Among 2026 OLEDs, two sets stand above the rest: the LG G6 and Samsung S95H. These top-shelf TVs harness high-end hardware for brighter, punchier performance than that of entry-level and mid-range OLEDs. They’re also stuffed with features for gaming, streaming and beyond.

You can’t go wrong with either option. While we’re still in the process of formally testing these two sets, both are likely to end up on our list of the best OLED TVs of the year, which puts them on a crash-course with our round-up of the best TVs, period.

That said, there are some key differences between the G6 and S95H that are worth highlighting. Before you plunk down your credit card, let’s take a look at your candidates.

The G6 and S95H achieve an elevated OLED picture in different ways

As top-tier models, the G6 and S95H set themselves apart from lower-end OLED TVs with higher-performing hardware. Both technologies aim to improve brightness, color and other aspects of picture quality, but how they get there is entirely different.

The G6 leverages LG Display's newest RGB Tandem OLED panel. Its unique structure allows for higher brightness, in both highlight detail and across the whole image. This panel also delivers more voluminous color than what we typically see with standard WOLED panels (like the one found on the LG C6).

The newest version of RGB Tandem OLED is guided by LG's processing. Together, these hardware and software elements make up a feature that LG is calling Hyper Radiant Color Technology.

The S95H, on the other hand, makes use of Samsung Display's quantum dot-enhanced OLED (QD-OLED) panel in its 55-, 65- and 77-inch variants. (Interestingly, the 83-inch S95H taps LG Display's RGB Tandem OLED panel.)

As the name suggests, the S95H leverages quantum dots for brighter, purer color than standard WOLED displays. On average, they also tend to be brighter than garden-variety, non-RGB Tandem panels, too.

Currently, the only TV technology that matches or exceeds the color volume measurements we've taken to date is RGB LED. This makes QD-OLED TVs like the Samsung S95H a great pick for people who are chasing eye-popping color.

Here's the main takeaway: Thanks to their advanced engineering, both the LG G6 and S95H offer some of the brightest OLED performance to date. However, due to the inherent benefits of quantum-dot color, I expect the S95H to offer better HDR color volume than the LG G6.

Based on past performance, it's also likely that the G6's white highlight brightness will be slightly higher than the S95H during HDR content.

The G6 and S95H offer unique designs

One of the most noticeable differences between these sets can be seen in each brand’s distinct approach to designing a flagship-level OLED TV. To a certain extent, the G6 and S95H put design front and center, each offering a unique spin on high-end luxury.

Like its predecessors, the LG G6 is designed with wall-mounting in mind. Its panel isn’t quite as wafer-thin as other LG OLEDs, but the added depth allows a uniform profile that sits flush against the wall. There’s barely a bezel, and an elegant, metallic finish wraps around the outside of the TV.

You can attach a stand to the G6 and forgo wall-mounting altogether, but you’ll need to purchase the G6's stand separately. Out of the box, the G6 comes with a flush wall mount.

Samsung's top OLED is also designed for wall-mounting, but the S95H features one of the boldest design elements for a TV that I’ve come across in years: a wide, metal frame, upon which the OLED screen appears to float.

When I spent an afternoon with the all-new S95H (seen above), it was wall-mounted in a living room-like staging area to emphasize the frame. While it won’t be everyone's cup of tea, it's worth noting how much more natural the S95H's framed display appears in a wall-mounting configuration compared to a table-top setup.

On that note, there are a pair of narrow feet included with the S95H, should you opt to place it on a media console or credenza. Just be aware of the fact that the metal frame is non-negotiable.

Another non-negotiable design element? For a third year in a row, Samsung's flagship OLED screen is sporting a matte-style, glare-free finish. The G6 features a glossy screen, though LG has gone to great lengths to tamp down on glare with a robust, anti-reflective coating.

This means that the debate between matte or glossy OLED screens will continue into 2026. I find that Samsung's glare-free finish does a remarkably good job at blunting the impact of direct glare, but with an average amount of ambient light in play, the matte-style screen also raises the TV's black levels, limiting visual depth.

The G6's screen is no slouch when it comes to limiting direct glare, but it's not quite as adept as the S95H. Nevertheless, in average lighting conditions, the G6's glossy screen creates a deeper, inkier look.

Dolby Vision and other HDR formats

Like all Samsung TVs, the S95H does not support Dolby Vision, an enhanced HDR format that leverages dynamic metadata to optimize the picture on a frame-by-frame basis, thus keeping with the creator's intent. Instead, the S95H supports HDR10+, a royalty-free alternative that works in a similar fashion. The LG G6, however, does support Dolby Vision.

Another thing to note: The S95H is one of the first Samsung TVs to arrive with HDR10+ Advanced. In the coming years, his new HDR format is set to compete with Dolby Vision 2. However, the LG G6 does not support Dolby Vision 2.

LG G6 vs Samsung S95H: outlook

There are other differences between these two TVs, of course. They're built around entirely different software experiences, for instance, each offering its own user experience.

But beyond that, they're quite similar. Both flagship OLEDs come with arguably the most thorough selection of gaming features money can buy, and even in a side-by-side comparison, their individual performance is jaw-droppingly good.

Choosing between the LG G6 and Samsung S95H comes down to three questions:

1. Which TV's design is better for your home?

2. Do you care about the S95H's added color volume?

3. Do you need Dolby Vision support on your next TV?

If you can answer these questions for yourself, you're well on your way to choosing between these two incredible TVs.

More from Tom's Guide

• Samsung S95H vs S95F OLED: Is the new TV worth the upgrade?
• LG G6 OLED vs G5 OLED: How much better is LG’s new best TV?
• LG’s crazy-thin Wallpaper OLED TV now has a price — $5,500 is actually not that bad

After six months of lab testing the year's newest TVs, it has become clear that the best TVs of 2026 are pushing brightness and color accuracy to new heights. Today’s flagship TVs from Hisense and TCL deliver good performance, thanks in large part to a backlight technology called Mini-RGB that’s changing the game for picture quality.

Yet Sony isn't sitting on the sidelines. Its new "True RGB" technology also promises independently controlled red, green, and blue LEDs under the display panel but, according to Sony, offers “purer color expression, improved light steering, and ultra-wide viewing angles.” The best part? You don’t need to empty your pockets to get a taste. Despite it being used in the flagship Bravia 9 II sibling, you can get it on the Bravia 7 II at a lower price.

But does Sony’s new tech actually live up to the hype? After putting the Sony Bravia 7 II through our rigorous lab testing workflow and spending two days watching real-world content, the results didn’t blow my expectations out of the water, but I’m still very impressed.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Pricing and availability

The Bravia 7 II is $300 more than the starting price of the 65-inch Sony Bravia 7 we reviewed in 2025. Pricing for the Sony Bravia 7 II starts at $1,600 / AU$2,699 for the 50-inch variant, and goes as high as $9,000 / AU$12,999 for the 98-inch model.

MSRPs / RRPs for the whole range are listed below:

• 50-inch: $1,599 / AU$2,699
• 55-inch: $2,099 / N/A
• 65-inch: $2,599 / AU$3,999
• 75-inch: $3,099 / AU$5,499
• 85-inch: $3,999 / AU$7,499
• 98-inch: $8,999 / AU$12,999

The 65-inch review unit we have comes in at $2,600 / AU$3,999. Sony’s flagship Bravia 9 II costs $3,600 / AU$5,999, so if you buy the Bravia 7 II, you can save an extra $1,000 / AU$2,000. Stepping down means sacrificing a handful of dimming zones, the anti-glare features, and slightly more premium audio features — but these compromises aren’t so bad given the price difference.

That said, the 7 II is venturing close to OLED pricing territory. The LG C6 OLED currently sits at $2,700, while the LG B6 costs roughly $2,000. TCL’s RGB offering, the QM8L, has a price tag of $3,000 for the 75-inch model while the Hisense UR9 costs $2,000 for a 65-inch screen after the nearly unheard of $1,500 discount it received immediately after launch.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Design and ports

The Sony Bravia 7 II immediately felt different to me the moment I took it out of the box, largely due to its redesigned center-facing stand. As part of the setup, you slot a clear glass-like sheet into the front of the stand. Sony calls this the “Mirage Stand.” This helps hide the cables that might be behind the TV. It also helps light and color pass through.

The assembly was easy, involving building out both sides of the base, and then simply sliding the entire TV into place and fastening it with screws. Compared to my experience with setting up other TVs, the setup feels remarkably seamless. I wish other manufacturers would embrace this approach. The trade-off is that, on the sides, the Bravia 7 II is still slightly thick, similar to other RGB TVs in this class.

The other issue besides its thickness is that Sony skimped out on ports: On the left side of the TV, there are four HDMI ports, just like last year’s model, but two of them are the older HDMI 2.0b standard. (HDMI 1 and 2 are HDMI 2.0b, while HDMI 3 and 4 are HDMI 2.1.)

Those HDMI ports are all in addition to the two USB ports, optical audio out, S-Center speaker in, Ethernet, RS-232C remote, IR in, and a spot for a coaxial cable.

Finally, around the back, the non-detachable power cable is on the right rear. In that same area, Sony also gives you a spot to clip that cable to better help manage wires. The TV can be wall-mounted using the VESA holes on the back panel, should you prefer that.

My biggest gripe with the 7 II’s design is that, for this price, it should have HDMI 2.1 ports standard. If you own multiple game consoles like I do, you’ll only be able to fully enjoy them at 120Hz on two of this TV's four ports. It’s not a deal breaker, but it is a small disappointment.

How we test

Our TV review process at Tom's Guide for TVs is rigorous, but standardized. In our New York City test lab, my lab assistant and I test every TV across SDR and HDR benchmarks using the industry standard 10% window.

To ensure we are seeing the director's true vision, we switch the TV over to Filmmaker Mode which is typically the most color-accurate setting available. We also disable any AI features, Eco Mode, and any intrusive ambient light sensors that could impact readings.

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. For more on this process, read our “How we test TVs” guide.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Performance and test results

HDR performance is where the Bravia 7 II comes into its own league, with the peak brightness reaching 2,077 nits with our 10% test window. This is far ahead of what we've seen on OLED TVs like LG C6 and nearly double that of the original Bravia 7 model. However, it’s overshadowed by the Hisense UR9 and TCL QM8L.

When watching scenes in HDR from “The Batman” on our lab’s Blu-ray player, I immediately noticed the highlights from headlights and explosions against the shadows of the night. Yet despite all of this, the black in Batman’s suit and the Batmobile remained true.

Streaming “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan Ghost War” on Amazon Prime, my initial impressions were corroborated: The TV rendered some really deep blacks and precisely managed highlights, ensuring that the riverside lamps in the introductory sequence showed absolutely no blooming against a black dark sky. This carried over into the film's climactic final battle, where even in dark night scenes, I could not spot any light bleed around the vibrant orange muzzle flashes or the crisp white LED signs on a building set against the dark night.

For SDR performance, Bravia TVs come with conservative brightness settings out of the box. As a result, SDR brightness measured just 100 nits in our lab testing for the TV’s best picture mode. This is significantly lower than competitors like the Hisense UR9, TCL QM8L, LG C6, and Samsung QN90. However, I do want to be clear this is no fault of the TV — Sony has a long standard of prioritizing accuracy and a true-to-Hollywood look over pure brightness in its Professional mode. Targeting 100 nits of brightness isn’t a bug to Sony. It’s a feature.

That said, your mileage will vary on how much you enjoy Professional mode. I watched a nature video of Norway on YouTube and the whites in the water lacked intensity and weren’t as bright as I hoped. Playing around with the various options in Sony’s new My Cinema presets in the settings menu optimized the SDR brightness to better suit my eyes.

Additional presets can optimize content from Netflix or Amazon Prime, but I found that switching to the standard Cinema Mode improved brightness better, pushing peaks closer to 750 nits. To be fair, Sony gives you full control and explains the various picture modes out of the box during setup, so it’s easy to change things around if you aren’t happy with the out-of-the-box settings.

So where does it falter? We measured a Delta-E of 4.79, which suggests the Bravia 7 II isn’t the strongest performer in color accuracy compared to the LG C6 or Samsung QN90F. (We reached out to Sony for clarification on why it’s higher than average and are still awaiting a response.)

Lab numbers don't always account for what the human eye can perceive through Sony's image processing. This means that sometimes a TV can still look good; personally, I felt that the TV delivered natural, balanced tones that you actually look for in real world-viewing. In SDR content like a NYC subway walkthrough on YouTube, faces still appeared lifelike.

The Bravia 7 II did not give the faces a cooler, washed-out look many other TVs in its class might produce. Similarly, in “Blade Runner 2049” on Blu-ray, the Las Vegas sequence kept true to the film’s orange hue without oversaturating natural skin tones.

Side viewing angles on this TV were impressive across all the content I watched, thanks to Sony’s X-wide Angle Pro technology. After moving my seat to both sides of the TV and rewatching the same scenes I mentioned earlier from “Blade Runner 2049,” “The Batman,” and “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan Ghost War,” picture quality remained consistently strong. I didn’t notice any bleed or loss in color or brightness. This is an area where many non-OLED displays typically struggle, but the Bravia 7 II held up well.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Gaming

Gaming performance on the Bravia 7 II is a big jump from the Bravia 7: We measured input lag at 10.4ms, a huge step up from the 17.1ms from the Bravia 7 — and more in line with what we’ve seen with other 2026 TVs.

I played Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight on the PlayStation 5 and had no issues. Controls felt tight and responsive during fast-paced fights where Batman and Robin took on street-level crime. There was almost no noticeable delay between my inputs and what I saw on the screen.

Since this is a Sony TV, there are added benefits when you pair it with a PS5: Auto HDR Tone Mapping lets you skip the HDR optimization you usually have to go through in most games.

But just be careful about which port you choose. If you connect to either HDMI 2.1 port on the TV, the Bravia 7 II will give you that sweet and smooth 120Hz refresh rate, support for variable refresh rate (VRR), and auto low-latency mode (ALLM). Pairing it with one of the two aforementioned HDMI 2.0 ports could result in the loss of some of this functionality.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Sound

The built-in speakers on the Bravia 7 II are surprisingly pleasing. With a side-firing design, all the speakers are at ear level across the screen. This means dialogue and effects project clearly into the room rather than feeling trapped on the TV’s stand.

In action content like “The Batman” and “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan Ghost War,” voices in films and shows were easy to follow even during more chaotic scenes. Rain, gunfire, and the orchestral score never broke the immersion that I experienced.

Interestingly, a step during the TVs setup process allows you to optimize the acoustics for viewing. Sit in front of the TV with the remote, and the TV will measure the sound levels in the room. This feature is great if you want to get the most out of the TV’s sound.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Smart TV and remote

The remote isn’t the only part of the TV with a built-in microphone — there’s one built right into the TV. I’ve always found voice remotes awkward, having to hold the whole remote to my face just to speak to the TV, so this always-ready mic made searching and getting recommendations feel more natural and hands-free. And don’t worry, it can be quickly muted using a physical slider on the bottom left of the TV for added privacy.

Tying the whole system together is the Google TV smart platform whose interface remains clean and easy to navigate. No matter what I asked it, Google’s Gemini integration helped surface content across all my streaming apps in the more conversational, “ask a friend” style that I wish Siri on my Apple TV at home could do a better job with. It’s one of the best streaming TV platforms for a reason.

The remote design is largely unchanged from last year, still with its familiar plastic finish and blue-speckled detailing. Aside from swapping the arrangement of a few buttons, Sony has added a new favorites button that lets you quickly jump to a preferred streaming app and there’s also a handy remote-finder feature should you lose it. (Pressing the power button on the TV can trigger a buzzer on the remote if it gets lost.) This is a small — but genuinely useful — touch for those moments where your remote might get lost in the sofa.

Sony Bravia 7 II review: Verdict

Though it sits below the Bravia 9 II, the Sony Bravia 7 II still has solid HDR performance. It brings bright highlights, deep shadows, and impressively clean blacks with virtually no blooming thanks to its standout “True RGB” backlight. It also has a few upgrades from its predecessor — like the stand — that make it worth upgrading to if you own the original Bravia 7.

Its conservative SDR brightness can look dim in everyday viewing, however, and its higher-than-average pricing also pushes it close to more color-accurate OLED territory. Unless it’s Black Friday or Cyber Monday, you shouldn’t expect to see major discounts on it, either.

If the so-called “Sony Tax” is too steep for you, you might want to consider the often-on-sale LG C6 OLED or even last year’s C5 OLED, Tom’s Guide’s TV of the Year.

If you’re unfazed by the sticker price, the Bravia 7 II is a stand-out TV that I would recommend to folks who want an early look at an RGB TV’s benefits without shelling out for the Bravia 9 II.

This week, media conglomerate Fox acquired Roku in a deal worth a whopping $22 billion. The deal won’t be finalized until sometime in 2027, but as someone who makes a living testing, reviewing and recommending TVs, I can’t help but ponder the short- and long-term ramifications for Roku-centric living rooms.

Beyond Roku TVs — which arrive with the brand’s excellent streaming software baked right into the TV — Roku makes some of the best streaming devices on the market. They, too, are built around the Roku experience, delivering an easy-to-use interface atop a vast library of downloadable apps.

If you use a Roku device on a daily basis for streaming movies, shows and live TV, the next few years of binge-watching and app-jumping could look different. Here are some of the changes that could be on their way.

An expansion of the Roku hardware lineup may be in the cards

This is purely speculation on my part, but we might see new Roku TVs, streaming sticks and several changes to Roku-branded hardware over the course of the next several years. It all depends on how viable Fox sees the Roku brand as a hardware entity, and how effectively its executives believe they can leverage said hardware.

Once upon a time, Roku TVs were, frankly, not very good — at least as far as performance goes. In recent years, Roku-branded TVs have seen substantial improvements. The best Roku TVs today often make use of Mini-LED backlighting, which is partly why their picture quality has gotten better of late.

While it’s tough to read the tea leaves about how this acquisition will reshape Roku’s hardware lineup, I don’t expect there to be a significant reduction in Roku TVs, streaming sticks (like the Roku Streaming Stick 4K) and Roku boxes. The reason for this is simple: Fox now has a direct line to the Roku home screen in millions of people’s homes.

With this connection, Fox can now effectively integrate its own apps and services into our collective Roku experience. It's a benefit that most other media giants don’t have.

The Roku Channel or other apps could be retired

As my colleague Malcolm McMillan outlines in his analysis of the Fox-Roku deal, there are a couple of Fox- and Roku-owned streaming apps that could be in flux.

The Roku Channel, as the name suggests, is a free, Roku-owned streaming app that comes preinstalled in Roku TVs and streaming devices. Tubi — a company acquired by Fox in 2020 — also offers free, ad-based streaming.

My colleagues are right to point out that, with Fox overseeing the entire Roku operation, there ostensibly isn’t much of a business-driven incentive to back two free streaming apps that serve a similar purpose. Given the greater popularity of Tubi, the Roku Channel could be the odd app out.

The same can be said for the Howdy app, which is similar to the Roku Channel but sits behind a three-dollar-per-month subscription. Fox executives may be more reluctant to retire Howdy if its subscription model has proven successful. But, as Malcolm mentions, “we don't have any hard data on how it's performing in terms of revenue or user growth.”

The future of Fox and Roku

As someone who recently made the switch from webOS to Roku for daily streaming duties, the future of this simple-but-powerful software suite is important to me. And, as a TV-reviewer, I’d love to have a clearer picture of where Roku hardware — both its TVs and streaming devices — are headed.

The truth is, we won’t have a deeper understanding of these details for a while. As mentioned, the acquisition won’t be finalized until next year.

On the hardware side of things, it’s likely that we wouldn’t see any shakeups to Roku TVs and device lineups for a few years, as these changes would take some time to develop, logistically speaking.

I suspect that the first bits of Fox-related influence that’ll be felt will come in the form of small changes to the Roku interface. This could be as simple as Fox-owned services getting favorable placement on the home screen (or in the form of dedicated buttons on the Roku remote).

Ultimately, however, I would hate to see this move detract from what I love about the Roku experience: a simple interface with minimal ad placement.

If Fox plays its cards right, Roku could become more popular than ever. I just hope it doesn’t lose its way in the process.

More from Tom's Guide

• Your Roku is hiding these 5 useful features — here's how to find them
• I ditched LG's webOS smart platform for Roku and I'll never go back
• 'The White Lotus' collides with 'Midsommar' in this psychedelic thriller you can stream for free on Tubi

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

If you're shopping for a TV this year, there's a good chance you'll find yourself choosing between two all-new types: RGB LED and Super Quantum Dot (SQD) Mini-LED.

Several brands make and sell RGB LED TVs, while only one brand — TCL — engineers SQD sets. Somewhat confusingly, RGB LED TVs are known by many names (like Micro RGB), as each brand adds its own spin to the technology.

Although both technologies aim to amplify color, they each come with their own strengths and weaknesses. If you're hoping to buy the best TV for your viewing habits and home setup, I can help.

RGB LED: strengths and weaknesses

Each brand's take on RGB LED technology has its own name. There are Hisense RGB Mini-LED TVs, Samsung Micro RGB TVs, LG Micro RGB evo TVs and Sony True RGB TVs. TCL calls its version RGB Mini-LED, as well.

These TV makers offer their own approach to the hardware- and software-based components of RGB LED technology, but broadly speaking, every version operates in a similar fashion.

While garden-variety Mini-LED TVs leverage white- or blue-colored LEDs in conjunction with color filters, RGB LED TVs make use of teeny-tiny red-, green- and blue-colored LEDs. Like standard Mini-LED backlights, RGB LEDs are clustered into dimmable zones, too, but their added color typically results in better, brighter color.

We've seen this advantage borne out in the testing we've carried out on RGB LED TVs. They're bright, punchy sets that offer some of the most voluminous color we've measured to date, surpassing even some quantum dot-equipped OLED TVs. The Hisense UR9, for instance, covers an impressive 93% of the BT.2020 color gamut — one of the best readings we've ever measured for TV color.

The primary weakness of RGB LED TVs is the primary weakness of every LED-based TV: They aren't capable of the perfect black levels and pixel-level dimming you'll see on the best OLED TVs.

Compared to standard, quantum dot-equipped Mini-LED TVs and Super Quantum Dot-based models, the drawbacks of RGB LED are less obvious. Their colored LEDs are terrific at driving a ton of luminance to big, bold swaths of easy-to-produce hues (as seen in the image above), but depending on the make and model, an RGB LED TV might fall back to white light and color filtering when average content is on the screen.

In addition, RGB LED TVs often exhibit something called color crosstalk. This happens when white-tinted or light-colored objects shift in hue as competing colors appear around them. The frequency with which this visual hiccup occurs is entirely dependent upon the intricacies of a given RGB LED TV's hardware and the software functions that oversee it.

That brings me to my final point: Perhaps more so than any other LED-based TV technology, RGB LED TVs are very much at the mercy of the TV's processing capabilities. As time goes on, I suspect that we'll see clear delineations between brands' abilities to engineer RGB LEDs and, most importantly, sidestep the technical issues associated with the nascent technology.

Super Quantum Dot: strengths and weaknesses

Like RGB LED TVs, Super Quantum Dot sets aim to bolster color brightness by way of LED backlighting. However, rather than reinvent the wheel entirely, SQD technology is more akin to a remix of traditional quantum dot-enhanced Mini-LED performance.

The Super Quantum Dot recipe consists of several ingredients: reformulated quantum dots, a new, advanced color filter to harness those quantum dots and some onboard, software-based algorithms designed to keep color performance consistent. (TCL refers to that bit as its Advanced Color Purity Algorithm.)

According to our testing, SQD succeeds in delivering brighter, purer color than what you'll usually see on a traditional quantum dot-enhanced Mini-LED TV. For instance, the sensational TCL QM8L covers an impressive 90% of the BT.2020 color space. That's not quite as high as what we've measured on Hisense's top-performing RGB LED TV, but it's better than some top-shelf QD-OLED TVs.

Once again, it's worth noting that SQD isn't capable of the eye-popping, high-contrast look of OLED. For our purposes, though, let's set that aside once more and compare it to RGB LED.

We've yet to test all of the year's RGB LED TVs, but many of them are clocking in just below the Hisense UR9's impressive 93% benchmark for BT.2020 color volume, right around 91% to 92%. So, while they might have a bit of an edge on paper, SQD is not far behind at all.

As I see it, the biggest obstacle standing between SQD and shoppers is the variety of choice — or lack thereof.

Super Quantum Dot is a TCL-exclusive technology, so right now, there are only three models available: the TCL X11L, the QM7L and the aforementioned QM8L. RGB LED, meanwhile, has taken hold of every major brand's lineup this year.

RGB LED vs SQD: Outlook

Ultimately, the story of both of these new technologies won't fully take shape until next year, when the brands behind them have had enough time to iron out performance wrinkles and possibly extend this hardware into additional price tiers.

Affordable options could be the key to successful expansion. Unfortunately, for prospective SQD buyers looking to save some cash, there's only a couple of picks: the TCL QM7L and QM8L.

Similarly, there are only a handful of RGB LED TVs available right now that aren't high-end options. We're still working our way through these step-down options (like the Samsung R85H, the Hisense UR8 and the Sony Bravia 7 II), but as the year goes on, these models might prove to be the most popular in the RGB LED class.

The good news? Both of these technologies, so far, are proving to be excellent options for your living room.

More from Tom's Guide

• 3 reasons why you shouldn't buy an RGB LED TV in 2026
• I tested TCL’s $8,000 SQD Mini-LED TV — here's my verdict
• Micro RGB TVs vs OLED TVs — here's the TV I'd buy in 2026

Lately, you may have noticed your Fire TV Stick taking a beat longer to respond, or that the Netflix scrubber lags where it didn't before. Apps hesitate to load where you remember them being snappy. None of that is your imagination, and it isn't the stick aging out, either — both the Apple TV 4K and the Fire TV Stick 4K Max are still among the best streaming devices you can put behind a television.

What's changed, mostly this spring, is what the major streaming services are putting on top of that hardware. Netflix, Disney+ and others have stepped away from native platform players, and instead. have started to ship custom video engines with their streaming sticks.

Those engines are slower, less responsive and bypass the operating system features Apple and Amazon spent years building. The stick itself isn't dragging — the apps are dragging the stick.

Why your streaming stick feels slower

The smoking gun was Netflix's April rollout of a custom video player on Apple TV this year, which dropped the native tvOS AVPlayer it had used for years. FlatpanelsHD broke it down first, and the rest of the Apple press piled on within a couple of weeks.

In practice, the first thing you're likely to notice is a lack of responsiveness. The Siri Remote's touch surface, which on every other app gives you smooth scrubbing, has been demoted to budget-smart-TV behavior. A single back-press no longer skips ten seconds — it pauses, brings up a frame selector and waits for a second click. That extra beat, multiplied across every instance, is the new normal for many people when browsing Netflix.

In addition, several useful tvOS features stopped working simultaneously. Automatic Subtitles, the one that turns on captions when you mute or skip back, doesn't fire inside Netflix anymore, and Enhance Dialogue, which pulls speech forward over score and effects, isn't available.

The slide-up info overlay that showed Dolby Vision, Atmos and exact playback resolution has been replaced with Netflix's own UI, which isn’t much use for most people. Even the iPhone Remote app has stopped talking to it properly.

Netflix is the worst offender, though it isn't alone. Disney+ has been running a custom player on Apple TV for some time, which is part of why a few system-level features don't behave there either. Netflix's separate refusal to integrate with the Apple TV app's universal "Up Next" row is unchanged from earlier years — your watchlist looks half-empty because Netflix has chosen not to feed it.

The motive is, in part, cost. Writing fully native apps across tvOS (Swift), Fire OS (an Android fork), Roku (BrightScript), Samsung's Tizen and LG's webOS is genuinely expensive at the scale that streamers operate, and a single custom video engine deployed across all of them saves money.

Owning the player layer also keeps the telemetry within the streamer's walls rather than handing it to Apple or Amazon, which matters more than it used to, as ad-supported tiers drive most subscriber growth across every major service. Losing tvOS features must be, from their perspective, an acceptable cost.

Fixes that actually help

1. Turn on Match Content on Apple TV.

Settings > Video and Audio > Match Content > enable Match Dynamic Range and Match Frame Rate

The reason a lot of content judders for no obvious reason is that 24fps film material is being output at 60Hz unless the box is told to switch — and it isn't by default. Match Content is a global setting, but its success works on an app-by-app basis rather than system-wide.

Thankfully, most major services (including Netflix and Prime Video) support it, and the difference is visible immediately in cinematic content. You'll see a brief blank screen at the moment of switching, which is a long-standing HDMI handshake quirk and not a bug. (There are also several other Apple TV settings worth changing at the same time.)

2. You can make similar adjustments on Fire TV.

Display & Sounds > Display > Match Original Frame Rate

This is similarly off by default but worth turning on. Make sure Video Resolution in the same menu is set to Auto — without that, Match Frame Rate has nothing to work with.

3. Set a custom subtitle style at the system level on Apple TV.

Settings > Accessibility > Subtitles and Captioning > Style

Build a custom style rather than leaving it on Default, and Apple's frameworks will push your preferences down into most third-party apps (Apple TV+, Prime Video and the standard catalogue).

Netflix and Disney+ will keep ignoring you, since their custom players don't respect system-wide accessibility settings. That part is on them.

4. Kill Featured Content autoplay on Fire TV.

Settings > Preferences > Featured Content > disable Allow Video Autoplay and Allow Audio Autoplay

The home-screen previews load in the background as you browse, competing with whatever you're trying to watch for bandwidth. Switching them off is the single biggest responsiveness change you can make on the 4K Max — menus move faster, apps open faster and the whole experience should feel less burdened. (If you want to go further, there are several other Fire TV features worth enabling in Settings.)

What you can't fix from the sofa

Some of this is simply outside of your reach. The Netflix custom player on tvOS — the lost scrubbing, the missing Enhance Dialogue, the broken Automatic Subtitles, the disappeared info overlay, the dead Remote app — none of that can be brought back via a settings menu. They're choices Netflix made in the app and only Netflix can unmake them.

Atmos drops are similar. Apple labels Audio Format's Auto setting "recommended" for a reason, and the manual format options exist as fallbacks for incompatible equipment rather than fixes for app-side problems. If a specific app is downmixing to stereo while Auto is set correctly and the rest of your hardware chain is fine, the bottleneck is the app's handshake — and there isn't yet a switch you can flip to repair it.

The watchlist gap is the cleanest example. No amount of fiddling will get Netflix titles into Apple TV's "Up Next" row, because Netflix has chosen not to expose that data to the API. It looks like a technical limitation, but it's actually just policy.

But if you're tempted to throw $130 at a new streaming box assuming the next one will feel like the demos, I’d hold off. A refreshed, new Apple TV 4K is reportedly due later this year, and the constraints you're hitting aren't in the silicon anyway.

We think that the Apple TV 4K and Fire TV Stick 4K Max are still the right boxes to own, despite the fact that their ecosystem seems increasingly inhospitable.

More from Tom's Guide

• Is a new Apple TV in the works? Here's how John Ternus' appointment as Apple CEO could benefit Apple's streaming device
• These are the 3 best streaming devices we've tested for your TV
• You're wasting your Fire TV Stick's potential — 7 features to enable right now

LG — maker of some of the best OLED TVs on the market — has officially launched its newest OLED lineup for 2026. The LG C6 is the brand's mid-range model, and it comes with pedigree. The C Series has been a perennial best TV-contender for several years, and it's easy to see why. Like the C Series OLEDs that came before it, the C6 blends incredible performance with a relatively reasonable price tag — a blend that results in mass appeal.

The LG B6 is the brand's entry-level OLED. Like previous iterations of the B Series, the LG B6 offers a more modest performance profile in exchange for a much lower price than its C-Series sibling. I've spent a ton of time with both of these OLEDs, and as we do with all TVs we review, we've tested both extensively. Here's how their performance, features and price compare.

LG C6 vs LG B6: Specs compared

First, let's talk about size availability. The C6 is available in 42-, 48-, 55- and 65-inch options. There are also 77- and 83-inch versions, but these sizes are technically classified as an altogether different model: the LG C6H.

We haven't tested the C6H yet, but LG promises better performance on these sets than what you'll see on the smaller-sized C6 screens, since they arrive with LG Display's RGB Tandem OLED panel, which typically delivers better brightness and color volume than traditional WOLED panels.

For the B6, available size options are a complicated matter, too. It's readily available at retailers in just three sizes: 65, 77 and 83 inches. LG lists a 48-inch version of the B6 on its website, but you might have a difficult time tracking it down. I expect a 55-inch version of the B6 to be made available soon, but at the time of publishing, it's missing in action.

So, if you want a 77- or 83-inch C6, you'll technically have to buy the C6H. Alternatively, if you're considering a 48- or 55-inch B6, you'll have to wait for those sets to be made available.

In almost every other way that will matter to most people, the C6 and B6's spec sheets are the same. Both TVs offer the same selection of enhanced HDR formats (including Dolby Vision). Both arrive with the same version of LG's webOS streaming platform and support HDMI 2.1 across all four primary inputs.

Neither offers ATSC 3.0 support (which allows over-the-air broadcasts to be piped-in at native-4K resolution), and while it's not an easy feature to come by in 2026, its absence is nevertheless a bummer.

Each of these OLEDs can take advantage of the highest 4K spec available on current-gen consoles (4K/120Hz), but only the C6 is capable of pushing that to 4K/165Hz when VRR is enabled and a gaming rig is linked up. It's a close finish, but the C6 features a better spec sheet.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs LG B6: Design

The C6 (seen above) follows the design approach of its predecessor (the LG C5), but that's good news for folks who dig sleek, sophisticated TV design. Its downward-slanting slab of a stand keeps the TV's screen relatively close to the surface beneath it. And, while it's rare to peek at the back of a TV, I appreciate the marble-like finish on the back of the C6's panel.

If you're planning to wall-mount the C6, take note: The TV's hardware is housed in a chassis that sticks out of the C6's midsection. This means that the TV's wafer-thin screen won't be flush against the wall.

The B6 (seen above) will also protrude from the wall a bit, should you decide to mount it. But, according to my measurements, the B6 is almost exactly as narrow as the C6 at the 65-inch size point, so you're dealing with a similarly sized chassis.

The B6 is also rocking a slate-like visual texture along the back of its panel, but you'll find that the look and feel of the C6's materials are marginally more premium-seeming than that of the B6.

Unlike the C6, the B6's stand consists of a pair of slim, angular feet that sit close to the corners of the screen. They're sturdy enough so as not to introduce much wobble, but the wide-set placement of the feet might be tough to accommodate if you've got a narrow credenza or media console — especially at larger size points.

Both TVs arrive with a similar version of of LG's remote control. It features the same motion-activated, Wii-like controls you'll find on older versions of the Magic Remote, but the updated design is slimmer and offers fewer buttons.

Despite its entry-level status, the B6 is a sleek customer. The C6's design is just a touch more put together.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs LG B6: 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.)

Naturally, these TVs both deliver the key features that OLED TVs are known for: perfect black levels with pixel-level contrast control.

With OLED technology at work, both the C6 and B6 offer an deep, detail-rich image that looks fantastic across all content types and downright cinematic during 4K/HDR content. The key difference between their picture comes down to brightness and color.

The mid-range C6 taps LG's OLED evo technology, a mix of hardware- and software-related enhancements that allows for a brighter image (particularly in highlight detail), as well as richer color (especially during HDR-mastered movies and shows).

You'll notice the C6's added brightness most when viewing the glint of a sword, dapples of sunlight across the ocean's surface or whenever tiny pools of bright light take over a cluster of pixels. The pixel-level contrast control allows for realistic highlights on both OLEDs, but on the C6, these details are much more impactful in HDR.

The C6 is also a touch brighter than the B6 across the entire picture, but the difference in full-field brightness isn't as significant as the gap between these TVs' peak HDR highlight brightness.

Colors are well-saturated and accurately dialed-in on both of these TVs' most-accurate picture mode. However, the C6's added brightness allows it to saturate more color, and this is especially impactful during HDR-mastered content.

What we're left with is a pair of high-performance TVs, with the pricier of the two being the better option for people chasing as much brightness as possible before stepping up into the flagship-level class.

The B6 produces a phenomenal picture, but there's no denying that the C6's picture is often more cinematic, and better overall for bright-room viewing. It's up to you to determine whether that jump in quality warrants the added price.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs B6: Smart platform and features

Both the C6 and the B6 come with the newest version of LG's webOS ready to go right out of the box. It's a similar experience to last-year's version of webOS, but LG has built in some new, AI-based features. My colleague Dylan Haas, who reviewed the C6, referred to these AI features as "meaningless" if you don't already incorporate AI into your daily life, and I'm inclined to agree.

As far as built-in smart platform software goes, webOS isn't one of my top picks. I find its layout to be visually confusing and navigation to be somewhat sluggish. However, it's easy enough to pick up and use that most folks will see no problem using it as their daily driver.

As far as gaming features go, the C6 and B6 are quite similar. Each offers HDMI 2.1-compatibility across all four inputs (which means you don't have to spend time thinking about which port any given device should use), but as mentioned, only the C6 supports 4K games above 120Hz.

Technically speaking, the C6 offers more in the way of features. But, for the vast majority of people, these sets are basically the same when it comes to the software experience and added features.

Winner: Draw

LG C6 vs B6: Verdict

Relative to one another, the C6 and B6 score similarly in the design and features category, with their overall user experience being remarkably similar. When we take a closer look at specs and picture quality, we start to get a better sense of how these sets diverge.

The C6 is a brighter, more-colorful TV that will showcase HDR content better than the B6. It'll also hold up slightly better during daytime viewing. This is especially true for the souped-up, 77- and 83-inch versions of the C6H.

At the time of publishing, the C6 is quite pricey. The 65-inch LG C6 is $2,699 at Best Buy, and while that number will almost certainly tumble as the year goes on, it's still relatively high for a mid-range TV.

Saving money on the B6 might be a good move if all you're looking for is a brand-new OLED TV. The 65-inch LG B6 is $1,899 at Best Buy right now, which is substantially cheaper than the C6. That said, if you're after a 55-inch screen, you'll have to wait. More sizes options for the B6 are presumably still on the way, but for now the selection is rather limited.

More from Tom's Guide

• LG C6 OLED TV review
• LG B6 OLED TV 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

Across the web, rumors are swirling about a brand-new Sony OLED TV dubbed the Bravia 6. It shouldn't come as a shock, considering the lack of an entry-level OLED in Sony's current Bravia lineup, and the Bravia 6 could very well be the LG C6 rival we've been waiting for.

Sony makes some of the best TVs on the market — and this could be its most exciting model yet. Here's what we know about it so far.

Sony Bravia 6: everything we know so far

I first came across Bravia 6 speculation via a report at FlatpanelsHD, who in turn cited High Def News on X (formerly Twitter). That post came as a result of a post on the AVS Forum message board.

Despite this game of telephone, the facts on the ground remain rather simple: Sony has registered the Bravia 6 namesake across several online databases.

On Sony's own website, Bravia 6 model numbers (seen below) are listed as being compatible with select wall-mounting brackets.

Interestingly, the Bravia 6 appears as though it'll be available in a similar size range as two of its rivals' most popular OLED TVs (the LG C6 and the Samsung S90H). This particular range of sizes would also indicate that the Bravia 6 will, at the very least, feature some WOLED-based panels, since we've yet to QD-OLED panels (manufactured by Samsung Display) in 48- and 83-inch sizes.

However, it's unclear whether all of the sizes in the Bravia 6 series would feature LG Display's standard WOLED panels, or just some of them.

Bear in mind that LG Display manufacturers different subtypes of WOLED panels, too. RGB Tandem WOLED panels are engineered for better brightness and color, and therefore tend to be attached to higher-end OLED TVs.

And then there's OLED SE, a new type of WOLED panel from LG Display that has already made its way into a more-affordable class of OLED TVs in 2027. The Bravia 6 could conceivably tap this OLED type, too.

Knowing what type of OLED panel the Bravia 6 uses could tell us more about its possible price range. Alternatively, knowing the Bravia 6's price range could reveal more about its panel tech. With neither piece in place, this is all very much up in the air.

Will the Bravia 6 go head to head with the LG C6?

This is the million-dollar question.

While LG and Samsung have offered annual, similarly structured OLED lineups with entry-level, mid-range and high-end options, Sony's Bravia OLED series have only a limited number of options.

For example, the Bravia 8 OLED that launched in 2024, spent much of its life living alongside the higher-end, quantum dot-equipped Sony A95L OLED.

In 2025, the Bravia 8's successor — the Bravia 8 II — incorporated quantum dots, elevating it closer to the A95L's higher-end stratum.

But, so far in 2026, Sony has yet to confirm the existence of a new OLED TV, and currently, all three of these higher-end Sony-branded OLEDs are sitting on shelves simultaneously.

For the Bravia 6 to compete with mid-range OLEDs like the LG C6 and the Samsung S90H, it wouldn't necessarily need to be Sony's mid-range model per se; it would only need to hover around the same price point as its rivals.

Hopefully Sony isn't backing away from OLED anytime soon. It was worrying that the brand was content to leave its current OLED lineup on shelves for another calendar year — but, if real, the Bravia 6 would prove that Sony still sees a place for OLED alongside its True RGB TVs like the Bravia 7 II and 9 II.

More from Tom's Guide

• I saw Sony's True RGB up close — and the downfall of OLED TVs might come sooner than expected
• TCL and Sony are joining forces to sell more TVs — but is that bad news for shoppers?
• We just tested the Bravia 7 II — here’s why I think it could be the Sony TV to buy in 2026

Here's some good news: LG, makers of some of the best OLED TVs money can buy, has launched three new OLEDs for 2026 — the flagship-level G6, the mid-range C6 OLED and the LG B6.

In recent years, the mid-range C Series has been one of the most popular TVs among our readers due to its high-level performance and its relatively low price compared to the brand's top-shelf G Series. At the same time, the entry-level B Series has been one of the best-value TVs on shelves. And now, the B Series is better than ever.

This year, the LG B6 earned our four-and-a-half-star rating for its excellent performance, sleek design and a thorough set of features. In fact, I dig the B6 so much that I think it's a better choice than the C6 for most people.

LG B6 vs C6: performance and specs

Before we dive into the differences between their spec sheets, let's take a look at how the B6 and C6 compare when it comes to performance. Bear in mind that these tests were carried out with both TVs set to LG's Filmmaker mode.

The first thing that ought to jump out at you is the difference in brightness. Yes, the C6 is significantly brighter than the B6 in both SDR and HDR. However, in a side-by-side comparison, most viewers would be more inclined to notice the difference when it comes to specular highlights (tiny pools of bright, highly intense light).

During run-of-the-mill SDR content — that is to say, cable TV, most streaming shows, YouTube videos and over-the-air broadcasts — the C6 only delivers a slightly brighter, full-screen presentation.

The C6 is undoubtedly the better option for brighter-than-average living rooms, but its added HDR highlight brightness is where the major difference is.

The C6 delivers better HDR color volume, but the difference here isn't as significant as what you would see moving from the C6 up to LG's flagship OLED, the G6. However, an important caveat to this is that the 77- and 83-inch versions of the C6 feature a similar, premium-level OLED panel as the higher-end G6.

The B6's test results — as well as my own eyes — tell me that it's an excellent compromise for budget-conscious shoppers who nevertheless want to live the OLED lifestyle. If your living room isn't soaked in sunlight, the B6 will get the job done.

In terms of specs, they're quite similar. The C6 arrives with a higher refresh rate (up to 165Hz versus 120Hz on the B6), but this really only concerns the crowd that intends to link up their TV to a gaming PC.

LG B6 vs C6: price and outlook

If the B6's relatively similar performance profile hasn't swayed you, perhaps a look at these TVs' respective prices will do the trick. Here's how each series shakes out at the time of publishing:

The LG B6 is currently only available in 65-, 77- and 83-inch sizes, but that likely won't be the case for very long. Recently, a 48-inch B6 was listed on LG's website, and in recent years, a 48-inch B Series OLED has typically been made available at Best Buy. And, while I'm surprised that there isn't a 55-inch version of the LG B6 available yet, I'm willing to bet that one will hit shelves before year's end.

Unless you're truly worried about missing out on the C6's added brightness and color, saving money on the B6 is the move I recommend most people make.

If you're in the market for an even flashier OLED experience, the 77- and 83-inch versions of the C6 (otherwise known as the LG C6H) might be worth considering. We've yet to test the C6H in either its 77- or 83-inch variant, but due to the inclusion of LG Display's RGB Tandem OLED panel, I expect an even brighter, more-colorful presentation than the 42- to 65-inch versions of the C6.

Of course, if you really want to be as savvy as possible with your spending, you ought to consider the LG B5, the B6's predecessor from 2025. I recently compared the LG B6 versus the B5 and, while the newer B6 offers a slightly punchier picture, they're nearly identical in almost every other way that matters to the average viewer.

More from Tom's Guide

• I tested the LG B6 OLED and it’s nearly as good as the C6 for a fraction of the price
• LG C6 OLED review: The best OLED TV you shouldn’t buy (yet)
• LG B6 vs B5 test results are in: Is LG's newest entry-level OLED TV worth it?

TVs are complicated. As a result, the TV business sometimes seems at odds with itself. Brands are eager to impress with their latest technological innovations, but the competitive nature of the industry often fosters misinformation.

I’ve been covering TVs for over 10 years, reviewing everything from budget models to the best TVs in the world. Throughout this time, I can’t help but have noticed a handful of myths that haven’t gone away.

Some of these misconceptions could end up costing you money. Others might land you a less-capable TV. Let’s bust these myths.

1. TV brightness matters more than anything else

In the world of TVs, few metrics are weighed as heavily as brightness. It’s easy to measure, easy to boast about with numbers, and most importantly, easy for people to understand. But while certainly important, brightness isn’t the be-all, end-all yardstick for picture quality.

Brightness matters as it relates to your ability to see the picture. Naturally, if your living room gets a ton of sunlight, buying a bright-enough TV is important. The TV needs to compete with ambient light in order for the picture to pop.

However, when we use the word “pop,” what we’re really talking about is contrast. Contrast describes the difference between the darkest parts of the picture and the brightest.

A high-contrast picture offers more depth, making it appear more real to our eyes. This is why contrast — not brightness alone — is the main ingredient in a visually appealing picture.

A TV that gets extremely bright has a distinct advantage over a dimmer model, since its picture will hold up better during the day and have a head start with the lights off. But many TVs — especially the best OLED TVs — deliver better contrast (and a better overall picture) than rival sets that achieve higher brightness.

It’s all relative. Since the pixels on an OLED TV are self-lit, they’re capable of producing perfect black levels and controlling the brightness on a pixel-by-pixel basis. As a result, the brighter parts of the picture look even brighter. OLED TVs, in other words, don’t have to get as bright as LED TVs in order for our eyes to perceive them as being brighter.

Another way to look at this is that 1,000 nits of highlight brightness on an OLED TV looks much brighter than 1,000-nit highlights on an LED TV, and it’s all thanks to OLED’s ability to get consistently darker.

This is one of the reasons we often recommend entry-level OLED TVs over their similarly priced, LED-based rivals. The LG B5, for instance, offers modest brightness compared to most mid-range LED TVs, but its OLED-driven picture allows for better overall contrast than most of those LED-based sets.

I’ve seen searingly bright TVs that look worse than models half as luminous. I’ve also seen equally bright TVs that look drastically different thanks to matters of color, picture processing and more.

When shopping for a TV, it’s worth researching brightness and having a good handle on how a TV might hold up in whatever room you’re putting it in. But it’s also worth avoiding the mindset that brighter equals better.

2. Because of burn-in, OLED TVs don’t last as long as LED TVs

For the majority of my career, I’ve not (and will likely won’t) be concerned about burn-in on an OLED TV.

To be clear, the burn-in effect — in which a ghostly after-image is permanently seared into the picture after long-term use — is very much real. But in all likelihood, you don’t need to worry about it.

OLED’s reputation for burn-in makes sense when you consider that the display technology is, in many ways, the spiritual successor to plasma. Way back when, plasma TVs did run the risk of burn-in — even more so than the OLED TVs that took their place.

And while the earliest consumer-ready OLED TVs were susceptible to burn-in, over a decade of high-level engineering has all but solved the problem entirely for the vast majority of viewers.

These days, unless you spend several hours a day watching the same type of content (or using your OLED TV as a computer monitor), you really don't need to worry about static images burning their way into the screen. If you use an OLED TV, be on the lookout for things like on-screen logos, news chyrons and sports tickers. Any elements that are on the screen for long periods of time are potentially problematic, but only if you’re spending a ton of time with them up there.

All newer OLED TVs come with a variety of tools to prevent burn-in, and most of these processes happen automatically in the background. LG OLEDs, for instance, offer the following: Pixel Cleaning (which can be run manually or set to an automatic timer), Screen Move (which subtly shifts the display occasionally in order to shake up the pixels) and Adjust Logo Brightness (which automatically detects on-screen logos and throttles their brightness).

You can find similar settings on Samsung and Sony OLEDs, and all of the major OLED-makers come with optional screensavers, too.

3. There are still ‘dumb TVs’ worth buying

Many folks yearn for the halcyon days of TV ownership, where the newest sets weren't saddled with busy, ad-filled software and constantly connected to the internet. Unfortunately, those days are very much in the rearview mirror.

TV brands make a ton of money from the ad revenue associated with smart TVs. Like much of the tech industry, various entities also profit off of smart TV user data. The longer that money comes in, the more incentivized TV-makers are to maintain the status quo.

So-called "dumb TVs" technically still exist, but the vast majority of them are either manufactured by companies I don't recommend, or they're barebones, rudimentary displays intended for commercial use.

4. Expensive HDMI cables are always better

Take it from someone who’s been juggling various types of TV cables for years: As long as you buy the right bandwidth, you really don't need fancy HDMI cables for your TV.

There's no shortage of overpriced cables out there, but the advantages of silver-, bronze-, or gold-plated cables are mostly aesthetic. You won't notice a difference in picture quality between a gold-plated cable and a basic cable, provided they’re rated for the same features.

Now, you might decide that a braided cable feels more reliable, or you might just appreciate how the look of a more premium cable blends in with the rest of your A/V equipment. If this sounds like you, feel free to splash out — just don’t expect to get a better picture in the process.

Is your TV limited to HDMI 2.0 inputs? 18-Gbps HDMI cables are good enough for your needs.

Does your TV support various HDMI 2.1 features? Shop for 48-Gbps HDMI cables to take advantage of those high-bandwidth-related perks.

5. The era of 8K is right around the corner

For as long as I've been covering the TV industry, 8K resolution has been the next big thing. But that outcome never arrived.

8K resolution hasn't become the new standard for TVs for two reasons: the costs associated with 8K and the lack of native-8K content.

8K TVs are expensive to manufacture and, on average, too pricey for the average consumer. More importantly, there simply isn't enough 8K content to enjoy on an 8K TV.

In fact, 4K TV shows and movies have only recently become the standard for streaming platforms, and Live TV (like cable and over-the-air broadcasts) are mostly sub-4K by the time they reach your screen.

As such, I strongly recommend shopping for a 4K TV instead of spending up on an 8K model. Until things change, spending way more on an 8K TV and then tasking it with upscaling 4K and sub-4K movies and shows is not a smart way for most people to to spend money.

More from Tom's Guide

• Here comes ‘Super Quantum Dot’ — why you need to watch out for this buzzword if you’re shopping for a TV in 2026
• I’m a TV expert, and these are 5 signs your OLED TV might be on its way out
• Is this the beginning of the end of HDMI? Here’s what you need to know about GPMI

Having covered flat-panel TVs from nearly their inception, I'm stunned that I can buy a good-looking 65-inch screen for under $400. But that is the world we live in now, and the Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Smart TV is a prime example of big-screen value on a shoestring budget.

Aside from its sometimes-infuriating OS and an atrocious default image mode (the latter is easy to remedy), I was generally pleased with the Dolby Vision-enabled Vizio TV, and I suspect most people would be, too.

If you can spend a bit more for the Hisense QD7, that’s something I’d suggest — but if your budget is a firm $400, this Vizio delivers rock-solid performance that won’t disappoint budget buyers.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Pricing and availability

The Vizio VQM65C-1004 is the 65-inch model of Vizio's new 2026 Mini LED Quantum lineup, priced at $398 at Walmart and Sam's Club. The line ranges from 43-inch to 85-inch options.

The VQM sits a tier above Vizio's standard Quantum (QLED-only) sets like the VQD65M-08 (around $378 at Walmart) and well below its older Quantum Pro line, like the VQP65C-84 (around $500).

At under $400 for a 65-inch Mini-LED, the VQM65C-1004 competes with some of the best TVs under $500. To get better performance at this size, you'd have to spend another $100-$200 (or more) for models such as the Hisense QD7 I recently reviewed and the TCL QM6K, which we reviewed last year.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Design

The VQM65C is a bit chunky at 2.91 inches thick. That's the reasonable tradeoff for the benefits of a full-array LED backlight (which we'll talk about later), although Vizio might have utilized that extra space for a beefier sound system, as the Hisense QD7 does.

The bezel is of negligible thickness and is adorned with just a tiny "VIZIO" at the bottom-right corner. Screwholes under the panel allow easy mounting of Vizio's QuickFit soundbars (on 55-inch and larger models).

Typical of a budget TV, the VQM65C stands on two plastic feet, one near each end of the set. You'll need a table that's at least about four feet wide, unless you wall mount it (using its 300 x 300 mm VESA standard mounting screw holes). One bonus: You can thread cables through a channel in each foot so they don't visibly dangle down from the screen.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Ports

When it's viewed from behind, the TV features a power-cable connector on the left and all input and output ports on the right. Those include three HDMI 2.1 ports, supporting 120Hz refresh for video sources; however, the panel's full-resolution refresh rate is just 60Hz. It can, however, show video games at 120fps at one-quarter the panel's resolution—1080p HD. With a relatively low input lag of 9.9 milliseconds, this TV has some gaming potential.

TVs of this size typically have four HDMI ports, so consider what you'll want to plug into the set to determine if this is enough. One of those HDMI ports supports eARC to output lossless Dolby Atmos audio to a soundbar (such as a QuickFit model) or home theater system. An optical digital audio SPDIF output is also provided.

There's a USB 2.0 port to load images from a USB stick or power a streaming stick if you don't care for the Vizio OS interface. (I do that at home with an older Vizio model and a Roku stick.) There's no LAN port, which has become rather vestigial by now, but the set has up-to-date dual-band Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax and Bluetooth headphone capability. An RF-in port connects to a built-in ATSC 1.0 tuner, which doesn't support the latest resolution and dynamic range broadcast standards (so it's limited to 1080i resolution and standard dynamic range).

How we test TVs at Tom’s Guide

We follow a standard testing protocol for every TV we review at Tom's Guide. Our benchmarks include a series of technical and subjective tests designed to rate the set's performance. For our technical tests, we set the TV to its most accurate out-of-the-box mode — for the Vizio VQM, that's Calibrated Dark mode, since the set doesn't offer a Filmmaker mode — and take measurements using a Jeti spectraval 1501-HiRes spectroradiometer, a Klein K10-A colorimeter, a Murideo 8K-SIX-G Metal pattern generator, and Portrait Displays's Calman TV-calibration software. We also use a Leo Bodnar 4K Video Signal Lag Tester for determining the TV's gaming prowess.

Subjective tests vary based on the reviewer but usually include anecdotes from a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and other content reflecting the types of things you may actually want to watch on the TV. For a more detailed look at what we do and how we do it, check out our "How we test TVs" page.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Performance

My one liner-advice for this TV: Use Sports mode for most content, especially in a bright room, and Calibrated Dark mode for darker films viewed in a dark room.

Yes, Sports mode.

By chance, I started my testing with sports content: Amazon Prime's "NBA Nightcap 4/10: MIN v. HOU." I was mainly looking for how the screen handled rather-fast motion in HD. The TV's 60Hz refresh rate couldn't do much to help sharpen it. Turning on the set's Clear Action feature didn't have a noticeable effect, other than to darken images and add a slight, persistent flicker. (The Hisense QD7, also limited to 60Hz, has more effective motion smoothing.)

Switching to the Sports picture mode also had no effect on motion handling, but it made nearly all material look better — not just sports.

Take, for instance, Netflix's "Bridgerton." Season 1, Ep 3 (17:00-19:00 in) is a torture test, encompassing a full range of skintones and lighting condisions and a riot of colors. The VQM65C preserved detail and color in the light hair of a man standing in direct sunshine, as well as darker-toned women in shadow at an indoor reception. Dresses in pale summer shades of orange, blue, green, and pink appear vibrant without being oversaturated.

For darker films in a darker room, Calibrated Dark is often the right mode. It allowed the VQM65C to reproduce the dynamic range that's essential in “Dune” on Blu-ray. I could clearly see Duke Leto's face as he awakened in a dark bedroom. Afterwards, the screen retained detail in dark and bright areas as the night was pierced by brilliant orange and blue explosions of the Harkonnen invasion.

"Spider-Man: No Way Home" on Blu-ray looked equally good. Faces were clear in the firelight conversation between Peter Parker and Steven Strange, and the Doctor's fiery spell of forgetting glistened against the dark of a basement room.

Out of the box, the VQM65C defaults to Bright mode, which can appear remarkably over-saturated. I saw this in the normally gorgeous video for the Bruno Mars song "Risk It All" on YouTube. The creme-colored walls of the church interior turned orange, as did the face of his bride. This picture mode is rough on all skin tones, but anything darker than pale white really suffers. (I also saw motion stuttering regardless of mode: jerkiness in a scene in which the camera moves in towards Mars, and stuttering as it rotates 90 degrees to show him from the side.)

To get a better sense of color performance, I turned to material I know well — test photos I shot while reviewing cameras for Tom's Guide. Here the conclusion was clear: Sports mode generally provides the best color quality and detail for everyday viewing. In a sun-drenched photo of women by a fountain, Sports mode rendered pleasing skintones in both lighter and darker complexion.

In a softer-lit photo of a woman sitting on a bench, switching to Sports mode brought out detail in her face that had been washed out in Bright and Calibrated modes. Images in Bright mode looked overexposed and oversaturated (sometimes too orange, sometimes too blue). Calibrated mode continued to make things sallow.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Performance and test results

*As measured in Filmmaker mode ("Calibrated Dark" for the VQM65C)

Instrument tests back up much of what I saw, especially a measurement called Delta-E. It calculates how far off colors are from what they should be (based on the test signal we send to the TV). In Bright mode, the Vizio's Delta-E is 13.7, above (thus worse than) the average of 10.3 in the default mode for over 100 TVs we've tested going back to 2022. (They range from 5.52 — quite good — to 26.18.)

Delta-E is 4.6 in Calibrated Dark mode (the most accurate), well above the average of 2.48 for all TVs tested in their best mode — and at the point where even people who aren't color obsessed might notice. (The range for all models is 0.84 to 6.98; the Hisense QD7 comes in at 1.75.) We measured the simple Calibrated mode at 5. We do not usually test TVs in Sports mode, however, so we don’t have that data to report.

In terms of brightness, you’re looking at a mediocre peak HDR luminance of 781 nits in Calibrated Dark mode in our lab tests (based on the 10% window method). The average of comparable measures for other TVs we've tested is 1,472 nits, all-time, and 1,637 for models from 2025 and 2026. (It's not out of step for models in this price range, though. The rival Hisense QD7 is at 659 nits.) This performance is a sign that the full-array Mini-LED backlight with local dimming is doing its job, even with a modest 180 dimming zones for the 65-inch model.

The brightness deficit shows up in non-HDR content, such as the digital restoration of "8½," Fellini's 1963 black-and-white surrealist film. Details are hard to make out during an early scene (about four minutes in) set in a darkened bedroom. We measured just 219 nits standard dynamic range (SDR) brightness in Calibrated Dark mode, vs. an average 419 nits for all 2025 and 2026 65-inch LCD TVs reviewed.

However, a subsequent outdoor scene in "8½" displays well, including just a bit of expected warmth in the white tones of an old film. The TV also smoothes out a difficult long panning shot of a garden party well, using frame doubling to take the 24fps film rate up to 48Hz playback.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Audio

The Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K has the bare minimum audio power for a TV today: two 10-Watt speakers. It performs pretty well given those constraints. In "Risk It All," the bright trumpet notes and resonant plucking of the guitar came through clearly, as did Mars's soft singing. (I didn't discern a difference between the standard Surround sound and Virtual:X settings.)

As is usually the case, it's bass-heavy content that strains small sound systems. Audio sounded muffled and flat in the roar of sounds in the final season, final episode of Netflix's "Stranger Things." I got some improvement by pushing the volume from the standard 25 of 100 setting I usually test in up to 35, and by turning up bass from the neutral 0 level to +6, on a scale that ranges from -12 to +12. This didn't do much to improve clarity, though, especially in voices.

It's pretty standard advice to say that, if you care about audio (especially bass), you should consider adding one of the best soundbars or home theater speakers to your TV. That's certainly the case here.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Interface and remote

There's a reason I added a Roku stick to my own (older) Vizio TV. Vizio OS is rather busy, very anxious to sell you stuff, and includes some annoying "features." This model is carried by Walmart and Sam's Club, and you need to set up a Walmart account to get it working. The last thing I want is another online account collecting data on me. (Vizio is not unique in this respect, however. I had to disable a bunch of settings on the TCL QM8L TV with Google TV.)

My colleagues and I were driven batty by Scenic Mode. Leave the TV alone long enough and it slips a full-screen reel of nature footage and ambient music that, true to Vizio's ad-supported instincts, eventually pipes in commercials you can't disable — unless you turn off the whole feature, which is on by default.

On the positive side, settings were pretty easy to navigate via a mini-menu that pops up on the upper left of the screen. You can toggle directly through key settings like picture mode, or click into more-detailed menus. Vizio OS comes with over 300+ built-in apps and features WatchFree+, a free, ad-support platform with 300+ live channels (local news, sports, movies, gaming, music) plus over 30,000 on-demand titles.

The remote includes handy shortcut buttons to services including Disney+, Netflix, Prime Video, Paramount+, and WatchFree+ … which I kept accidentally launching when I meant to tap the select button in the center of the four-way navigational pad. It also supports voice input. Vizio also provides an intuitive smartphone app that largely mimics the physical remote, which is helpful if you ever misplace it.

Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K Review: Verdict

Vizio mostly got it right on this TV: big screen, low price, respectable image quality. Quirks aside (annoying OS, bizarre picture settings), it provides a good budget viewing experience.

For a step up, I recommend the Hisense QD7 over the Mini-LED Quantum 4K despite its slightly lower brightness in HDR. It delivers a better visual experience with more accurate colors. If you’re shopping for a room with lots of ambient light, you might have to splurge on one of TCL’s more mid-range Mini-LED models like the TCL QM7K that offers significantly higher brightness above 1,000 nits. (To get this quality at a comparable price though, you may have to drop down to a 55-inch screen.)

If you hunger for a big screen but don't have the stomach for a higher price, the 65-inch Vizio VQM65C is a solid choice. However, during sales events like Black Friday, the Vizio Mini-LED Quantum 4K is a prime candidate for big price drops and will become an even better value. Keep an eye on its sticker price as we head into the latter half of the year — your wallet will thank you for your patience.

It's officially NEW TV season, which means a slew of brand-new models are rolling out to stores. As new TVs take their place on the shelves, sets from last year are getting some pretty steep discounts. This can make shopping for a TV rather complicated.

The newest affordable OLED to hit the scene is the LG B6, the brand's entry-level OLED for 2026. The full scope of the B6 series has yet to be revealed, since some of the sizes aren't yet available. It's also not on sale yet. The LG B5, meanwhile, is LG's entry-level OLED TV from 2025. It's currently available in more sizes than the B6, and you'll also pay far less for this year-old set.

If you're trying to figure out which LG OLED is worth your hard-earned cash, it's worth taking a look at their performance, specs and features. Here's what you need to know.

LG B6 vs LG B5: Specs compared

In most ways that matter, the B6 and B5 are very similar sets. Both offer the same selection of enhanced HDR formats (including Dolby Vision). Both arrive with similar smart TV software, and they each support HDMI 2.1 across all four primary inputs.

Currently, however, the B6 is readily available at retailers in just three sizes: 65, 77 and 83 inches. LG lists a 48-inch version of the B6 on its website, but you might have a difficult time tracking it down. The B5, on the other hand, is available in 48-, 55-, 65-, 77- and 83-inch variants across a wide range of retailers.

I suspect that both a 48- and a 55-inch version of the B6 will be made available soon. For now, the LG B5 offers a more versatile range of size options.

Winner: LG B5

LG B6 vs LG B5: Design

Pictured above is the back of the LG B6's panel. From this angle, you can get a good look at the TV's pair of wide-set, angular feet. It's a slimmer TV than most LED-based models, (which is unsurprising given the panel technology), but folks who are familiar with LG's higher-end OLED TVs might clock the B6's slightly less-premium feel.

The back of the panel features a visually pleasing visual texture that resembles marble. It's a nice touch, despite the fact that you're unlikely to see it very often.

Next, let's take a look at the overall design of last-year's B5. You'll find that it looks almost identical.

The B5 (pictured above) features a similar set of feet as the B6, but they're more boomerang-shaped than those of the B6.

Each TV's selection of ports are positioned the same across both TVs. They reside primarily n a side-facing cutout along the chassis of the B6 and B5.

Both sets arrive with a similar version of of LG's remote control. It still features the same motion-activated, Wii-like controls you'll find on older versions of the Magic Remote, but the updated design is slimmer and features fewer buttons.

The B6 and B5 are as similar on the outside as they are on the inside. Each set offers roughly the same amount of soundbar clearance, and both are stylishly dressed with an interesting texture on the back.

Due to their design similarities, this category is too close to call. Both the B6 and B5 are well-designed TVs with remote controls that get the job done.

Winner: Draw

LG B6 vs LG B5: Performance

Before we dive into which of these OLEDs is the better-performing TV, let's compare their test results. All of the readings below were taken while each TV was set to LG's Filmmaker mode.

I'll cut right to the chase: These are very, very similar TVs when it comes to overall picture quality.

The B6 is a slightly brighter TV in both SDR and HDR, but I ought to emphasize just how marginal the difference is between HDR highlight brightness at 632 versus 780 nits. Thanks to some nifty picture processing magic, LG is able to squeeze more of an visual impact out of the B6's specular highlights this year, but most viewers are unlikely to notice outside of a direct, side-by-side comparison.

Interestingly, our test results indicate that the B5 offers better color volume than its successor despite the latter's added brightness. Once again, though, I need to stress that the gap is quite small.

Both entry-level OLEDs arrive with fantastic out-of-the-box color accuracy in Filmmaker mode. Similarly, their input lag measurements are tremendously low.

Thanks to the built-in benefits of OLED technology, both the B6 and the B5 are capable of perfect black levels and pixel-level dimming. Conveniently, they also offer wider viewing angles than you'll find on similarly priced, LED-based TVs.

I've seen both of these TVs up close. I've watched a ton of content on both. Thanks to slightly higher brightness and improvements to LG's picture processing year over year, the B6 is the better-performing TV. But it's real close, and you ought to keep that in mind when the time comes to make a decision.

Winner: LG B6

LG B6 vs LG B5: Smart platform and features

These TVs are built around LG's webOS smart platform, and although they're different versions of the software out of the box, they're virtually the same in most of the ways that matter to the average viewer.

Compared to the zippy, easy-to-navigate interface of both Roku and Google TV, webOS doesn't feel as frictionless. However, if all you need is a reliable way to access Netflix, HBO Max and other popular streaming apps, webOS is fine.

As mentioned, both the B6 and B5 come with four HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs, and both sets top out at 4K/120Hz support. In other words, they can take advantage of the highest 4K spec available on Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 Pro. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and LG's Game Optimizer mode are accounted for, too.

There are minor differences from one version of webOS to the next, but nothing game-changing.

Winner: Draw

LG B6 vs LG B5: Verdict

If, for some reason, the thought of buying a 2025 model in 2026 leaves a sour taste in your mouth, not much I can say will sway you away from the B6. Its slightly brighter presentation and updated processor are a nice bonus, indeed.

But more sizes options for the B6 are, presumably, still on the way. In addition, the 65-inch LG B6 is $1,899 at Best Buy. That price will surely drop as the year progresses, but right now, it's comin' in hot.

Meanwhile, the 65-inch LG B5 is just $1,199 at Best Buy — a full $700 less than the B6. Is the B6's slightly brighter picture worth $700 to you?

More from Tom's Guide

• LG B6 OLED TV review
• LG B5 OLED TV review
• Does your OLED TV look funny? Here are 5 common issues and how to diagnose them

The World Cup is underway! The world's best teams have traveled to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to face off in the most popular sporting event on the planet.

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If you're shopping for a TV in 2026, there's a chance you'll find yourself choosing between two types: OLED and Super Quantum Dot (SQD) Mini-LED.

OLED TVs have been available for over a decade, while SQD Mini-LED TVs just made it to shelves this year. Several brands make and sell OLED TVs, while only one brand — TCL — offers SQD sets.

Despite the fact that OLED has been around the block much longer, both technologies come with their own strengths and weaknesses. If you're hoping to buy the best TV for your viewing habits and home setup, I can help.

OLED: strengths and weaknesses

Known as one of the top TV technologies available today, OLED has been compelling people to ooh and ahh for as long as I've been covering the TV industry. The key to its success is contrast.

While LED-based TVs rely on a dedicated backlight either behind the screen or along its edges, every single pixel in an OLED display is self-illuminating. This has a tremendously positive impact on picture quality.

Without the need for a backlight, OLED TVs can produce perfect black levels, entirely free of the hazy light bloom and haloing effect often seen on LED TVs. This has the added bonus of making bright objects appear even brighter.

Since every pixel is self-lit, the overall contrast of an OLED-driven picture is off the charts. Tiny clusters of bright pixels practically pop off the screen, infusing the image with the depth and clarity your eyes are used to seeing during everyday life.

The most affordable OLED TVs are pricier than the cheapest LED TVs, while high-end OLEDs typically cost at least a few thousand bucks. This is one of the reasons why many folks — TV-reviewers and shoppers alike — gravitate towards mid-range OLED TVs like the LG C5.

OLED TVs aren't for everyone, however. While they often come with excellent color volume, bright, premium LED TVs tend to come with purer, bolder color. Some quantum dot-enhanced OLED TVs (like the Samsung S95F) can go toe to toe with the most-colorful LED TVs, but by and large, LED-based sets in upper price ranges pack punchier palettes.

And, while OLED TVs have made great strides in recent years when it comes to overall brightness, they still have quite a long way to go. This is especially true when it comes to full-screen brightness; on average, LED TVs have an overall brighter presentation, as OLEDs need to regulate their heat more diligently.

Super Quantum Dot: strengths and weaknesses

SQD TVs are a new spin on the tried-and-true combo of Mini-LED backlighting and quantum dot color. Despite many similarities between good ol' fashioned QLEDs and SQD TVs, the latter promises — and, according to recent test results, delivers — brighter, purer color than what you'll usually see on an LED TV with garden-variety quantum dots.

The Super Quantum Dot recipe is comprised of several ingredients: reformulated quantum dots; a new, advanced color filter to harness those quantum dots; and some onboard, software-based algorithms designed to keep colors consistent. (TCL, the brand behind SQD technology, refers to that last bit as its Advanced Color Purity Algorithm.)

We've had the luxury of testing two SQD TVs so far in 2026 —the TCL X11L and the TCL QM8L — and the results confirm that SQD technology is pushing brighter, bolder color compared to most quantum dot-equipped LED TVs. Both SQD TVs we've tested are also among the brightest we've tested all year, too. This makes sense, as they're both premium Mini-LED displays first and foremost.

In terms of cost, SQD TVs start at a lower price as you might think: The QM8L, for instance, just went on sale for $1,799, which is comparable to many OLED TVs.

As Mini-LED TVs, you can expect the same tradeoffs with SQD as you would with any run-of-the-mill Mini-LED set: Its viewing angles aren't quite as accommodating as OLED; it's not capable of perfect black levels unless large swaths of the backlight array are completely dimmed; and pixel-level dimming is impossible.

It's also worth point out that, so far, we've only tested a handful of SQD TVs, and they all happened to be high-end Mini-LED-based sets with excellent brightness and backlight control. This might not be the case with a lower-end SQD set.

OLED vs SQD: outlook

Just as I would recommend a mid-range or high-end Mini-LED TV to someone looking for a bright, colorful picture that will hold up even in sunny living rooms, I recommend SQD TVs to folks looking for a bright, eye-catching presentation.

OLED TVs, on the other hand, are perfect companions for viewers who value an accurate, cinematic picture that will likely look jaw-droppingly good regardless of what's on the screen. These premium TVs tend to be luxury purchases precisely because of their picture quality, so keep that in mind if you're shopping for the best possible performance.

While the brightest OLED TVs are often the most expensive, even mid-range OLEDs (like the aforementioned LG C5) are bright enough for most spaces. However, if you do most of your viewing in a sun-soaked living room and want your TV to rise to that particular occasion, an SQD Mini-LED TV is the safer bet.

More from Tom's Guide

• Here comes ‘Super Quantum Dot’ — why you need to watch out for this buzzword if you’re shopping for a TV in 2026
• I tested TCL’s $8,000 SQD Mini-LED TV — here's my verdict
• I’m a TV expert, and these are 5 signs your OLED TV might be on its way out

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

When I reviewed the LG C6 OLED back in April, one of my main gripes with it was that, while a brilliant TV in its own right, it was a very marginal improvement over the previous year’s C5 model. So marginal that I recommended waiting for a price drop, or even buying an LG C5 over a C6 to save some dough and get a very similar TV out of the deal.

LG’s most recent addition to their B Series OLEDs, the B6, does not have that same problem.The company’s latest mid-range OLED is a noticeable improvement over its predecessor, and it stacks up quite well against its more powerful (and expensive) sibling in the C6. In fact, it even performs better in one key category over the C6, which I’ll get to later.

The B6 isn’t the best TV of 2026 — it still bears some of the same issues I had with the C6, like an unimpressive speaker system and some AI features that don’t necessarily improve the experience. But at this price, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better-looking OLED with as many features as the LG B6 brings to the table.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Price and release date

The B6 is a mid-budget option from LG’s 2026 lineup of OLED TVs. It was released on March 18, 2026, and is currently available at participating retailers.

Below is a breakdown of the available sizes and pricing (we reviewed the 65-inch model):

• LG B6 OLED (65-inch): $1,999
• LG B6 OLED (77-inch): $2,799
• LG B6 OLED (83-inch): $4,499

If you want to upgrade from the B6, the next step up would be LG’s C6 OLED, which comes in at $2,699 for the 65-inch model and reaches up to $5,299 for the 83-inch C6H model. The B Series is definitely the most budget-friendly of the brand’s offerings, though. So if you’re looking for LG’s most accessible OLED option, you’ve found it.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Design

The LG B6 OLED shares a lot of the same DNA as the C6 in terms of design: It has the same thin,1.8-inch profile, as well as that faux-marble look that LG TVs have become synonymous with. The finish did feel a bit less sturdy than the C6’s — that TV had a back panel that was flat and felt more durable to the touch — but it looks really slick and will fit seamlessly into any living room, regardless of personal style.

One thing that the B6 unfortunately doesn’t share with the C6, though, is the brushed metal central pedestal stand that I loved on the C6. Instead, the B6 uses a dual-leg setup, which feels more flimsy and takes up a lot more room on a media console.

It’s not a dealbreaker, but I wish that this was something that carried over from the C Series. Of course, you can also mount the TV if the dual legs aren't for you.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Ports

The LG B6 comes stock with the same suite of ports as the C6: four HDMI 2.1 ports (one of them eARC-compatible), two USB-A ports, and an Ethernet connection in case you want to plug in for better internet speeds. There’s also an optical digital audio out port, 3.5mm headphone jack, serial port, and antenna/cable input, as well as support for Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.3.

Overall, it’s a nice variety of ports and should cover most, if not all of your needs. Next time around, though, I would love to see LG take notes from the Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV and include a USB-C DisplayPort. Hisense has officially spoiled me on that front, and I think it should become more standardized as more and more tech makes the switch to USB-C.

How we test TVs

We follow a standard testing protocol for every TV we review at Tom’s Guide. Our benchmarks include a series of technical and subjective tests designed to rate the set’s performance.

For our technical tests, we set the TV to Filmmaker Mode (usually the most accurate out of the box) and take measurements using a Jeti spectraval 1501-HiRes spectroradiometer, a Klein K10-A colorimeter, a Murideo 8K-SIX-G Metal pattern generator, and Portrait Displays’s Calman TV-calibration software. We also use a Leo Bodnar 4K Video Signal Lag Tester for determining the TV’s gaming prowess.

Subjective tests vary based on the reviewer but usually include anecdotes from a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and other content reflecting the types of things you may actually want to watch on the TV. For a more detailed look at what we do and how we do it, check out our “How we test TVs” page.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Performance

During my time with the LG B6 OLED, I watched a variety of films, TV shows, and YouTube videos to get an idea of how it would perform during daily use. I also played a few PS5 titles to judge its gaming performance and features.

Of course, my experience with the B6 was never going to be as eye-popping as the one I had with the C6. The C6 is much brighter (which I’ll talk about in the “test results” section below), especially in HDR mode, but that’s to be expected when comparing a TV to its upgrade pick. So with tempered expectations, I booted the TV up, and I was still very impressed with how great the B6 looked.

What the B6 doesn’t have in brightness, it makes up for in color. Watching “Send Help” was a delight on this TV, from the bright and multicolored sands of the beach, to the lush greens of the island’s flora, to the deep reds of fake movie blood. Both “Blade Runner 2049” and “The Boys” looked similarly great, although the lack of brightness was definitely felt in darker scenes. Still, those colors certainly popped.

I also watched an LG 4K demo video on YouTube, which made a big impression. The depth of color in person was stunning, and the deep blacks within each scene looked just as good as I remember them looking on the C6.

The TV has a variety of picture presets, like Vivid and Filmmaker modes. All of them have their uses, but my preferred mode, Filmmaker, looked the best to me. However, this mode definitely highlights the B6’s brightness struggles compared to the C6, and is best viewed in a dark room. For daytime viewing, I would stick to Standard or Vivid mode for the best balance of brightness and color.

Like the C6, the B6 really excels in the gaming department. The TV’s Game Optimizer mode levels up whatever you’re playing by cutting down on input lag and boosting FPS on both console (4K at 120Hz) and PC, and it works to great effect.

During my review period, I used the Game Optimizer to play Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, and was able to achieve a consistent 120 frames per second, even in the game’s performance ray tracing mode. With VRR turned on, the game felt even better and had zero noticeable screen tearing or input lag. Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight also looked amazing, and ran at a smooth 60 frames throughout gameplay (there was no 120Hz mode available in this game). No matter what I was playing, the B6 was fast, responsive, and full of detail. LG, in my opinion, continues to be the standard-bearer for gaming TVs.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Test results

From our test results, you can see that the LG B6 performs better than the LG B5 and Samsung QN90F when it comes to SDR brightness at 253 nits. But, it’s outmatched when put against the C6 and its max brightness of 343 nits.

So yes, it’s not as bright as the C6, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. When you look at our Delta-E test results, which is how we measure a TV’s color accuracy (the lower the number, the better), the B6’s 10.58 actually beats the C6’s 11.74. So if you’re not a frequent watcher of 4K/HDR content, you’re going to have a slightly better experience with the B6 right out of the box than you would with the C6.

As expected, in the HDR brightness category, the B6’s max of 695 nits is easily beaten by both the C6 (1,251 nits) and Samsung QN90F (2,109 nits), but still outperforms its predecessor’s 606 nits. So be sure to consider what kinds of content you’ll watch the most on your TV — if you usually stick with SDR, you’re not giving up much by going with the B6 over the C6.

When it comes to gaming, the B6 performs just as good as the C6 in SDR, and has even less input latency (8.9ms) than the C6 (9.1ms) when boosted by the TV’s Game Optimizer mode.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Audio

The LG B6’s speaker setup is unfortunately one of the weakest aspects of the TV. Like most TVs, the B6’s speakers shoot straight back into the wall, which swallows up a lot of detail and volume. It wasn’t too different from the audio experience I had with the C6, but these speakers did sound a little bit more tinny than its counterpart.

Like I say in most of my TV reviews, I think that nine times out of ten, you’ll be better off hooking your TV up with one of the best soundbars to balance out your audio setup. Thank me later.

The B6 does have some AI-enhanced audio features, but I’m really torn on them. There’s a speech mode that does actually assist you in hearing line reads that are buried by poor sound mixing, but the tradeoff is that it makes the low and mid tones sound pretty bad, and washes out all the other noise in a given scene. Unless I seriously needed to hear a piece of dialogue that I was having trouble picking up on, I don’t think I would use this feature all that much.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Interface and apps

Like the LG C6, the B6 also uses webOS 26 as its smart platform, and it was an enjoyable experience throughout. If you’ve used webOS 25, you won’t find too many changes that aren’t AI-centric here, but I still think the layout of the TV’s menus and home screen are really nice. Overall performance of the OS is stellar, too, and I never ran into any bugs like I often do with Samsung’s Tizen OS. Paired with LG’s Magic Remote, the B6’s interface is smooth, fast, and intuitive.

Like I mentioned above, webOS 26 leans much harder into AI features than webOS 25 did, employing Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot to give you more personalized content recommendations. I didn’t really get to spend enough time with the TV to build an algorithm for myself and benefit from those personalized recommendations, but if it’s anything like the C6, they’ll work just fine. AI features aren’t something I personally engage with often, but if you make use of it in your daily life, you’ll probably get some good mileage out of this stuff over time.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Remote

LG’s updated Magic Remote impressed me during my time with the LG C6, and the experience was no different with the B6. In addition to regular buttons, the remote implements a motion-sensing point-and-click function that makes navigation way easier when there are a lot of on-screen options. It felt like I was using a Nintendo Wii controller, but in the best way. The scroll wheel in the center of the remote is also nice to have, and helps you parse through streaming app libraries much faster.

You’ll also find dedicated app buttons for a few popular streaming services, as well as buttons for tweaking settings and inputs. The Magic Remote also features a button that pulls up the TV’s AI functions like speech and picture enhancements. As with the C6, I really like the customizable heart button at the top of the remote that you can program to do whatever you want, from specific apps to actual TV functions. You can even assign the mute function to it, which you may have to because the remote doesn’t have a dedicated mute button. I personally don’t love that, but at least there’s a workaround.

LG B6 OLED TV review: Verdict

At this price, the LG B6 is one of the best OLED TVs you can find. It’s in great company with the C6, boasting even better color accuracy and gaming performance, even though it’s not as bright. Unlike the C6, though, the B6 is a much bigger improvement over its previous model, and not for nothing, it's $800 cheaper.

At the end of the day, whether you upgrade or not, you’re going to get a TV that looks beautiful both in terms of on-screen performance and physical design. And if you’re willing to be patient, you’ll most likely be able to score an even better deal on a B6 OLED later this year.

Sony — maker of some of the best TVs in the world — just now unveiled its 2026 TV lineup, and while it’s later to the party than LG, Samsung, Hisense and TCL, it’s nevertheless making a grand entrance.

This week, the brand officially announced the Bravia 9 II and Bravia 7 II, a pair of follow-ups to the Bravia 9 and Bravia 7 Mini-LED TVs. The originals were among the best-performing Mini-LED TVs in their class, but their successors — which carry the mark two designation — come with Sony’s all-new, True RGB display technology.

Needless to say, the competitive stakes are high. Sony’s rivals have showcased their own spin on RGB LED TVs, too, and pricing on these models have been relatively high. But we were lucky enough to get our hands on the Bravia 7 II for testing, and after poring over the results, it could be my dark horse candidate for the best RGB LED TV for most people in 2026.

Sony Bravia 7 II test results

While we’re still cracking away at our full review, here’s a sneak-peek at how the Bravia 7 II managed in our test lab. For context, I’ve included the test results of both the Bravia 9 II (Sony’s latest flagship True RGB TV) as well as the Sony Bravia 9 (the brand’s previous Mini-LED flagship).

As far as HDR highlight brightness goes, the Bravia 7 II is just under what we measured on the Bravia 9 a few years ago. This is plenty bright for most viewing environments, and if Sony’s picture processing delivers a similar HDR presentation as the flagship Bravia 9, I’ll be thrilled.

HDR brightness is shaping up to be one of the primary distinctions between the Bravia 7 II and the all-new Bravia 9 II. If you’re in the market for a Sony-engineered set and you’re chasing the brightest possible picture, you’ll have to splash out on the Bravia 9 II.

However, when it comes to overall color volume, the Bravia 7 II is right in line with its souped-up, RGB LED-powered sibling. Given that color is the bread and butter of RGB LED technology, it’s heartening to learn that Sony’s entry-level RGB LED TV is cooking with a similar set of ingredients as the brand’s top-shelf model.

And, while I’ll reserve my full judgment for after I’ve had a chance to spend some time with these new TVs, when I look at these test results, I can’t help but see the Bravia 7 II as a slightly stripped-down version of the original Bravia 9. This set was (and still is) one of my favorite Mini-LED TVs ever made, and while the Bravia 7 II isn’t quite as bright, it gets pretty close — all while delivering punchier-looking color.

Sony Bravia 7 II vs Bravia 9 II: pricing and availability

So, let’s say that you decide to go with the Bravia 7 II rather than springing for the flagship-level Bravia 9 II. How much money, exactly, are you saving?

Of the two, the Bravia 7 II is the only one available in sizes below 65 inches. If you’re looking for a 50- or 55-inch TV, the Bravia 7 II is your sole option.

But if you’re choosing between the two at the 65-, 75- or 85-inch level, you stand to save between $1,000 and $2,500 by going with the Bravia 7 II. Make no mistake: The Bravia 7 II’s pricing is on par with the MSRP of mid-range OLED TVs (like the LG C6), but you’re saving a significant amount of cash by choosing the Bravia 7 II over the Bravia 9 II.

Compared to the original Bravia 9 (now a few years old), the Bravia 7 II is a bit pricier at launch. Right now, you can get the 65-inch Sony Bravia 9 for $2,099 at Best Buy. This is much more affordable than it was when it made its debut in 2024, but it’s $500 more than the Bravia 7 II, and the same price as the 55-inch Bravia 7 II.

Sony Bravia 7 II: outlook

As mentioned, we’re still hard at work on our full reviews of both the Bravia 7 II and the Bravia 9 II, so we’re still evaluating other aspects of these TVs’ performance. Until the dust settles, I’m hesitant to make any formal declarations about which TV is a better fit for various viewers.

That said, while the Bravia 9 II is shaping up to be the crown jewel of Sony’s 2026 TV lineup, I must admit that I am mighty excited to spend some quality time with the Bravia 7 II, too. Given Sony’s track record for delivering finely tuned, detail-oriented TVs with top-notch picture processing, the Bravia 7 II might prove to be the all-around best option for people who are curious about RGB LED technology, but who’d rather not shell out for a first-generation flagship.

Of course, Sony will be up against a number of entry-level RGB LED TVs that offer a similar compromise, including the Samsung R85H and the Hisense UR8. How it fares against those sets remains to be seen.

More from Tom's Guide

• I saw Sony's Bravia 9 II up close and it completely shattered my expectations — here’s why it’s the king of RGB TVs
• Samsung's new Micro RGB TV is finally here — but I'd rather buy this OLED instead
• 3 reasons why you shouldn't buy an RGB LED TV in 2026

Powered by True RGB, Sony’s answer to the RGB backlighting revolution sweeping the TV industry, the Bravia 9 II feels like a masterclass in Mini-LED.

But the road here started with the original Bravia 9 and its groundbreaking 22-bit mini-LED driver. As I reported at the time, it was the first processor and backlight pairing I saw capable of producing a raw, yet recognizable image beneath the screen. Sony took that exact same high-precision driver and replaced traditional blue LEDs with individual RGB LEDs, producing the RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro.

I’ve already broken down what that means for True RGB, but now I can tell you what it means in a real TV that may impress enough to attract more than just early adopters.

Sony Bravia 9 II & Bravia 7 II: Price and availability

The Bravia 9 Mark II will be available some time in June and scales from a premium 65-inch model all the way up to a monstrous, luxury 115-inch theater display. Sony is also offering a lower-tier alternative with the Bravia 7 II that skips on Luminous Booster Pro (meaning, it’s not as bright) and the Black Screen Pro anti-glare panel I’ll get into a little later on.

I’m actually surprised by the pricing for the True RGB collection. Sony TVs tend to come with sticker shock, and while they’re by no means cheap, they’re more accessible than I originally expected.

Here’s what makes the Bravia 9 II so great

Visually, two major performance aspects completely blew me away.

With nearly 4,000 nits pushing through the panel, I anticipated at least some degree of light spillage around dark backgrounds. But even in stark contrast scenes, blooming was virtually non-existent. Human eyes naturally bloom a bit anyway when hit with extreme brightness, but looking closely at the panel, there was no actual spillage. I saw further evidence of this control in the beautifully smooth gradations of sky scenes.

Then there’s off-angle viewing. I know I'm frequently guilty of pitting Mini-LED and OLED tech against each other for the sake of storytelling, and off-angle viewing has traditionally been an area of unmatched OLED dominance in that discourse. In the Bravia 9 II, because the colors are coming directly from both the True RGB backlight and the filter, the panel maintains color saturation much farther off-angle compared to traditional Mini-LEDs.

Speaking of OLED, Samsung more or less made anti-glare technology a mainstream fixture on flagship TVs starting with its S95 QD-OLED line. Most manufacturers have followed suit in one form or another, and for Sony, it’s dubbed Immersive Black Screen Pro.

Sony utilizes a “patent-pending nanostructure layer,” claiming its superior to traditional anti-glare solutions currently in the market. I saw it in effect side-by-side next to competitor TVs featuring their own premium anti-glare finishes. Sony’s panel did in fact seem to genuinely absorb the reflecting ambient lights rather than just scattering or dissipating them across the screen like the others.

Sony Bravia 9 II: preliminary test results

Sony is always chasing the performance profile of its BVM-HX3110 $30,000 professional studio mastering monitor in terms of color reproduction and brightness.

We got to run some benchmarks during our hands-on time. I must state that since this is a pre-production unit, these numbers might not perfectly reflect final retail performance, and we will absolutely re-test it thoroughly in our Tom's Guide lab. That said, testing HDR brightness in a 10% window as we do on all TVs, the Bravia 9 II reached 3,990 nits. The BVM-HX3110 masters up to 4,000 nits of brightness, so I guess Sony can say mission accomplished.

We also tested the Bravia 7 II, and it capped at 2078 nits in the same 10% window. While that’s a solid showing, it’s also evident that it’s a step down from the Bravia 9 II experience.

Raw brightness is easy, but controlling it presents massive engineering hurdles. Yet, Sony seems to have it completely under control.

The Bravia 9 II’s design is a thing of beauty

I’m generally in favor of mounting a premium TV like this, but I’d be remiss not to mention the Bravia 9 II’s physical aesthetics: It comes with what Sony calls the Mirage Stand, a base that creates an optical illusion of the TV completely floating, from the right angle.

The lenticular effect also conceals your cables and literally makes them vanish out of sight. It’s a pretty neat trick if you ask me.

For the Bravia 9 II’s audio layout, Sony added an upward-firing beam tweeter in addition to the sound-positioning tweeters on the sides. While the primary speakers and subwoofers are still housed in the back, Sony re-architected the chassis to create more space for air to move inside.

But if you want to add a dedicated sound system, Sony is introducing the Bravia Theater Trio alongside Bravia 9 II. This innovates on traditional quad setups by utilizing a central, more condensed soundbar complemented by separate wireless left and right channels, giving you way more placement flexibility depending on your screen size. You can also optionally add the Rear 9 speakers and Sub 9 subwoofer to complete the theater package.

Sony Bravia 9 II: Outlook

Given the massive jump to True RGB tech and how impressively it performs, $3,600 feels like a fair price to pay. Sony has managed to harness monstrous, near-4,000-nit brightness while calming blooming concerns to virtually zero.

We still need to get official retail units into the lab to verify how these benchmarks hold up and see how it scales all the way up to that massive 115-inch model. But right now, the Bravia 9 Mark II looks like the premium TV to beat this year.

More from Tom's Guide

• 5 mistakes to avoid when setting up an OLED TV
• Should you buy a Micro RGB TV this year?
• I'm a TV expert and this is the one picture mode you should avoid at all costs

OLED TVs are among the best TVs you can buy, but like all TVs, they’re not everlasting. I’ve been covering OLEDs since LG’s first 4K OLED TV hit the market, and while they’re much more durable now than they were over a decade ago, even the best OLED TVs are liable to wear down over time.

Why does it happen? OLED displays harness organic material. This material plays a huge role in what makes OLED technology so stunning, but it’s also why these TVs tend to fail in distinct ways.

When it comes to the telltale signs of an aging OLED — dead pixels, color tinting, dimness and the dreaded OLED burn-in — I’ve seen it all. Here’s what to look out for if you’ve got an aging OLED TV on your hands.

1. Dramatically diminished brightness

For years, the hit on OLED TVs was that they’re not nearly as bright as LED-based TVs. In the decade I’ve spent covering the industry, massive strides have been made in pushing OLED brightness to levels comparable to many high-end LED TVs — at least when it comes to small highlight detail. In terms of full-picture brightness, LED TVs still lead the pack.

Nevertheless, on average, OLED TVs are plenty bright for most living spaces these days. But they’re also susceptible to dimming over time, and because of the organic material in play, it’s likely to be one of the first signs that your OLED is wearing down.

This should not be confused with your OLED’s Automatic Brightness Limiter (ABL), a built-in function that protects the display and prevents burn-in by subtly dimming the picture on occasion. On most OLED TVs, you can often clock the ABL function switching on when there’s a sustained, still image on the screen. It also tends to activate during long sequences in which on-screen content remains relatively unchanged.

2. Dead pixels

While this problem isn’t specific to OLED displays, it’s still a sign of hardware failure. Dead pixels happen when one or more of a display’s millions of pixels stop working.

On OLED TVs, dead pixels appear as dull, gray- or black-colored specks across the image. You’re more likely to spot them during bright scenes.

If dead pixels materialize relatively early on in your OLED-owning tenure, you might be covered under a brand or retailer warranty. That said, they’re more likely to appear with age.

3. Lines of failing pixels

Similar to dead pixels, this issue often manifests as entire columns or rows of failing pixels. In my experience, these lines are brightly lit or off-color rather than completely dead. I should know, since it happened to my OLED TV.

From what I understand (and what I’ve been told), lines like this are often the result of component failure at a deeper level than the screen itself. In my case, the issue had more to do with the hardware inside the motherboard.

In any event, this problem led to the replacement of the entire OLED panel — screen, chassis and all. I was able to do so by way of a warranty, but if you're not covered by a warranty, you might find that replacing the TV is easier and possibly less expensive than repairing it.

4. Color tinting

If certain content appears reddish, bluish or otherwise oddly tinted, you might be looking at a deteriorated panel. Fortunately, this issue is far less prevalent in newer OLED TVs right out of the box, but it’s still one to look out for in OLED TVs that are getting up there in age.

In my travels, OLED color tinting is at its most obvious when muted or gray-colored images are on screen. It’s often quite noticeable during black-and-white content and can appear in large, blotchy columns.

The image above has been specifically photographed and edited to exaggerate the issue, but it was taken while this OLED displayed what was supposed to be an entirely gray screen. It’s also worth noting that the OLED in question is the LG C1, a 2021 model. Since then, I’ve encountered this odd, magenta-colored tinting less and less.

In addition, there’s an altogether separate type of OLED color tinting that isn’t a cause for concern, and that’s a green- or pink-colored tinting during off-axis viewing. If you own an OLED TV from the past several years that shifts white objects into a subtle green- or pink-colored tint when viewing the TV from off to the side, don’t worry about it. This is likely the result of a coating and not a sign for concern.

If your OLED’s color tinting is coming with some interesting shapes or shadows, you might have another issue to contend with: burn-in.

5. Burn-in

Burn-in is a catch-all term that describes the ghostly impression of previously viewed content, now embedded within the display after several hours of use. It's an issue that affects OLED TVs but not LED TVs on account of OLED's use of organic material.

This very real issue has been something of a boogeyman since OLED technology first hit the scene. Fortunately, I have two pieces of good news. The first is that most people don't need to worry about burn-in on account of their viewing habits. The second bit of good news is that, over the last decade, brands have developed plenty of hardware- and software-based defenses to guard against burn-in.

On that first point, unless you spend several hours every day watching the same type of content (or using your OLED TV as a computer monitor), you really don't need to worry about static images burning their way into the screen. You should be on the lookout for things like on-screen logos, news chyrons, sports tickers and the Windows taskbar. If this stuff is on screen for long periods of time, you might have an issue.

And then there are the preventative measures. LG OLEDs, for instance, offer the following options in the OLED Panel Care menu: Pixel Cleaning (which can be run manually or set to an automatic timer), Screen Move (which subtly shifts the display occasionally in order to shake up the pixels) and Adjust Logo Brightness (which automatically detects on-screen logos and throttles their brightness).

You can find similar settings on Samsung and Sony OLEDs, and all of the major OLED-makers come with screensavers, too. The Automatic Brightness Limiter function I mentioned earlier also plays a major role in protecting your OLED TV.

Replacing your OLED TV

If you've determined that the time has come to replace your OLED TV, I'll give you the same piece of advice I give my friends, family and colleagues: If you can't find a good deal on a brand-new TV, shop last year's models.

At the time of publishing, nearly all of the biggest TV brands are rolling out their latest lineups. This means that last-year's sets are at (or close to) their lowest price to date.

For instance, you could spring for the all-new LG C6 OLED and shell out between $2,000 and $2,700 for a 65-inch version. Alternatively, you could pick up the 65-inch LG C5 for $1,299 at Amazon . According to our test results, the C6 is only marginally better than its five-star, award-winning predecessor.

The main takeaway here ought to be that, while OLED TVs are engineered to address their potential weaknesses in a very specific way, they're not more at-risk for failure than LED-based TVs.

Yes, even the best OLED TVs rely on organic material and are more susceptible to overheating than LED TVs. But to put this into perspective, some of the best Mini-LED TVs on the market (and especially newer RGB LED TVs) are packed with all sorts of intricate components that can fail at anytime.

All TVs, regardless of type, get old and eventually fail. The hope is that you're able to extract a good, long life out of them before it's time to move on.

More from Tom's Guide

• I’ve tested countless OLEDs in my career — here are the 5 mistakes to avoid when setting up an OLED TV
• LG evo vs non-evo OLED TVs: What’s the difference and which should you buy?
• I'm a TV expert and this is the one picture mode you should avoid at all costs

Google TV is one of the most popular streaming platforms right now. Not only are there several Google TV-based streaming devices to hoose from, many of the best TVs you can buy come with Google’s software baked in, including Hisense, Sony and TCL.

Google TV is known for its robust app support and its relatively easy-to-use interface. That said, it doesn't put many of its handiest features right up front for all to see. Here are 5 Google TV features you're probably not using but definitely should.

1. Enable apps-only mode for a streamlined home screen

Like all streaming platforms, Google TV is constantly bombarding the user with recommendations for what to watch. If you’d rather have a home screen free of the visual clutter that comes with this content, you might be interested in Google TV’s apps-only mode.

As the name implies, apps-only mode strips away nearly everything from your home screen except your chosen apps. It’s not difficult to access, either.

From the profile selection screen, select Manage accounts. From here, select the profile you’d like to edit.

Scroll down to the Apps only mode toggle and enable it. Afterwards, there will still be a large banner ad on the Google TV home screen, but the rest of the content on the screen will be your chosen collection of apps.

2. Personalize your home screen

If you’d rather not strip away all of Google TV’s recommended content, why not tailor the platform’s suggestions to your preferences?

Navigate to the Manage accounts page from the profile selection screen, then scroll down and select Your services. This allows you to pick and choose which streaming services are included in your recommendations.

With only your chosen services piping-in suggestions on what to watch, your Google TV home screen is less cluttered with unwanted content. It's a nice middle ground for folks who'd rather not do away with recommendations entirely.

3. Unlock Ambient mode to showcase artwork and photos

Need a break from streaming? Google TV comes with a nifty feature that turns your TV into a gallery of artwork or personal photos.

Access the General settings menu and scroll down to System. From the System submenu, select Ambient mode.

From here, you'll have the option of choosing Start now or Ambient mode Settings. Within settings, you can pick and choose from several sources which images are shown. This includes curated works of art as well as your own personal photos.

4. Ping your lost Google TV remote

If you own a Google TV streamer with a dedicated remote control, you've got access to a handy feature that'll help you find it when it inevitably falls between the couch cushions.

From the Settings menu, scroll down and select Remotes & Accessories. This will open a menu of connected accessories, including the Google TV voice remote.

Select Find my remote. Your Google TV streamer's remote control should emit a loud noise.

5. Enable basic mode to simulate the ‘dumb TV’ experience

If you encounter Google TV by way of a smart TV and you'd rather exchange it for a non-smart experience, consider Google TV's basic mode. This will eliminate everything from apps to advertisements, leaving only the devices you've connected to your TV.

To access this mode, you'll need to run Google TV's initial setup process. This means performing a factory reset. Be forewarned: Performing a factory reset will erase all of your personal data, including apps, login information and any changes you've made to the TV's settings.

To do this, open the Settings menu, select the All Settings option, scroll down to the System submenu and select About. From here, you will be prompted to either accept or cancel your decision.

During the Google TV setup (and after you've selected your preferred language and region), you will be given two options: Set up Google TV and Set up basic TV. Choose the latter.

In basic mode, Google TV will be limited to live TV and any external devices. This includes streaming boxes or streaming sticks, gaming consoles, cable boxes and indoor antennas. It's certainly not for everyone, but if you're looking for a stripped-down TV experience, basic mode is worth checking out.

More from Tom's Guide

• Here's why it's hard to find 'dumb TV' in 2026 — and why you shouldn't buy one anyway
• 3 TV settings to change right now if you want your movies to look the way the director intended
• I'm a TV expert and this is the one picture mode you should avoid at all costs

LG’s OLED TVs are some of the most popular and best TVs on the market. However, while many of us would love to have the flagship LG G6 or W6 Wallpaper OLED on our walls, their starting prices of $3,299 and $5,499 make them more of a pipe dream.

That’s why I often recommend the LG C6 and its more affordable little brother, the LG B6 OLED. The latter starts at just $1,999 for a 65-inch screen and, according to our recently conducted test results, is better than its stablemates in one key area.

Here’s what we found out when we ran the set through our test lab.

LG B6 vs C6 OLED test results

*Results measured in a 10% window in Standard mode.

Where the B6 is better than the C6 OLED

Let’s get the obvious facts out of the way first — the LG C6 OLED is brighter, more colorful and, when it comes to 4K/HDR content, a lot more color accurate than the B6 OLED.

But if you’re someone who doesn’t watch a lot of 4K/HDR content and spend most of your time watching cable TV that’s still transmitted in HD/SDR, the B6 OLED is going to offer a slightly better color accuracy right out of the box.

Color accuracy is denoted by that Delta-E score up above and the lower the score is, the more accurate the colors are. In Standard mode, we measured the LG C6 OLED’s Delta-E at a relatively high 11.7387; the LG B6 we tested came in at a noticeably lower 10.5796.

If you really care about color accuracy, however, you’ll probably want to put these TVs into their respective Filmmaker modes to better match what the director intended when they finished color grading. In this mode, the LG B6 also squeaks out a win (1.0362 vs 1.617 on the C6), but it’s worth noting that any difference in a Delta-E under 3 is nearly impossible to distinguish with the naked eye.

If I lost you along the way, the main takeaway from our testing is that the B6 is — surprisingly — more accurate with colors in HD/SDR shows and movies.

HDR, on the other hand, is a different story…

Here’s why you still might want to buy a C6 OLED instead

Of course, as you can see from the chart above, the B6 isn’t better than the C6 in every category — in fact, in most categories the C6 is still the better overall TV.

As our tests prove out, the C6 has a wider color gamut and it’s brighter across the board.

That’s going to matter for folks who don’t have a perfectly light-controlled dark room. The added brightness will also make specular highlights (like bursts of gunfire or explosions) pop a lot more compared to the dimmer B6 model.

I’d hazard a guess and say that the C6 is going to do a better job upscaling video from HD to 4K and dealing with color banding, too, thanks to its higher-end processor.

Last but not least, the 65-inch LG C6 OLED is currently on sale for the same price as the 65-inch B6 OLED. That's reason enough to go for the more advanced C6 model.

Give it a few months and the LG B6 OLED will settle into a lower price (usually that's around Black Friday and Cyber Monday).

If 65 inches is too much screen, keep an eye out for the inevitable 55-inch B6 that will likely go on sale later this year and, if last year's B5 OLED is any indication, an even-smaller, Best Buy exclusive 48-inch model . In previous years, these OLED TVs were on sale for under $700, so they're an incredible value.

More from Tom's Guide

• Matte vs glossy OLED TV screens: What should you buy in 2026?
• In the market for an OLED? Here’s my expert guide on shopping for an LG TV in 2026
• We just went hands on with the LG Wallpaper OLED TV — and it's amazingly thin, wireless and actually affordable

My favorite aisle in any electronics store is the TV wall. Looking at how every model looks lined up next to one another just brings me a real sense of joy — despite the majority of them being set to a Dynamic picture mode. (Give me Cinema mode or give me death!)

In an effort to re-create the spirit of the TV wall in the online shopping era, Tom’s Guide is officially opening up our TV & Audio Awards to nominations. If your product can outshine — or out-play — the competition, submit it to our team for consideration.

In the coming months, we’ll highlight the cream of this year’s crop based on our testing across multiple categories including TVs, speakers, headphones, earbuds and AV accessories. We’ll be selecting multiple entries in each category for awards, so there’s more than one opportunity to win.

Award categories

Currently, we’re seeking entries in five major categories: TVs, speakers, headphones, earbuds and AV accessories. We reserve the right to modify these categories based on the submissions — especially if we see a number of similar entries in one category like, say, projectors, that might warrant its own individual award category.

TVs

This one’s pretty straightforward: We’re looking for the best and brightest TVs. From OLEDs to QLEDs, Mini-LEDs and Micro RGBs to QD-OLED and SQDs, we want what’s hip and happening in the world of display technology.

Speakers

Speakers are a deceptively deep category. Sure, you’ve got your traditional multi-channel speakers and stereo systems in there, but you’ve also got Bluetooth portable speakers and soundbars in there as well. If it makes noise and doesn’t sit directly in or on your ears, this is the category award you want to apply for.

Headphones

Headphones come in all weights, sizes and price points. Most of the time we’re sticklers for the creme de la creme of the category. This time, we want to extend the love to smaller brands that may not get as many accolades as the top names in headphones. (Though, those are always eligible for an award as well!) Send us nominations for cheaper headphones that normally get overlooked and flagship killers alike — we’re happy to hear them all.

Earbuds

If the product your pitching goes in your ears, then this category is for you. From budget ’buds to cutting-edge earphones, we want to see (and hear) what’s new in in-ear audio.

AV Accessories

This is the catch-all category for our awards. Some obvious inclusions here might be antennas, TV mounts and universal remotes, but anything and everything else is welcome here if it interacts with your home theater and its electronics. Similarly, projectors can find a home in this category as can AV receivers.

How to enter

Brands can submit products via our online entry form by selecting the appropriate category and following the “Enter Now” buttons on the awards site.

Entry fee: $250 per product, per category

No limit on submissions and products can be entered into multiple categories (additional $250 per category).

Deadline: June 30, 2026

Category winners will be announced at the end of July.

Your TV's picture has started looking a little dull. Colors appear flatter than they used to, dark scenes harder to read; the problem probably isn't your settings. And it almost certainly isn't the best TV you've chosen to invest in.

It's your screen. More specifically, the six months of dust, fingerprints, and airborne grease that have slowly built up across it while you've been incrementally nudging the brightness up and wondering if it's time to upgrade.

This is the insidious thing about screen build-up: it happens slowly enough that your eyes adjust. There's no single moment where it looks dirty. You just gradually end up watching everything through a film of grime and convincing yourself the picture was always that flat.

Clean it once, properly, and the difference is immediate. Best of all, it takes less than two minutes. It's a little annoying, though, because you'll realize how long you've been watching a degraded image without knowing it.

Here's how to do it without damaging the screen in the process.

What you need before starting

Don't grab paper towels and Windex. That is the single fastest way to damage modern screens permanently. Modern TV screens have anti-glare coatings that harsh chemicals strip away, leaving permanent streaks or cloudiness that no amount of future cleaning will fix.

Use microfiber cloths only. These soft, lint-free cloths won't scratch screens and don't leave behind fibers like paper towels do. Keep several on hand: one for dusting, one for cleaning, one for drying.

Make your own cleaning solution with equal parts distilled water and white vinegar. Distilled water prevents the mineral deposits that tap water leaves behind. Vinegar cuts through grease and fingerprints without damaging screen coatings.

Remember to never spray liquid directly onto the screen. Moisture can seep into edges and damage internal components. Always spray onto the cloth first, then wipe the screen.

And, it goes without saying but I'm gonna say it anyway, turn off and unplug the TV before cleaning.

If you happen to have one of those old, boxy TVs...

The same basic rules apply. Unplug it, spray a 50/50 mix of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water onto a microfiber cloth (never the screen directly), and wipe in an S-pattern from top to bottom.

The thicker glass can take slightly more pressure than a modern flat screen, but avoid going above 50% alcohol concentration, as it can degrade the surface over time.

• This smart TV setting is ruining your picture quality — turn it off now
• 3 OLED settings you should've enabled already — they prevent burn-in
• Your TV probably has a microphone in it — here's how to turn it off

Take a trip to the TV aisle of any brick-and-mortar retail shop and you’re bound to see some dazzling pictures. All TVs — from the ultra-affordable to the best TVs you can buy — arrive with a slew of settings enabled by default, and most of them are designed to make the picture look as good as possible under the harsh fluorescent lighting of a big-box store.

The problem is, filmmakers and teams of artists work at length to light, color-correct and edit scenes. Many of these default settings dramatically alter the look and feel of a creator’s work.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with watching the type of picture that makes you happy. But if you want the experience to be closer to what the director intended, take it from a film aficionado and TV expert — these are the three settings to change right away.

1. Disable any and all energy-saving settings

Just about every TV comes with an energy-saving setting enabled by default. This feature leverages a built-in light sensor within the TV that constantly makes adjustments to the screen’s luminance, and it's all dependent upon the ambient lighting conditions of whichever room you're in.

I’ve heard from folks who choose to keep this setting enabled, usually due to their living space or electricity use, and I certainly respect this decision. Personally, I'd rather not have dynamic picture adjustments happening while I’m watching something cinematic.

Many (if not most) of the ambient light sensors I’ve tested throughout the years are wildly inconsistent — they either fluctuate on a delay or fluctuate too severely. It's the last thing I want to notice when immersed in a movie.

If you're looking to disable this feature, you should first check your TV's settings menu for options like Power, Energy or Energy Saving. On some sets, this toggle is located within the TV's Brightness menu. Others keep it in a more generalized submenu (like General Settings).

Be aware, though: On some TVs, the primary energy-saving option is an entire picture mode. These modes are often called Eco or Energy Saving mode. On these sets, I suggest choosing a different mode altogether. And even if your TV doesn't feature a dedicated, eco-friendly picture mode, I still recommend changing picture modes in most cases.

2. Avoid 'Vivid' or 'Dynamic' — choose an accurate picture mode instead

Most of the time, picture modes with names like Vivid or Dynamic offer a brighter presentation with punchy, bold color. This can even be the case with a more generic-sounding picture mode like Standard.

TVs also tend to arrive with their pictures set to modes like Standard, Vivid or Dynamic by default. It's all in service of making them look as eye-catching as possible in a harshly lit retail environment.

Unfortunately, these modes also tend to produce oversaturated colors, an overly cool color temperature and over-sharpened details. It's pretty far from what most artists aim for when shooting and mastering filmic content. For this reason, I recommend choosing a picture mode that more closely targets reference standards used by folks who make movies for a living.

First, check to see if your TV offers something called Filmmaker mode. This setting has been available on LG, Samsung and Hisense TVs for quite some time. TCL recently adopted Filmmaker mode for its TVs, too.

On older Sony TVs, the de-facto mode for picture purists was the brand's Custom picture mode. These days, your best bet on newer Sony TVs is a picture mode labeled Professional.

In my experience, I've found that picture modes carrying names like Cinema, Movie and Theater are usually reliable, too. And, if you have an LG TV that's getting up there in age, you might want to check out ISF Expert.

If your TV offers versions of these more-accurate modes that include the words “Bright,” “Day” or “Home” — like Theater Day or Cinema Home — you can expect them to be on the brighter side. These are the modes I'd recommend if you value reference accuracy but still want to eke out more brightness.

3. Turn down (or disable) motion smoothing

Ever wonder why your TV looks weird? Do you sometimes feel like its picture resembles one you might find at a pub or in a hotel room? There’s a good chance motion smoothing is to blame.

Motion-smoothing enhancements — often called Action Motion, TruMotion, MotionFlow or Auto Motion Plus — are supposed to make motion on your TV look more fluid and natural.

Unfortunately, they often arrive in an over-cranked state right out of the box. The bizarre look (which is especially noticeable during movies) has come to be known as the "soap opera effect."

The simplified explanation for this effect is that motion-smoothing settings are interpolating extra frames to push cinematic content beyond the 24 frames-per-second rate in which it was originally shot. The result is an altogether different presentation than what the filmmakers intended.

Adjusting these settings comes down to the make and model of your TV. Some TVs offer granular motion-enhancement settings in the form of sliders rather than on/off toggles, and these are better suited for getting your motion handling dialed-in to your liking. If you only have a basic toggle at your disposal, I recommend turning these settings off altogether.

Sports broadcasts aren't as negatively affected by some motion-related settings (like Blur Reduction), in large part because most are broadcast at 60fps.

Remember: Very few TVs look their best right out of the box. This is especially true if you want to get as close as possible to reference accuracy. Taking a few moments to make these adjustments might not make your $300 look like a $3,000 model, but it can make a sizable improvement to whatever picture you're working with.

More from Tom's Guide

• What is Filmmaker Mode? Here's why you should use this picture-perfect setting
• I'm a TV expert and this is the one picture mode you should avoid at all costs
• Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+ Advanced will change how you watch movies at home — but here’s why you don’t need them in 2026

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?

As we speak, the biggest TV-makers in the game are shipping their latest (and in some cases greatest) models to retailers and customers all over the world. But if you take a scroll through the listings of major retailers, you’re bound to notice a mix of both new TVs and models released last year.

To make matters more complicated, the year-old sets are almost always cheaper than the models replacing them. In some cases, sets from two years ago linger long into the calendar year.

With so many options at varying price points, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Having been covering this industry for over a decade, I’m here to help.

Last-year’s TVs offer a similar experience for a much lower price

To keep things simple, let’s compare two TV series separated by a year: the LG C5 and C6 OLED.

Year after year, LG’s mid-range, C Series OLEDs are massively popular due to their excellent picture quality, ample features and lower price compared to higher-end OLEDs. The C6 made its debut about a month ago while the C5 has been on shelves for a year. Here’s how their performance stacks up.

These are very similar TVs. The C6 offers a slightly brighter picture (particularly as it relates to HDR highlights), but most folks would be hard pressed to notice the difference outside of a careful, side-by-side comparison.

You might be wondering about their features. These, too, are almost identical year over year. The C6 supports 4K gaming at up to 165Hz while the C5 tops out at 144Hz, but this spec is rather niche in that it only pertains to people who plan on plugging in a gaming PC.

In fact, the biggest difference between the 2025 C5 and the 2026 C6 is that the 77- and 83-inch variants of the latter are dubbed the C6H and come with an altogether different type of OLED display.

However, let’s assume that you’re not in the market for a 77- or 83-inch screen. In this scenario, the C5 and C6 offer a mighty similar experience.

Now, LG wouldn’t necessarily agree with this; there are software-based nuances to account for, and the C6 offers some new features here and there that, if we’re being technical about it, differentiates the C6 from the C5.

But I’ve seen both of these TVs up close, and I’m here to tell you that, to the average person, they’re nearly the same. Having been on shelves for a year longer, the C5 is about half the price as the C6 at the 65-inch size point. (You can buy a 65-inch LG C5 for $1,399 at Amazon, but a 65-inch LG C6 is on sale for $2,699 at Best Buy.)

For these reasons, I’ve been practically shouting from the rooftops at people to buy the C5 over the C6.

This has been the nature of the industry for as long as I’ve been covering it — new TVs are released, last-year’s models assume the role of The Better Deal.

Sometimes a set will come along that represents a significant leap ahead of its predecessor, but even in these cases, the newer model is rarely worth the higher cost upon release.

How old is too old for a discounted TV?

The math starts to get fuzzier when looking at TVs from two years prior. You should approach these discounted models differently, as they’re already relatively deep into their software-update timeline.

Look at it this way: If you buy a 2025 TV, the first software update you install will almost certainly fix some performance-related problems that were present when it first hit the market. From there, it’s reasonable to expect several additional years of support, depending on the maker.

LG has promised five years of webOS updates for its smart TVs, so LG TV-owners will receive major software updates well into the TV's lifespan.

According to Samsung's website, in addition to basic bug fixes, most of its TVs will receive major updates for "about two years."

If you choose a 2024 TV, you're potentially costing yourself a couple years of additional software support. This might not be an issue if you foresee yourself replacing this model relatively soon, but if your goal is to wring as much time out of your next TV as you can, you're better off going for the 2025 set.

Besides, TV prices don’t drop forever. It’s harder to find new, unopened 2024 TVs than it is to find 2025 models, and in most cases, the money you’re saving isn’t as substantial. Released in 2024, the LG C4 was (and still is) a terrific TV, but at the time of publishing, the 65-inch LG C4 is $1,192 at Amazon and there are only four left in stock. Unless $200 in savings matters more to you than an extra year of software updates, I recommend the C5.

2026 TVs: outlook

Time comes for all TVs, though; today’s full-priced set is tomorrow’s bargain. Come next spring, the LG C6 will be a much more sensible choice than whatever mid-range OLED replaces it. TVs that recently made their debut (like the C6) will be much cheaper during the holiday-shopping season later this year, and at that point, you might decide that the price gap between the C5 and C6 is narrow enough not to matter anymore.

Not all TVs can fit so squarely in this box, either. Ultra-affordable TV prices don’t shed several hundreds of dollars over the course of a year because they cost much less to begin with. (If you're looking for the best budget TVs, we've got you covered.)

2026 is also the inaugural year for RGB LEDs — an entirely new type of TV that was more or less inaccessible to the average consumer in 2025. If you’re intrigued by this technology, you’ll have to shell out for a Hisense UR9, a Samsung R95H or any number of RGB LED TVs launching throughout the year. Such is the way of being an early adopter.

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
• Samsung's new Micro RGB TV is finally here — but I'd rather buy this OLED instead

With Tim Cook moving on after what's arguably one of the most impressive runs any tech CEO has ever had, Apple is about to get a new leader in the form of John Ternus. Ternus has been at the company for 25 years, spending most of that time deep in Apple's hardware engineering.

So where does that leave Apple TV? Despite being one of the best streaming boxes out there, it's a product that's always felt forgotten. Meanwhile, iPhones, Macs and iPads get all the attention.

With a hardware-first CEO running things and Apple seemingly rethinking its approach to the home, there are genuine reasons to believe the Apple TV might finally get some love. But there are also reasons not to get too excited.

John Ternus: hardware nerd

Ternus isn't someone who's climbed the ladder through finance, marketing or operations. On the contrary, he's a hardware person through and through. In fact, his entire Apple career has been about getting involved with the engineering and manufacturing of physical products.

It's easy to look at streaming devices and think they're simple compared to something like an iPhone. In actuality, building these devices means navigating a surprisingly tangled set of decisions around chips, thermal management, connectivity and manufacturing.

Ternus has been dealing with exactly those kinds of challenges across Apple's full product line for more than two decades. He knows the tradeoffs inside and out, and he’s made this trades for previous Apple TV boxes — arguably the best streaming devices out there.

To be clear, having a hardware-focused CEO doesn't automatically make every product better. However, it could certainly make the process of hardware decision-making more efficient. Whether those decisions actually result in a more compelling Apple TV, though, is a separate conversation.

Apple is already leaning into the smart home space

In recent years, Apple has extended its reach into the smart home through products like the HomePod and the HomePod 2. But both the HomePod and the Apple TV seem to get forgotten — at least compared to other Apple products that get annual refreshes. Sure, you could argue that the Apple TV doesn't need a chip bump, but regardless, rumors indicate Apple is planning a renewed push into the smart home.

Now, that doesn't automatically mean that the Apple TV itself will get more attention. Most of the rumors surround things like a HomePod with a display and potentially even a smart doorbell, but if Apple is indeed pushing deeper into the home, perhaps we'll see other kinds of new products, like an Apple TV soundbar, or even a cheaper Apple TV dongle.

Apple's been down this road before with HomeKit and the HomePod, and the results were mixed at best, of course. But there's a real difference between the smart home being a pet project for some mid-level team and having the CEO personally invested in making it work. Conviction at the top changes things.

The Apple TV has a great track record

Despite a relative lack of upgrades, Apple TV has long been considered the best consumer streamer, and for good reason. Yes, it's more expensive than others from the likes of Roku, and you could argue that streamers in general are on the way out given the fact that most TVs have smart platforms built right into them. That said, if you want a powerful, smart TV platform that integrates with your Apple account, the Apple TV is still the way to go.

It's also technologically advanced. The A15 chip makes the Apple TV 4K feel much faster and more responsive than most other platforms, and the tvOS operating system feels a far more polished than most of the competition.

That's before even mentioning how well it works with things like the HomePod or AirPods. I often use AirPods with the Apple TV to avoid waking up others in my home. When it comes to high-end streaming devices, there's arguably no competition to the Apple TV.

That raises an important question: Why update a product that's head and shoulders above the competition? For this reason, I can easily envision Apple expanding the Apple TV lineup rather than simply updating it.

Perhaps the key to all of this is Siri. Yes, Apple has lagged others when it comes to using generative AI for its smart assistant, but that's seemingly going to change soon, with a Google Gemini-powered version of Siri.

If Apple is able to finally deliver an all-new, powerful Siri, why wouldn't it want that Siri to be more present in the home, too? That could come through new HomePods, sure, but other kinds of speakers, too — the sort that companies like Sonos currently make. The Sonos Arc Ultra is consistently rated one of the best soundbars you can get. I could see Apple wanting to take a shot at that.

Nothing is certain

It's probably worth tempering expectations, of course. Rumors of Apple's push into the smart home aside, Ternus himself is unlikely to change things overnight. After all, anything released in the next two years or so would have already been under development since before Ternus took over.

Plus, as head of one of the largest companies in the world, he'll have plenty on his plate already. If Ternus is spending his days wrestling with AI strategy, managing iPhone margins and charting a course for the future of the Vision Pro, the Apple TV could still wind up further down the priority list than its fans would hope.

The fact is, we have no idea if a next-gen Apple TV is in active development, or if Apple plans home theater-related products other than the Apple TV in the future. But the pieces are in place for the Apple TV to get a meaningful lift under Ternus.

Apple TV fans have more reason for hope right now than they've had in a long time — but keeping expectations in check until we see what actually ships is the smart move.

More from Tom's Guide

• I interviewed John Ternus right before he was named Apple’s next CEO — here’s the 5 quotes that stuck with me
• Apple TV 4K is still the best streaming box when it comes to privacy
• Apple has reportedly 'stopped work on the Vision Pro' — here's what we know

The C6 OLED is LG's newest, mid-range OLED for 2026. It's the latest in a long line of popular, award-winning OLEDs that offer incredible picture quality and an array of extra features for less than the cost of a higher-end OLED TV.

The Hisense UR9 is the brand's first flagship-level RGB LED TV. It leverages an all-new type of TV technology known as RGB LED, the advantages of which are high brightness and better color volume than run-of-the-mill Mini-LED TVs.

One of them offers mid-range-level OLED performance while the other — Hisense's top-shelf TV for 2026 — promises bright, eye-popping color. Now's an especially interesting time to be deciding between these two TVs, as the Hisense UR9 was just heavily discounted almost immediately after making its debut. Here's how the C6 and UR9 compare — from performance to features and price.

LG C6 vs Hisense UR9: specs compared

First, let's chat about the C6's size availability. In addition to the sizes listed above, the C6 is also available in 77- and 83-inch versions. However, these sizes are classified as an altogether different model: the LG C6H. This means if you're considering a 77- or 83-inch C6, you'll technically have to spring for the C6H OLED.

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, fanciest RGB Tandem OLED. The 42- to 65-inch versions of the C6, on the other hand, leverage a standard WOLED display. It's still a fantastic set of hardware, but it's worth knowing the difference between the two panel types.

The UR9, meanwhile, is currently only available in 65-, 75- and 85-inch sizes. There's a gigantic, 100-inch version of the TV on its way soon, but at the time of publishing, this version isn't available to purchase yet.

Although all of the main ports on both the C6 and UR9 are of the high-bandwidth, HDMI 2.1 variety, the UR9 is limited to three HDMI inputs while the C6 carries the standard set of four. The UR9 makes up for this somewhat with an added USB-C port, but keep this in mind if you own several HDMI-compatible devices.

Both TVs support Dolby Vision, but like most Hisense TVs, the UR9 also supports the royalty-free format, HDR10+. Of the two, Dolby Vision is more widely available among streaming platforms and physical media.

Like all LG OLEDs, the C6 does not support ATSC 3.0 support. The UR9, on the other hand, does include this feature. It allows over-the-air broadcasts to be received in their native 4K resolution. Such ultra-high definition broadcasts are still relatively rare, but it's nevertheless a nice feature to have for future-proofing purposes.

Both TVs bring a lot to the table in terms of specs, so let's call this one a tie.

Winner: Tie

LG C6 vs Hisense UR9: design

The C6 (seen above) features a similar design to its predecessor, the LG C5, but given its elegant look, that's not necessarily a bad thing. I especially dig the marble-like finish on the back of the TV.

The C6's downward-slanting, wedge-shaped stand attaches itself to the back of the panel in a sturdy fashion. Here's something important to keep in mind: The stand's shape keeps the C6's screen relatively close to whatever surface it's sitting on, so people with exceptionally tall soundbars should make sure in advance that it won't obstruct the screen.

Like many of LG's C Series OLED TVs that came before it, the C6's panel is among the thinnest you'll find on shelves. The TV's chassis widens out around the middle of the screen, but even with the added bulk, the TV is narrower than many of the slimmest Mini-LED TVs.

If the light, sleek-looking C6 practically floats into your home, the UR9 (seen above) may as well drop an anchor. It's not an overly thick TV, to be clear, but it has a heavier exterior. It's as though the UR9 is working overtime to contain the power within its panel.

It, too, sits atop a centered, pedestal-style stand, but the plate at its base is much more accommodating for soundbar placement than the C6's configuration. That convenience is the best thing I can highlight about the UR9's overall design, as I do find it to be utilitarian to a fault.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs Hisense UR9: 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.)

The standout detail here is the gulf between the brightness of both sets. Even in garden-variety, non-HDR content (like cable TV or most streaming shows), the UR9 is wildly bright. For HDR content, this serves as a feather in the UR9's cap. For SDR content, you might its 2,000+ nits of brightness to be too much. Nevertheless, this makes the UR9 a more viable option for people with a sun-drenched living space.

The UR9 put up some of the best color volume-related test results I've ever seen. It covers around 93% of the BT.2020 color space, which is higher than even most quantum dot-enhanced OLED TVs.

This is an impressive figure, no doubt, but according to my colleague Dylan Haas (who recently reviewed the UR9), the punchy palette doesn't always quite translate to real-world content. With color volume being the bread and butter of an RGB LED TV, some might find this disappointing.

The C6 is significantly dimmer than the UR9, but it's got a serious trick up its sleeve: OLED display technology. OLEDs are capable of perfect black levels and pixel-level dimming, which has a hugely positive impact on picture quality. Its ability to produce perfect black levels means its contrast is through the roof.

Since specular highlights can be controlled with surgical precision, HDR highlights on the C6 tend to stand out more. 1,400 nits of highlight brightness is way less than the UR9's 3,400-nit benchmark, but the C6's perceptible contrast carries its picture further. This allows for a deeper, more-detail-rich presentation, too.

The C6's picture is better tuned out of the box, too. In Filmmaker mode, the Hisense UR9 manages to put up a Delta-E of below 3 (widely considered the threshold for color error perceptibility), but the C6 is incredibly accurate in LG's Filmmaker mode — more so than the UR9. That, combined with its top-notch contrast control, leads to a more refined presentation.

In a side-by-side comparison, you'll almost certainly clock the UR9's bolder, more-voluminous color. It will surely be the brighter of the two pictures, too. But contrast is the first thing our eyes notice when assessing an image, and Hisense's RGB LED TV still falls short of the C6 in the contrast department.

The C6, therefore, is the safer pick for A/V enthusiasts, home theater-builders and all-around picture purists. If you're looking for the brightest possible experience, however, it's hard to deny the UR9's sheer horsepower.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs Hisense UR9: smart platform and features

The C6 comes with the newest version of LG's webOS built right in. It's similar to last year's version of the software (webOS 25), but LG has tossed in some new, AI-based features on webOS 26. Unfortunately, my colleague Dylan Haas referred to them as "meaningless" if you don't already use AI-related features around the house, and I'm inclined to agree with Dylan.

Although webOS isn't my favorite (I find its interface to be cluttered and sluggish at times), I suspect that casual users won't mind bumping up against it from time to time. If you want to silo your streaming experience into a separate streaming device, you'll get no complaints from me; I recently decided to replace webOS with Roku and haven't looked back.

Good news for dedicated gamers: 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. Support for these features runs across all four of the C6's HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs, so you won't have to juggle devices depending on your needs.

One of the C6's best gaming-related features is LG's Game Optimizer mode. This quick-menu puts all of your most-important settings in one place and automatically launches when you access the settings menu during gameplay.

The UR9 is built around the Google TV smart platform. All told, I prefer Google TV over LG's webOS, as its interface is easier to navigate and tends to be snappier. Along with Roku, Google TV is one of my top picks for streaming software.

As mentioned, the UR9 is limited to just three HDMI ports. They're all HDMI 2.1 compatible, thankfully, but people with several devices (more than one console, a streaming device and soundbar, for instance) might end up feeling restricted by the lack of a fourth.

Across those HDMI inputs, the UR9 supports 4K gaming at 120Hz (and up to 180Hz with a gaming PC linked up), as well as VRR and FreeSync Premium Pro. Hisense does offer a dedicated gaming settings menu like LG's Game Optimizer mode, but I don't find its contents to be quite as useful as what LG is cooking with.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs Hisense UR9: outlook

What we're left with is a better-designed TV in the C6 that offers a more refined picture with sensational, OLED-driven performance, more size options to choose from and an additional HDMI input.

The UR9 has a leg up on the C6 when it comes to overall brightness, which makes it more viable for bright-room viewing. That said, the C6 doesn't exactly wilt in a sunny room, so your living space would have to be pretty dang bright for me to recommend the C6 (and its OLED display) over the Hisense UR9.

But there's another critical factor to consider: price. Right now, you can spring for a 65-inch C6 for $2,699 on Amazon. The 55-inch LG C6 can be had for $1,999. These prices are certain to steadily drop throughout the year, but for now, it's tough to find the C6 on sale.

The UR9, on the other hand, just saw a massive price cut a mere week and a half after its initial launch. The 65-inch Hisense UR9 is just $1,999 at Best Buy right now after making its debut at $3,499. The 75-inch UR9 is $2,999 at Best Buy, but when it first hit shelves, it was priced all the way at $4,999.

The UR9 is a bright, capable TV, but Hisense's RGB Mini-LED technology can't quite eclipse the self-lit pixels of an OLED display. At the very least, its current sale price puts the UR9 further in line with its performance profile.

More from Tom's Guide

• LG C6 OLED review: The best OLED TV you shouldn’t buy (yet)
• OLED is safe: I tested the Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV, and it's very good but falls short
• The RAM crisis came for computers first and now it's coming for TVs — here's why I recommend upgrading while you still can

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

RGB LED technology — also known as Micro RGB, RGB Mini-LED and True RGB — is taking the TV industry by storm. This year, Hisense, LG, Samsung, Sony and TCL are all launching their own variation of this display technology.

It’s the next step in the evolutionary line of Mini-LED TVs, and if you take TV brands at their word, it's the next big thing worth spending money on.

But while some of the best TVs of the year might end up being RGB LED-based models, I'm not ready to recommend this tech to just anyone. There are three reasons why I'm holding off on a full-throated endorsement — and only one type of shopper who I think should dive right in at the start of this era.

1. First-generation hardware isn't as ironed-out

In a nutshell, RGB LED technology works in a similar fashion as traditional Mini-LED backlighting. But while garden-variety Mini-LED TVs leverage white- or blue-colored LEDs in conjunction with color filters, RGB LED TVs make use of teeny-tiny red-, green- and blue-colored LEDs. They're clustered into dimmable zones (just like regular Mini-LED backlights), but their added color typically results in better, brighter color volume.

We've seen this advantage borne out in what minimal testing we've already done on RGB LED TVs. They're bright, punchy sets that deliver some of the best color volume we've measured to date, surpassing even some quantum dot-equipped OLED TVs.

But like every first-generation version of high-end display tech, there's plenty of room for improvement. In fact, I'm willing to bet that, by this time next year, we will be testing and reviewing RGB LED TVs that surpass their first-generation precursors in picture quality.

To date, all of the RGB LED TVs I've gotten up close and personal with have exhibited some quirks. When I tested the Samsung R95H just a few months ago, I noticed a steady, recurring flicker during HDR-mastered content. As far as I could tell, this was not the fault of the source material.

Around the same time, when I spent a few minutes eyeing up the LG MRGB95 at LG headquarters, I noticed another type of flickering. Unlike the R95H's flicker, which affected the entire picture, LG's Micro RGB evo TV exhibited an isolated flickering that only seemed to affect a shade of orange-yellow. It persisted even after I paused the Blu-ray demo.

To be perfectly clear, the RGB LED TVs in question were pre-release models. We've yet to test the commercially available versions of these TVs, so for all I know, these issues have been addressed.

But it's been made clear to me by every brand working with this tech that internal processing plays a major role in its performance. And, if I were in the market for a flashy new TV in 2026, I wouldn't be ready to roll the dice on first-generation hardware and software.

2. We haven't seen all of the models yet

While Hisense and Samsung arrived to market first, we're still waiting to get our hands on RGB LED TVs from LG and TCL. At the time of publishing, the only RGB LED TV we've reviewed is the Hisense UR9.

And then there's Sony. The lauded TV-maker has shown off its flagship RGB LED TV at private events behind closed doors, but there's very little we know about this set.

This is notable not just because it's important to get a sense of how these TVs compare to one another, but because Sony takes picture processing very seriously. When it comes to first-generation technology, Sony is the brand I trust the most.

There's also a slate of incoming RGB LED TVs that sit just below the flagship level, like the Hisense UR8 and the Samsung R85H. We know very little about these particular TVs, and they might represent a much better value proposition than the first-generation, flagship-level models that sit above them.

3. Pricing matters

Just as first-generation versions of all-new TV types tend to have some kinks that need ironing-out, they're also typically priced higher than they'll ever be. Here's something you can take to the bank: On average, next-year's version of RGB LED TVs will be more affordable than this year's models.

In fact, we're already seeing this play out as we speak. Take the Hisense UR9, for instance. Just a few weeks ago, this set started at a whopping $3,499 for a 65-inch version. As of a few days ago, the 65-inch UR9 had cratered in price.

It's not unusual for TVs to steadily drop in price throughout the calendar year — in fact, it's pretty much a guarantee. But a full 43% discount on a first-generation, flagship-level TV within the first few weeks of its release is significant.

I don't necessarily believe that all RGB LED TVs will see this steep of a discount ahead of the summer months, but they will surely drop in price the closer we get to the holidays.

Buy an RGB LED TV if...

For some folks, the idea of splashing out on a fancy, high-performance TV is too good to pass up — especially if they've been waiting for the perfect opportunity to upgrade.

If you're in the market for a premium TV that specializes in brightness and color volume, RGB LED TVs are going to blow you away. They're souped-up versions of the industry's best Mini-LED TVs. Critically (and despite some caveats), the technology seems to work as advertised. These are some of the most-colorful TVs I've ever laid eyes on.

Just bear in mind that there's plenty of room for them to grow. There's also plenty of room for their price to come down, too.

It can be hard waiting a full year to bring the latest and greatest TVs into your home theater but, 12 months from now, you'll thank yourself for having a little extra patience while the technology matures.

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
• LG just announced the pricing for its first Micro RGB evo TV, and it's not cheap, but not as bad as you think
• Your TV in 2035 will be wildly different — and it’s not what you think

You’ve made up your mind: You’re buying a new TV, and it will not be expensive. Why? Because even a $350 TV is still $350.

Fortunately, cheap TVs have never been better, and good-enough TVs have never been cheaper. You just have to know what you’re looking for — otherwise you might end up with a TV that frustrates you more than it entertains you.

If you’re shopping for a new set and hoping to keep costs down, I’m here to help. These are the five features to look for when bargain-hunting in the TV aisle.

1. 4K resolution

We live in the era of 4K. Even though the majority of what we watch — basic cable, local news and most YouTube videos — gets piped into our homes at below 4K resolution, it’s time to embrace ultra-high definition.

The reason for this is simple: Even if you don't care about fancy enhancements, any TV worth buying is a 4K TV. By insisting that you don't need 4K resolution, you're starting your TV-shopping journey with a severely limited pool of options. Plus, many of the cheapest TVs you can buy are 4K TVs — the days of it being a pricey upgrade are over.

Besides, streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ are regularly pumping out shows and movies in 4K resolution. If you do even a marginal amount of streaming, you're eventually going to want it.

There is a caveat to this. If you’re buying a 32-inch TV (say, for a kitchen or guest room), you probably don’t need 4K resolution. At that size, you’re far less likely to spot the difference, anyway.

2. A reliable brand name

I'll cut to the chase: Steer clear of the absolute cheapest TVs on the market. These are the brands that mostly (or completely) specialize in ultra-affordable fare, like Insignia, Element, Onn and Pioneer.

While some of these companies have been around for a while, they almost always prioritize affordability above all else. While there's nothing inherently wrong with that business model, you can usually spend just a little bit more on a set that, in my experience, will likely look better and last longer.

A common complaint among the negative reviews attached to these models is that the display failed, the audio went out, or that the motherboard fried itself early on in the TV's lifespan. And, while even premium TVs fail occasionally, better components and tighter engineering are key to longevity.

3. LED backlighting (ideally with local dimming)

Many ultra-affordable, entry-level LED TVs are built around edge-lit displays. These displays are illuminated from their edges rather than behind the picture, like backlit TVs.

It all comes down to the distance between the LEDs and the screen. If a TV relies on edge-based LEDs, it’ll likely struggle with contrast, especially during darker content. The picture will likely take on a hazy, flat look, with very little depth and shadow detail.

From a performance standpoint, backlit LED TVs aren’t guaranteed to be better than edge-lit LED TVs just on the basis of their hardware. However, in the entry-level price range, edge-lit TVs are almost always the dimmer, less-impressive option.

Look for TVs whose product summaries, spec sheets or box blurbs mention terms like “full array LED,” “backlighting” or “local dimming.” At super-affordable price points, these are valuable marketing terms that will likely be readily available.

If you're shopping in the $300 to $500 price range, you might even have the option of getting a Mini-LED TV, which is a more-advanced version of LED backlighting getting cheaper by the day.

By the same token, don’t expect to see the terms “edge LED” or “edge-lit” on the side of a TV box. It might be buried in a product listing somewhere, but it probably won't be highlighted as a bonus feature. If you don’t see an indication that the TV is backlit, just assume that it’s not.

4. The right amount of HDMI ports

For most people, a minimum of three HDMI ports is essential. While the vast majority of affordable TVs meet this criterion, I still occasionally come across TVs with just a pair of HDMI inputs.

Don't assume that, because two ports is OK for now, you'll still be satisfied with that amount in the future. For one thing, cheap TVs aren’t exactly known for their sound quality. Heck, many mid-range and high-end TVs suffer from less-than-great audio.

For this reason, we typically recommend that folks pair their affordable TVs with one of the best soundbars that works within their budget. But here's the rub: Once you've paired your TV with a soundbar, you're down to just one available port for a cable box, streaming device or console. The last thing you want to happen is to find yourself in need of a new TV in a year or two simply because you're limited to just a pair of ports.

This leads me to my final point: If you want to forgo the streaming stick and lean on your next TV's built-in streaming software, you'll need to brush up on which smart platform best suits your needs.

5. A reliable smart platform (if you need it)

If you're shopping for a budget-friendly smart TV, you'll likely have your choice between one that leverages Google TV, Roku, LG's webOS, Samsung's Smart Hub or Amazon Fire TV. Of these software suites, Google TV, Roku and Fire TV can be found across various brands.

Google TV and Roku offer the best combination of usability and additional, downloadable apps. In my experience, Samsung's software and LG's software are the most dependent upon the processing power of the associated TV. As a result, I've found that the most affordable Samsung and LG TVs are the most likely to exhibit software-related slowdown depending on which apps are in play.

In any event, something is better than nothing. If you're determined to skip the use of a dedicated streaming device, your TV's built-in smart platform will have to suffice.

Buying a cheap TV: outlook

Now that we've tackled the ins and outs of cheap TV-shopping, let's put together everything we know so far:

I'm shopping for a new, cheap TV. I want it to belong to a reliable brand, I need it to feature 4K resolution and LED backlighting, and I want it to have at least three HDMI inputs and a reliable smart platform.

The TCL QM5K is just one example of a TV that fits the bill. Not only does it feature LED backlighting, it's the most affordable TCL-branded TV to include Mini-LEDs.

The QM5K doesn't come with four HDMI inputs, but it does have three. And, if you're determined to lean on your next TV's built-in smart features, the QM5K has you covered there, too. It's built around Google TV, so most people won't feel compelled to take up one of its three HDMI inputs with a streaming device.

Buying a budget-friendly TV can be intimidating. No one wants to shell out a few hundred bucks on something that will only lead to frustration in the near future. If you keep this checklist in mind, however, you're equipped with everything you need to find a suitable model without breaking the bank.

More from Tom's Guide

• I’ve set up hundreds of TVs in my career — here are 6 mistakes people make when setting up a new TV
• OLED vs Mini-LED: What’s the difference and is one actually better?
• Micro-LED vs Micro RGB TVs: What's the difference?

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.

More from Tom's Guide

• LG C6 OLED review
• TCL QM8L TV review: SQD-Mini LED delivers big color, high brightness
• The RAM crisis came for computers first and now it's coming for TVs — here's why I recommend upgrading while you still can

I want to start this review by saying that I really wanted to love Hisense’s latest addition to its lineup of RGB Mini-LED TVs, the UR9. I’m usually an OLED guy, but after hearing about the hype behind the UR9 — which is basically a more compact version of the Hisense 116UX that dazzled us at CES 2026 — I was excited to see how the brand’s RGB Mini-LED technology could be miniaturized in one of the best TVs of the year.

Unfortunately, after spending some time with the UR9, I walked away with mixed feelings. While the TV certainly excels in the brightness department, it ultimately falls short in a few key areas, including inconsistent color depth and balance, and just-okay gaming features. While I could be more forgiving of its flaws at a more budget-friendly price point, that’s a lot harder to do at its launch price of $3,500.

There are some highlights that I think show promise for the future of Hisense’s RGB Mini-LEDs, and the price should dip in just a few months, but it might be best to hold off on buying a UR9 until later this year — or, if that feels too soon, until 2027 when the next iteration of RGB Mini-LED comes out.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Price and release date

The UR9 is the latest addition to Hisense’s 2026 lineup of RGB Mini-LED TVs. The UR9 is currently up for preorder, and was officially released on April 23.

Below is a breakdown of the available sizes and pricing (we reviewed the 65-inch model):

• Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV (65-inch): $3,499.99
• Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV (75-inch): $4,999.99
• Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV (85-inch): $5,999.99
• Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV (100-inch): $8,999.99

The UR9 is the only mid-budget model of Hisense’s RGB Mini-LED TVs that you can buy right now. The next step up would be its flagship model, the 116UX, which will run you anywhere from $19,999.99 to its original MSRP of $29,999.99, depending on sales and discounts. In other words, if you’re at all interested in trying out one of Hisense’s RGB Mini-LED TVs without having to take out a loan, the UR9 is going to be the most accessible option at this time.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Design

The UR9 is a bulky TV. It has thick bezels and feels heavy to move around, but the sturdiness you get in return may be a good tradeoff for you, depending on your preferences.

The TV still looks nice from a design standpoint, but it will definitely take up a lot more space compared to something like an LG C6 OLED or TCL QM8L Mini-LED TV. If you’re thinking of mounting it, I could see it being more of an eyesore just because of how much it’ll protrude from the wall.

I will say, I thought the setup of the Hisense UR9’s central pedestal was a little overcomplicated. Although very durable, I thought the way it all fit together wasn’t very intuitive, and the assembly instructions didn’t help all that much.

The multiple layers of screws felt like overkill, but one thing’s for sure: This pedestal will stay attached, barring some sort of disaster.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Ports

The TV has a nice suite of ports, including three HDMI 2.1 ports (one of them being eARC-compatible in case you want to connect a soundbar), two USB-A ports, a LAN port, an antenna port, and an optical digital audio out port. A pretty standard setup without any glaring omissions.

One extra port that’s definitely worth mentioning, though, is the unique USB-C DisplayPort that works perfectly with smartphones, tablets, and laptops. I was able to plug in all of my devices on the fly and mirror their displays on the UR9’s screen, which was really convenient.

Not everyone has a DisplayPort cable on hand, but I’m willing to bet almost everyone has a spare USB-C cable lying around. That alone will encourage more people to get a lot of use out of this port. It’s a great addition that you’re not going to find in other mainstream TVs.

How we test TVs

We follow a standard testing protocol for every TV we review at Tom’s Guide. Our benchmarks include a series of technical and subjective tests designed to rate the set’s performance.

For our technical tests, we set the TV to Filmmaker Mode (usually the most accurate out of the box) and take measurements using a Jeti spectraval 1501-HiRes spectroradiometer, a Klein K10-A colorimeter, a Murideo 8K-SIX-G Metal pattern generator, and Portrait Displays’s Calman TV-calibration software. We also use a Leo Bodnar 4K Video Signal Lag Tester for determining the TV’s gaming prowess.

Subjective tests vary based on the reviewer but usually include anecdotes from a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and other content reflecting the types of things you may actually want to watch on the TV. For a more detailed look at what we do and how we do it, check out our “How we test TVs” page.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Performance

While testing out the Hisense UR9, I watched a variety of films, TV shows, and YouTube videos to get an idea of how it would perform during daily use. I also played a few PS5 titles to judge its gaming performance and features.

Upon booting the UR9 up and starting to watch some content, I immediately noticed how bright the TV was, even in the fully lit room I was testing it in. I was definitely impressed, but I quickly started to notice some issues. While watching 2018’s “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” in the UR9’s standard picture mode, I couldn’t help but become distracted by the near-blinding whites in multiple scenes from the movie, and the color balance just felt “off.” I’d seen this movie at least ten times by now, and the range of colors felt way less vivid than ever before.

Even with all the lights in the room turned on, I was having trouble focusing on the film because of the brightness and lack of balance. With the lights off, I had to squint to avoid discomfort. Switching to a dimmer picture preset like filmmaker modes helped ever so slightly, but the picture felt even more washed out and muted in terms of color depth. So, I switched up what I was watching to see if the problems persisted.

Unfortunately, they did, to varying degrees. I watched a bit of “Thrash,” a new shark-attack thriller from Netflix, and had the same brightness issues, especially when it came to the TV’s whites. Trying to tone them down had negative effects on the contrast and blacks, and I just couldn’t get the color saturation to look right. I eventually settled on switching over to the vivid picture mode and tweaking the brightness myself, which looked better, but I was still frustrated that I had to do so much work to get a brand-new flick to look good.

I had better success watching an episode of Hulu’s “The Bear” in filmmaker mode, but still had to make some adjustments to balance everything out. No matter what I put on, I had to go through a bunch of extra steps to get the settings right, and it got old fast.

Switching over to YouTube to watch some Coachella 2026 highlights and 4K travel videos yielded similar results, but the UR9’s vivid mode played nicer with the YouTube app than it did with Netflix and Hulu. When viewing in 4K, the details actually looked really nice, but had just a slight grain over it — a product of the TV’s lackluster upscaling. I did notice some blooming around the YouTube logo, but didn’t encounter that issue within any other apps.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Gaming performance

The UR9’s gaming mode also left me wanting more, especially after reviewing the LG C6 OLED just a few weeks ago, which has some of the most stellar gaming performance I’ve experienced on a TV. Still, there’s some worthwhile stuff here: AMD FreeSync Premium Pro mitigates screen tearing, a dedicated HDR gaming picture mode, and 120Hz support.

I also liked the UR9’s game bar interface, though, which lets you hop between different game genre presets, make brightness adjustments, and add helpful overlays like aiming reticles and an FPS counter.

The Hisense UR9 isn’t necessarily a poor gaming TV, but I wouldn’t buy one solely for gaming purposes.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Test results

From our test results, you can see that the Hisense UR9 is a super-high performer in the brightness department. In HD/SDR, it blows the TCL QM8L Mini-LED, LG C6 OLED, and Samsung QN90F QLED out of the water with a peak SDR brightness of 2,486 nits. That is extremely bright, and explains why the UR9 is at its best during daytime viewing. It has a peak brightness of 3,327 nits in HDR mode, which is also impressive and on par with TCL’s QM8L Mini-LED TV (3,772 nits). The LG C6 (1,251 nits) and Samsung QN90F (2,109 nits) fall pretty far below those two.

Our Delta-E test results, which is how we measure a TV’s color accuracy, paint a different picture. The Hisense UR9 scored only a 2.72 Delta-E, which isn’t terrible, but illustrates why the TV’s depth of color seemed a bit “off” during my testing period. When it comes to Delta-E results, the lower the number, the better, and as you get closer to a Delta-E of 3 and above, color accuracy issues start to become noticeable to the naked eye.

Compared to the TCL QM8L, which scored a Delta-E of 3.74, the UR9 is definitely better in this category, but when compared to the LG C6 (1.62) and Samsung QN90F (1.83), there’s something left to be desired.

When it comes to gaming, the UR9 isn’t great compared to the competition. It scored 12ms in our input latency test, which underperforms against the TCL QM8L, Samsung QN90F, and LG C6. Even in the UR9’s gaming mode, there was no way to boost this, which resulted in a choppier experience overall. You can still definitely enjoy gaming on the Hisense UR9, but there are much better options out there if it’s your top priority.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Audio

If you don’t go into the settings to tweak them, you likely won’t be impressed by the UR9’s built-in speakers, which sounded a bit tinny and crackly to me, especially at higher volumes. During action sequences or scenes where music takes the foreground, the speakers’ flaws became even more noticeable.

The good news is that the TV does have different sound modes that you can play around with, including modes designed for sports, music, speech, gaming, and more. The speech-enhancing mode, in particular, was a lot better than some of the other TVs I’ve reviewed — it didn’t wash out all the other noise in a given scene as a lot of other speech modes do, and was overall pretty balanced while still giving spoken dialogue a nice boost. I actually thought the TV’s theater audio mode sounded best, and it became my default audio mode for the remainder of my time with the UR9.

Still, I always think it’s worth investing in a great soundbar to go with your TV. Stock TV speakers are almost always lackluster (at least in my experience), and the best soundbars will enhance your media setup by a wide margin.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Interface and apps

The Hisense UR9 uses Google TV with Gemini as its OS of choice, and I thought it worked well. The home screen was situated in a way that everything I needed was easy to find, and menu navigation was simple in the best way. Just a solid, uncomplicated OS that I expect most users won’t have an issue getting used to.

The implementation of Gemini wasn’t bad either, although I wasn’t able to use it long enough to really get the most out of its personalized recommendations. In theory, those recommendations should suit you more and more over time as Gemini learns your content preferences.

However, I was able to get some good use out of the TV’s Gemini search function, which can help you find specific movies and shows, or even suggest something to you based simply on the vibe that you’re looking for. I can see this coming in handy whenever you encounter the all-too-common choice paralysis that we experience when it comes to streaming apps today.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Remote

If you regularly lose your remote in between the couch cushions because they just make them too small nowadays, you’ll appreciate the Hisense UR9’s larger remote. That being said, it will definitely take up more of that precious coffee table real estate. I personally like more compact remotes, but that’s just me.

In terms of buttons, the UR9’s remote is well-rounded, with five streaming app buttons, voice controls, and a dedicated mute button. I appreciated having the customizable star button, which you can assign to your go-to app, most-used input, or specific TV functions like a sleep timer, audio output adjustments, and more. Also, I like that silver, brushed metal finish.

Hisense UR9 Mini-LED TV review: Verdict

The Hisense UR9 isn’t perfect, but it actually has a lot going for it. The TV generally looks good in a bright room as long as you have the patience to make some settings adjustments, the UI is clean and unobstructive, and fresh additions like the USB-C DisplayPort show that the brand is interested in pushing TV tech forward.

However, due to the inconsistent performance I experienced throughout my time with the UR9, I just can’t say it’s a “run out and buy this now” type of TV. This TV should have dazzled me with an excellent balance of cutting-edge brightness and depth of color, but it just didn’t. If you’re dead-set on trying a UR9 on for size because you’re intrigued by the brand’s RGB Mini-LED technology, your best bet is to at least wait for it to go on sale.

Considering this is Hisense’s first iteration of RGB Mini-LED tech, I have a feeling the next RGB Mini-LED from Hisense will be a big step up in almost every way.

Among the best streaming devices, Google has been the most aggressive in incorporating AI; when the Google TV Streamer launched, you were able to use Gemini to search for shows and movies using natural language, and you could also have it create screensaver artwork based on whatever your imagination could think up.

As of today (April 29), Google is adding a few more AI-assisted features, and will also update the interface to add short-form videos. Here's a quick look at what's coming. These features will be available on Google TV-enabled smart TVs, as well as the Google TV Streamer.

More Nano Banana photo editing — and better photo searching

While you previously were able to use Nano Banana to create AI images from whole cloth, you can now edit or modify the photos you've already taken. So, if there's a picture of you standing in an office building, you can ask Gemini to transplant you to the beach or the Moon.

Or, if you don't like the outfit you're wearing, you can ask Nano Banana to change your threads, add a hat, or sport some new shoes.

You can also take a more artistic approach using Google Photos Remix, which will let you add different artistic styles to your pictures, such as changing them to a watercolor or oil painting.

And, Gemini will now let you search through your Google Photos more easily, so you can perform a natural language search, such as "pictures with balloons" or "photos of cats." Google will then return a page showing all the results, allowing you to comb through your entire catalog more easily.

Veo video generation

If you're bored with all the streaming options, why not create your own? Google TV's integration with Veo will let you do just that, allowing you to make a video from voice prompts alone, or animate an existing still photo from your collection.

YouTube Shorts

YouTube Shorts has become one of the more popular video formats for the platform, so Google will be adding it to the home page of Google TV devices. It's not available just yet — the company said it will be coming this summer to the U.S. — but when it's added, you'll see a row of "Short videos for you," based on your browsing history and preferences.

Outlook

In all, Google broadening the reach of its AI tools to its popular streaming device is a sensible, if inevitable move. While I imagine people will have fun editing and creating videos and photos using Nano Banana and Veo, I suspect that the most popular new features will be the ability to search through your voluminous database of photos to find the ones you want.

Adding YouTube Shorts also makes a ton of sense, even if their vertical format is less suited to a widescreen television than a phone's display. If you're listlessly scrolling through the best streaming services looking for something to watch, there's no better time-killer than a bunch of snackable, short-form videos.

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Over the years, whenever friends, family, and readers have asked me for advice on buying a TV within their budget, I've always emphasized three key features: a price that's low enough, performance that makes sense for the price, and 4K resolution. Recently, though, I've added a fourth essential feature for any bargain-hunting TV-shopper: Mini-LEDs.

Once upon a time, Mini-LED backlighting was a premium feature reserved for high-end models. Nowadays, you can buy a Mini-LED TV for a remarkably reasonable price.

In fact, the price gap between the cheapest, lowest-end TVs without Mini-LEDs and the most affordable Mini-LED TVs you can buy is narrow enough that, outside of a particular set of circumstances, it makes sense to spring for the tech. Here's why.

Why are Mini-LED TVs better?

As far as super-affordable TVs go, there are a couple of display technologies that sit below Mini-LED: direct-LED and edge-lit LED. There are different variations on these two types, but at their core, these are the options at the bottom of the barrel.

Edge-lit LED TVs are usually the least sophisticated. As the name suggests, edge-lit TVs illuminate the picture using LEDs from the edge of the panel rather than directly behind the screen. It’s a relatively affordable way to produce LCD/LED TVs, and in many cases, this type of backlighting allows for a thinner design (a nice bonus that only somewhat offsets the not-so-impressive picture quality).

Direct-LED TVs typically perform better than edge-lit TVs, as these tried-and-true backlights sit behind the screen. This proximity allows light to travel a shorter distance, which goes a long way toward keeping the bright stuff bright and the dark stuff dark. That's Contrast 101.

The best direct-LED TVs come with a feature called full-array local dimming. This allows the LEDs to be divided into independently dimmable zones. Again: The name of the game is contrast, and this dynamic approach greatly improves the picture's contrast.

Enter Mini-LED TVs. They're essentially super-scaled-down versions of garden-variety direct-LED backlights, and their small stature offers some pretty tantalizing benefits.

Thanks to their size, Mini-LEDs are clustered into more zones than you'll typically find on traditional direct-LED displays. With so many of these backlights in play, the TV is free to cut off light across entire swaths of the picture, increasing contrast and reducing light bloom.

Not only that, but due to the nature of Mini-LED backlighting, you're far less likely to put up with a picture whose corners and edges leak light during darker sequences. Shows, movies, and games just flat-out tend to look better on Mini-LED TVs than they do on dirt-cheap edge-lit TVs.

Like all TVs, Mini-LED screens vary in price and performance. But while this feature was once a pricey luxury, it's now closer to a sensible, essential feature of any cheap, non-OLED TV.

Mini-LED TVs are cheaper than ever before

If you buy one of the cheapest Mini-LED TVs on the market, you might not enjoy the bright, melt-your-face-off picture quality typically associated with this display technology, but in nearly every circumstance, it's a better choice than an edge-lit or direct-LED-based alternative.

One of the most affordable Mini-LED TVs on the market right now is from Hisense, and as far as value propositions go, it's a good one. In our Hisense U65QF review, we commended this TV for being brighter than any other TV in its class.

When we reviewed it, the street price of the 65-inch U65QF was around $569, while the 75-inch version cost $799. Now that the sale price has settled, the 65-inch Hisense U65QF is $548 at Amazon, and the 75-inch version is down to $499. (Yes, you read that correctly: The 75-inch version is currently cheaper than the 65-inch version.)

The U65QF is just one example of an ultra-affordable Mini-LED TV — there are many more. For several years now, Mini-LED TVs haven't just been getting better across the board; the technology has also been getting cheaper.

It's true that, for all of its perks, a TV like the Hisense U65QF isn't as polished and well-engineered as most mid-range or top-shelf Mini-LED TVs. That's just the nature of the business.

But if you can land a 75-inch Mini-LED TV for $499, spending just a little bit less (or, in some cases, more) on a 75-inch edge-lit TV starts to feel a bit silly. And, unless you're furnishing a guest room, dorm, or kitchen with the cheapest possible option, my advice is to lock down the better hardware.

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Just when you thought you had a handle on HDR and its many formats, here comes a few more. Right now, a new rivalry is brewing in the TV industry: Dolby Vision 2 vs HDR10+ Advanced.

As their names imply, these all-new, enhanced HDR formats are the next iteration of Dolby Vision and HDR10+, the two most popular standards for HDR content. Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+ Advanced were only recently announced last year, and in 2026, we’re on the verge of seeing the first TVs to incorporate these formats.

If you’re gearing up to buy a new TV this year and you want to make the most of it, you might think that one (or both) of these promising new formats ought to be included in your next set. But here’s the thing: Most people can get along just fine without them for now.

To understand why, it helps to understand these formats first.

Dolby Vision vs HDR10+: A primer on the current major HDR standards

First, let's have a little crash course in HDR. All HDR-ready TVs support something called HDR10 by default. In addition, most HDR TVs support one (or both) of the following: Dolby Vision and/or HDR10+.

Dolby Vision and HDR10+ work similarly: by leveraging dynamic metadata to optimize the picture in real time, presenting it in a carefully controlled manner. In very simple terms, both of these HDR formats work to make sure the content you're watching gets as close to the creator's intent as possible by the time it reaches your eyes.

Dolby Vision is a proprietary format, and as such, it costs TV brands money to license it and include it on their sets. HDR10+, on the other hand, is a royalty-free format. Even though it works in mostly the same manner, TV-makers don't have to pay a hefty fee to implement it. This is why Samsung — one of the most popular TV brands in the world — supports HDR10+ but not Dolby Vision.

Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+ Advanced: What do they do and what’s the difference?

If the original Dolby Vision and HDR10+ formats were designed to make the most out of modern displays, their sequels are built to do the same for future OLEDs, QLEDs and Mini-LED TVs by offering a heaping helping of new performance-related features.

For one thing, Dolby Vision 2 is designed to support TVs that reach up to 10,000 nits of brightness — far higher than anything I've measured on an HDR TV. The royalty-free HDR10+ Advanced format can take advantage of TVs that dole out up to 5,000 nits of brightness, which some TVs are capable of achieving right now.

Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+ Advanced also offer several new levers of control for content creators to pull. For instance, Dolby Vision 2 comes with a feature called Authentic Motion, which allows creators to control motion smoothing on a shot-by-shot basis.

HDR10+ Advanced leverages AI-based algorithms to dynamically control motion performance, too. It also purportedly improves cloud-based gaming performance by reducing latency and adjusting the picture based on gameplay conditions.

These are just a handful of new features rolling out with Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+, most of which are a means to ensuring that content — be it a movie, show or video game — is experienced as close as possible to what the creator has in mind.

Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+ Advanced in 2026: outlook

Currently, only Hisense, TCL and Philips have confirmed to be partnering with Dolby for the rollout of Dolby Vision 2. However, we've yet to get our hands on a TV that actually carries the feature. It's possible that some of these brands' 2026 TVs could receive Dolby Vision 2 support in a firmware update sometime down the road.

On the other hand, there are a handful of TVs already shipping with HDR10+ Advanced support. Several 2026 Samsung TVs, for instance, come with HDR10+ Advanced support right out of the box.

Even if you set aside the scarcity of Dolby Vision 2- and HDR10+ Advanced-supporting TVs in 2026, there's a bigger reason why these enhanced HDR formats aren't poised to have a significant impact in 2026: content availability.

Simply put, there's almost nothing out there to watch in these formats. Content-creators are only now beginning to tinker with Dolby Vision 2 and HDR10+ Advanced. As is the case with many developments in the TV business, advancements are only as fast as the content stream allows.

So even though several 2026 models are packing the processing power to eventually support Dolby Vision 2-mastered content, and despite the release of Samsung TVs that support HDR10+ Advanced right out of the box, we're not getting much in the way of souped-up HDR content just yet.

In the coming years, as the pipeline produces more content, I suspect that brands like LG and Sony will get on board with at least one of these advanced HDR formats. For the time being, though, you shouldn't let the absence of their support stop you from buying one of the best TVs available today.

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When new TVs are released, old TVs go on sale. At the time of publishing, the brands behind some of the best OLED TVs are launching all-new OLEDs to replace last year's models. This means that you can get last year's stuff at a huge discount, and in many cases, those year-old sets are almost as good as their replacement models.

The C6 OLED is LG's newest, mid-range OLED for 2026. The S90F OLED is Samsung's mid-range model from 2025. They're direct competitors — at least, they would be if there wasn't a year separating them.

Nevertheless, they occupy the same shelf space right now, which means you've got a choice between the two. Here's how these OLEDs stack up and what you should know before shopping.

LG C6 vs Samsung S90F: specs compared

Let's start with the available size options. The C6 is available in 77- and 83-inch versions just as the S90F is, but these sizes are classified as an altogether different model: the LG C6H. If you want a 77- or 83-inch C6, you'll technically have to buy the C6H.

We haven't tested the C6H yet, but 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.

One of the biggest differences between these sets lies in HDR support. Like all LG OLEDs, the C6 supports Dolby Vision, a proprietary version of enhanced HDR. No Samsung TV currently supports Dolby Vision.

Instead, Samsung offers HDR10+ across all of its HDR-enabled TVs. HDR10+ is a royalty-free version of Dolby Vision that similarly leverages metadata to adjust the picture on a frame-by-frame basis.

You'll still be able to watch Dolby Vision-mastered content on the S90F, but the picture will fall back to standard HDR10. It'll certainly look great, but technically speaking, the S90F won't be taking advantage of Dolby Vision's efforts to replicate the creator's intent. (To learn more about Dolby Vision, check out our guide to whether or not you need Dolby Vision at all.)

Neither offers ATSC 3.0 support, which allows over-the-air broadcasts to be piped-in at native 4K resolution. These sorts of broadcasts are still few and far between, but for folks who really lean on the terrestrial airwaves, ATSC 3.0's absence is a disappointment.

The good news is that both sets serve up four HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs and support 4K gaming at 120Hz. With a PC linked up to either OLED, 4K games can be pushed up to 165Hz on the C6 and 144Hz on the S90F.

LG C6 vs Samsung S90F: design

The C6 (seen above) follows the design approach of its predecessor, the LG C5. Its downward-slanting, wedge-shaped stand attaches itself to the TV's chassis, and the shape of the stand keeps the C6's screen relatively close to its surface. All told, it's a sleek look. And, while you'll almost never see this design flourish, I appreciate the marble-like finish on the back of the panel.

The C6 arrives with the newest version of LG's Magic Remote. Like its motion-activated forerunners, this clicker can be used to point and click at the screen (though it also comes with a traditional directional pad, too).

Like the C6, the S90F (pictured above) also uses a pedestal-style stand, but the S90F lifts the panel further up from its surface. The clearance might be nice if you own a particularly bulky soundbar.

As is the case with LG's OLED, most of the S90F's internal hardware is relegated to a rectangular-shaped chassis that bulges out from the bottom half of the panel. Your mileage may vary, but I find the overall look of the C6's panel to be a bit more posh.

But perhaps the S90F's best feature is the included Samsung Solar Cell remote. It's a slim, narrow clicker with a minimal amount of buttons. Frustratingly, it doesn't include a dedicated input button. Refreshingly, it's powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which powers itself up with natural and artificial light.

While the C6 features a more thoughtful-looking design, the S90F offers better soundbar clearance and a rechargeable remote. This one's too close to call.

Winner: Draw

LG C6 vs Samsung S90F: 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.)

Both of these sets are capable of delivering the key features that OLED TVs are known for: perfect black levels with pixel-level contrast control. Thanks to the rich, high-contrast quality of OLED, pretty much everything looks fantastic on the C6 and S90F, especially 4K, HDR content.

That said, their presentations differ slightly, and to understand why, you've got to look under the hood. The C6 leverages LG Display's standard WOLED display, while the S90F taps Samsung Display's quantum dot-enhanced OLED display.

By and large, QD-OLEDs tend to offer brighter, purer color than garden-variety WOLED panels, and we can see that in our test results. The S90F covers 89% of the BT.2020 (Rec.2020) color gamut, while the C6 tops out at around 76%. You'd likely notice these color-based advantages during content, too.

According to our tests, the S90F doesn't quite match the C6's white highlight brightness in HDR, but its average picture brightness (that is, the luminance of the entire screen) is brighter than the C6 during average, run-of-the-mill SDR content. In other words, if you watch a lot of cable TV, YouTube or over-the-air broadcasts, the S90F provides a punchier presentation overall.

But the C6 isn't a slouch. As mentioned, its HDR highlight brightness is, pound for pound, higher than highlights on the S90F (though it's not a significant difference). Colors are well-saturated, too, even if the C6 can't cover as much of the expanded color gamut.

Most importantly, color is accurately dialed-in on both of these TVs when using their most-accurate picture mode (Filmmaker). And, from what I've seen, both the C6 and S90F are quite good at upscaling sub-4K content without introducing a pesky amount of artifacting.

They're remarkably close in performance, but the S90F's added color and higher average picture brightness during SDR content gives it a bit of an edge. I'm happy to see the C6's standard WOLED panel pumping out close to 1,400 nits in HDR, but the reality is that most people would be hard-pressed to tell the difference between highlight brightness on the C6 compared to the S90F.

Winner: Samsung S90F

LG C6 vs Samsung S90F: smart platform and features

Since both of these OLEDs deliver similarly impressive picture quality, perhaps the software experience and supported features will be the deciding factor for certain shoppers.

The C6 arrives with the newest version of LG's webOS. It's a similar experience to last-year's iteration, but LG has also added some new, AI-based features. 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 one of my first choices. I find its interface to be visually confusing and navigation to be sluggish at times. However, it's easy enough to pick up and use, and I suspect that a majority of users will see no problem using it as their daily driver.

The S90F is built around the 2025 version of Samsung's Smart Hub (powered by Tizen), which isn't my preferred choice, either. That said, if you'd rather not splurge on a dedicated streaming device, Smart Hub will get the job done just as well as webOS.

I find Smart Hub's layout to be visually cluttered. It's often frustrating, too, how basic navigational tasks are three or four steps too long. (Please, Samsung, just put a dedicated input button on your remote.)

As far as gaming features go, the C6 and S90F are almost identical. As mentioned, ach offers HDMI 2.1-compatibility across all four inputs, which means you don't have to spend time thinking about which port any given device should be plugged into.

The C6 and S90F can make the most out of 4K titles on current-generation consoles, as they each support 4K gaming at 120Hz. Both OLEDs also arrive with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and a version of AMD FreeSync Premium for smooth, tear-free gameplay.

There's no way around it, though: Not having Dolby Vision support on the S90F will be a deal-breaker for a certain type of home theater enthusiast.

Winner: LG C6

LG C6 vs Samsung S90F: outlook

Regardless of which set you settle on, you're setting yourself up for a sensational viewing experience. So, let's go through a short list of what could be deciding factors.

If you want Dolby Vision HDR support, the answer is simple: Buy the C6. If you're looking for a brighter, more colorful presentation, I recommend the S90F, but they're close enough in performance that I'm hesitant to overemphasize the S90F's slight edge here.

This leads us to the most important remaining factor: price. The S90F is cheaper than the C6 right now, simply because it's been available to buy for a year. 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.

Samsung's mid-range OLED, meanwhile, is massively on sale. Right now, you can get the 65-inch Samsung S90F for just $1,399 at Best Buy. The 55-inch S90F is $1,197 at Amazon.

The LG C6 will follow a similar trajectory, seeing slow-but-steady discounts throughout the year. For the time being, though, it's nearly twice as pricey as the S90F — and in no way is it twice as good.

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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.)

First, let's talk about brightness. Along with its gobsmacking color, brightness is the X11L's bread and butter. However, the X11L comes with several settings that throttle its blistering brightness by default. We measured a sensational 2,679 nits of HDR highlight brightness on the X11L, but it's worth noting that this set is capable of getting much, much brighter with its backlight completely cranked up.

This is especially true when measuring even smaller highlights on the X11L than the 10% window reported above. Indeed, the X11L is capable of brightness levels well above 6,000 nits, and despite the QM9K's 4,000+ nits of HDR highlight brightness, I'd wager that the X11L is the brighter TV during HDR-mastered content.

Brightness isn't the whole story, either. TCL refers to the X11L as a Super Quantum Dot (SQD) TV. This souped-up quantum-dot technology is engineered to squeeze as much color as it can out of a standard, Mini-LED-backed picture, and the numbers bear this out.

TCL's top-of-the-line SQD TV covers more of the BT.2020 color gamut than any Mini-LED TV we've measured to date. It even matches the high-water mark set by some quantum dot-enhanced OLED TVs we've measured in recent years.

This doesn't mean the QM9K isn't impressive. As mentioned, it deploys a sensational level of HDR brightness and manages all of that horsepower responsibly with a well-engineered backlight system.

Colors, too, are a wonder to behold on the QM9K. While it can't quite reach the dizzying, psychedelic heights of the X11L, it nevertheless saturates about 80% of the BT.2020 color gamut.

Both TCL TVs come with an accurate, dialed-in presentation in Filmmaker mode. Both offer so-so input latency. But the X11L is the more colorful of the two, and despite our reported HDR highlight brightness in the table above, the X11L is capable of one of the brightest pictures money can buy — just as long as you tinker with the settings.

Each of these sets looks phenomenal on its own. In a side-by-side comparison, you'd almost certainly see the benefits of the X11L's SQD-driven picture. It's one of the best-performing TVs TCL has ever made.

Winner: TCL X11L

TCL X11L vs TCL QM9K: smart platform and features

Both the X11L and the QM9K are built around the Google TV software suite, and it's a handy smart platform to have in your back pocket if you intend to do most of your streaming on your TV instead of an external streaming device.

I love how snappy Google TV feels to use. The user interface is relatively straightforward, and the overall performance of the software is fantastic on both the QM9K and the X11L.

As mentioned, the X11L is the only one of these two sets to come with four HDMI 2.1 inputs, so dedicated gamers with multiple devices will have a less-complicated relationship with the X11L than the QM9K.

But beyond their HDMI inputs, you're looking at two equally capable gaming TVs. The X11L and QM9K each come with Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.

As mentioned, Dolby Vision support is available on both TVs, as is ATSC 3.0 support. They each come with built-in sound systems branded by Bang & Olufsen (though I find the audio experience on the X11L to be fuller).

Winner: Draw

TCL X11L vs TCL QM9K: outlook

On paper and in person, there's no denying that the TCL X11L is a better-performing, more-accommodating TV for anyone shopping at the high-end level. But there's one critical factor that ought to be considered if you truly are trying to choose between them: price.

Right now, you can order the 75-inch TCL X11L for $6,999 at Amazon. That's a lot of money for any TV, and the bigger sizes in the series are even pricier.

Meanwhile, you can grab the 75-inch TCL QM9K for just $1,799 at Best Buy. That's a staggering $5,200 less than the similarly sized X11L. This is before you take into account the fact that the QM9K is available in a 65-inch version. The 65-inch QM9K is on sale for $1,599 at Best Buy.

As a new model, the price of the TCL X11L will almost certainly fall throughout the year. But here's the thing: So will the price of the QM9K.

All told, the X11L is a better-performing TV that offers gamers more flexibility. But I can assure you that it's also not $4,000 to $5,000 more impressive than the QM9K. For most people, the QM9K is the better pick. It comes in a 65-inch variant, its design is better suited for smaller living spaces and it's substantially cheaper than the X11L.

More from Tom's Guide

• I tested TCL’s $8,000 SQD Mini-LED TV — here's my verdict
• I tested the TCL QM9K Mini-LED TV and it’s incredibly bright — but not the best value
• 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 introduced a raft of complex display technologies earlier this year, but reserved them for its rather expensive X11L line (one of this year’s best TVs).

Now those technologies have made their way down to the cheaper (though not cheap) QM8L models. They include upgraded Mini-LED backlighting and smaller nanoscale color filters that have brought LED-LCD TVs up to par with OLED in a number of categories. The result is a new TV line with impressive picture quality — especially its deep blacks with fine detail, powerful dynamic range, and impressive brightness that holds up in well-lit rooms.

The QM8L compares favorably to the best 75-inch TVs available in stores right now, and while it might not be the cheapest Mini-LED on the market this year, I still recommend it for folks who want the latest in cutting-edge TV tech.

TCL QM8L review: Pricing and availability

The QM8L sits just below the flagship TCL X11L line, but comes at a significant price decrease. The 75-inch version we evaluated lists for $2,999; a 65-inch version (the most-popular size for households buying a new set) has a $2,499 price tag.

All things considered, that's a big discount from the 75-inch X11L's $7,000 price tag, but if three grand is too much for you (perfectly understandable) you can find still-impressive quality in cheaper 75-inch models from 2025, such as TCL's own 75QM6K (under $1000), or the Hisense 75U8QG (around $1600).

To get better black levels, however, you might have to move into OLED models with pricing similar to the QM8L's, such as the excellent LG C5. The 77-inch C5 originally listed for $3,699 but can now be had for less than $2000.

Like the C5 mentioned above, expect the QM8L to drop in price later this year; If that’s not something you can wait for, TCL is also launching another new TV line, the QM7L, which incorporates similar — though less high-end — screen technologies at lower prices. That 75-inch model will be available for $1,999, while a 65-inch will only set you back $1,499. We opted to test the QM8L first, but will shortly call in the QM7L for review.

TCL QM8L review: Design

This TV is not especially skinny by modern standards, at two inches thick; but that's the reasonable trade-off for its sophisticated full-array LED backlighting behind the screen. The QM8L also leaves room for a speaker system, with mid-bass speakers for deeper tones.

As with most flat panels today, the QM8L's bezel is of negligible thickness, leaving essentially all screen and just the letters "TCL" at the bottom.

The screen sits on a central pedestal, allowing you to place it on a smaller table. (Cheaper TVs tend to have feet close to each end of the screen.) That's especially useful for the 75-inch model that measures nearly five-and-a-half feet wide.

TCL QM8L review: Ports

The QM8L TV has a full array of connectivity. It starts with four HDMI ports, all supporting the 2.1 standard that allows input up to 4K at 144Hz (the panel's max refresh rate). Most video sources top out at 120Hz, although some high-end gaming rigs do go up to 144Hz. Pair that with the 9.5ms input lag (one of the fastest we've measured), and you have a cutting-edge gaming screen.

One HDMI port features eARC, providing Dolby Atmos and DTS Premium Sound digital audio output to a soundbar or home-theater system. The QM8L also has optical S/PDIF audio output for legacy systems, however. In addition, this TV offers a range of wireless speaker options (more about them below).

The set sports a pair of USB ports. One supports the 2.0 standard, with adequate power (0.5 amp) for the best streaming sticks, such as those from Amazon and Roku (providing an option if you don't like the Google TV interface). The other supports USB 3.0, with up to 0.9 amp — generally enough to power a small external hard drive and with the bandwidth to smoothly deliver large video files from it.

There is a LAN networking port (pretty much a vestigial organ in the era of fast Wi-Fi), and the RF input attaches to a tuner supporting the latest ATSC 3.0 standard for higher-quality broadcast TV features, such as high dynamic range (HDR). It has no bearing on content from online streaming or cable-TV boxes.

Aside from the power-cable input on the right, all ports cluster on the left side of the TV, when viewed from behind.

How we test

We follow a standard testing protocol for every TV we review at Tom’s Guide. Our benchmarks include a series of technical and subjective tests designed to rate the set’s performance.

For our technical tests, we set the TV to Filmmaker Mode (usually the most accurate out of the box) and take measurements using a Jeti spectraval 1501-HiRes spectroradiometer, a Klein K10-A colorimeter, a Murideo 8K-SIX-G Metal pattern generator, and Portrait Displays’s Calman TV-calibration software. We also use a Leo Bodnar 4K Video Signal Lag Tester for determining the TV’s gaming prowess.

Subjective tests vary based on the reviewer but usually include anecdotes from a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and other content reflecting the types of things you may actually want to watch on the TV. For a more detailed look at what we do and how we do it, check out our “How we test TVs” page.

TCL QM8L review: Performance

Image quality from the QM8L is generally excellent, with some minor caveats. Deep blacks and wide dynamic range are undisputed strengths. TCL emphasizes that this LCD-based screen is not an "OLED Killer," but it's pretty darn close. The claims for color reproduction are equally grand compared to the brand-new LG C6 OLED, though the test results are mixed.

The QM8L leverages a full-array LED backlight, with 2,584 illumination zones behind the 75-inch screen, each zone tunable to over 67 million (26-bit) discrete brightness levels. (The 75-inch X11L is more expensive in part because it has even more zones, although TCL declined to specify how many.)

That fine degree of control is combined with other features, such as microlenses to concentrate the backlight and an LCD panel that TCL says better blocks light from bleeding through. The result is amazingly dark blacks, which could appear next to extremely bright items with none of the "blooming" or ghostly halos around them. We saw this in a photo of a brilliant blue neon sign against a deep-black background. Even the brightest, overexposed parts of the sign had distinct boundaries, with no gray zones around them.

Deep black is of little value if a TV can't also retain detail in the slightly less-than-black areas. The QM8L accomplishes that task. In a photo of a woman wearing a black straw hat, for instance, the details of the weave were clearly visible, as were the strands and shading in her dark brown hair. Yet the brighter elements also shined, without being washed out.

We saw the same in a digital restoration of "8½," Federico Fellini's 1963 black-and-white fever dream of a movie. One scene, set in a dim bedroom, shows details equally fine in people's dark clothing and a brilliant white sheet. A later scene in a sun-drenched garden achieves equal fidelity across the range of shades.

Both extremes were a bit overpowering in Standard Mode, however. The film had more subtle elegance in the TV’s Movie mode. While Filmmaker mode is meant to be the most accurate setting (and the benchmark for instrument testing), I tend to find it a bit dreary on all TVs: too warm and muted. For dark room viewing, I found the slightly livelier Movie mode more enjoyable.

The QM8L leverages its technology with newer high-dynamic range material, such as Chapter 4 in the Blu-ray of "Spiderman: No Way Home." Details are perfectly clear and luminous in the firelit conversation between Peter Parker and Dr. Strange, as well as the later scene in which Strange weaves his ill-fated fiery spell in a nearly black room.

I enjoyed the broad yet subdued range of hues in "Bridgerton" (Season 1, Ep 3, 17:00-19:00), especially the riot of colorful sundresses in a glittering outdoor scene. The QM8L also captured detail well in highlights, such as strong sunlight glinting off a woman's forehead. Like this Netflix series, the QM8L supports Dolby Vision, which embeds extra data to ensure that the TV more faithfully reproduces the content. I found the nearly identical Dolby Vision Light and Dolby Vision IQ best for preserving detail for faces that were shaded in an indoor party scene. Colors in our test photos were also pleasing, such as the muted-orange ribbon on the woman's hat.

TCL QM8L review: Test results

*As measured in Filmmaker Mode

Lab tests back up these results: an astronomical HDR brightness of 3,719 nits (measured in the 10% window method). That's one of the highest we've recorded (the top TV being over 5,000 nits) and about twice the average for TVs tested in 2025 and 2026. These results were recorded in the set's Filmmaker mode, the benchmark setting for our tests of all TVs, although it was an equally impressive 3772 nits in Standard Mode, the default setting that many people will likely watch the TV in.

Color is a more nuanced story: TCL certainly packs the technology, which it dubs SQD-Mini LED. Instead of generating light from blue LEDs as many TVs do — or a pricey trio of red, green, and blue LEDs — this TV starts with white light. It passes through a quantum-dot layer (common in modern TVs), with crystals that re-emit deeper reds and greens, before reaching the color filters in each pixel. TCL went higher-end in these aspects, as well.

The company claims that its quantum-dot crystals are engineered to produce richer shades, and that the smaller nanoparticles in its color filters (just 5nm across) can dial in better hues at the pixel level. TCL puts a number on this technology, claiming it covers 100% of the massive BT.2020 color gamut.

In our lab tests, however, we measured a bit less, at 90.34% in Filmmaker mode, which is the most color-accurate mode on this and generally all other TVs. The results were virtually identical in the Standard, Movie, and Vivid modes. It's worth noting, however, that little or no content is made to fill this color space, so the stat is more for theoretical bragging rights.

While the QM8L has big color guns, it doesn't aim them as accurately as other TVs: We saw that in Delta-E, a measure of how far a screen's colors differ from how they should appear, in which a lower number is better. In Filmmaker mode, the QM8L posted a Delta-E of 3.7. That's one of the worst in a field with a lowest measure of just 1.1 (essentially perfect) and an average of 2.5.

Few people watch TV with a colorimeter in hand, however, and the 3.7 measured in Filmmaker mode is just on the edge of perceptibility for a casual viewer. Instruments aside, the real-life experience of watching the QM8L is quite pleasant.

TCL QM8L review: Audio

TCL also claims bragging rights for the QM8L's sound system, provided by big-name audio company Bang & Olufsen. It's labeled as "2.2-channel" sound, indicating a pair of mini-subwoofers for deeper tones. However TCL describes these as mid-base drivers, not true subwoofers. The company did not respond to our request to clarify, nor to specify the wattage of the speakers.

In practice, I found performance to be on the higher-end of built-in speaker systems, but not radically better than other TVs I've heard. For instance, the Hisense QD7 (about $500 for the 65-inch model I tested or around $550 for a 75-inch) produces rumbling bass from its 30-watt stereo system.

I found the Movie audio mode to be the best in all respects. Versus Standard, it produced a clearer and richer sound in the deep, soulful voiceover of the "Stranger Things: Part 3" trailer, for instance. (That clip also showed brilliant HDR detail, too.) The aforementioned conversation was a bit crisper in "Spiderman," as well.

The difference was less dramatic in music from the "K-Pop Demon Hunters Sing Along" trailer, however. It still sounded better in Movie mode, but not by much, over Standard and Intelligent modes. Music mode also didn't yield the improvement one might expect. In fact, I scarcely noticed a difference between Standard and Intelligent modes with anything I listened to. Perhaps Intelligent was a bit clearer, but it's hard to say.

The QM8L also supports both the Dolby Atmos and DTS Premium Sound formats for enveloping spatial audio: either virtualized using the built-in speakers or in full effect with a surround sound system. The set also supports Dolby's new FlexConnect 4.1.4 system for attaching up to four wireless speakers (in addition to a wireless subwoofer) to provide true Dolby Atmos surround sound.

TCL QM8L review: Interface and remote

Navigating the QM8L's Google TV interface is a mixed experience. On the plus side, accessing device settings is as simple and intuitive as I've seen. Simply press the three-line "hamburger"-icon in the upper right of the remote to pull up a ribbon of settings at the bottom of the screen. These include brightness, picture mode, sound mode, and display & soundsettings. Tapping any one of these brings up the full set of controls for the category.

If you’re someone who’s concerned about personal data collection, I recommend going to Settings > Privacy and poking around. If you have signed in with your Google account, the TV will be collecting a lot of information on you. You can limit that by turning off location tracking, for instance, or deleting your Advertiser ID. Also take a look at what apps may be accessing other information, such as your calendar or email.

In the future, you may be able to put the remote down to do some of this. TCL plans to roll out new Google TV capabilities that allow Gemini to make adjustments based on natural language voice prompts such as, "my screen is too dark." Those features were not enabled when I tested the QM8L, however.

But I could take advantage of the current ability to ask Gemini for content recommendations, and it's up for the challenge. For instance, my colleague asked Gemini: "Can you suggest a romantic comedy that's also an action movie that's also a racing movie that also has Brad Pitt in it." Gemini suggested the 2025 film "F1," probably the best possible answer to that ridiculous request.

Although it’s not something I’ve seen reported elsewhere, I had issues initially getting Google TV set up: The Google TV app either failed to realize that I was trying to set up a TV, or it failed to transfer the wireless network settings from my phone. Signing into my Google account was also hit or miss. What's more: Setup often timed out as I was dealing with these glitches, forcing me to start all over again.

Issues aside, the Google TV interface is attractive, easy to navigate and responsive. I’m not sure if I’d say it’s better than Samsung’s Tizen or LG’s webOS platform, but those aren’t without their own set of flaws, either.

TCL QM8L review: Verdict

TCL's X11L and now its QM8L TV lines show how far LCD technology can be pushed into OLED territory. It may not quite reach perfect black-level performance, but it's getting closer. Its elegant, local-dimming white LED technology achieves far higher brightness levels than OLEDs. That huge brightness range can help blacks appear deeper than they actually are and achieve impressive high dynamic range.

Lab results for color are a bit mixed, with lackluster Delta-E in the Filmmaker mode — but the real-world effect is less significant than the numbers might indicate. The QM8L is a relatively strong performer on color fidelity in the other modes, such as Standard.

Then there's the price. It's reasonable for the cutting-edge tech and OLED-adjacent performance, but it's your call if bleeding-edge tech is worth bleeding your wallet. If not, you have two options: Select a still-good, cheaper top 75-inch TV or wait six months to a year for the price to drop. Either way, the QM8L proves SQD is here to stay.

It’s new-TV season, which means the biggest brands in the business are busy rolling out their latest TV lineups. LG, fresh off the launch of the LG C6 OLED, just announced pricing for its first Micro RGB evo TV. The LG MRGB95 will start at $4,999 for a 75-inch model.

This year, along with the usual suspects of QLEDs, OLEDs and lifestyle TVs, many of the most-popular brands are unveiling an all-new type of TV: RGB LED. These fancy sets promise blistering brightness and better color volume than what we’ve seen from the best Mini-LED and OLED TVs.

LG’s Micro RGB evo TV will go toe to toe with RGB LED TVs from Hisense, Samsung, Sony and TCL. Here’s how the LG MRGB95 stacks up against its rivals.

LG Micro RGB evo pricing: how it compares

At the time of publishing, four flagship TVs have been announced that leverage RGB LED technology: the Hisense UR9 RGB Mini-LED TV, the Samsung R95H Micro RGB TV, the TCL RM9L RGB Mini-LED TV and the LG MRGB95 Micro RGB evo TV. They're available in sizes spanning 65 to 115 inches, but each brand is serving up slightly different size options within the series.

None of these TVs will come cheap. At the 75-inch size point (the smallest size LG is offering), the LG MRGB95 is priced the same as the Hisense UR9. The 75-inch Samsung R95H is $500 cheaper than both.

At the LG MRGB95's largest size (100 inches), LG's model is a full $1,000 cheaper than the Hisense UR9. While a 130-inch version of the Samsung R95H is said to be on the way, the series currently tops out at 85 inches. At this size point, the $6,499 R95H falls in between the $5,999 UR9 and the $6,999 MRGB95.

The Hisense and Samsung advantage

The sizing and pricing of these brand-new, RGB LED flagships tell a similar story. For the maiden voyage of this new display technology, brands are emphasizing big screens at luxury prices.

As the only two brands to currently offer a 65-inch version of a flagship-level RGB LED TV, Hisense and Samsung enjoy a key advantage over their competitors — at least for now.

For several years now, 65 inches has been one of the most popular screen sizes in the world. For folks yearning for an RGB LED experience at the 65-inch size point, only Hisense and Samsung are playing ball.

It's worth keeping in mind, however, that we haven't seen specifics about how Sony intends to sell its inaugural True RGB TV series, presumably later this year. Given that most of the brand's top-shelf TVs in recent years have arrived in 65-inch variants, it's not hard to see Sony delivering a flagship True RGB TV at this size point.