What’s So Special About TCL’s New QM8K TV?

TCL’s latest flagship TV, the QM8K series, is a bold refinement of its QD-Mini LED ambitions, and while its name might mislead some into thinking this is an 8K set, it’s a high-performance 4K display that pulls no punches when it comes to brightness, clarity, or premium design.

Available in sizes from 65 to 98 inches, the QM8K isn’t just about screen real estate; it’s TCL’s most technologically advanced TV to date, carrying the kind of refinements that might finally elevate it into the ultra-premium TV conversation.

Sharp Departure from the Past

Replacing last year’s QM851G, the QM8K brings several key upgrades, beginning with its CrystGlow WHVA panel, which addresses one of Mini LED’s long-standing flaws: poor viewing angles.

TCL’s proprietary WHVA (Wide Horizontal Viewing Angle) technology uses a sophisticated subpixel structure to reduce color shift and improve image uniformity when viewed off-axis. Combined with the brand’s new ZeroBorder design, which trims bezels down to just 3–4mm, the visual impact is both immersive and modern.

The QM8K is also brighter and more precise. It can hit 5,000 nits of peak HDR brightness and features up to 3,800 local dimming zones, making it TCL’s most aggressive attempt yet at rivaling OLED in dynamic range, but with the punchier highlights Mini LED is known for.

According to TCL, that’s 65% brighter than last year’s model and brings 35% more dimming zones, thanks to a new Halo Control System built around improved LEDs, a micro lens array, and dynamic backlight algorithms.

Processing That Thinks Ahead

TCL’s self-developed AiPQ Pro processor returns with even more intelligent tuning, now capable of adjusting contrast, color, and motion at the pixel level. The processor pairs with the new 23-bit Backlight Controller, enabling over 65,000 levels of brightness control per LED.

There’s also a Zero-Delay Transient Response that reduces input lag between signal and backlight, particularly useful for gamers who want minimal latency during fast-paced sessions.

Speaking of gaming, the QM8K comes armed with Game Accelerator 288, which unlocks up to 288Hz VRR in supported games at 1080p. The native 144Hz panel, combined with Auto Game Mode (ALLM) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, ensures silky gameplay with less tearing and ghosting.

TCL is also embracing Filmmaker Mode, letting movies play exactly as the creators intended, alongside Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HLG, and IMAX Enhanced certification.

Audio, Finally Taken Seriously

TCL isn’t stopping at visuals. It’s also bringing in Bang & Olufsen to tune the QM8K’s sound system. The integrated speakers feature up-firing drivers and Dolby Atmos support, and they’re designed by the same engineers behind B&O’s iconic speaker lines. There’s also support for DTS Virtual:X, making the TV feel like a legitimate all-in-one home theater system.

Notably, the QM8K introduces FlexConnect, a wireless surround solution that pairs seamlessly with supported speakers to eliminate messy cable setups. It’s a forward-looking move, especially as more consumers turn to cleaner, minimalist home setups.

Smarter and Better Connected

Running on Google TV, the QM8K feels familiar but smarter. There’s voice assistant support built-in (Google Assistant, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit), plus AirPlay 2 and Google Cast compatibility.

TCL also throws in a new Art Mode, complete with 350+ curated artworks and AI-generated pieces, turning your blank screen into a digital gallery.

Connectivity is future-ready too. You get four HDMI ports (with eARC), USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 6, and ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) for OTA 4K HDR content.

Premium, but Not Out of Reach

The 65-inch QM8K starts at $2,299.99, while the 85-inch model comes in at $3,799.99. A 75-inch version priced at $2,999.99 and a massive 98-inch variant for $6,499.99 will arrive later in June.

These prices firmly place the QM8K in the high-end TV bracket, yet TCL still undercuts some of its rivals like Samsung and Sony, especially when comparing panel size and feature set.