TCL QM8 QLED 4K Smart TV Review Stunning Features and Gaming Performance

Description

Incredible Design and Build Quality

Testing the TCL 65-Inch QM85 QLED 4K Smart QD-Mini LED TV (65QM851G) has been quite the experience, especially with its sleek, bezel-less design. The first thing I noticed once I set it up was how the 360° metal frame gave this TV a modern and premium appearance. It’s not just about aesthetics, though; the thin profile makes it blend seamlessly into any living room setup. My brother, who’s pretty picky about design, couldn’t stop complimenting how it elevated the whole vibe of the space. At only 1.38 inches thick, it barely protrudes when wall-mounted, which is a nice touch for anyone who hates bulky electronics.

The 65-inch display size is perfect for a medium-to-large room, and the black finish adds an elegant touch. However, the TV is on the heavier side, weighing 77.8 pounds, so you’ll definitely need an extra set of hands for installation. The build feels solid, though, and there’s no wobble when placed on its stand.

Impressive Picture and Color Performance

One word: breathtaking. The 4K Ultra HD resolution combined with Quantum Dot Technology (QLED ULTRA) delivers an image quality that’s vibrant, crisp, and rich in detail. Watching nature documentaries was an absolute treat, as the colors were so vivid that it felt like I could almost touch the leaves on the trees. The TV covers nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space, which is noticeable when you’re viewing high-definition content.

One standout feature is the QD-Mini LED ULTRA technology, which uses over 5,000 local dimming zones to create deep blacks and ultra-bright whites. This contrast is insane, and it honestly made my old TV look washed out in comparison. The 5,000 nits of peak brightness was particularly noticeable during sunny days when I didn’t want to close the blinds. No glare, no problem.

Watching movies with HDR ULTRA (Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, and HLG) was like having a personal theater. The details in dark scenes were sharp and clear, while the bright scenes popped without feeling overwhelming. The Motion Rate 480 with MEMC frame insertion produced smooth motion, which was a lifesaver for action scenes and live sports. My dad, a huge football fan, was impressed by how smooth and immersive the gameplay looked.

Gaming Features That Truly Shine

As a gamer, the Game Accelerator 240 was a game-changer for me. It supports a 240Hz variable refresh rate (VRR), making my gaming sessions buttery smooth. Whether I was racing through high-speed tracks or engaging in first-person shooters, there was zero lag or screen tearing. The Auto Game Mode (ALLM) paired with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro automatically optimized the settings for low input lag, which gave me a noticeable edge during competitive matches.

Even my younger cousin, who’s obsessed with gaming, couldn’t stop raving about the responsiveness. The TV’s 144Hz variable refresh rate works well with newer gaming consoles, ensuring future-proof performance. I also appreciate how the TV automatically switches to game mode when it detects a console—no need to fiddle with the settings.

Outstanding Audio Quality

I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting much from built-in speakers, but this TV surprised me. The Onkyo speaker system paired with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X creates an immersive audio experience. The up-firing drivers and built-in subwoofer add depth to the sound, making it feel like the audio is coming from all around you. Watching action movies felt more dynamic, with explosions and dialogues sounding crisp and clear.

One weekend, my friends and I streamed a concert, and it honestly felt like we were there. While it’s not a replacement for a dedicated sound system, it’s more than enough for everyday use. However, audiophiles might still prefer adding a soundbar for an even fuller experience.

Key Benefits

• Stunning image quality with 4K HDR and Quantum Dot Technology.
• 5,000 local dimming zones for superior contrast and brightness.
• Game Accelerator 240 ensures smooth and responsive gameplay.
• Premium bezel-less design enhances any space.
• Excellent built-in sound system with Dolby Atmos and a subwoofer.

Caveats

• The TV is quite heavy at 77.8 pounds, making installation a bit challenging for one person alone.
• While the built-in speakers are great, they may lack the punch some audiophiles seek.
• The price point might be a bit steep for budget-conscious buyers, but the features justify it.

Competing Products

Compared to other high-end QLED TVs, this model holds its own. For instance, Samsung’s QN90C series offers similar Quantum Dot Technology, but TCL’s 5,000 nits of peak brightness easily outshines Samsung’s capabilities. On the other hand, LG’s OLED models deliver deeper blacks, but they can’t match the brightness levels of this TCL TV, especially in well-lit rooms. However, LG does edge ahead in terms of viewing angles.

Sony’s X90L series provides excellent color accuracy and motion clarity, but the TCL feels like a more well-rounded option for gamers due to its 240Hz VRR and ALLM features. Price-wise, this TV offers a great middle ground, as it’s more affordable than some competitors while delivering nearly identical performance.

Price Performance

For what you’re getting, this TV is a solid bang for the buck. The combination of cutting-edge features, premium design, and next-level performance makes it worth every penny. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, it offers cost-efficiency that rivals struggle to match. If you’re someone who values high-quality visuals and seamless gaming, this is a worthy investment. For casual users, the price might feel a bit premium, but the value proposition becomes obvious once you experience the TV in action.

Additional information