantastic on TCL’s NXTPAPER tablets. As I wasn’t sure whether or not TCL’s styluses were device-specific, I decided to try the one that comes with the NXTPAPER 11 Plus on the 70 Pro. Much to my surprise, it worked perfectly — and while I didn’t have to pair anything via Bluetooth, I did have to toggle on "Stylus" in the phone’s settings menu.

A remote for (almost) all your devices

I finally decided to give the IR sensor a proper try towards the end of my month with the 70 Pro, and I’m so glad I did. You see, at first, I wasn’t able to add any of my devices simply because I didn’t look hard enough within the menus of TCL’s IR Remote app. For instance, I initially searched for my Roku Ultra under “Set-top box” without any luck, only to later find it tucked under “Netbox” after digging through the app's menus a bit more.

With the app open and your devices added, you just point the 70 Pro’s IR sensor at the device you want to control, tap on one of the on-screen buttons, and it does the rest. I can fully navigate and control my Roku Ultra as well as my Vizio soundbar. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to add my Vizio TV because I couldn’t find the right remote layout within the app. Likewise, I really wanted to control my Vornado tower fan, but that wasn’t one of the listed brands.

If your devices are supported, adding them is quite easy. After tapping on “Add a new device,” you select the category and you’re presented with a list of brands. There are quite a lot of options in each category, but fortunately, the most popular ones are listed right at the top. From there, you point the 70 Pro at the target device and try a few different power or play buttons to see if your hardware matches TCL’s database.

Even though I couldn’t map every single device in my home, having a universal remote right on my phone is genuinely useful. It’s a lifesaver for those times when you misplace your physical remote or when your kid decides to walk off with it — something that has happened to me on a few occasions recently.

Now, I wouldn’t buy the 70 Pro for the IR sensor alone. Instead, I see it as icing on the cake, given that the glare-free and smooth matte display — along with the integrated fingerprint scanner — remains my favorite thing about this phone overall.

Like paper in your pocket

Now that I’ve been using the NXTPAPER 70 Pro for over a month, I’m reluctant to switch back to my more powerful Nothing Phone (2) — which is starting to look a bit long in the tooth itself. While I am considering picking up one of the best camera phones for those times when I need to shoot pics for work but don’t want to bring my DSLR along, I feel almost spoiled by the 70 Pro’s display.

Sure, e-reader-like capabilities and reduced eye strain are its big selling points on paper. However, for me, I just love having a device I can actually see regardless of how bright the overhead sun is. At the same time, the feel of its matte display underneath my fingertips has completely won me over. A lot of people associate glossy screens with a premium feel, but I’ve been on a real matte kick recently after using TCL’s NXTPAPER tablets and reviewing Apple’s new Studio Display XDR with its nano-texture glass option.

Although the 70 Pro is a massive improvement over the 60 XE I tried out first, I’m hoping TCL takes things a step further next time around. Instead of just budget devices, I’d gladly pay more for a true flagship-style NXTPAPER phone — complete with a triple-camera array, fast USB 3.0 connectivity, and wireless charging. That way, I’d only need to carry one device with me wherever I go.

Overall, though, if you don’t want to drop a ton of cash on a flagship and are looking for something that looks and feels genuinely different, the NXTPAPER 70 Pro is certainly worth checking out — especially if, like me, you take a lot of photos of your phone screens for work.

More from Tom's Guide

• I shot the same 25 photos with a $329 budget phone and $1,199 flagship — here's the results
• The TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro's stylus just fixed an issue I never knew I had with handwriting digital notes
• I spent a week with dual Apple Studio Displays and realized I’ve been lying to myself about glossy screens for years

This year, folks in the market for a mid-range TV have a handful of enticing options. We recently tested the Hisense U7SG — a quantum dot-enhanced Mini-LED TV — and found that it offers a bright, punchy picture and plenty of features for the price.

And then there's the TCL QM7L. Despite its mid-range status, this Mini-LED TV comes with TCL's Super Quantum Dot (SQD) technology, which has proven effective when it comes to saturating a wider range of color than the U7SG's traditional quantum-dot display.

These sets offer similar performance in a similar price range. However, there are some differences you ought to be aware of before you shop.

Hisense U7SG vs TCL QM7L: Specs compared

Before we talk about how they differ, let's cover the similarities: Size availability, HDR and ATSC 3.0 support are about the same across both TVs.

However, while both sets arrive with the standard set of four total HDMI inputs, only two of the QM7L's inputs offer HDMI 2.1 compatibility. With the U7SG, you'll enjoy a full suite of HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs.

With four high-bandwidth ports, the U7SG offers more flexibility, as they all support 4K content at 120Hz (and up to 165Hz with VRR). Only two of the QM7L's inputs support 4K content at 120Hz and up to 144Hz. Fortunately, the QM7L's dedicated eARC input isn't pulling double-duty as one of the TV's only high-bandwidth inputs.

Winner: Hisense U7SG

Hisense U7SG vs TCL QM7L: Design

Due in part to the nature of its display hardware, the Hisense U7SG (seen above) is thicker than many Mini-LED TVs we've seen in recent years. Nevertheless, it's constructed out of sturdy plastic and the overall aesthetic is similar to what you'll find in its price range this year.

The U7SG's panel sits on top of a pedestal-style stand that takes the form of a heavy plate that sits below the center of the screen. For some viewers, this type of stand is more convenient than a pair of feet, as the center-positioning allows the U7SG to sit on narrow pieces of furniture.

As you can see from the photo above, the QM7L is very similar in its design approach. It, too, features a thick, heavy panel, which measures about the same depth as the U7SG.

Like the U7SG, the QM7L also relies on a centered, pedestal-style stand. Conveniently, the QM7L's stand can be attached in two height configurations. This helps to ensure that people with taller soundbars have an setup option in which the soundbar won't obstruct the screen.

Both TVs ship with backlit remote controls, which is quite nice to have in a dark room. Of the two, I prefer TCL's remote design, but there aren't too many differing characteristics worth calling out.

Given the similarities, this category is a toss-up. The U7SG and QM7L aren't as slim and premium-looking as other LED TVs we've seen in recent years, but neither looks (or feels) poorly designed.

Winner: Draw

Hisense U7SG vs TCL QM7L: Performance

Before we dig deeper into how these TVs look, let's compare their test results. (Both TVs were in their respective Filmmaker picture modes when these tests were taken.)

In many ways, these TVs offer similar performance profiles. As mid-range Mini-LED TVs with quantum-dot color, they offer bright, colorful pictures — far brighter than what you'll see on entry-level LED TVs. This is especially true during HDR movies and shows, where the U7SG and QM7L each deliver over 2,000 nits of highlight brightness.

While we consistently tracked higher HDR highlight brightness on the U7SG, it's worth mentioning that the gap between the U7SG's roughly 2,900 nits of highlight brightness and the QM7L's 2,300 nits is not very substantial.

We measured similar readings for Delta-E, a figure that represents color error (with lower numbers being more desirable). There's not much of a difference between a Delta-E of 3 and 2.6, and both measurements indicate that the U7SG and QM7L feature accurate color that won't appear out-of-tune to almost every viewer.

The biggest difference between them concerns color. The QM7L is one of a few TVs to harness TCL's proprietary Super Quantum Dot (SQD) technology. This has proven to be effective at boosting color compared to standard quantum-dot color (the kind you'll find on the U7SG).

In certain viewing conditions, people are more likely to notice the QM7L's punchier color than they are the U7SG's higher brightness. (Impressively, the QM7L's color is right in line with what we measured on the more-expensive TCL QM8L.) It mostly depends on the content.

To my eyes, the QM7L does a slightly better job of upscaling sub-4K content than the U7SG, too.

Additionally, my colleague Sean Captain noted that the U7SG has a tendency to crush near-black shadow detail during select HDR content.

The added color and tighter contrast make the QM7L an all-around better performer, but it's worth noting just how close these TVs are in their presentation.

Winner: TCL QM7L

Hisense U7SG vs TCL QM7L: Smart platform and features

Both TVs are built around the Google TV streaming platform, and the software feels more or less the same on each set. Google TV is one of my preferred streaming platforms (just behind Roku), as navigation is relatively easy and it supports nearly every streaming service and app you could want.

In addition, the U7SG and QM7L both arrive with a similar set gaming features right out of the box. These features include Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro (for smooth, tear-free gaming).

Each set supports 4K gaming at 120Hz, the highest 4K spec for current-generation consoles like Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the U7SG can stretch this to 165Hz with a gaming rig hooked up, while the QM7L can only reach 4K/144Hz.

Remember: The QM7L comes with just two HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs. In order to access any of these advanced gaming enhancements, you've got to use one of the QM7L's designated HDMI 2.1 ports. The U7SG, on the other hand, comes with four HDMI 2.1 inputs, which adds to its gaming prowess.

However, we've already settled this advantage when we were comparing these TVs' specs. In almost every other way that matters to the average viewer, the U7SG and QM7L are equals when it comes to features.

Winner: Draw

Hisense U7SG vs TCL QM7L: outlook

Here's some good news: Regardless of which of these mid-range TVs you pick, you'll be setting yourself up for terrific performance relative to price, as well as a thorough selection of features for gaming and streaming. As I see it, the choice comes down to price and performance.

At some size points, these TVs are priced similarly. The 65-inch Hisense U7SG is on sale for $899 at Best Buy right now, and the 65-inch TCL QM7L is just $899, too. However, from what I've gathered, the 65-inch U7SG is more likely to be on sale for this price, while the 65-inch QM7L has fluctuated in recent weeks between $899 and $1,199.

At the 55-inch size point, the TCL QM7L is currently $799, while the U7SG sits just below $700. If you're intent is to shop for a 55-inch screen, the U7SG is more likely to be cheaper, too.

But if you're looking for the best possible performance, my choice would be the QM7L across all size options. Its SQD-powered color can be a difference-maker during certain content.

Unless the U7SG's full slate of HDMI 2.1 inputs is essential to your setup, I suspect that most A/V enthusiasts would prefer the QM7L's excellent presentation.

More from Tom's Guide

• Hisense U7SG review
• TCL QM7L review
• The RAM crisis came for computers first and now it's coming for TVs — here's why I recommend upgrading while you still can

The TCL QM8L is an all-new, Mini-LED TV that leverages Super Quantum Dot (SQD) display technology for brighter, bolder color. According to our test results, the QM8L's picture is, indeed, quite punchy, and the QM8L rounds out its impressive performance with a thorough collection of features.

The TCL QM7L is the brand's mid-range Mini-LED TV for 2026. Like its step-up sibling, the QM7L also leverages SQD technology, and while it's not as impressive-looking as the QM8L, it's much more affordable.

If you're in the market for a bright, high-performance Mini-LED TV this year, the choice may come down to one of these two TCL TVs. Here's how they compare — from performance to features and price.

TCL QM8L vs QM7L: Specs compared

When it comes to their respective spec sheets, there are two significant differences worth unpacking: size availability and HDMI functionality.

While the QM8L is available in four sizes ranging from 65 to 98 inches, the QM7L is available five sizes between 55 and 98 inches. If you're in the market for something smaller than a 65-inch screen, the QM7L has you covered.

On the other hand, although both sets arrive with the standard set of four total HDMI inputs, only two of the QM7L's inputs offer HDMI 2.1 compatibility. Folks who spend up on the QM8L will enjoy a full suite of HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs.

With four high-bandwidth ports, the QM8L offers a bit more flexibility, as they all support 4K content at 120Hz (and up to 144Hz with VRR). Fortunately, the QM7L's dedicated eARC input doesn't overlap with one of its high-bandwidth inputs.

The QM7L's additional, 55-inch screen will matter more to people shopping for that screen size than its lack of two additional HDMI 2.1 inputs, but the QM8L's added flexibility here is more likely to affect a wider swath of people shopping in this price range.

Winner: TCL QM8L

TCL QM8L vs QM7L: Design

Due to the nature of its relatively complex display hardware, the TCL QM8L (seen above) is bulkier than many high-end LED TVs. That said, its design is quite refined despite the added bulk.

The QM8L's panel sits on top of heavy, pedestal-style stand that sits below the center of the screen. While the stand design introduces slightly more wobble than what you'll typically experience with a pair of wide-set feet, the placement of the pedestal lets people to place the QM8L on a narrower piece of furniture if they so choose.

As you can see from the photo above, the QM7L is nearly identical in its design approach. Its panel also bulges out around the middle, and it features a similar, pedestal-style stand.

The stands on both sets can be attached in two height configurations. This is particularly convenient for people with tall soundbars.

Additionally, both TVs ship with nearly identical, conveniently backlit remote controls. The QM8L's remote has a brightness rocker on its side.

Given the similarities, this category is too close to call. The QM8L and QM7L aren't as slim and premium-feeling as other TVs in their price range, but both of these sets are among the best-designed TCL TVs I've seen this year.

Winner: Draw

TCL QM8L vs QM7L: Performance

Before we dig deeper into how these TVs look, let's compare their test results. (Both TVs were in their respective Filmmaker picture modes when these tests were taken.)

The story of these TVs is rather simple. They're two of the first TVs to feature TCL's souped-up, quantum dot-based technology, Super Quantum Dot. Both the QM8L and QM7L deliver a wider array of color than previous TCL QLEDs thanks to a new color filter and a major reworking of the brand's picture processing algorithms.

However, according to our test results, the QM8L carries a significant advantage over the QM7L: peak brightness.

The QM8L is capable of driving way more brightness to small, concentrated areas of the picture, resulting in a punchier, more-cinematic look during certain content mastered in HDR. Additionally, its full-screen brightness in both SDR and HDR is slightly higher than that of the QM7L.

Somewhat surprisingly, the QM8L's added brightness doesn't make that big of a difference when it comes to color. You might notice better saturation of dark, low-luminance color on the QM8L, but for the most part, the QM7L does an excellent job of keeping up here.

In many viewing conditions, the real difference-maker is the QM8L's first-rate array of Mini-LEDs. Both the QM7L and QM8L do a terrific job of limiting haloing, but the QM8L is a step above the QM7L in this regard.

Everything else — color accuracy, input latency and upscaling — is very close. But if you're looking for the best-possible performance, the QM8L's added brightness and superior backlight control will be appealing to you.

Winner: TCL QM8L

TCL QM8L vs QM7L: Smart platform and features

Both TVs are built around the Google TV streaming platform, and they perform similarly. Google TV is one of my preferred streaming platforms (just behind Roku), as it's easy to navigate and supports nearly every streaming service and app you'd want on a smart TV.

The QM8L and QM7L both come with a similar set gaming features, too. These include Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro (for smooth, artifact-free gaming), as well as TCL's Game Bar, a quick-access menu that lets users access the key gaming features instantly.

Each set supports 4K gaming at 120Hz, the highest 4K spec among current-generation consoles like Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. With a gaming PC linked up, both TVs support 4K games at 144Hz, too.

As a reminder, the QM7L comes with just two HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs. In order to access those gaming enhancements, you've got to use one of those ports. The QM8L, on the other hand, comes with four.

That said, we've already settled this when comparing specs. In almost every other way that matters to the average viewer, the QM8L and QM7L roll with a similar set of features.

Winner: Draw

TCL QM8L vs QM7L: outlook

In our full review of each TV, the QM8L received a four-star rating and the QM7L earned a slightly higher, four-and-a-half-star rating. As you can see, however, the tally above has the QM8L at two points higher than its mid-range sibling. So, what gives?

Well, it all comes down to value. Right now, the 65-inch TCL QM8L is $1,399 at Best Buy. That's a fantastic sale price, considering that this model launched at $2,499.

But the 65-inch QM7L is just $1,199 at Best Buy at the time of publishing (down from its original price of $1,499). That's $200 bucks cheaper than the QM8L. Plus, the QM7L is available in a 55-inch model, which is a popular screen size for people who shop in the QM7L's mid-tier price range. For this reason, it has wider appeal.

While the QM8L delivers a brighter, better-looking picture overall, I suspect that most shoppers would be almost as impressed by the QM7L — and walk away with an extra $200 in their pocket, too.

More from Tom's Guide

• TCL QM8L review
• TCL QM7L review
• The RAM crisis came for computers first and now it's coming for TVs — here's why I recommend upgrading while you still can

TCL has established a well-earned rep for delivering bright, colorful TVs without the big price tag. That’s exactly why I was excited when the new, affordably priced QM7L showed up in the Tom’s Guide labs.

The QM7L ($1,499 as tested for 75-inch) aims to distinguish itself from its predecessor with the company’s new Super Quantum Dot (SQD) Mini-LED technology that delivers brighter, more-accurate out-of-the-box color than what you'll usually see on regular QLED TVs from rival brands.

After watching hours of content on the QM7L and lab testing it myself, it is clear that this isn’t just another affordable 75-inch TV: The QM7L sets new expectations for exactly how much performance you should expect from an affordable 75-inch TV for your money. Here’s why I think it’s one of the best TVs of 2026 (so far).

TCL QM7L review: Pricing and availability

The QM7L is the most affordable entry point to TCL’s SQD Mini-LED tier. At the very top of TCL’s 2026 lineup is the TCL X11L which we reviewed in February, and the middle is the TCL QM8L that we previously reviewed in April. Listed pricing for the QM7L starts at $1,200 for a 55-inch model, though when on sale, you’ll find it for as low as $1,000.

The 75-inch model we have for review has a list cost of $2,000, but it is currently on sale for $1,500. You can go all the way up to a 98-inch version for $4,000 — or $3,000 when it’s on sale.

Original MSRPs for the whole range are listed below, also accounting for sale prices. TCL has kept the pricing on the 75-inch model identical to last year's QM7K, making the upgrades this set offers feel like even better value.

• 55-inch: $1,199 | Sale $999
• 65-inch: $1,499 | Sale $1,199
• 75-inch: $1,999 | Sale $1,299
• 85-inch: $2,499 | Sale $1,699
• 98-inch: $3,999 | Sale $2,799

Note that dimming zones on the QM7L are proportional by size, and TCL claims the largest size of this TV can hit up to 2,100+ discrete dimming zones and a total of 3,000 nits of brightness. The core audio hardware on the QM7L is identical across all screen sizes, though, so buying a smaller size doesn’t mean you’ll get worse audio performance.

Pricing-wise, the TCL QM7L lines up with its direct competitor, Hisense. The Hisense U7 75-inch model has the exact price as this TCL. On the higher-end side, the more premium True RGB Sony Bravia 7 II comes in at a whopping $3,099 for a 75-inch model. Meanwhile, if you want an OLED alternative, the Samsung S85H comes in at $2,399 for a 77-inch model.

TCL QM7L review: Design and ports

The 75-inch QM7L is a huge TV, measuring 65.6 inches wide and weighing nearly 59 pounds with its stand attached. Despite its portly stature, the TV keeps to the streamlined design of its QM8L sibling with its center-facing stand.

The overall look and design is simple, as the TV has minimal branding aside from a small TCL logo on the thin bottom chin. There’s also TCL’s SQD branding on the right side bezel which has a nice brushed, metal-like finish to it.

Setup involves sliding one half of a plastic stand into the wedge-shaped plastic base, and then screwing the stand into the back of the TV. It’s not as intuitive as just having to slide the stand into the TV like on a Sony Bravia 7 II, but the stand is quite sturdy.

You have a little under two inches of room under the bezel in the middle to slide accessories and to reach the power button in the middle of the chin. The side of the TV comes in at a thickness of around 2 inches.

The ports for the QM7L are on the back right side of the TV, in an easy to reach spot not tucked under a bezel. There are four HDMI 2.1 ports — but not all of them are made equal. You can only get 144Hz out of HDMI 1 and 2; it’s only 60Hz at 1080p for HDMI 3 and 4. Additional ports include a USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 port, along with Ethernet, and an optical digital audio output.

The rear of the TV has the two Bang and Olufsen speakers at the top, and the screw holes for the VESA mount. For network connectivity, the TV uses Wi-Fi 5, which is a bit dated at this point but not a huge dealbreaker if your router does not support the new Wi-Fi 6 standard.

TCL QM7L review: How we test

In our New York City test lab, my lab assistant and I test every TV across SDR and HDR benchmarks using the 10% window. For a true to cinema look and feel, and for color accuracy, we switch the TV over to Filmmaker Mode, usually the “best” mode on the TV. We also disable any intrusive ambient light sensors that could skew our meter’s readings.

In terms of tools, we use the Jeti spectraval 1501-HiRes spectroradiometer to profile our Klein K10-A colorimeter. Once profiled, this high-end hardware works in tandem with a Murideo 8K-SIX-G Metal pattern generator and a custom workflow in Portrait Displays’ Calman Ultimate software to map out the TV’s performance.

For gaming performance, we use a Leo Bodnar 4K Video Signal Lag Tester to measure exactly how responsive the TV really is. Once technical lab testing is done, we put the TV through subjective testing using a curated selection of films and shows. You can learn more about this process by reading our “How we test TVs” guide.

TCL QM7L review: Performance

To put the QM7L through its paces, I watched the UHD version of Dune Part 2, nature videos on YouTube, then Spider Noir and a replay of a NASCAR Cup Series race on Amazon Prime Video. Across every type of content, the QM7L impressed with brightness and color.

Dune: Part Two was the perfect test movie. While watching, I noticed how the desert sands of Arrakis were packed with fine detail, showing the QM7L’s ability to bring out subtle textures and warm golden hues. The natural-looking skin tones were also impressive — in desert scenes, many of the characters' orange sunlit faces retained lifelike color without looking overly warm.

Even though the movie frequently shifts between daylight and low-light environments, the QM7L handled the contrast and brightness well. The blacks in many darker interior scenes looked great and bright elements, like the beam of white light of swords during desert fights, still packed plenty of punch.

Next, I turned to streaming Spider-Noir on Amazon Prime. I previously watched this on the Samsung S85F OLED TV, and visually, the experience was quite close. The QM7L pushed out great blacks, especially in The Spider’s suit when he was hanging from a wall inside a hotel.

When watching the series in color, the TV didn’t lose the details in scenes that show off the series’ atmosphere: A dimly lit hotel room still had slight gray shadows, and reds looked vibrant in a neon sign against a black sky as The Spider was swinging in to steal from Silvermane’s safe under the cover of darkness. In later scenes, Cat Hardy’s green dress sparkled and shined, and so did her golden bangles — adding a sense of realism that made me think she was in the room with me.

For an SDR test, I watched a replay of Amazon Prime's NASCAR Cup Series race coverage from Pocono. I set the TCL QM7L to Vivid Mode, and its 3,167 nits of peak brightness in this mode made the broadcast look especially bright and colorful. Chase Elliott's blue and yellow NAPA Chevrolet stood out with bright colors. I could also clearly see the bright sunlight reflecting off Denny Hamlin's helmet during an in-car camera shot.

Finally, for a display bloom test, I watched a HDR video on YouTube that is specially designed for this. Watching normally from a few feet away, I didn’t immediately notice any blooming. It was present only in small momentary fireworks scene and visible only when I moved my seat to the corner of the panel. This panel on this TV is definitely good for the price, if you don’t go looking for the faults with a fine tooth comb.

TCL QM7L review: Test results

Lab results showed the TCL QM7L is a huge jump across the board in terms of brightness, and HDR color accuracy from its predecessor, the QM7K. The QM7L also matches or exceeds most similarly priced LED competitors in brightness while remaining competitive in color accuracy.

While not a lot of content is mastered for Rec 2020 yet, our lab’s measured Gamut Coverage shows why HDR on this TV looked so good. The QM7L hit 90.28% of the Rec 2020 gamut. That’s highest among TCL’s competitors; the U7 hit 82.75%, the Bravia 87.18, and the Samsung OLED 72.94%.

TCL claims this TV can cover 100% Rec 2020, but measurements can vary based on equipment used. Still, against every TV we’ve tested this year, only TCL’s own X11L scored higher in our labs, with 91.81% coverage.

With a measured HDR brightness of 2,270 nits, the QM7L lands second with its competitors. That even beats out the pricey true RGB Sony Bravia 7 II, and leaving Samsung’s most affordable 2026 OLED TV far behind — though those are all 65-inch models.

Overall, the QM7L delivered a bright, vibrant picture. Its measured Delta-E of 2.64 also points to a very good SDR color accuracy, third best amongst its competitors.

TCL QM7L review: Gaming

While the viewing experience on the TCL QM7L is impressive, so is the gaming. The TV measured 9.4 ms in our input lag tests which is no surprise, given all the features.

There’s support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). A long press of a button on the remote can bring up the Game Bar, which has several additional features like an aiming aid and a magnifier.

I do like how there’s a frame rate floating window, so you can keep up with how efficiently your game is running. During my time with the TV, I used this menu and also turned on HGIG and enabled high frame rate modes.

When playing Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 on our lab’s PlayStation 5, web swinging through Manhattan was smooth, maxing out at 119fps in the frame rate floating window. Same for Assassins Creed: Black Flag Resynced where in the ship battles in the opening scenes, despite wave crashes and my swaying the ship side by side, the game was still playing smoothly with minimal input lag.

TCL QM7L review: Sound

For audio testing, I watched the music video of Andrea Bocelli, David Guetta, EJAE and Megan Thee Stallion’s “DNA.” On this TV’s 2.2-channel Bang & Olufsen-tuned speaker system, this World Cup anthem sounded better than expected.

Bass had an energetic balance between vocals and the song’s EDM style beats. Things were surprisingly balanced for a built-in TV speaker system. Bocelli’s voice came through clearly, while the heavier electronic beats and Megan Thee Stallion’s verses had some thump and bop to it. The speakers sounded quite wide, too, so I don’t think you’ll need a soundbar here.

TCL QM7L review: Smart TV and remote

The TCL QM7L is powered by Google TV. Much like my experience with the Sony Bravia 7 II, I enjoyed the user interface. Getting through settings, looking for content with the included voice remote is clean and easy. Google Gemini for TV has a conversational style that helps surface my content easily, and the home screen isn’t full of ads unlike some of its competitors.

As for the remote, not much has changed from the previous QM7K — it still is plastic and black with a brushed finish. Buttons are relatively close together, and backlit. My favorite services have dedicated buttons on the remote, too, with access to Netflix, Prime Video, Netflix, Tubi, Disney, and FreeTV just a touch away.

TCL QM7L review: Verdict

The TCL QM7L has everything most people might look for in a good mid-range TV: It delivers bright HDR performance, a responsive gaming experience, and good speakers, at a competitive price of $1,500 (or less) when on sale. While it falls short of being the perfect TV due to some minor imperfections with blooming in some HDR scenes, it still is a smart buy.

There is some tough competition around this price point, however. There’s the aforementioned Hisense U7 that delivers similar performance for a competitive price. It’s not quite as adept at HDR content as the QM7L, but it does sound better (expect our full review soon). And at the very top of the RGB TV spectrum, the Sony Bravia 7 II is one of the very best LED TVs you can buy. Real enthusiasts seeking strict reference accuracy might prefer it, honestly.

In spite of some fierce competition, though, the TCL QM7L is one of the best mid-range TVs right now if you want a giant 75-inch screen and don’t want to spend over $2,000 on it.

For the past few weeks we've been putting TV manufacturers' feet to the fire. We're holding them accountable by grading them in key categories like design, performance, features and pricing — and now we're asking our readers to get involved.

We recently asked readers which brand they trusted most and one company was the clear winner. Now we're coming to you all directly with a short survey that will help us figure out what you love and hate about the six biggest TV makers: Hisense, LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL and Vizio.

Fill it out at your leisure and let me know in the comments what your biggest gripes are.

Here's how I'd answer

Testing TVs for a living has left me with an embarrassing amount of screens in my home. In my home office I've got a 75-inch TCL QM9K. Downstairs in my living room is a Samsung S95D OLED. In my music listening room I've got the Hisense U8N.

In the above survey, I'd mark all three down.

How long have I owned those TVs? Not all that long.

The first TV I ever owned was a massive CRT model that I used to play N64 and PS1 games on growing up. My parents bought that TV for me and my brother in 1996 and I was still rocking it to play Halo 2 a decade later.

These days, however, I'm trading out TVs every two to three years. That's probably a bit excessive, honestly, but as someone who covers this stuff, I want to make sure that I have access to all the latest and greatest technology to provide the best analysis to you guys.

Would I buy these TVs again? I absolutely would. They're all great value options. Not everyone probably feels the same as I feel, though. For some of you I'm sure the answer is going to be a resounding no. If that's you, drop a comment below letting me know why that is.

If the answer is yes, also drop a comment below letting me know why you like your TV so much. By doing so, you could be directly helping someone find their new favorite TV.

Stay tuned for the results of these surveys and check out our guide to the best TV brands in 2026 if you haven't done so already. You'll be seeing the results used in more stories in the coming weeks as we continue to break down what's working — and what's not working — in the world of TVs.

More from Tom's Guide

• There's a better cable for TVs than HDMI — but here's why we'll probably never use it
• Best Buy Essentials Ultra-Thin Amplified HDTV Antenna review
• Your streaming stick isn't broken — these apps are just slowing it down to a crawl

As Senior TV Editor, I see nearly every TV release year after year. It’s a special opportunity to share a ton of helpful context with folks shopping for a new TV, but it also means that I’m liable to lose sight of how the average person feels about the state of the industry.

This is why, for the last several weeks, we’ve been asking you — the readers — which major TV brand you consider to be the most trustworthy.

Between Hisense, LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL and Vizio, one brand proved more trustworthy than the rest — and it wasn’t particularly close. Sony, makers of some of the best TVs you can buy, rose above the competition. Here’s how the rest of the pack stacked up.

Trusted TV brands: Full results

In just over two weeks, our poll compiled just over 3,200 votes. Here's a breakdown of the results at the time of publishing:

Among our readers, Sony-branded QLEDs, OLEDs and True RGB TVs are the most trusted. LG and Samsung are closely positioned in second and third place, while TCL, Hisense and Vizio received far fewer votes overall.

It's an interesting time to analyze these results. We recently conducted a week-long exercise in which we doled out report cards to these brands, grading each on performance, features, price and more. Sony received our highest grade for performance (A). However, Sony was also the recipient of the lowest grade we handed out for price (C-).

Our reasoning for these grades is simple: Sony's superb engineering and unparalleled picture processing amount to some of the best performance money can buy. Unfortunately, the cost of this consistency is often passed down to the viewer, as Sony TVs tend to be priced higher than rival TVs.

Sony TVs in 2026 and beyond

If Sony's 2026 Bravia TV lineup is any indication, the company is perfectly comfortable assuming the role of a trusted premium TV-maker — even if its mid-range and luxury models are priced higher than the competition.

Interestingly, our poll proves that viewers and TV-shoppers aren't necessarily fazed by this arrangement. Among our readers, Sony is more trustworthy than LG and Samsung (brands that specialize in high-end performance) and far more trustworthy than TCL and Hisense (brands commonly associated with value-forward, budget-friendly models).

Recently, Sony spun out its TV business, with rival brand TCL taking on a 51% stake in the operation. It's tough to say how this might affect Sony TVs, TCL TVs and the reputation of both brands.

We'll be continuing to run the poll, so if you haven't responded to our poll about TV-brand trustworthiness, we want to hear from you: Your input could help shape how these companies will build, tune, and market these TVs in 2027 and beyond.

More from Tom's Guide

• We just graded every TV brand on price, performance and more — here’s how their report cards stack up
• This RGB LED TV is the one to buy if the Sony Bravia 9 II is outside of your budget
• TCL and Sony are joining forces to sell more TVs — but is that bad news for shoppers?

This week, we handed out report cards to the biggest brands in the TV industry: Hisense, LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL and Vizio.

The goal was simple: grade each TV-maker on pricing, design, features and performance. We also took a hard look at each of these brands' software.

Now that these familiar names have received their respective report cards, it's time to meet them in the classroom for a conference about how they're doing this year. If you're shopping for the best TV in 2026, this ought to give you a pretty clear picture about how to spend your money.

Pricing

Of the six names in the mix, Hisense, TCL and Vizio led the class in the all-important pricing category. If you’ve shopped for a TV lately, this probably won’t come as a surprise.

Vizio has focused almost entirely on ultra-affordable TVs in recent years. While the rest of the big-name brands tinker with high-end, cutting-edge technologies like RGB LED and QD-OLED, Vizio is focused on more cost-effective hardware.

Meanwhile, the most-popular entry-level sets in Hisense and TCL’s primary lineups tend to be more affordable than those of LG, Samsung and Sony. In addition, it’s often the case that, when comparing similarly priced models, Hisense and TCL TVs offer a bit more bang for your buck when it comes to features.

Winner: Tie (Hisense, TCL and Vizio)

Design

When it comes to design, Samsung and Sony lead the way. Sony’s top TVs often arrive with multiple stand configurations, and its most recent True RGB TVs feature a unique stand design that effectively hides cables by way of lenticular lensing.

Samsung consistently innovates at the higher end of its lineup, too, popularizing matte-style screens, external connectivity hubs and, most recently, eye-catching metallic frames. Affordable, entry-level Samsung QLEDs lean into the simplistic nature of their display hardware, often arriving with sleek, slim panels that play the part of a more-premium set.

LG’s most noteworthy TVs — its OLEDs — are handsomely engineered, too, but the worldwide leader in OLED TVs doesn’t seem too eager to move away from tried and true formulas.

TCL and Hisense are purveyors of TVs with safe, middle-of-the-road designs that don’t innovate as much as they respond to (and replicate) industry trends. Their higher-end TVs tend to carry their best design characteristics.

Winner: Tie (Samsung and Sony)

Features

Years ago, LG was among the first TV-makers to outfit its TVs with a full slate of HDMI 2.1 inputs. This aggressive approach to supplemental features has carried all the way into 2026, where the company narrowly leads TCL and Samsung when it comes to gaming- and streaming-related enhancements.

Although Samsung’s top-shelf TVs are jam-packed with extras, there are plenty of people shopping in this higher price tier expecting the full package. Without Dolby Vision support, LG’s top TVs are the most feature-complete.

Sony is the last of these brands to embrace full HDMI 2.1 support. Fortunately, that seems to be the new standard for the brand as the company looks to leverage newer chipsets in 2026 and beyond.

This year, Hisense and TCL are similar in how they approach feature availability across their respective lineups, but for the last couple of years, Hisense has traded a fourth HDMI input for a USB-C DisplayPort on its higher-end models — a move that might disappoint home theater enthusiasts looking to plug in every single one of their HDMI-equipped devices.

Being the brand most concerned with affordability above all else, it’s no surprise that Vizio is the brand least concerned with premium features.

Winner: LG

Performance

Although TCL and Hisense make exceptional TVs, LG, Samsung and Sony are the brands to consider if you’re looking for top-tier, best-in-the-business performance.

Of the six brands we graded, LG, Samsung and Sony are the only three that make OLED TVs. Despite the rapid ascension of RGB LED technology, OLED remains the best all-around option (provided you don’t need super-high full-field brightness to overcome a sun-soaked room). And, of the graded brands releasing RGB LED TVs in 2026, Samsung and Sony have impressed me the most with the Samsung R95H and Sony Bravia 9 II.

These brands also deliver better picture processing than Hisense, TCL and Vizio. On the whole, Sony TVs feature better processing than any other brand, but LG and Samsung aren’t far behind.

At the mid-range and entry level, ranking the brands’ performance isn’t as cut and dry. Hisense and TCL have fortified their position as the best bang-for-your-buck brands in these price tiers because they typically offer brighter pictures with better contrast control. In many cases, you could spend the same amount of money on an entry-level or mid-range LED TV from LG, Samsung or Sony and walk away with a less-impressive picture.

Vizio is… Well, Vizio. The Walmart-owned brand doesn’t make high-end flagships anymore, and the rest of its TVs are affordably made models engineered primarily to generate ad revenue by way of its web-based software. There’s nothing wrong with buying a Vizio TV as long as you’re shopping for affordability instead of sheer picture prowess.

Winner: Sony

Smart TV platform

Hisense, TCL and Sony offer the smoothest streaming experiences thanks to their built-in Google TV smart platform. It’s my second-favorite choice behind the Roku operating system on account of its relatively straightforward interface and vast library of downloadable apps.

LG and Samsung fall to a lower tier, primarily because their respective software suites aren’t as easy to navigate. Both LG’s webOS and Samsung’s Smart Hub also come with a unique set of annoyances, like unnecessary AI features and auto-playing content.

Vizio is to be avoided if you’re hoping to avoid buying an external streaming device, as its proprietary software lags behind the five other brands. The interface is inundated with more ads than its competitors (including auto-playing commercials) and its app selection is limited.

Winner: Hisense, TCL and Sony

Overall Brand Grades

So, you’re shopping for a TV this year and you want to put all of this information to proper use. Allow me to simplify things.

If you’re looking to splash out on a top-performing TV with an emphasis on design and features, LG and Samsung ought to be at the top of your list of options. At the highest price tier, Sony’s TVs offer similarly excellent performance and design, but some of these models don’t offer as many gaming-related features despite their steep cost.

If you’re looking for a mid-range TV in the Goldilocks Zone between affordability and high performance, consider Hisense and TCL. These two brands are especially suited for mid-range TV-shoppers on the hunt for the brightest possible picture, since Hisense and TCL specialize in budget-friendly Mini-LED TVs that don’t skimp on display hardware. (For what it’s worth, Hisense and TCL flagship models are usually quite good — just not as impressive as flagships from LG, Samsung and Sony.)

If you’re looking to spend as little as possible, I strongly recommend shopping for something from Hisense or TCL over anything from Insignia, Pioneer or Onn. I also recommend Hisense and TCL over Vizio, unless you’re comfortable with Vizio’s ad-heavy software experience.

Next year, we’ll grade all of these brands again. That means there’s plenty of time for them to study up.

When you buy a TV, you're buying more than just a screen — you're buying into a brand's entire philosophy. For better or worse, over the course of the next several years, that brand will be at the center of your living room.

As professional TV-reviewers, no one understands the relationship between a viewer and their TV better than us. That's why we're passing out report cards to the biggest names in the TV industry this week, grading everything from price to performance.

Previously, we doled out report cards to both LG and Sony. Today, we’re taking a look at TCL, makers of some of the most popular QLEDs on the market. In 2026, TCL's proprietary Super Quantum Dot (SQD) technology is up against some fierce competition, too.

Pricing

In recent years (including 2026), TCL TVs have played the part of value-forward alternatives to pricier analogues from brands like Samsung and Sony. They’re not always budget friendly, but outside of a handful of exceptions, TCL sets are typically priced lower than the competition while still offering many of the same benefits and features.

On the lower end of the spectrum, TVs like the four-star TCL QM6K offer a taste of premium hardware for a price most people can justify. Backed by Mini-LEDs, a 65-inch QM6K launched at just $799 and eventually fell even further throughout its shelf life.

The Best Buy-exclusive TCL QM5K offers a modest array of Mini-LEDs for even less. The 65-inch QM5K is still available for $499.

You don’t have to stick to entry-level and mid-range models to see the inherent value in most TCL TVs in 2026. The top-shelf TCL QM8L — which recently earned our four-star rating — is equipped with the brand’s best display technology, but still comes in at a relatively low price compared to some of its competitors.

Just a few months (and price drops) after its release, the 65-inch TCL QM8L is just $1,499. For all intents and purposes, it’s a direct competitor of the Sony Bravia 9 II True RGB TV and the Samsung R95H Micro RGB TV, but those sets are currently $3,599 and $3,199, respectively.

TCL is no stranger to the concept of a flashy, big-screen luxury TV. The TCL X11L is a prime example of this. But when it comes to its mainline QLEDs, its TVs are usually more affordable than alternatives from LG, Samsung and Sony — and they tend to go on sale fast and frequently.

Grade: A-

Design

I've been covering TCL TVs for over a decade, and early on, the company wasn't exactly known for the build quality of its TVs. Fortunately, as TCL's lineups upgraded and expanded, so too did its design chops.

In 2026, TCL TVs are neither flimsy nor posh. They're on the nicer end of the utilitarian spectrum — they're thoughtful in their approach while safely following a formula. The most eye-catching design flourish you're likely to notice on a TCL TV is something like a Bang & Olufsen-branded sound system.

If you shop high enough in TCL's lineup, your TV will include one of the most convenient remote controls of 2026. It comes with a built-in backlight for easy use in the dark and runs off a built-in battery that recharges via USB-C. Much appreciated.

Grade: B-

Features

When it comes to extra features and enhancements, very few TVs come with everything but the kitchen sink. When they do, they're usually pretty pricy.

What matters more is that a given TV comes with enough features to be worthy of its price. For TCL, this is generally true across the board: Its lower-end and mid-range models may not be covered in bells and whistles, but rarely do I feel like I should be getting more features for a TCL TV's price.

The brand's primary mid-range model for 2026 is the TCL QM7L (a TV that we're still in the process of evaluating). This set doesn't come with a full slate of HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs like an LG OLED, but you're getting a pair of high-bandwidth ports that each support 4K games at up to 144Hz. That's plenty for most people, and unless you have more than three gaming devices, you won't find yourself shuffling around cables.

Critically, if you shell out for a top-shelf TCL TV and go with the QM8L or X11L, you won't have to settle for a mid-range setup. These high-end models come with four HDMI 2.1 inputs and nearly every major gaming feature. In addition, mainline TCL TVs support both Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

Grade: B+

Performance

This year, while the rest of the TV world is showcasing their spin on RGB LED technology, TCL is zagging in a different direction. Three of its TVs are equipped with something called Super Quantum Dot (SQD) color, and based on our test results, these souped-up dots are just as intriguing as RGB LEDs.

Without getting too deep into the weeds, SQD TVs are engineered to wring a wider range of color out of traditional quantum dots by way of added brightness, improved processing algorithms and a fancy new color filter.

Thanks to SQD technology, the QM7L, QM8L and X11L are capable of color volume we previously only measured on quantum dot-equipped OLED TVs. These figures are also on par with what we’ve been measuring on RGB LED-based TVs, too.

Given the nature of TV technology, it’s tough to do a generic, one-to-one comparison of SQD and RGB LED. How, exactly, brands use these technologies matters the most, and not all are created equal. But in RGB LED’s inaugural year, TCL has shown that its competing tech can stand toe-to-toe with the rest.

There’s room for improvement here, however. I’ve watched TCL make great strides when it comes to picture processing, but from what I’ve seen throughout the last year, some models still struggle to upscale sub-4K content as cleanly as LG, Samsung and Sony. For picture purists, out-of-the-box accuracy can be disappointing, too, especially compared to rival brands’ flagship models.

For the average viewer in the market for a good deal on a high-performing TV, though, models like the QM7L and QM8L are a savvy way to secure a bright, colorful picture without paying a premium on RGB LEDs. You can still splash out on a TCL-branded RGB Mini-LED TV if you so choose, but it's clear that SQD technology is the brand's top focus at the moment.

Grade: A-

Smart TV platform

In 2026, TCL TVs are built around the Google TV smart platform. Despite its bevy of sponsored and recommended content, Google TV remains one of my top picks for everyday streaming, second only to Roku.

Here's the thing: There are elements of the Google TV experience that annoy me, but as a TV-reviewer, I'm acutely aware of how much more annoying the alternatives can be. Samsung's Tizen-based OS and LG webOS are far more frustrating to use on a daily basis (to say nothing of Vizio's dreadful in-house software).

By and large, the Google TV navigational experience is straightforward and hassle-free. It moves along at a steady pace, and this is true even for some of the brand's lower-end models.

Grade: B+

Overall grade: B+

Similar to Hisense, TCL has gone from being a brand known primarily for affordability to one recognized for value. Affordability and value often go hand in hand, but in this case, I can plot a clear shift from TCL, a brand that makes cheap TVs to TCL, a brand that makes really good TVs for less than the price of most of its competitors.

I have no way of knowing for sure, but over the last year, I'm willing to bet that I've recommended TCL TVs more than any other brand — at least when it comes to budget-friendly options. The brand often demonstrates the highest amount of upside relative to cost, so it's well-liked by folks who want to spend less while still buying an impressive-looking picture.

I've yet to see a TCL TV whose picture looks as good as, say, Samsung's best OLED TV in 2026. But if you can get the QM8L — one of TCL's best SQD TVs — for half the price, that's a pretty friendly proposition, don't you think?

Want something even cheaper than the QM8L? We're still working through our full review of it, but the QM7L is brighter and more colorful than most TVs in its mid-range class. As mentioned, it comes with nearly every feature a dedicated gamer could ask for, and its streaming software is better than what you'll get on a comparably priced LG or Samsung set.

As smartphones have gotten bigger and bigger, you might find yourself wondering if you even need a tablet anymore. With a standard 10-inch tablet, you’re not really getting that much more screen real estate, but that couldn’t be further from the truth with the TCL NXTPAPER 14.

It sports a massive 14.3-inch display, and when turned sideways to watch a movie or a TV show, the device feels more like a portable monitor than a tablet. Then in portrait mode, I really felt like I was holding a clipboard in my hand in the best kind of way.

What really sets the TCL NXTPAPER 14 apart from the best iPads and other tablets though is its display. With the push of a button on the side, you can switch between three viewing modes: Regular Mode, Color Paper Mode and Ink Paper Mode.

With Ink Paper Mode enabled, the NXTPAPER 14 transforms from a standard Android tablet into a black and white slate that offers a reading experience on par with one of the best Kindles but supersized. Doing so also helps save battery life, but with a 10,000 mAh battery under the hood, finding a charger isn’t something you’re going to have to worry about all that often.

Having tried both the NXTPAPER 14 and the smaller yet more powerful NXTPAPER 11 Plus, one thing I really like about TCL’s unique tablets is that they come with a case and a stylus right in the box. You don’t get a screen protector, but I wouldn’t use one with a NXTPAPER device anyways since their matte displays feel great under your fingertips. The stylus recharges via USB-C and attaches to the included case magnetically so you don’t have to worry about misplacing it.

Not the only NXTPAPER

If you haven’t figured it out by now, this super-sized tablet is part of TCL’s wider NXTPAPER ecosystem. Sure, there are other NXTPAPER tablets, but there are also smartphones that come equipped with this same display tech to make reading a lot easier on your eyes. At the same time, you also won’t have to worry about glare when you’re outside since their matte screens aren’t reflective at all.

If the NXTPAPER 14 is a bit too big for your hands — or your use case — don’t worry, as you can still find plenty of great deals on the rest of TCL’s NXTPAPER devices right now.

Quick Links

• TCL NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2: was $249 now $179 @ Amazon
• TCL NXTPAPER 60 XE: was $284 now $229 @ Amazon
• TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus: was $369 now $259 @ Amazon
• TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro: was $329 now $299 @ Amazon
• TCL NXTPAPER 14: was $469 now $369 @ Amazon
• TCL Note A1: was $599 now $549 @ Amazon

NXTPAPER tablet and phone deals

While Prime Day is behind us, 4th of July is just days away and that's given retailers another excuse to slash prices. Over at Best Buy, for instance, there's a huge range of TVs on sale right now, some with discounts of over $1,000.

On this page we've pulled together nine of our favorite TV deals: big, beautiful screens from trusted brands like Samsung, LG, TCL, and Toshiba. These are just the thing for upgrading your home entertainment setup or perhaps adding a second TV for a bedroom or kitchen. We've selected a range of different price points too, so there should be something for most budget here, from great value QLED screens to the most lavish LG OLED Evo AI TVs. (For more deals, check out our guide to the best 4th of July sales).

I still remember the first time I laid eyes on one of TCL’s NXTPAPER tablets at a mall in Taiwan. What caught me off guard was that despite the bright overhead lighting, its screen was completely glare free. However, it wasn’t until I pressed the NXTPAPER button on the side that I realized what made this tablet truly unique.

Unlike one of the best iPads, TCL’s NXPAPER tablets are designed to prevent eye-strain while giving you an improved reading experience. With the push of a button on the side, you can switch between three viewing modes: Regular Mode, Color Paper Mode and Ink Paper Mode.

With Ink Paper Mode enabled, the device transforms from a standard Android tablet into a black and white slate with a reading experience on par with one of the best Kindles. This also extends the tablet’s battery so you can keep reading even longer.

I’ve been using both the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2 and the much larger TCL NXTPAPER 14 since the beginning of the year. While I love them both, the 11-inch one is great for slipping in a bag while the 14-inch one is perfect when you want a bigger screen at home.

These tablets aren’t just for reading though, as they also come with a stylus in the box for drawing or taking handwritten notes. Likewise, I’ve heard that many musicians like using the larger NXTPAPER 14 for reading sheet music while they practice.

Right now, you can save up to 39% on TCL’s NXTPAPER tablets thanks to Prime Day. If you’ve been looking for a more budget-friendly iPad alternative or don’t want to be bothered keeping a separate e-reader charged, they’re definitely worth checking out. And at this price, there’s never been a better time to give NXTPAPER a try for yourself.

Quick Links

• TCL NXTPAPER 11 Gen 2: was $249 now $169 @ Amazon
• TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus: was $369 now $223 @ Amazon
• TCL NXTPAPER 14: was $459 now $312 @ Amazon
• TCL Note A1: was $599 now $449 @ Amazon

Prime Day NXTPAPER Tablet Deals

Some Google TVs will soon receive a Gemini update that lets you adjust your TV settings using voice commands. However, the update is rolling out to specific TCL models first. It's disappointing news for owners of the best Google TVs.

Google announced the rollout today, but we got a preview of the update during CES 2026 back in January. The update lets you use the microphone button on your remote to adjust settings vocally.

In the announcement post, Google says you can adjust audio and video settings, troubleshoot picture and sound problems, optimize settings, or use it to find specific menus.

Gemini lets you use more "natural" language prompts like "the dialogue is lost" or "the screen is too dim" to make adjustments. Until we get some hands-on time, we won't know how in-depth the prompts get though.

Gemini update availability

Here's the catch, though: for now, this is a TCL exclusive and only for specific models. The update is coming to the QM9K, X11L, QM9L, QM8L, and RM9L. Additionally, your set needs to support Android TV OS 14 or later.

For people with different TCL models or manufacturers, apparently the exclusivity window is 60 days, per 9to5Google. Google does say that the update is rolling out over the next "few weeks." It's not currently clear if the 60 day window starts now or once the update has hit every compatible model.

Tom's Guide has reached out to TCL for clarity on the window.

On your TCL Google TV you can check for available system updates by going to Settings > System > About > System update.

More from Tom's Guide

• From AI Overviews to the only view — how Google is squeezing out serendipity on the web
• How to use Google’s new "Docs Live" voice feature to dictate perfect emails
• Google Gemini security flaw lets hackers hijack your Android phone via WhatsApp — what you need to know

The TCL QM8L is a 2026 Mini-LED TV that leverages a new type of display technology (Super Quantum Dot) for brighter color. According to our tests, the QM8L's picture is bright, punchy and accurate, and it rounds out its impressive performance with a thorough collection of features.

The TCL QM9K, on the other hand, made its debut last year. It's one of the brightest Mini-LED TVs we've ever tested, but it's not equipped with TCL's Super Quantum Dot (SQD) technology, so it's not quite as colorful as the QM8L. However, as it's a 2025 TV, it can be bought for much less than the newer QM8L.

If you're in the market for a bright, high-performance Mini-LED TV this year, you may find yourself sizing up these two TCL TVs. Here's how they compare — from performance to features and price.

TCL QM8L vs QM9K: specs compared

Both of these TVs are available in screen sizes ranging from 65 to 98 inches. This means that people shopping for something smaller will have to shop other options. In addition, both sets support Dolby Vision and the royalty-free version of Dolby Vision, HDR10+.

Another nice bonus is that, regardless of whichever TV you opt for, you'll be getting ATSC 3.0 support as a key feature. ATSC 3.0 allows over-the-air broadcasts to arrive in their native 4K resolution via antenna. UHD broadcasts are still relatively hard to come by, but if you watch your fair share of over-the-air broadcasts via antenna, this is a nice feature to have in your back pocket.

One of the primary differences between these sets has to do with their connectivity options. The QM8L offers a full suite of HDMI 2.1 inputs, but on the QM9K, you'll only find two high-bandwidth, HDMI 2.1 inputs. The QM9K's remaining pair of ports is of the HDMI 2.0 variety. As a result, the QM8L is better equipped for folks who plan on connecting multiple gaming devices, as they won't have to worry about a console being relegated to a less-capable, HDMI 2.0 port.

Winner: TCL QM8L

TCL QM8L vs QM9K: design

Thanks in part to its display technology, the TCL QM8L (seen above) is bulkier than many LED-based sets. That said, its overall look is mostly refined.

The QM8L's chassis bulges out of the back of the panel, but not to an extreme degree. It rests on a heavy, pedestal-style stand that sits below the center of the screen. This design decision is helpful, as it allows people to place the QM8L on a narrower piece of furniture even if they opt for one of the larger screen sizes.

As you can see, the QM9K (seen above) is quite similar, despite the fact that it's not leveraging an SQD display Like the QM8L, it also makes use of a pedestal-style stand in the center of the screen.

Regardless of which TV you choose, you'll be getting a conveniently backlit remote control. It may sound ridiculous, but this is one of my favorite features on both models. You don't realize just how much you need a feature like this until you suddenly don't have it.

Given their near-identical designs, this category is too close to call. They're not ultra-thin like some of the slimmer OLED TVs we've seen in recent years, but both of sets are among the best-designed TCL TVs I've seen to date.

Winner: Draw

TCL QM8L vs QM9K: performance

Before we dig deeper into how these TVs look, let's compare their test results. (Both TVs were in their respective Filmmaker picture modes when these tests were taken.)

These are similar TVs, no doubt, but there are still some important points to consider about their performance.

According to our test results, the QM9K is slightly brighter than the QM8L during HDR content. However, this measurement involves highlight brightness (small areas rather than the entire picture), and I suspect that most viewers wouldn't be able to see much a difference outside of a side-by-side comparison.

The bigger difference here is color volume: Thanks in large part to its SQD-equipped panel, the QM8L comes in with richer, brighter color than the QM9K.

While it's true that the QM9K does a marginally better job dialing-in its color points in Filmmaker mode, the difference between a Delta-E of 3.7 and 1.8 isn't that significant, so you can expect a similar level of out-of-the-box accuracy across both TVs. A Delta-E of 3 is considered by many to be the threshold in which the human eye can perceive color error, and so 3.7 is a fine result.

The QM8L offers lower input latency, which dedicated gamers will surely appreciate. In fact, given the figures at play, I'd easily take the 9.5-millesecond measurement put forth by the QM8L over the QM9K's slightly better Delta-E measurement in Filmmaker mode. I'd likely notice the lower input lag before I clocked the added color error.

Taken as a whole, the QM8L's added color and lower input latency make for a better overall experience, but not by very much. These are bright, colorful TVs with terrific backlight control, decent upscaling and accurate presentations. The QM8L takes this category, but it's quite close.

Winner: TCL QM8L

TCL QM8L vs QM9K: smart platform and features

Both the TCL QM8L and the QM9K are built around the Google TV streaming platform. It's one of my preferred software suites available today, as it's quite snappy to navigate and its library of downloadable apps is massive.

The QM8L and QM9K both come with a similar set of out-of-the-box gaming features, too. Their toolkits include Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro (for smooth, artifact-free gaming), as well as TCL's Game Bar, a quick-access menu that lets users access the most relevant gaming features with the press of a button.

Each set supports 4K gaming at 120Hz, the highest 4K spec among current-generation consoles. If you're inclined to link up a gaming PC to your next TV, both the QM8L and QM9K are capable of showcasing 4K games at 144Hz with VRR.

It's important to remember, though, that the QM9K is rolling with just two HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs. In order to access the features outlined above, you've got to plug your devices into one of those ports. The QM8L, on the other hand, is outfitted with four high-bandwidth, HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs, so it's far more flexible.

However, we've already come to terms with this limitation when comparing these TVs' respective specs. In almost every other way that matters, they offer a nearly identical set of features.

Winner: Draw

TCL QM8L vs QM9K: outlook

If you're shopping for a new TV and you've got your eyes on a TCL-branded model, the QM8L and the QM9K are among the best you can buy right now. Regardless of whichever you choose, you're going to walk away with a bright, color picture and a heaping helping of added features.

The QM8L's SQD-powered picture is more colorful than the standard quantum-dot presentation you'll get with the QM9K. However, when it comes to overall brightness, both sets are working with a similar amount of nits. This means they're both totally fine for bright-room viewing.

Gamers ought to take a closer look at the QM8L on account of its full slate of HDMI 2.1 inputs. Depending on how many devices you own, this detail could be worth the extra cost.

Let's talk about price. The QM8L just launched at $2,499 for a 65-inch version, but it didn't take long to go on sale. Right now, you can get the 65-inch TCL QM8L for $1,799 at Best Buy. The 75-inch QM8L is just $1,999 at Best Buy at the time of publishing.

Having been on the shelves since last year, the QM9K is significantly cheaper. Right now, the 65-inch QM9K is just $1,299 at Best Buy, which is a full $500 less than the QM8L.

If you're not concerned about its limited HDMI 2.1 flexibility and its slightly less-voluminous color, the TCL QM9K could very well be the better pick for you and your budget.

More from Tom's Guide

• TCL QM8L review
• TCL QM9K review
• The RAM crisis came for computers first and now it's coming for TVs — here's why I recommend upgrading while you still can

The newest and best TVs of 2026 are coming in hot. And, while plenty of ink has been spilled about RGB LED TVs and the latest OLEDs, there’s one type of TV technology that hasn’t received as much attention: Super Quantum Dot.

Abbreviated ‘SQD,’ this enhanced version of a traditional quantum-dot display is quietly making a serious impression on my TV-testing colleagues and me. SQD TVs are similar to regular QLED TVs, but they're engineered to do take quantum dots to the next level.

If you’re in the market for a new TV this year — especially if you have an eye for picture quality — you ought to familiarize yourself with Super Quantum Dot technology.

What are Super Quantum Dot (SQD) TVs?

Making their global debut in 2026, SQD TVs are a new spin on the tried and true combination of Mini-LED backlighting and quantum dot color. Despite many similarities between QLEDs and SQD TVs, the latter promises — and, according to our test results, delivers — brighter, purer color than what you'll commonly get on a regular, quantum dot-enhanced LED TV.

Without going too far into the weeds, the Super Quantum Dot recipe is made up of a several ingredients: reformulated quantum dots, a new, advanced color filter to go along with said quantum dots and some algorithmic functions designed to keep the display's colors consistent.

TCL, the brand behind SQD technology, refers to that last bit as its Advanced Color Purity Algorithm. When taken as a whole, all of these elements form TCL's proprietary Deep Color System, engineered for eye-popping color.

But the real question is whether or not this technology works. We've had the luxury of getting up close and personal with two SQD TVs so far in 2026 —the TCL X11L and the TCL QM8L — and so far, the test results speak for themselves.

On the chart below you'll find both SQD TVs we've tested alongside a quantum dot-enhanced OLED TV (the Samsung S95F) that offered up some of the best color results we measured last year. For added context, I've included TCL's best-performing quantum-dot TV from 2025, the QM9K.

When it comes to color, not only do the pair of TCL SQD TVs outpace Samsung's QD-OLED by a hair, they blow right past TCL's best-performing Mini-LED TV from last year, the QM9K. All of the TCL TVs in the chart above make use of Mini-LED backlighting, but only the SQD TVs' enhanced hardware allows for QD-OLED-levels of color.

These SQD TVs lag behind the few RGB LED TVs we've tested ever so slightly (the Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV covers about 93% of the BT.2020 color space), but TCL's figures are nothing to scoff at.

In other words, if you're looking for the brightest, purest color money can buy in 2026, there are three types of TV that ought to be on your radar: quantum dot-enhanced OLED (QD-OLED), RGB LED, and now, SQD Mini-LED.

Should you buy an SQD TV?

If you're looking for a visually stunning TV for less than the price of what you'd end up paying for most QD-OLEDs or RGB LED TVs, Super Quantum Dot might be the way to go.

Currently, the only TV-maker selling SQD TVs is TCL. But the good news is that the brand is offering several different avenues for folks looking to get in on these souped-up QLEDs.

As mentioned, we tested TCL's top-tier SQD TV (the X11L) and walked away impressed. However, as TCL's best TV for 2026, the X11L doesn't quite have mass appeal. It's only available in 75-, 85- and 98-inch sizes, and the 75-inch TCL X11L is $3,923 at Best Buy at the time of publishing.

This is why I recommend taking a look at the TCL QM8L. This set is available in the ever-popular 65-inch screen size, and it starts at $1,799.

And, while we're still in the process of evaluating it, TCL is also rolling out an entry-level SQD TV: the TCL QM7L. This set is available at an even smaller size of 55 inches, and right now, the 55-inch TCL QM7L is just $999 at Best Buy.

Having not seen the QM7L in person yet, I still recommend the QM8L above it. That said, its wider range of sizes and friendlier price tag ought to suit budget-conscious shoppers who nonetheless wish to experience some cutting-edge TV tech.

More from Tom's Guide

• OLED is safe: I tested the Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV, and it's very good but falls short
• I tested TCL’s $8,000 SQD Mini-LED TV — here's my verdict
• TCL and Sony are joining forces to sell more TVs — but is that bad news for shoppers?

I love cheap TVs. No, really — I do.

As fun as it is to bask in the glory of a detail-rich, OLED-driven picture, or to park myself in front of the bright, borderline-psychedelic colors blasting out of an RGB LED TV, the best budget TVs offer tremendous performance. Regardless of whether you’re a sports fan, binge-watcher or competitive gamer, upgrading your leisure time without breaking the bank can be a massive win.

Unfortunately, at any given time, there are only a handful of models under the $500 mark that I feel super confident in recommending. The good news, though, is that cheap TVs have arguably never been better than they are right now. You just need to know how to shop for one.

1. Hisense U65QF

Recently, a pub-owner and dear friend of mine asked me for help buying a TV ahead of the 2026 World Cup. They didn’t want to spend too much, but they needed a bright-enough screen for the set to sit outside (weather permitting). The Hisense U65QF was my first pick.

Now, my bar-owning friend was in the market for something big — like 75 or 85 inches. It’ll come as no surprise that these sizes are above $500. But the 55-inch version clocks in at a cool $399, and it’s well worth a look.

You can get the full picture on this TV by checking out our Hisense U65QF review, but here's the most important bit to know: The U65QF offers better brightness than just almost everything in this price bracket.

This is in large part because the U65QF features Mini-LED backlighting. These super-small LEDs typically allow for better overall contrast than what you'll see on garden-variety, edge-lit LED TVs (which are quite prevalent at the sub-$500 price point).

Being the brightest TV in its class means that the U65QF is a great choice for people who watch a ton of TV during the day as well as folks with well-lit living spaces. According to our test results, the U65QF is also very accurate right out of the box in Filmmaker mode, which means eagle-eyed viewers don't need to worry about grossly inaccurate color.

Just a heads up: The U65QF comes with Amazon's Fire TV smart platform built right in. It's not my favorite software suite for streaming, but Amazon is rolling out updates for it this year that seek to improve its interface and overall performance. That said, if you're looking for a Google TV-equipped TV, take a look at my next pick.

2. TCL QM5K

The TCL QM5K is a Best Buy-exclusive model, so you won’t find it anywhere else. Like the U65QF, the QM5K is an entry-level Mini-LED TV. Unlike the Hisense's set, however, the QM5K is built around the Google TV smart platform, which is my second-favorite smart TV operating system behind Roku.

If all you’re looking for is an affordable smart TV that doesn’t scrape the bottom of the barrel, the QM5K is a good pick. The 55-inch version is about $50 more than the U65QF at the time of publishing, but you're still landing a Mini-LED TV for under $500.

Seeing as how the QM5K and U65QF are similar sets, I would recommend the TCL for people who want a smart platform with potentially less friction than the Fire TV experience. If brightness matters to you more than this, I recommend the Hisense.

(One more thing: I know it's technically above $500, but the 65-inch version of the TCL QM5K is just $549 at Best Buy if 55 inches isn't quite big enough for you.)

3. Roku Plus Series

The only 65-inch TV on this list isn't as bright as the Hisense U65QF, nor is it equipped with Google TV. That's OK with me, though, because the 65-inch Roku Plus Series is built around my all-time favorite smart platform.

In fact, I use an external Roku device as a daily driver on account of its straightforward interface and robust app support. The Roku Plus Series puts the entire Roku experience into the software of the TV itself — no box or stick required.

The Plus Series won't net you Mini-LED backlighting, but it does feature direct-LED backlighting with local dimming, which is the next-best option below Mini-LEDs. So it's got that goin' for it.

But the real star of the show is its software. I've been knee-deep in TV technology for over a decade, and Roku is my number-one pick for streaming. But I also feel comfortable recommending this TV to folks who typically find themselves annoyed at TVs on account of confusing software. Roku truly has that sort of crossover appeal.

More from Tom's Guide

• These are the 5 most important things to look for in a cheap TV so you don't regret your purchase
• Samsung just made its 2026 Mini-LED TV lineup official, but one popular TV won’t be returning this year
• Should you buy a new 2026 TV or save money on a 2025 model? Here's how to shop for a screen like an expert

On Monday we reported on the recently filed class action lawsuit against TCL and Roku. We’re still trying to get to the bottom of these allegations, but readers were quick to say that they, too, have had issues with their aging TCL Roku TVs.

In a poll conducted by Tom’s Guide that over 4,000 readers responded to, 2,600 users said that they have experienced issues with Roku TCL TV software updates in the past, while 390 readers said that they’ve experienced other issues with TCL TVs that have Roku on them.

It’s not completely one-sided, however. Nearly 1,130 of our readers say that they haven’t had issues with TCL Roku TVs and, admittedly, that’s been my experience with my now three-year-old TCL 5-Series Roku TV.

The article also has 46 comments and counting from Tom's Guide members keen to share their experiences and helpful advice. Here’s what readers are saying.

‘I just tossed a TCL Roku 43" … that just would not come back on after updates’

Before we dive into the comments, let me just say for the record that class action lawsuits are important tools that consumers can use to hold large companies responsible for large-scale wrongdoings.

But keep in mind that, right now, we’re only at the stage where the lawsuit makes allegations that have yet to be deemed true or false.

While the legal court battle still lays ahead (if it isn’t outright dismissed due to lack of evidence), the court of public opinion is in full session in the comments.

One of the most damning comments comes from reader Richard Scarborough who says, “I just tossed a TCL Roku 43" that was just over 3 years old from a guest bedroom that was used maybe a dozen times, that just would not come back on after updates, and I thought it was the TV, ugh.”

Given the age of the TV and infrequency of use, it’s well within the realm of possibility that Richard did really encounter some sort of update that bricked the TV.

Others described similar issues without giving the age of the TV in question, while some just took the opportunity to dogpile the brand with comments like “It's a cheap Chinese TV. Is anyone really surprised?” and “TCL is garbage, always has been.”

Is there any legitimacy to the lawsuit?

As a longtime TV journalist, I’ve seen a number of these lawsuits over the years. Some have real legitimacy, others…well, are just too broad to hold up in court. It’s my opinion that this is more the latter than the former.

What I know for sure at this point is that Roku has released several updates to its smart TV platform in the last few years. It does this for several reasons, but the biggest ones are to add functionality and patch security vulnerabilities.

Is it possible that the size and complexity of these updates overtaxed the processors of older TVs? Yeah, that’s certainly possible. But was this done maliciously in an attempt to ‘brick’ TVs and force users to upgrade to a new model? Almost certainly not.

Before writing this story I reached out to TCL for comment and a spokesperson for the company simply said “TCL doesn’t make comments on impending lawsuits” and that the company has “no comment” about the allegations at this time.

A Roku spokesperson also responded, saying "we believe the claims are meritless."

We'll be following up with users to hear more about their experiences with TCL Roku TVs as well as following up with both companies as the case proceeds.

Let us know in the comments if you have a Roku TV and have experienced issues with your set — be sure to include the model number, as well as the problems you've been having. Or, if you have a Roku set and it's working great, let us know that, too!

More from Tom's Guide

• Your Roku TV is watching you — 3 settings to change right now
• Roku is adding a classic cable TV feature to its free streaming channels
• Don't replace your slow Roku yet — try this 10-second fix first

I’m no stranger to the concept of a good ol’ fashioned street price. In the TV business, new models often launch at a set price only to see some small- to medium-sized discounts shortly thereafter. In many cases, the original MSRP remains on the page, and for folks clicking around on Best Buy, Amazon or a brand’s online store, the red-colored savings indicator can be enticing.

Hisense isn’t a stranger to this, either — I’d wager that the majority of Hisense TV launches I’ve covered over the last decade have dabbled in the art (perhaps science?) of the street price. But I’ve never seen anything like what’s happening with the Hisense UR9, the brand’s highly-touted, first-ever RGB LED TV.

After just a week and a half on shelves with an MSRP of $3,499, the 65-inch Hisense UR9 is already on sale for just $1,999 at Best Buy. The $1,500 discount is bigger than any street price-related reset I’ve ever seen. Here’s what this situation tells us about the state of the RGB LED TV market.

The UR9 faces fierce competition

While keeping in mind that I'm not working off inside information, here's my read on the Hisense UR9's sudden, steep drop in price: No one's going to undercut Hisense.

Since their surge in the North American TV market about a decade ago, Hisense has been a TV brand associated with value. Hisense representatives will be the first to tell you this, too; I've heard them proudly reference their reputation for over-delivering on reported performance specs, very often at lower price points than their competitors.

But with the biggest names in the TV industry launching their own cutting-edge RGB LED TVs in 2026, this narrative was about to shift.

As you can see in the chart below, the 65-inch UR9 was sitting on shelves next to a 65-inch Micro RGB TV from Samsung with a heftier price tag — $300 worth of additional heft, to be precise. As the only two TV-makers currently offering 65-inch RGB LED TVs, Samsung was poised to be the value-conscious pick at this popular size point.

Additionally, at the 75-inch size point, the UR9 was a whole $500 more than the Samsung R95H. That doesn't seem much like the Hisense that I know, the brand that over-delivers at a lower price point than its rivals.

With these new sale prices in effect, the 65-inch UR9 is now $1,200 less than the 65-inch R95H. The 75-inch version is $1,500 to $2,000 less than the 75-inch R95H and the 75-inch LG MRGB95. Perfectly balanced, as all things should be? If you're Hisense, maybe.

Bear in mind that we're almost sure to see some sale pricing for LG and Samsung Micro RGB TVs in the coming months. TCL — whose sole RGB Mini-LED TV is only confirmed to exist in three sizes at 85 inches and above — will likely drop in price throughout the year, too.

And then there are the step-down RGB LED-based models from Hisense and Samsung: the UR8 and R85H. We've yet to test these sets, but I'm interested to see how they stack up against their flagship-level counterparts. It seems logical that the steep sale pricing on the UR9 could potentially have ripple effects on the UR8, too.

Should you buy the Hisense UR9?

If you're looking for bright, sizzling performance, a ton of features and the satisfaction that comes with getting in on the ground floor of a brand-new display technology, the Hisense UR9 is officially the most affordable way to do so. If you were on the fence about splashing out on this TV a week ago, this newly minted street price is bound to be tantalizing.

However, if you need some excuse — anything at all — to persuade you away from buying a flashy new TV right now, I can certainly help with that.

Are RGB LED TVs worth it? Well, having spent some time with a few of them, I can say that their performance ranges from "pretty good (if not a little disappointing)" to "excellent." And, for what it's worth, that level of "excellent" is closer to being on par with some of the best quantum dot-equipped Mini-LED TVs I've ever seen, so your mileage may vary on whether you think that justifies these prices.

In our full Hisense UR9 review, my colleague Dylan Haas remarked that, while the UR9 fared well in our tests, its color performance during real-world use didn't seem to meet the impressive nature of the numbers. In other words, a classic case of looks good on paper.

Its 3.5-star review isn't indicative of a bad TV, though, and the UR9's bright performance sounds best suited for bright-room viewing. Maybe, with its new sale price attached, the UR9 can find a groove as the most-affordable flagship RGB LED TV rather than a potentially tough sell.

More from Tom's Guide

• OLED is safe: I tested the Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV, and it's very good but falls short
• Samsung just made its 2026 Mini-LED TV lineup official, but one popular TV won’t be returning this year
• Samsung's new Micro RGB TV is finally here — but I'd rather buy this OLED instead

Roku and TCL are being sued in a class action lawsuit that claims software updates released by the companies have been "repetitively defective," making TVs unusable.

Update: We reached out to Roku and a spokesperson said, "We believe the claims are meritless." We've also reached out to TCL and the company declined to comment.

Roku is most known for making some of the best streaming stick devices and its platform has been featured on some of the best TVs we've tested, while TCL makes a variety of televisions. The two companies have a partnership where Roku's OS powers the smart capabilities of many affordable TVs. TCL is one of Roku's biggest clients.

The complaint was filed in a federal court based out of southern California, where the companies were accused of releasing software updates that cause the smart TVs to freeze, restart over and over, not turn on at all or degrade the experience.

As seen by Top Class Actions, the plaintiff, Terri Elise, accuses the companies of knowingly releasing poor updates.

“Despite consumers’ persistent complaints of repeated system failures, often leaving their TVs completely inoperable, defendants offer no recourse,” the Roku class action lawsuit reads. “This is inconsistent with representations made in express warranties, which promise to repair, correct or otherwise remediate the software defect.”

The suit lists the Roku Select Series, Roku Plus Series, and the TCL 3, 4, 5, and 6-series models that run RokuOS.

The complaint demands a jury trial and requests declaratory and injunctive relief plus an award of actual and statutory damages and restitution for members of class action. The initial filing does not have a specific number, but that will come about as the case either settles or goes to trial.

What TCL owners are saying

There are several comments under the Top Class Actions post with people noting that they've experienced issues with Roku TCL sets.

"I was watching my TV and it just stopped showing pictures," one owner claimed. Another said they have the TCL QM8 which would get blacked out screens or just shut off after software issues.

On the Roku and TCL subreddits we were able to find multiple posts about software updates breaking TVs going back at least two years, which matches with the timeline presented in the lawsuit.

For example, this post from four months ago decries a forced firmware update that disabled connectivity features. Or this one from the Roku subreddit where the poster claimed their TCL TV refused to update its operating system.

This lawsuit is in its initial stages so it may be some months before a resolution or settlement is reached. We have reached out to TCL and Roku for comment and will update this article should we hear back.

More from Tom's Guide

• Your Roku TV is watching you — 3 settings to change right now
• Roku is adding a classic cable TV feature to its free streaming channels
• Don't replace your slow Roku yet — try this 10-second fix first

From the Nexus 7 to the iPad mini, I’ve always preferred smaller tablets you can hold in one hand and easily slip into a bag, which is why I was so surprised when I found myself reaching for an absolutely massive 14.3-inch slate instead.

Unlike other tablets where specs and sheer power are the main draw, the screen itself is why you’d choose a device like the TCL NXTPAPER 14 over something more conventional. Its specs are nothing to scoff at either though, with 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage and a whopping 10,000 mAh battery under the hood. However, the paper-like feel of its matte display and how you can go from a dedicated black and white ink mode to color paper mode with the push of a button is the kind of thing you truly have to see for yourself.

Although I tested out its smaller, more powerful sibling the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus, it was the NXTPAPER 14 that first caught my eye. Even under harsh direct lighting, its larger screen remained completely glare and reflection-free. Now, I finally had a chance to use it in the real world and not just at a mall in Taiwan.

I’ve been using the NXTPAPER 14 for the past few months and while it may not end up being my daily driver, there’s certainly a place for larger tablets like this one — especially if you’d rather carry something more substantial under your arm.

From tablet to portfolio

One thing I immediately appreciated about the NXTPAPER 14 is how TCL provides you with everything you need right in the box. You get a folio-style case with a magnetic cover, a lengthy charging cable and more surprisingly, a pressure-sensitive, active stylus with a USB-C port on the side for charging.

Even with many of the best tablets, you often find yourself hunting for accessories like a case or screen protector after the fact. TCL takes the guesswork out of protecting and making full use of its NXTPAPER tablets, so you can instantly go from unboxing to enjoying them. And while there isn’t a screen protector in the box, I wouldn’t recommend using one since that would mean missing out on the paper-like feel of the NXTPAPER 14’s matte display.

I’m no digital artist but I like having a stylus on hand for scrolling and signing the occasional document. TCL’s T-Pen is quite capable too with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and around 100 hours of battery life on a single charge. What I like most about using it though is how the combination of its active tip and the matte texture of the NXTPAPER 14’s display feels. You don’t get that same drag when using a stylus like the Apple Pencil or the Surface Pen on a glass tablet.

Another thing I really enjoy about the NXTPAPER 14 is how it feels under my arm when carrying it from room to room around my house. With a screen slightly larger than your standard sheet of printer paper and an aluminum back, it really feels like I’m holding a clipboard folio that’s ready for any task.

Made to scroll

As someone who’s constantly checking the news, it almost feels like I scroll for a living when I’m not hammering away on my keyboard. With 7.9 inches from top to bottom horizontally or an even larger 11.9 inches vertically, the NXTPAPER 14 just feels great for scrolling. It’s almost like going from a budget laptop to one of the best laptops with a much larger trackpad.

TCL doesn’t let the NXTPAPER 14’s extra screen real estate go to waste either. Not only can you have two apps running side by side, but you can also have one app in floating window mode while another runs full-size behind it—great for having a calculator or a quick chat window just a tap away.

Going all the way back to your app drawer can be a hassle on a massive tablet like this one, which is why TCL added its Edge Bar feature. By swiping in from the edge and briefly holding, you bring up a customizable mini dock with useful shortcuts and tools, but you can also add your own apps to the mix.

As an avid reader, using the NXTPAPER 14 in portrait mode feels even better, at least for me. Whether I’m scrolling through a Google Doc or even the recently redesigned Tom’s Guide home page, I still can’t get over how much I can see at a time on this tablet’s larger display.

Though I covered this in more depth with the NXTPAPER 11 Plus, don’t forget that you aren’t limited to your standard reading modes here either. With a push of its namesake NXTPAPER Key, you can switch from the default Regular Mode to either Color Paper Mode or Ink Paper Mode. Both have their upsides, but I particularly like how using Ink Paper Mode on the NXTPAPER 14 extends its battery life significantly. There’s just something about seeing your remaining battery estimate jump from double to triple-digit hours with the push of a button.

If reading isn’t your thing, you’re still in luck because at 14.3 inches, the NXTPAPER 14 is around the same size as a portable monitor.

A smarter portable monitor

You won’t have any trouble running the respective apps for any of the best streaming services on the NXTPAPER 14. However, when I first used it to stream video content, I did so a bit differently. I was wrapping Christmas presents in the sitting room where we don’t have a TV and wanted to put on something in the background. Instead of Netflix, I opened the app for the Ugreen NAS I recently added to my home network and watched one of my favorite holiday movies to help deal with the fact that I’m terrible at wrapping presents.

As I recently had a chance to test out Genki’s new Covert Dock 3 with my Switch 2, I wanted to see if I could get some more demanding games running on the NXTPAPER 14. With its octa-core MediaTek MT8781 processor, you can play some simple games, but you won’t be playing the mobile version of Red Dead Redemption anytime soon. That’s where Genki’s ShadowCast 3 Pro comes in.

I hooked up the Covert Dock 3 under my desk, but instead of plugging in an HDMI cable to go out to my TV, I used the ShadowCast 3 Pro to get the video feed from my Switch 2 on the NXTPAPER 14. I did have to buy and download the Noir Pro: USB Camera app for $9, but that’s a small price to pay to play my Switch 2 on a tablet.

As I recently had a chance to test out Genki’s new Covert Dock 3 with my Switch 2, I wanted to see if I could get some more demanding games running on the NXTPAPER 14. With its octa-core MediaTek MT8781 processor, you can play some simple games, but you won’t be playing the mobile version of Red Dead Redemption anytime soon. That’s where Genki’s ShadowCast 3 Pro comes in.

I hooked up the Covert Dock 3 under my desk, but instead of plugging in an HDMI cable to go out to my TV, I used the ShadowCast 3 Pro to get the video feed from my Switch 2 on the NXTPAPER 14. I did have to buy and download the Noir Pro: USB Camera app for $9, but that’s a small price to pay to play my Switch 2 on a tablet.

Not quite prime real estate

The NXTPAPER 14 remains just as impressive after using it for several months now as it did when it literally stopped me in my tracks while walking through that mall in Taiwan. I always thought smaller was best when it comes to tablets, but after spending some quality time with its massive display, I now appreciate all that extra screen real estate.

Compared to more premium tablets like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra or the iPad Pro, the NXTPAPER 14 does struggle at times with more demanding tasks. However, not only are you paying half or even a third less than those flagship prices, but you also don’t have to budget for the extra cost of accessories like a case or a stylus — TCL gives you the whole "clipboard folio" kit right in the box.

Given that TCL was kind enough to send over both the NXTPAPER 14 and the 11 Plus, I’m going to use the latter when I need portable power and the former when sheer screen size is most important. Still, you can’t go wrong with either of these more affordable tablets, especially as they pack in plenty of unique features you just won’t find anywhere else.

Who knows? Maybe TCL will go even larger with its next NXTPAPER tablet. Even if it doesn’t, though, I’d love to see a second-generation NXTPAPER 14 with just a bit more power under the hood to match its massive potential.

More from Tom's Guide

• I use these 3 tricks with all my tablets so they don’t just feel like a bigger phone
• These are the best budget tablets under $500
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra vs. iPad Pro M5 — which tablet should you buy?

In 2025, the TCL QM8K was one of the best TVs of the year. Its bright, quantum dot-bolstered picture and frequent discounts made it an attractive option for those looking for a bargain on a high-performing TV.

The TCL QM8L is a brand-new TV for 2026. Unlike its predecessor, the QM8L leverages a new type of Mini-LED display that TCL is calling Super Quantum Dot (SQD). It recently launched for a relatively high price tag, but just like the QM8K, it's on sale now.

If you're looking to upgrade your TV this year and you've got an eye for premium performance, there's a good chance you'll be choosing between these two sets. Here's how the QM8L and last-year's QM8K compare — from performance to features and price.

TCL QM8L vs QM8K: specs compared

Both sets come in screen sizes between 65 and 98 inches. Folks in the market for something smaller (like the ever-popular 55-inch screen size) will have to shop around. More similarities: Both TVs support Dolby Vision as well as the royalty-free version of Dolby Vision, HDR10+.

In addition, both of these TCL TVs conveniently come with ATSC 3.0 support. This feature allows over-the-air broadcasts to be piped-in at native 4K resolution via antenna. 4K over-the-air broadcasts are still few and far between, but for folks who watch TV via antenna, ATSC 3.0 is a very nice feature to have.

Both sets serve up HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs and support 4K gaming at 120Hz. This spec can be pushed to 4K/144Hz when a gaming PC is in play.

Crucially, though, only the QM8L offers a full suite of four HDMI 2.1 inputs. On the QM8K, you're only getting two high-bandwidth ports. For this reason, the QM8L is better suited for people with multiple gaming devices, as they won't have to worry about a console being plugged into a less-capable port.

Winner: TCL QM8L

TCL QM8L vs QM8K: design

The QM8L (seen above) is a thicker, heavier TV than many LED-based sets. Thankfully, the look doesn't cross over into something industrial.

From a profile view, the QM8L's panel-and-chassis combo is mostly uniform, which goes a long way towards preserving its non-industrial vibe. The whole package sits atop a heavy, pedestal-style stand positioned below the center of the screen.

The stand design is helpful if you intend to place the QM8L on a narrow credenza or media console. Were there wide-set feet straddling the corners of the screen instead, folks who opt for a larger-sized QM8L would need a wide-enough surface to accommodate the setup.

The QM8K (seen above) is nearly identical in its design approach. It, too, comes with a pedestal-style stand. Like its successor, the QM8K's thicker-than-average, Mini-LED display is also mostly uniform when viewed from the side.

Both TVs arrive with a similarly designed remote control, as well. I appreciate this quite a bit, as I find TCL's latest remote design to be both useful in its button layout and comfortable to hold. Best of all? These clickers are backlit, a feature whose convenience can't be understated whenever the lights are off.

Given their near-identical designs, this category is a draw. Both of these TCL TVs are among the best-designed sets in the brand's catalogue.

Winner: Draw

TCL QM8L vs QM8K: performance

Before we dive into which of these TVs is the better performer, let's compare their test results. (Both TVs were in their respective Filmmaker picture modes when these tests were taken.)

It's important to acknowledge just how similarly these TVs perform across all content — not just 4K, HDR-mastered movies and shows.

While the QM8L is undoubtedly the brighter of the two sets, most people would be hard-pressed to clock a difference in brightness during a side-by-side comparison. More importantly, both of these Mini-LED TVs do a fine job of minimizing light bloom whenever bright picture elements clash with dark backgrounds (though the QM8L is a bit better with its backlight control).

According to our test results, the year-old QM8K does a slightly better job dialing-in its color points in TCL's Filmmaker mode. However, the difference between a Delta-E of 2.7 and 3.7 isn't dramatic, so you can expect a comparable out-of-the-box experience on the newer QM8L.

Performance begins to diverge when we compare color volume. Thanks to TCL's SQD technology (a new spin on quantum-dot color), the QM8L covers a whopping 90% of the BT.2020 color space. The QM8K is no slouch, but its 80% figure is closer to what we measure on standard, non-SQD Mini-LED TVs.

Yes, both TVs are bright and colorful-enough to deliver a punchy, room-filling experience during HDR-mastered content. If you were to look at them side by side, however, there's a good chance you'd clock redder reds and brighter highlights on the QM8L.

It's tempting to dock the QM8L for its relatively high color error score in Filmmaker mode, but I must stress that these TVs are close enough in performance while set to their most-accurate picture modes that the average person won't need to worry about this.

When you take it all together, the QM8L's slightly higher brightness, added color and lower input latency make for superior performance — if only by a little.

Winner: TCL QM8L

TCL QM8L vs QM8K: smart platform and features

As is the case with picture quality, both of these TVs are quite similar when it comes to their streaming- and gaming-related features.

Both the TCL QM8L and the QM8K are built around the Google TV smart platform. Pound for pound, I prefer Google TV over every smart platform not named "Roku," as its interface is easier to navigate than LG's webOS and Samsung's Smart Hub.

Yes, there are ads all over Google TV. But I don't often find that the ads are getting in the way of my navigation, which happens often when I'm using rival software suites. Google TV is also connected to a vast library of downloadable apps, so it's more than capable of being a daily driver.

The QM8L and QM8K both come with a similar set of gaming features. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, which ensure artifact-free performance when games get fast paced. TCL's Game Bar — a quick-access menu that puts gaming-related settings on your screen immediately — is represented on both models, too.

As mentioned, in order to access the QM8K's full set of features, a device must be plugged into one of its two only HDMI 2.1 inputs. The QM8L, on the other hand, is outfitted with four high-bandwidth inputs.

We've already come to terms with this difference in HDMI hardware when comparing these TVs' specs. As far as features go, they're almost the same TV.

Winner: Draw

TCL QM8L vs QM8K: outlook

The QM8L and QM8K are nearly carbon copies. The QM8L delivers better performance (thanks to slightly higher brightness, better color volume and lower input latency), but it's up to you to determine if those marginal benefits are worth the added price.

The QM8L just launched at $2,499 for a 65-inch version, but it didn't take long to go on sale. Right now, you can get the 65-inch TCL QM8L for $1,799 at Best Buy. The 75-inch QM8L is just $1,999 at Best Buy at the time of publishing.

The QM8K, on the other hand, is much more affordable. You can nab the 65-inch QM8K at Amazon for just $997. The 75-inch QM8K is $1,447 at Best Buy.

If I happened to be choosing between these two TVs, I'd likely spring for the newer QM8L — but not because of its slightly superior picture. The inclusion of two extra HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs is hugely helpful, as someone who does a fair amount of gaming across multiple devices.

If this sounds like you, the QM8L's added cost might be justified. You'll also be getting a more-colorful presentation.

For everyone else, I recommend saving as much money as possible by opting for the QM8K. The QM8L's price will likely continue to fall throughout the year, but as a 2025 release, the QM8K's stock won't last much longer.

More from Tom's Guide

• TCL QM8L review
• TCL QM8K review
• The RAM crisis came for computers first and now it's coming for TVs — here's why I recommend upgrading while you still can

The C6 OLED is LG's newest, mid-range OLED for 2026. It's the latest in a long line of massively popular, award-winning OLEDs that sit in the sweet spot between value-forward pricing and incredible performance.

The TCL QM8L is also a brand-new TV, but it leverages a new type of Mini-LED display that TCL is calling Super Quantum Dot (SQD). It recently launched for a relatively high price tag, but you can already find it on sale for a lower price than the LG C6.

If you're looking to upgrade your TV this year and you've got an eye for premium performance, there's a good chance you'll be choosing between these two sets. Here's how the C6 and QM8L compare — from performance to features and price.

LG C6 vs TCL QM8L: specs compared

Let's start with size availability between the C6 and QM8L. The QM8L is available in all of the most-popular sizes for an LED TV except 55 inches. We've tested the 75-inch version of the QM8L, and the smallest size in the series is 65 inches.

The C6 is also available in 77- and 83-inch versions, but these sizes are classified as an altogether different model: the LG C6H. If you want a 77- or 83-inch C6, you're technically buying the C6H OLED.

We should point out here that, while haven't tested the C6H in our labs yet, LG promises better performance on these sets as they're equipped with LG Display's newest RGB Tandem OLED. The 42- to 65-inch versions of the C6, on the other hand, leverage a standard WOLED display. That's not such a bad thing, as the numbers below will prove to you, but it's worth knowing what you're paying for.

Both TVs support Dolby Vision, but the QM8L also supports the royalty-free version of Dolby Vision, HDR10+. Of the two, Dolby Vision remains the most popular among streaming platforms and physical media.

Like all LG OLEDs, the C6 does not support ATSC 3.0 support. The QM8L does. This feature allows over-the-air broadcasts to be piped-in at native 4K resolution via antenna. 4K, over-the-air broadcasts are still few and far between, but for folks who watch TV via antenna, ATSC 3.0 is a very nice feature to have.

Both sets serve up four HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs and support 4K gaming at 120Hz. With a gaming PC linked up, 4K games can be pushed up to 165Hz on the C6 and 144Hz on the QM8L.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs TCL QM8L: design

The C6 (seen above) follows the design approach of its predecessor, the LG C5. Its wedge-shaped stand attaches itself to the TV's chassis, and the stand's shape keeps the C6's screen relatively close to its surface. It's an elegant look, but you folks with tall soundbars should make sure that there's enough clearance. (I also appreciate the marble-like finish on the back of the panel even though it's less likely to be seen.)

Thanks to the nifty, narrow nature of OLED displays, the C6's panel is super-thin across most of its form. Its chassis bulges out around the panel's midsection, but even with this compartment, the C6 is a slim customer.

The C6 arrives with the newest version of LG's Magic Remote, which can be used to point and click at the screen. The remote also comes with a directional pad and scrolling wheel if you decide to forgo its Wiimote-like functionality.

While the C6 is a wafer-thin screen with a modest chassis attached to it, the QM8L (seen above) is more along the lines of a heavy, thick slab. TCL's latest take on a Mini-LED display leads to a beefier panel than what we typically see on QLED TVs.

I wouldn't call the QM8L's look distracting, but for folks after a TV that quietly blends in with its surroundings will almost certainly appreciate the look and feel of the C6 more. Though, for what it's worth, I find the crosshatched etching on the back of the QM8L to be a nice touch.

Unlike the C6's motion-activated remote, the QM8L arrives with a slim, standard remote with a sensible selection of buttons on its face. I prefer the QM8L's backlit buttons over the C6's motion controls, but your mileage may vary.

Both sets feature thoughtful designs. But as much as I appreciate a backlit remote control, the LG C6 strikes a better pose.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs TCL QM8L: performance

Before we dive into which of these TVs is the better performer, let's compare their test results. (Both TVs were in their respective Filmmaker picture modes when these tests were taken.)

There's a lot to unpack here. The first thing that ought to jump out at you is brightness. Despite offering slightly brighter highlights during SDR content, the C6 is nowhere near as bright as the QM8L. In fact, during regular, everyday content, the QM8L's average picture brightness (that is, the luminance of the entire picture) is much higher than that of the C6.

During HDR content, the QM8L delivers intense, room-filling brightness, too. Specular highlights (like a glint of sunlight reflecting off a sword) are nearly three times brighter on the QM8L than the C6.

The advantages associated with added brightness carry over into the QM8L's color performance. Thanks to TCL's SQD technology (a new spin on quantum-dot color), the QM8L covers a whopping 90% of the BT.2020 color space. Were you to view the C6 and the QM8L side by side, there's a good chance you'd notice the latter's punchier color first.

This all points in one direction: From a purely performance-related standpoint, the QM8L is an all-around better choice for people with sun-soaked living spaces, or for folks who just want their next TV to provide a bright and bold cinematic picture.

But there's a very good argument to be made that the C6 is the better-performing TV. Its OLED-driven picture results in perfect black levels and pixel-level dimming. Despite its lower brightness ceiling and relatively limited color palette compared to the QM8L, the advantages of OLED display technology are massive.

Since specular highlights can be controlled with razor-like precision, HDR highlights on the C6 tend to stand out more. This allows for a deeper, detail-rich picture — a presentation that, at times, looks more realistic.

In addition, in its most-accurate picture mode, the C6 is much more dialed-in in its out-of-the-box state. You can see this in our test results, as the C6's Delta-E (a figure that describes color error) is lower than the QM8L's.

The ever-important performance category is a draw. The QM8L is a brighter, more-colorful TV that will stand up better during daytime viewing, but the C6 is a much better option for A/V enthusiasts who value reference accuracy.

Winner: Draw

LG C6 vs TCL QM8L: smart platform and features

The C6 arrives with the newest version of LG's webOS right out of the box. It's a similar experience to last year's version of webOS, but LG has also added some new, AI-based features this year. Unfortunately, my colleague Dylan Haas referred to them as "meaningless" if you don't already incorporate AI into your daily life (and I'm inclined to agree).

As far as smart platform software goes, LG's webOS isn't my first choice. I find its interface to be cluttered and navigation to slow down occasionally. That said, most users will see no problem using it as their daily driver, should they decide to forgo a dedicated streaming device.

You're getting a full spread of HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs on both TVs, which is good news for dedicated gamers. On LG's side, the C6 arrives with almost every gaming-related feature under the sun, including support for 4K gaming at 120Hz (and up to 165Hz), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium.

One of its best gaming-related features is the inclusion of LG's Game Optimizer mode. This dedicated gaming menu puts all of your most-important settings all in one place, and it automatically appears when accessing the primary settings menu during gameplay.

The TCL QM8L is built around the Google TV smart platform. Pound for pound, I prefer Google TV over LG's webOS software suite, as its interface is easier to navigate. Along with Roku, Google TV is one of my top picks for built-in streaming.

For gaming, the QM8L is loaded with upside, though it's not quite as complete an experience as the C6. It, too, arrives with VRR, FreeSync Premium Pro and support for 4K gaming at 120Hz, but while the C6 stretches all the way up to 165Hz during PC gaming, the QM8L tops out at 144Hz. Fortunately, this will only be relevant for a small slice of shoppers.

Having used it for a while, I can say that LG's Game Optimizer mode is quite nice to have in one's back pocket. The C6 has the edge here, but if you're not a gamer, there's a higher likelihood that the QM8L's inclusion of Google TV will be better for you in the long run than the C6's reliance on webOS.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs TCL QM8L: outlook

Setting aside price, the C6 is an all-around better choice for home theater enthusiasts, picture purists and gamers. It's not as bright as the QM8L (nor as colorful), but if your goal is to splash out on an impressive, accurate picture, the C6 is the superior pick. (And, while we've yet to test this, I suspect that the above is especially true for the 77- and 83-inch versions of the C6H, which purportedly offers better brightness and color.)

The QM8L is a safer pick for people who watch a ton of TV during the day, or for folks who just want a bright, visually arresting picture when the lights are off. As a Mini-LED TV, its ability to control contrast isn't nearly as impressive as the C6, though it is packed with nearly the same set of gaming features.

If you still can't choose between the two, perhaps you'll be swayed by their respective price tags. Today, you can spring for a 65-inch C6 for $2,699 on Amazon. The 55-inch LG C6 can be had for $1,999.

The QM8L just launched at $2,499 for a 65-inch version, but it didn't take long to go on sale. Right now, you can get the 65-inch TCL QM8L for $1,799 at Best Buy. The 75-inch QM8L is just $1,999 at Best Buy at the time of publishing — the same price as the 55-inch C6.

In the coming months, both TVs will likely drop in price. For a brighter, more-affordable experience, the QM8L will remain the better option. For a more precise picture with better gaming features, the C6 will continue to be the way to go.

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Everyone wants to save money, but nobody wants to buy something that ends up being too cheap. This is especially true when it comes to TVs, as ultra-affordable sets often come with such poor performance that they don't even seem worth the sale price.

This is why I recommend shopping strategically — especially when shopping for a big screen. Need an example? The 75-inch TCL QM5K is just $549 at Best Buy right now. This TV already represented one of the most affordable ways to lock down Mini-LED backlighting in an extra-large size point, but this deal catapults it near the top of my list of best TV deals of the year.

What sets the QM5K apart from other affordable options? Its nifty display hardware. Take it from someone who's been testing and reviewing TVs for over a decade: If you're planning on putting a 75-inch screen in your home, you absolutely want Mini-LED backlighting instead of direct- or edge-lit LEDs.

Although the QM5K's array of Mini-LEDs isn't as advanced as what you'll find on higher-end Mini-LED TVs, it still makes a noticeable difference. Compared to garden-variety LEDs, Mini-LEDs typically result in better contrast and higher overall brightness.

75-inch TVs don't go on sale for $549 very often, and 75-inch Mini-LED TVs very rarely get this cheap. This is one of the reasons why I've been recommending this TV to people who want to save money, but who also want to avoid buying a so-so model.

The QM5K is also ready to take on your daily streaming duties, since it comes with the Google TV software suite built right in. Along with Roku, Google TV is one of my preferred smart platforms right now. It offers a relatively easy experience (thanks to a straightforward interface) as well as a ton of downloadable apps.

Having a reliable, built-in smart platform is especially important for the QM5K, too, because it's only equipped with three HDMI ports. With a reliable platform in tow, you won't have to burn one of these ports on a dedicated streaming device.

If you're trying to save money on a new, big-screen TV but don't want to get stuck with a lousy set, I recommend that you avoid scraping the bottom of the barrel for one that doesn't offer Mini-LED backlighting. The QM5K won't blow you away, but it's better than most of the alternatives under $600.

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TCL, makers of a wide range of QLEDs and Mini-LED TVs, is offering an impressive slate of top-shelf options in 2026. As is the case with every major TV brand, the best TCL TVs you can buy right now are a blend of last-year's top TVs and the newest high-end models.

The TCL X11L is the brand's most-premium offering in 2026; the TCL QM9K, on the other hand, is the top-performing TCL TV from 2025. Right now, they occupy the same shelf space.

Both sets leverage Mini-LED backlighting for a bright, punchy picture. But these two TCL TVs diverge when it comes to performance, features and price. Here's what you need to know before shopping.

TCL X11L vs TCL QM9K: specs compared

These are similarly spec'd TVs, but there a few noteworthy differences to highlight here. For one thing, the QM9K is the only one to come in a 65-inch variant. The X11L starts at 75 inches. If you want a screen below the 75-inch size point, the QM9K is the set that'll get you there.

Secondly, the QM9K only offers a pair of HDMI 2.1-compatible ports — the remaining pair is limited to HDMI 2.0. The X11L, meanwhile, features HDMI 2.1 compatibility across all four of its inputs.

This distinction is especially relevant for gamers. While both sets support 4K gaming at 120Hz (and up to 144Hz with a gaming PC linked up), only the X11L supports this functionality across every single HDMI input. With the QM9K, you're limited to just two of these high-bandwidth inputs. The lesser, HDMI 2.0-based inputs are limited to 4K content at up to 60Hz.

Everything else comes out in a wash. Dolby Vision support is in represented on both of these TVs, as well as HDR10+. Additionally, both the X11L and the QM9K come with ATSC 3.0 support. This allows over-the-air broadcasts to be piped-in at native 4K resolution when available. 4K broadcasts aren't very common, but this feature is nevertheless nice to have.

That said, the addition of two extra HDMI 2.1 inputs fills out the X11L's spec sheet. It's the full package.

Winner: TCL X11L

TCL X11L vs TCL QM9K: design

The TCL X11L (seen above) is packing some heavy-duty technology (which I'll get into shortly). It's also only available in 75-, 85- and 98-inch sizes. This combination means that its overall design needs to accommodate heavy hardware across big screens.

As a result, the X11L is a bit of a chonkster. While its panel isn't exactly thick, the chassis connected to the bottom of the panel's backside is pretty deep for a high end Mini-LED TVs. The TV's Bang & Olufsen-branded internal speakers creates a thick band at the bottom of the screen which adds to the X11L's larger-than-life appearance.

Its beefed-up chassis sits gingerly on a pair of narrow, wide-set feet. The juxtaposition of the big, honkin' screen and the slim, scaled-down feet is eye-catching, but you'll need an extra-wide credenza or media console if you're planning on plopping down a 75- or 85-inch X11L.

By contrast, the QM9K (seen above) relies on a pedestal-style stand. The heavy, wedge-shaped piece sits below the center of the screen, and because of this placement, the QM9K doesn't need as wide of a surface to sit on.

And although the QM9K isn't quite as slim as the X11L at its narrowest point, its profile appears more svelte since it doesn't bulge out as much as the X11L.

As far as contemporary TVs go, both of these sets feature good-looking designs. However, the QM9K is undoubtedly an easier-to-manage setup due to its pedestal-style stand.

Winner: TCL QM9K

TCL X11L vs TCL QM9K: performance

Before we dive into which of these TVs is the better performer, let's compare their test results. (Both TVs were in their respective Filmmaker picture mode when these tests were taken.)