Hey everyone! I made an error in saying this TV only did 144Hz at 1440p. It does 4K 144hz no problem. Also, the Delta E of 6 was the MAX not average as I bungled in the video. Sorry! Finally, A few details didn’t make the cut for this edit. This panel was very clean. I’d give it an A- Also, I did run it on the latest firmware and didn’t notice any wild brightness fluctuations, though when it goes from super dark to super full-screen bright (rare to happen in content) you can see the screen inching toward its max brightness. Overall, nothing is bothering me about this TV. I’m very impressed with the performance, and the price is extremely good, considering.
The A/V community is going nuts over this TV. Seems to be one of the best bang per buck out there right now for the picture quality you get. I have the original TCL 65 825 mini led set and I'm still impressed with the picture several years later. I upgraded to a 75 Sony 8k set and of course it's better by a lot but I still love the TCL as my bedrooms set. I doubt most buyers would be unhappy with it.
Caleb, I can't seem to get the latest update, V283. Can you help with that or give advice ob how to get TCL to push it or can I upload it. Thanks and great review, touching on the dark content like Silo, etc.
I have a C1 and a QM8 and I cannot believe at how close to an OLED this thing looks, I have my C1 in my bedroom and the TCL in the living room and I cant tell the difference 98% of the time, how on earth did they manage to achieve that contrast ratio with just local dimming. Blows my mind, You guys will be very very satisfied with this TV. Sports looks jaw droppingly good on it and gaming on it is so unbelievably good. The QM8 is much much brighter than my C1 and I can easily see everything on the TCL even with the windows open in the room. This is why I almost always watch sports content on the TCL more often than my C1. I mostly just play xbox on my OLED tho.
That other 2 percent ruined my experience with the blurry ness should just tell ppl to buy open box from Best Buy get top of the line TVs for the same price or even less
I am on my 3rd week of owning the 65" QM8 and love it so far. I was in the market for a new TV and was going to buy an OLED LG or Samsung, but when I saw the early talk a few weeks back about this TV it caught my curiosity. The price difference was a huge factor, and after I bought the price dropped again, $1199.99 to me is still a lot. But when you save $800 - $2000 to me for the difference it's a no brainer. If you would have told me last year that I would buy a TCL TV, I would have laughed and been like you are crazy. I have been going back and watching some of my favorite Sci-Fi movies with lots of night and outer space scenes and I have been blown away on how good they look. It's like seeing the movie new again. Now I have encountered a small problem. My TV is not playing nice with my Onkyo AV receiver. All of my components DirecTV, Roku Ultra, 4K Blu-Ray, X-Box are going to AVR and one HDMI to the TV. When I turn on the TV it always turns on my Roku when I want to watch DirecTV. I never had this problem before on my Samsung TV. I am using eArc and did auto select in menu of TV. Don't know if I missed something else in setup or it is what it is. After the TV is on for a few seconds I can switch it to the right input, but when you first turn on it's always goes to Roku and will go back to it if you change right away. I have the TV wall mounted and during a remodel had two HDMI cables run in the wall. So I could probably run two or three more HDMI's to the TV and let the TV be the switch but it would be a pain in the butt. I was curious if anyone else has had this problem? Over all I am happy so far. Now just wait and see how long it last compared to all my Samsung TV's that quit working with in four years, or right past the warranty ended. If it does Samsung and LG better take notice.
😊😊u beat the rush . U have no idea TCL n HIsnee U8K will be sold out so fast during Black Friday. U literally Beat d RUSH. Yr tv died in good time. Thats how i discovered HIsense/TCL Va panel myself. My old $3000 tv died right before Black Friday. I was depressed. Then when I got my first HIsense flagship panel d night before BF, it was sold OUT so quick. I was like” how come no one knows this thing!” Upon turning it on. U just had same reaction like everyone had with Hisense U8H last year n earlier this year. Ps. Keep the “auto screen saver” on. Whenever pause it, it can prevent BRIGHT tv panel still image burn out light bulps,
@@birdtj82 The U8K is a beast as well and is right on par with this QM8. I'm buying one on Friday 55" for $799.99 at Best Buy...What's even scarier is that the Q7 is phenominal also and isn't even a mini dot. There is also a U7K that is mini dot, cheap, and kicks ass also with all the same specs but less dimming zones...These 2 companies are making great budget TVs that punch WAY OVER their price range...
My 85” QM8 is being delivered Monday from Best Buy and I am beyond excited. I am upgrading from a 75” Sony x850d and expect a huge upgrade. I did however add on the 5 year geek squad warranty for peace of mind.
@@csi2448I have a KS8000 that is falling apart after 5-6 years. Has weird blue spots on the bottom of the screen while showing any content and has other backlighting issues. It also starts to turn the picture off then back on, unprompted, and rapidly which is a know issue due to the poor internals. Picked up this TCL QM8, fingers crossed…
@@csi2448 I have an 85'' KS8000 how big of a difference did you notice? Probably pretty drastic...my cheap U7H in my garage looks so much better than my KS8000 even though it was about 1/3 of the price lol.
@@Barbwire710 that is most likely a wiring short. I know because I'm one of the people who discovered and solved this problem years ago. A wire is taped to the back of the chassis by a machine I'm guessing and the wiring got pressed down on a rivet which cut into the power wire, creating a short.
I was able to see both this TV and the QN95C side by side for a couple of hours and they are close. I would absolutely spend the money on the QN95C because I have always been the guy who would have FOMO but i can see 95% of everyone else being sensible and buying the TCL. The samsung to me is perceptually better but a tv that's 25 to 30% cheaper but has 85 to 90% of performance is a hard tv to beat.
I saw this TV at best buy and it is incredibly crisp. Colors and deep black are as good as my 65 inch C2. I was really wanting the series 6 and then this came out. Glad I waited. A 75" in my living room will be perfect.
Oh my goodness, I literally just got back home from Best Buy, purchasing this TV after watching your "impression" video of this TV (the store didn't have any in stock, so they will deliver). I noticed this video was on my feed as soon as I got back home. After watching this, I cannot wait for this TV! My wife and I are one of the people who just don't want to spend more than $2000 on a TV, mainly because we really don't watch TV that much. That really narrows down the line-ups for Samsung, LG, and Sony. We weren't sure about the "made in China" budget TVs. But thanks to your videos, I thought I'd give myself a chance, even without watching it before buying. Frankly, I am nervous whether we will like this TV or not, but I have a great feeling we will!
How's it going? I have talked to different repair guys who come to my work. Only one has said to avoid TCL or Hisense. The other 3 said they are better than you think. Three of the four said Samsung might be one to avoid. They all said great things about LG.
Caleb, you really know how to step it up. Great review! I’m glad TCL is gettin into the high end game properly. Especially when you can get a 85” TV from them for the price of some 75 or 65” TVs from top brands. And although I’m glad they use Google TV os, I honestly wish Apple opened up the Apple TV OS from their boxes. It would’ve made the TV market burn.. specifically any brand that doesn’t use it..
I’m glad also. But very disappointing that they didn’t make a 55 inch in there top model. I really wanted one and the 65 inch is to big for my space and also it’s a lot more money than a 55 would be. Poor, marketing decision. Now I have to go with Hisense
@@richardvacanti9428 or you could also find previous gen top brand product that’s going to be basically the same if not even less then the Hisense or TCL. And most of the time, unless you have those side by side, you wouldn’t notice a difference. I have an LG G2 and I have zero reasons to upgrade to G3. Unless I literally see them in a store next to each other, which I did, I still didn’t see enough of a difference to buy the new one. So I’d recommend doing that. Maybe previous gen leftover stock for Sony or LG. I’d avoid Samsung at the moment.
@@videomakville they’re slowly opening up a lot of things. Apple Music APi is open now, camera is, so are multiple other things now. Although this is different, since it’s a full on OS, it would be freaking awesome, don’t you agree. I’d pay extra for the same exact TV if it came with tvOS instead of WebOS or whatever else is out there.
Really liked your answer to the number of dimming zones very well worded.....and gives a feeling of satisfaction that just throwing a number out there would not have done...Thanks again for putting in the hard work to do a great review
I own the 85” qm8 and I love it. We also own an LG C1 and I think I prefer the QM8 for most content and for most lighting conditions. There are situations where OLED is still king, but I just love the brightness and the blacks that are still pretty inky black in most situations. Thanks for the review Caleb, I’ve been checking UA-cam daily to watch it.
@@mrgamnwatch - if you have windows you can’t block out I would say the qm8 is probably one of the best TVs you can buy right now - basing this on price / performance. Not really possible to get something better suited for a bright room except maybe an LG G3, but that’s a lotta cash.
@@lewisevander - I would say that once calibrated it’s not all that different. The OLED has the deeper blacks and the miniled has the brighter whites. For anything other than a dark room I would take the qm8.
Ordered the 65 inch version because of your video's and Amazon Prime day convinced me now is the time. I have a 6 series and a 5 series. 5 series is selling and can`t wait to get the qm8.Appreciate all the time and effort to make these videos interesting as well as so informative Keep up the excellent videos and keeping all of us informed on the latest and greatest Tech.
A very nice review. If I were in the market for an 85 inch non-OLED TV this would be on my short list with the X95L. In fact you should do a side by side with this one since they are both 85 inch. My TV actually didn’t show your motion problem with the girl on the hammock. The motion processing on my A95K is so good. When you corrected it, it was way over. The only TV that would replace my A95K would be a second generation QD-OLED. In the calibration livestream I watched where the calibrator calibrated five TVs including the QM8. (You would understand the technicalities better than me but apparently the QM8 was off EOTF? even after calibration. It was too bright?) I have to say I am a little surprised that you will put THIS TV in your living room when you made a similar comment on both the G3 and S95C in your comparison review. 😂😃 Kidding! Sort of. I am sure the music choice for your background music was very pleasing. I found the bursts of sound a little jarring and too loud, and there was too much thumping subwoofer kind of action. I don’t know the music. Is it supposed to stop and start like that? I have to say that was a little annoying. In fact, I will probably be the only one, but I preferred no music. AND I LOVE MUSIC!!!!! This is the first time your music bothered me. I love your music most of the time.
@@busterboy7507The QM8 has better contrast and better blacks, almost indistinguishable from and OLED. The Sony struggles with blacks but has better color processing. Although TCL will hopefully improve with updates.
Caleb, excellent review as always! You truly are the gold standard for TV reviews. I noticed you mentioned the TV is 144hz but everything I've read online says it's a 120hz panel. Can you provide any details on this? My only wishlist for the gaming section of the review would be if you could test input lag at high refresh rates in the future. Keep up the great work!
I got the TCL QM8 85" last weekend, and I absolutely love it! Your awesome reviews helped me finalize my decision. I hope to understand how to get Dolby Vision content to completely drop all signs of the soap opera effect, but making some motion adjustments definitely makes content enjoyable using Dolby Vision Bright or Dolby Vision Dark. Google TV is a dream to use. As you said, the experience of watching this TV is just "phenomenal."
@@sauce.unlocked Yes, I have played with turning off all motion in Dolby Vision Bright & Dark as well as leaving some motion settings on at a lower setting just to see what looks best. Ultimately, some content such as Disney+ Star Wars shows doesn't look perfect to me. I don't want to be distracted at all with the soap opera effect.
I got the 75", call me crazy in the video I think he gets the refresh-resolution wrong. Cause it says it can do 144hz @ 4k, but cuts the resolution when doing 240hz to 1080p. But apparently VRR has to be on to get 144hz. However I can't get it to work with my 4070ti. Have you tried getting it to 144hz?
Got the 85” TCL and I couldn’t be happier. The first Meg movie in Dolby Vision clipped on my Sony with this TV I see every detail. It really is a great TV for the price. Thank you for the review it helped me with my decision of what TV to purchase.
Great review--and here I am just getting used to my 75" QN90B! I love that you have Aja in the background. Aja and The Nightfly are what I use to test audio.
I got my 2023 model today for 800.00 after tax an insane picture and I went from an older Hisense tv with 4k. The brilliance of color is awesome and I'm super happy with it. Makes movies pop off the screen also paired with an earc HDMI for sound bar and this this is amazing home theatre.
Caleb are you gonna do a head to head with the QM8 and Hisense U8K when it becomes available? This kind of test will determine what I buy... But I was impressed with your QM8 review well done as always
I saw this TV at BB yesterday and I was SHOCKED. I bought an A80L 77, but if that doesn't work out it's QM8 98 for me. It really is that good. It's a flamethrower! 🔥🚒🔥
I have made this TV my daily driver. All be it the Australian version. Not called a QM8. It is called a C845, It is the same TV. I did however land on the 75 inch version. Such a good picture, not only for the budget but for any budget. I was also blown away by the sound produced from it. I was watching something on it last week and there was a knock on the door. Sounded like it was my front door but it was actually from the TV. Easy to seet up and easy to use. The only ppat of this TV that I am not as impressed with is the remote which does not have any numbers marked on it to select channels. Minor gripe but overall it is super impressive. Highlly recommended.
This tv is on my short list for when my sony finally kicks the bucket. and for the 85 inch its around 2200 right now at best buy which isnt that bad at all. Will totally keep this one in mind.
Glad for this review. I bought this whole ass 75" QM8 and haven't really sat and played with it. Going to put it through it's paces this weekend. Shout out to you, Caleb!
Really interested to see how the Q7 fairs. The QM8 is the 6 Series' replacement in specs…but the Q7 is the replacement in price. So I'd be really interested to see a 3-way comparison between them, as well as the (I'm assuming will be?) standalone Q7 review
6 series is much more closer to q7 than qm8. the only downgrade on the q 7 is loss of miniled...which only impacts how efficiently it can get bright. It still gets really bright, has similar dimming zones as 6 series and more importantly has same newer processor as qm8.
@@johnb4905 The Q7 is a fantastic TV with great blacks, low bloom, gaming speed panel, great colors, and it's only $550.00 at Best Buy. The Q7 isn't mini dot but it doesn't need it because it does alot of things great after calibration...
@@blackcaesar8387That is absolutely not what mini led is for. It's to be able to have more zones and finer control over black levels, not have a brighter tv. Although since they are smaller you can fit more and have more light but that's not the main purpose of mini leds. Mini led does make a huge difference in reducing blooming and achieving OLED like Blacks.
I purchased the 75” for the bedroom and I LOVE IT!! Now I’m waiting on the 85” for the living room. Trust me, this tv is AMAZING!!! You won’t regret it. 👍😎💯
First of all thank you for being realistic as to how a tv will preform for most people. Too many reviews are either sponsored or geared toward enthusiasts who have FOMO. 😊
I was hoping for a comment about the sound quality. Also, people seem to be complaining about muted colors using Dolby Vision. I suppose if there was an issue you would have mentioned it. I am a gamer, so I still have unanswered questions, but I will keep my eye on this TV. And it's a bummer about 24fps content. Thanks! (People seem to be arguing whether this is a true 10-bit or 8-bit FRC panel as well. TCL doesn't seem to wanna tell us.)
Great review... Im sitting here waiting on my 85" QM8 to be delivered on Sunday... So as most of us do, im soaking up all the related content in the meantime...😂 Cannot wait to run the RTX 4090 at 4K/120 Again, thsnks for this review... Seems I chose wise for the price!
Good going to buy this TV not worried about motion I turn my motion all the way up... I like soap opera effect.. Real smooth not judder perfect.. Now if best buy can deliver it.
Love your style Caleb. Easy to look at and easy to listen to. I just wish the damn tv became available in Europe. Yes, there is a similar model with some specs worse, but at the same price, and would leave a bad taste in my mouth if i bought it. This type of regional crap needs to stop. The world is a small place. It's like forcing youtube so that only NA and the region this is sold at could watch your review. And honestly, the manufacturers needs to be called out for this practice.
I have a lg oled c1 and I just bought this tcl and I must say... I know oled is king and all but I still find me going back to lcd qled tvs The brightness and colors are amazing... Sorry I like lcds better I have notice no blooming whatsoever... It's a beast of a TV..... Highly recommended!
Can you let us know how's the viewing angle performance? In FOMO's live calibration video the calibrators said they can't recommend this TV for living room with a sectional as there is bad color shift off angle. So can you let us know how it performs against other QLEDS like the ones from Samsung like the NEO QLED off angle? Same issue with last years U8H, it's only good when you watch it dead on center, even if you move few degrees off angle you will notice the shift. So waiting on Hisense U8K 85" since it uses ADS Pro panel instead of VA. So the viewing angle should be really good. Plus since they improved processing this year I don't think we will see color banding like last year model (basing it on U7K performance). So if contrast can match QM8, U8K can be the clear winner in larger sizes. QM8 uses VA panels in all sizes. Hisense U8K will be using ADS Pro panels in their 75" and 85" panels and rest are VA based on my research. If Hisense U8K also has some issues then will go for 77" Samsung QD-OLED. I hope that you compare 85" QM8 and 85" U8K.
I bought the U8k 75 since off angle viewing should be great. I also chose it because it handles upscaling better. We love old movies too. Motion handling was also mentioned as being better on the U8k so I really like that for Sports. No doubt, its tempting for the Qm8, but going from a 49 inch 2018 TV, 75 inches will be plenty bright already.
@3:05 I've been saying the same - the larger the TV the more light it puts out. A 85 inch TV's area is 140% larger than a 55 inch TV so it will put out 140% more light... Great analogy with the 6 vs 12 light bulbs!
14:15 into the video you may not be a video game player but you could do an input lag test for us gamers on this TV that would be a big help. As a gamer myself, I would like to know what the input lag is on this television in ( GAME MODE) I’m sure others would like to see it as well that do game. Thank you for your time.
The best TV reviewer IMO. I purchased and returned a Hisense U8H due to very poor motion processing and its color could have been better. I was waiting to see where QM8 was priced and Amazon has the 75" for $1,700. That pricing made me purchase the Sony X90K which is now $1,550 at Costco since it is a 2022 product. Why? After dealing with the U8H motion, that became a hot button issue for me. Sony processing is killer. I also greatly love Sony's color which looks natural to me. Buying end of year means I didn't pay "the Sony Tax". Finally.....I know the Sony X90K does not have Mini LED. I know it does have blooming in certain circumstances which the TCL QM8 beats the Sony on. But I made the decision to save $150 and get a tv with a 8/10 picture quality that has Sony's legendary reputation for building long lasting quality Bravia tvs, VS a 9/10 picture quality from TCL who has a less than stellar reputation for quality. I am replacing a 16 year old Samsung with over 60,000 hours on it. I believe my new Sony X90K has a better chance of giving me 15 years of service where I don't have the same opinion of the TCL. Just one mans opinion, and you know what that is worth. Just sharing my thought process. Good luck everyone with whatever sets you go with.
Sony X90K is a fantastic tv. I went for 65" X95K, but was looking at the X90K 75" initially. Had to have the anti-glare coating due to a very bright room (windows very close to the TV) and bought the TV to put it on wall in our house when we finally buy one. The X90K 65" and 75" actually have a higher native contrast than the X95K 65", so in some scenes the blooming is actually better! It doesn't have the same accuracy, color depth or black deepness, but you won't miss those either if you never saw them, the X90K is that good.
Sony is trash. I've seen comparisons side by side and the colors are not great. Top 3 tv manufacturers in 2023 by sales in order are Samsung, TCL, Hisense, LG(way behind). Sony isn't even top 5 🙄
@@chrisy4011 Sony top oleds are the best tvs, they constantly win the professional av reviewers shootout comparison, don’t know about their other TVs though.
@@tracer073 TVs are at the point of diminishing returns. 8K is a joke and is all but dead. Even this reviewer spoke a year ago about how LED has peaked and it will be a while before we see more huge gains. SO, I make my purchases at those points in time and keep them long term. My 1080P Samsung I just let go of was 16 years old and still looked stellar for HD. I waited until we hit diminishing returns to switch to 4K. By not pissing away money chasing tiny gains on a tv year after year (and other stupid expenditures like that), I am able to buy my 45 foot Leopard catamaran I live on part of the year and my Dodge Viper which are a lot more fun than a tv.
QUESTION: How are the Viewing Angles of this VA Panel? Also, what are your thoughts about how this TV only has an ATSC 1.0 Turner rather than the ATSC 3.0 Turner?
I believed you even before I watched the video for 2 reasons. 1️⃣ You're a fantastic reviewer and 2️⃣ I have a C728 QLED from 2021, and it's just perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to light up in Smart HDR mode, but overall it's exactly what I needed.
Wow.. I don't remember you mentioned anything about the sound.. and sound quality.?? Sound and the quality of sound (especially dialogue) are extremely important to me..
I love your show, and have been subscribed for a long time now. Can you please talk more about dimming zones counts since the manufacturers always seem to drop that ball?
The QM8 looks fantastic but you need to go over TCL's fail rate and warranty and returns. How is the comparison with the larger brands there? Will this TV work as intended in 5-8 years?
TCLs are just fine I have two . One from 2017 and one from 2019 and both are running just fine. This is a person who have several highend sonys and a panasonic plasma.
Most of the big brand warranties are 1yr same as TCL. No vendor is backing up their product anymore. Hisense has a rare 2yr on theirs but not sure the warranty experience.
75” is down to $1199 now, as much as people rave about the x90L and all the great things it does, the 75” X90L is still $1699. That $500 difference is hard to justify on a budget.
Your videos are outstanding! I've been cramming UA-cam University as we get ready to buy a TV and surround system for our home, which is being built. I was leaning toward the Hisense, but this video seals the deal for TCL. We'll be forced to use ceiling speakers for surround, I'd love your thoughts on whether Klipsch are the way to go on a semi-budget, and which Atmos capable receivers you like. Cheers!
Great video. One thing you did not mention is that this TV does not have an ATSC 3.0 tuner, just an ATSC 1.0. So, added $250 expense for an ATSC 3.0 tuner if you use an antenna for OTA in an area with good ATSC 3.0 coverage.
I'm surprised you didn't mention the lg c2 as a comparison. What I've seen so far is the c3 doesn't add that much and the c2 is in the same price range at 65 inches and seems like a more natural competitor while it's in stock
I think it’s a valid comparison and I think it’s worth a mention. I have an LG C1 and the QM8 and I gotta say, I prefer the QM8 in most instances. It gets so much brighter it just pops in ways with specular highlights that the C1 seems almost dull. Like when metal glints on screen I have to squint sometimes.
@@BoomerPlusUltra Not in my comparisons it didn’t, the C1 still easily looks better overall, especially black levels and contrast, but then again, my C1 is calibrated…
@@bigcdub contrast only does so much given that it’s relying on the black levels to do the heavy lifting. I have our c1 in a light controlled room and it does look great, but in our extremely bright living room it’s not even close. I can barely see the C1 during the day. The QM8 still dazzles. Even in the evening the specular highlights on the QM8 pop in ways the C1 can’t compete with.
I bought a tcl series 6 r646 last year after watching your videos. No regrets… best tv I’ve seen. Oled comes close, but the brightness of the series 6 easily makes up for slightly less shadow detail.
😢 my son broke my 646 with his oculus remote.. tv repair company cant find another screen panel to replace.. might have to buy the qm8 but thats just money i didnt wana spend.. i miss my r646
R646 will go down as legendary tv for the price the picture quality is amazing and the sound quality is the best out there and the fact TCL stood by this tv and updated so much that it run flawlessly now, will definitely buy the TCL QM8 later on this year for sure
Caleb, do you guys offer a purchasable calibration manual for the TV’s you review? Like if you were to calibrate the TV and then for $20-$50 offer a PDF, or video on what micro-settings you used to get there. Just curious.
So you either need calibration equipment(expensive for one tv) and trial/error using different content. The problem is everybody’s eyes are different. Each panel is different of the factory line. So people sharing there settings or methods doesn’t translate any better than random experiments for most people. After a while you get the feel, like seasoning food that you have cooked many times before, what you need to adjust.
Get from- Quatum TV- youtuber. He is prob one of best for it. I have seen ppl at Bestbuy TV review at last 2 ppl mentioned used his calibration n worked well. Some ppl hate on d dude but his tv reviews, Calibrations are good.
Had to pick up a 65" QM8 for $900! Seemed like a no brainer coming from a 55" R615. I was eyeing the LG's OLEDs but can't spend twice as much for a 55". TCL earns my $ as the R615 has been great for over 5 years and will now be my bedroom TV. I'm also upgrading my gaming monitor to the Alienware 32" 240hz QD-OLED so it will be cool to compare the 2. Thanks for the content Caleb, always good info!
@@brealll9647 I'm super impressed with it! Definitely a bright TV. Only minor issue is some motion clarity but for the price point I'm not complaining. The blacks are ridiculous for LED. My buddy came over to check out the setup and thought it was OLED until I told him it was Micro LED lol =)
@@simonbaribeau4853 Hey Simon no major complaints after 3 months. I'd say the only thing I noticed is I would have to turn on 120Hz whenever I turned on the tv. Honestly I use my 4K 240Hz OLED monitor a lot more than the TV. Unfortunately the TV is sitting in storage at the moment while I'm moving.
Just ordered the 65" QM8 after my 5 month old Hisense 65U8H started getting horizontal lines and then the picture going blurry! Luvkily I'm getting a refund from Hisense. So now its on to the TCL!
Wow. If my continuing UST screen misadventures go awry this weekend, I may just have to switch to this. I have the 2021 55-inch 6 series in our living room (thanks mainly to your review) and love it. And good to know you're still playing the trumpet (I assume from the wedding season reference). Wish I could say the same.
I bought a TCL 4-5 years ago, from that experience, I’ll never buy again. TV lasted a little over 2 years being on 24*7, displaying posters indoors. That my first time buying a TCL, at the time I realised TCL Australia offered completely different models compared to USA. That’s still the case today, good luck trying to figure that one out.
Eh, I got a Sony Bravia that only lasted 2yrs, died, & was UNREPAIRABLE! A friggin' SONY! I've been a Sony guy for 30yrs, but it's ridiculous they can make something so expensive be disposable! 😢
Wish TV manufacturers would provide better calibration out of the box. Or provide a way for consumers to do a respectable calibration on their own without needing a ridiculous $$ amount of equipment. Why, because no one in my area does TV calibration. And I really researched calibrators, and talked to some who once did it and they no longer provide the service. Even BestBuy stopped offering calibration.
7:37 The average DeltaE is 1,66 according to your readings not 6,5 like you've said in the video - that's the max DeltaE. Or am I reading this wrong? I'm just saying because you advised for calibration for this TV based on that statement and I don't think it's necessary with the visible outliers being around the white point and mostly due to luminance so it arguably matters less.. PS: Please keep showing us your measurement graphs it's super useful to see them and we can spot potential errors in the script.
I want to give TCL another shot but I'm not that confident. I have the S546 and it has a problem where it turns off while I'm playing PS5. It previously manifested as an issue where the TV would either freeze or restart. I told TCL about the issue and they wanted me to record it for warranty. The problem was, it was intermittent so I'd have to sit there recording at all times if I wanted to catch it. It could have been days before it happened again. Eventually it became consistent enough and the TV would just flat out turn off. Even if I turned it back on, the screen would soon flash once and a few seconds later. I contacted TCL again but this time I was already out of warranty. I cited that this case was being looked out before but it didn't matter, nothing could be done to replace the set. I definitely don't want to run into these issues again. This set sounds so enticing but my confidence in purchasing is low.
I find it odd that you call this the only QLED you need and your go to tv, yet you haven't reviewed the U8K yet - this tv's most direct competitor and didn't even mention it, yet mentioned just about every other more expensive set in comparison. I'll wait for the U8K review and hopefully a side by side!
Caleb, did you notice severe color degradation off angle? FOMO had a livestream the other day, and his calibrator said that all color was lost off angle. Haven’t heard anyone else make that claim on the QM8 before. Makes me hesitant about the 98” to say the least
Mini led is not meant for big off angle of course it will look awful. If you’re sitting slightly off to the side then it will be great still. Again DIRECTly from the side of course it falls off and turns ugly
@@LeezahB I remember seeing you in there. I was only around live for the first 45 minutes or so, but went through the rest of the video yesterday. I was definitely taken back when he said it, and specifically remember him saying Keanu looked dead and colorless off angle in the Matrix scene
@@mack4477I was there the whole time but can’t say my attention was 100% the whole time but I do recall the Keanu comment as well. Was it made specifically with respect to the QM8? If I am remembering correctly, it was.
As a gamer, cutting the vertical resolution to half is an absolute no go. Same goes for overall PC and Console usage. For maybe streaming apps and normal TV QM8 is a price-to-performance winner, but for someone who uses PC 99% of the time on the TV, Sony is the go to brand. Motion, accuracy and panel quality make it an easier purchase. A bit expensive, but if you want everything in one package, you have to pay.
Half resolution thing is only for 240hz. The TCL can do full 4K 120hz no problem. Honestly it seems great for consoles and PC with native 4K 120 VRR, Dolby vision gaming, 2 HDMI 2.1 ports (with eARC on a seperate one), and possibly native 4K 144hz. I really don't see why it would be considered worse than Sony for PC usage. And I love Sony's motion too, but it makes very little difference for gaming. More motion & image processing = increased lag/response time.
@@Big_Dogg31 There is no 240hz 4K set here, and traditionally they have cut 4K120hz and 4K144hz VRR vertical resolution to half. 4K144hz would for sure be half resolution vertically. It would be a continuation of the trend for TCL, nothing new. (Edit: I see, you meant 1080p240hz game accelerator mode, apologies.) If the 4K120hz is full resolution, that would be a great improvement, and make QM8 a much better TV than the predecessors. Overall, TCL is simply behind in processing and motion, and that is why Sony Mini-Led or OLED or LG OLED C or G series are the way to go. Samsung is pretty good as well, but they are a bit more unreliable and panel quality is a lottery.
The background music in the last few TV reviews is way too loud. One can barely hear what you are saying over the music. This is especially true in the beginning of those videos with the music getting quieter throughout the videos..
Would this handle brightness and motion rate for watching hockey ? I am using bell fibe in a dark room . Thank you. Great video! Any recommendations would be appreciated.
I really couldn't believe it when not only did LG cancel the A-series OLEDs in the US this year, but they also raised the MSRP of the B-Series by close to $1000. I mean, really, WTF? Why would anyone pay $3k+ for an entry level 77-inch B-series OLED when you can get an 85-inch QM8 for $2200 and a 75" for under $2000? Do LG and Samsung really think people are that stupid?
Interested, I'm just afraid of the Dolby Vision implementation leaving a lot to be desired. Hopefully TCL has purchased Spears and Munsils latest and hard at work creating a great firmware based on the discoveries found while using the disc.
Just got to keep after them. They fixed the fluctuations rather quickly. So if we keep after them, they'll make note of it and even if it can't be "fixed" this TV, it can be for their future TV's!
Great review. Love your videos. I'm currently waiting to see your review on the Hisense U8K to compare and buy... Because you're doing a review on the U8K, right!?
I bought the QM8 and honestly the judder is so bad it makes it un watchable. Is there anything we can do other than that judder setting? When using this the picture looks terrible. Also is it possible you could post a text list of all the exact settings you recommend.
QUESTION: I have an Onkyo TX-NR5009 TXH Ultra A/V Receiver. I don't want to have to replace it because it only has HDMI 1.4. The TCL QM8 has two HDMI 2.1 inputs with the eArc HDMI on a separate HDMI input. This would allow me to hook up two separate devices in need of 120h - such as an Xbox Series X and PC - while still having the A/V Receiver connected. The Hisense U8K has two HDMI 2.1 inputs; however, the eArc channel is on one of the two HDMI 2.1 inputs. This means the Hisense U8K would only allow me to connect one gaming device in need of 120hz. Do you have a suggestion to connect another HDMI 2.1 cable, such as a splitter of some kind that would not hurt performance?
Looks like the top of the range C935 we have in Europe since last year. I have the 75 inch version with 1920 dimming zones. Phenomenal Tv and I expect the QM8 to be perhaps a bit brighter.
Until you check for the Rainbow Effect from direct lights on the C935 and C835 it was very visible, this is a big no no if you have lights in the room when watching the TV. And I am amazed how 90% of reviewer does not mention such and important point. And I can assure you that for most of the people this should be a deal-breaker.
Hey everyone! I made an error in saying this TV only did 144Hz at 1440p. It does 4K 144hz no problem. Also, the Delta E of 6 was the MAX not average as I bungled in the video. Sorry! Finally, A few details didn’t make the cut for this edit. This panel was very clean. I’d give it an A- Also, I did run it on the latest firmware and didn’t notice any wild brightness fluctuations, though when it goes from super dark to super full-screen bright (rare to happen in content) you can see the screen inching toward its max brightness. Overall, nothing is bothering me about this TV. I’m very impressed with the performance, and the price is extremely good, considering.
Just curious. Does local dimming look the same in game mode like outside of it?
Samsung local dimming is bad in game mode
Hi Caleb. What are your thoughts about the Apple Vision Pro, do you think AR glasses/visors will replace standard TVs in the future?
It’s that considering word that makes me hesitant 🎉
The A/V community is going nuts over this TV. Seems to be one of the best bang per buck out there right now for the picture quality you get.
I have the original TCL 65 825 mini led set and I'm still impressed with the picture several years later. I upgraded to a 75 Sony 8k set and of course it's better by a lot but I still love the TCL as my bedrooms set. I doubt most buyers would be unhappy with it.
Caleb, I can't seem to get the latest update, V283. Can you help with that or give advice ob how to get TCL to push it or can I upload it. Thanks and great review, touching on the dark content like Silo, etc.
I have a C1 and a QM8 and I cannot believe at how close to an OLED this thing looks, I have my C1 in my bedroom and the TCL in the living room and I cant tell the difference 98% of the time, how on earth did they manage to achieve that contrast ratio with just local dimming. Blows my mind, You guys will be very very satisfied with this TV. Sports looks jaw droppingly good on it and gaming on it is so unbelievably good.
The QM8 is much much brighter than my C1 and I can easily see everything on the TCL even with the windows open in the room. This is why I almost always watch sports content on the TCL more often than my C1. I mostly just play xbox on my OLED tho.
yea but the black crush kills it, there goes space exploration , or horror movies, i will wait for micro leds
That other 2 percent ruined my experience with the blurry ness should just tell ppl to buy open box from Best Buy get top of the line TVs for the same price or even less
I need to know whether to get the c3 at 55 or this at 65 ??
@@cdel4391its actually much better with it's latest update. Genuinely shocked how good it is now.
The Mastax post is from TCL. Fake.
I am on my 3rd week of owning the 65" QM8 and love it so far. I was in the market for a new TV and was going to buy an OLED LG or Samsung, but when I saw the early talk a few weeks back about this TV it caught my curiosity. The price difference was a huge factor, and after I bought the price dropped again, $1199.99 to me is still a lot. But when you save $800 - $2000 to me for the difference it's a no brainer. If you would have told me last year that I would buy a TCL TV, I would have laughed and been like you are crazy. I have been going back and watching some of my favorite Sci-Fi movies with lots of night and outer space scenes and I have been blown away on how good they look. It's like seeing the movie new again.
Now I have encountered a small problem. My TV is not playing nice with my Onkyo AV receiver. All of my components DirecTV, Roku Ultra, 4K Blu-Ray, X-Box are going to AVR and one HDMI to the TV. When I turn on the TV it always turns on my Roku when I want to watch DirecTV. I never had this problem before on my Samsung TV. I am using eArc and did auto select in menu of TV. Don't know if I missed something else in setup or it is what it is. After the TV is on for a few seconds I can switch it to the right input, but when you first turn on it's always goes to Roku and will go back to it if you change right away. I have the TV wall mounted and during a remodel had two HDMI cables run in the wall. So I could probably run two or three more HDMI's to the TV and let the TV be the switch but it would be a pain in the butt. I was curious if anyone else has had this problem?
Over all I am happy so far. Now just wait and see how long it last compared to all my Samsung TV's that quit working with in four years, or right past the warranty ended. If it does Samsung and LG better take notice.
Does your ar support HDMI 2.1 if not run the Xbox to the TV get all the features
Use your av as a sound system only and connect all stuff to tv
😊😊u beat the rush . U have no idea TCL n HIsnee U8K will be sold out so fast during Black Friday. U literally Beat d RUSH. Yr tv died in good time.
Thats how i discovered HIsense/TCL Va panel myself. My old $3000 tv died right before Black Friday. I was depressed. Then when I got my first HIsense flagship panel d night before BF, it was sold OUT so quick. I was like” how come no one knows this thing!” Upon turning it on.
U just had same reaction like everyone had with Hisense U8H last year n earlier this year.
Ps. Keep the “auto screen saver” on. Whenever pause it, it can prevent BRIGHT tv panel still image burn out light bulps,
@@birdtj82 The U8K is a beast as well and is right on par with this QM8. I'm buying one on Friday 55" for $799.99 at Best Buy...What's even scarier is that the Q7 is phenominal also and isn't even a mini dot. There is also a U7K that is mini dot, cheap, and kicks ass also with all the same specs but less dimming zones...These 2 companies are making great budget TVs that punch WAY OVER their price range...
9 month update?
My 85” QM8 is being delivered Monday from Best Buy and I am beyond excited. I am upgrading from a 75” Sony x850d and expect a huge upgrade. I did however add on the 5 year geek squad warranty for peace of mind.
I upgraded from a similar TV to an 85” QM8 and was not disappointed.
@@BoomerPlusUltraI upgraded from the KS8000. Though only from 60" to 65", and like you, I've been completely satisfied!
@@csi2448I have a KS8000 that is falling apart after 5-6 years. Has weird blue spots on the bottom of the screen while showing any content and has other backlighting issues. It also starts to turn the picture off then back on, unprompted, and rapidly which is a know issue due to the poor internals.
Picked up this TCL QM8, fingers crossed…
@@csi2448 I have an 85'' KS8000 how big of a difference did you notice? Probably pretty drastic...my cheap U7H in my garage looks so much better than my KS8000 even though it was about 1/3 of the price lol.
@@Barbwire710 that is most likely a wiring short. I know because I'm one of the people who discovered and solved this problem years ago. A wire is taped to the back of the chassis by a machine I'm guessing and the wiring got pressed down on a rivet which cut into the power wire, creating a short.
I was able to see both this TV and the QN95C side by side for a couple of hours and they are close. I would absolutely spend the money on the QN95C because I have always been the guy who would have FOMO but i can see 95% of everyone else being sensible and buying the TCL. The samsung to me is perceptually better but a tv that's 25 to 30% cheaper but has 85 to 90% of performance is a hard tv to beat.
I saw this TV at best buy and it is incredibly crisp. Colors and deep black are as good as my 65 inch C2. I was really wanting the series 6 and then this came out. Glad I waited. A 75" in my living room will be perfect.
Just got my 65" model the other day and absolutely love it!
Congrats!
Any problems with your tv so far?
@@djmervizzzy None at all. I love it. I don’t watch much TV, or play many games, but it’s looks great when I do.
Oh my goodness, I literally just got back home from Best Buy, purchasing this TV after watching your "impression" video of this TV (the store didn't have any in stock, so they will deliver). I noticed this video was on my feed as soon as I got back home. After watching this, I cannot wait for this TV! My wife and I are one of the people who just don't want to spend more than $2000 on a TV, mainly because we really don't watch TV that much. That really narrows down the line-ups for Samsung, LG, and Sony. We weren't sure about the "made in China" budget TVs. But thanks to your videos, I thought I'd give myself a chance, even without watching it before buying. Frankly, I am nervous whether we will like this TV or not, but I have a great feeling we will!
How's it going? I have talked to different repair guys who come to my work. Only one has said to avoid TCL or Hisense. The other 3 said they are better than you think. Three of the four said Samsung might be one to avoid. They all said great things about LG.
Caleb, you really know how to step it up. Great review! I’m glad TCL is gettin into the high end game properly. Especially when you can get a 85” TV from them for the price of some 75 or 65” TVs from top brands. And although I’m glad they use Google TV os, I honestly wish Apple opened up the Apple TV OS from their boxes. It would’ve made the TV market burn.. specifically any brand that doesn’t use it..
I’m glad also. But very disappointing that they didn’t make a 55 inch in there top model. I really wanted one and the 65 inch is to big for my space and also it’s a lot more money than a 55 would be. Poor, marketing decision. Now I have to go with Hisense
@@richardvacanti9428 or you could also find previous gen top brand product that’s going to be basically the same if not even less then the Hisense or TCL. And most of the time, unless you have those side by side, you wouldn’t notice a difference. I have an LG G2 and I have zero reasons to upgrade to G3. Unless I literally see them in a store next to each other, which I did, I still didn’t see enough of a difference to buy the new one. So I’d recommend doing that. Maybe previous gen leftover stock for Sony or LG. I’d avoid Samsung at the moment.
I would be amazed. Scratch that, shocked if Apple "opened up the Apple TV OS".
@@videomakville they’re slowly opening up a lot of things. Apple Music APi is open now, camera is, so are multiple other things now. Although this is different, since it’s a full on OS, it would be freaking awesome, don’t you agree. I’d pay extra for the same exact TV if it came with tvOS instead of WebOS or whatever else is out there.
Just ordered a 75". My first television purchases since 2002.
Did you choose to buy the warranty too? Looking to get one soon myself
Holy crap. What were you watching before?
Cant wait for the head to head with the Hinsense U8K. The battle of the 1200 MiniLED's TV's for 2023
It beats it
I got the 85" and it is breathtakingly awesome. Pairs very well with the Panasonic DP-UB820 4K HDR Blu Ray player.
Really liked your answer to the number of dimming zones very well worded.....and gives a feeling of satisfaction that just throwing a number out there would not have done...Thanks again for putting in the hard work to do a great review
I just bought the 65" QM8 for $899.00. That seemed like a fair price. I am so excited to get it home. Thanks for the amazing review!
How do you like the TV?
Where did you buy it for that price?
I own the 85” qm8 and I love it. We also own an LG C1 and I think I prefer the QM8 for most content and for most lighting conditions. There are situations where OLED is still king, but I just love the brightness and the blacks that are still pretty inky black in most situations.
Thanks for the review Caleb, I’ve been checking UA-cam daily to watch it.
I have the A80J, so would you suggest the QM8 as a good replacement or primary TV? Some of these sunny days are crushing my viewing experience.
@@mrgamnwatch - if you have windows you can’t block out I would say the qm8 is probably one of the best TVs you can buy right now - basing this on price / performance. Not really possible to get something better suited for a bright room except maybe an LG G3, but that’s a lotta cash.
@@BoomerPlusUltrawhich tv has better colors among them?
@@lewisevander - I would say that once calibrated it’s not all that different. The OLED has the deeper blacks and the miniled has the brighter whites. For anything other than a dark room I would take the qm8.
How about the viewing angle on the TCL QM8?
Ordered the 65 inch version because of your video's and Amazon Prime day convinced me now is the time. I have a 6 series and a 5 series. 5 series is selling and can`t wait to get the qm8.Appreciate all the time and effort to make these videos interesting as well as so informative Keep up the excellent videos and keeping all of us informed on the latest and greatest Tech.
A very nice review. If I were in the market for an 85 inch non-OLED TV this would be on my short list with the X95L. In fact you should do a side by side with this one since they are both 85 inch. My TV actually didn’t show your motion problem with the girl on the hammock. The motion processing on my A95K is so good. When you corrected it, it was way over. The only TV that would replace my A95K would be a second generation QD-OLED. In the calibration livestream I watched where the calibrator calibrated five TVs including the QM8. (You would understand the technicalities better than me but apparently the QM8 was off EOTF? even after calibration. It was too bright?) I have to say I am a little surprised that you will put THIS TV in your living room when you made a similar comment on both the G3 and S95C in your comparison review. 😂😃 Kidding! Sort of.
I am sure the music choice for your background music was very pleasing. I found the bursts of sound a little jarring and too loud, and there was too much thumping subwoofer kind of action. I don’t know the music. Is it supposed to stop and start like that? I have to say that was a little annoying. In fact, I will probably be the only one, but I preferred no music. AND I LOVE MUSIC!!!!! This is the first time your music bothered me. I love your music most of the time.
This qm8 beats any Sony mini led from 2022 as far as I know.
@@sauce.unlockedoops!! Thanks for pointing that out! I meant X95L which is this years. Fixed that!
So what has the better blacks and less blooming, this or the X95l?
@@busterboy7507The QM8 has better contrast and better blacks, almost indistinguishable from and OLED. The Sony struggles with blacks but has better color processing. Although TCL will hopefully improve with updates.
X95L is in a different league to my eyes.
Also significantly more expensive where I live, so not really comparable.
Caleb, excellent review as always! You truly are the gold standard for TV reviews. I noticed you mentioned the TV is 144hz but everything I've read online says it's a 120hz panel. Can you provide any details on this?
My only wishlist for the gaming section of the review would be if you could test input lag at high refresh rates in the future. Keep up the great work!
It does 144hz, I have the TV, I can confirm.
I got the TCL QM8 85" last weekend, and I absolutely love it! Your awesome reviews helped me finalize my decision. I hope to understand how to get Dolby Vision content to completely drop all signs of the soap opera effect, but making some motion adjustments definitely makes content enjoyable using Dolby Vision Bright or Dolby Vision Dark. Google TV is a dream to use. As you said, the experience of watching this TV is just "phenomenal."
I turn off all motion clarity options in Dolby vision bright or dark, what setting are you saying helps?
@@sauce.unlocked Yes, I have played with turning off all motion in Dolby Vision Bright & Dark as well as leaving some motion settings on at a lower setting just to see what looks best. Ultimately, some content such as Disney+ Star Wars shows doesn't look perfect to me. I don't want to be distracted at all with the soap opera effect.
I got the 75", call me crazy in the video I think he gets the refresh-resolution wrong.
Cause it says it can do 144hz @ 4k, but cuts the resolution when doing 240hz to 1080p.
But apparently VRR has to be on to get 144hz. However I can't get it to work with my 4070ti. Have you tried getting it to 144hz?
How does it compare to a OLED?
the off viewing angle is a worry for me. how's it on yours. decent or terrible?
OK, I just bought the 75" QM8. It arrives Thursday. I can't wait
How do you like your 75" I just got my 75" today. How does it fare after a year. I love the picture
Got the 85” TCL and I couldn’t be happier. The first Meg movie in Dolby Vision clipped on my Sony with this TV I see every detail. It really is a great TV for the price. Thank you for the review it helped me with my decision of what TV to purchase.
Have you had any problems with it?
@@djmervizzzy No. So far no issues.
Great review--and here I am just getting used to my 75" QN90B! I love that you have Aja in the background. Aja and The Nightfly are what I use to test audio.
Love those albums.
Just got my Qm8 65 inch the tv is awesome and HDR movies and Gaming just sing on this TV thanks for your review love this TV great review keep it up 😊
How does it handle 1080 stuff, cable and sports thanks
@michaeladams1792 It does a really great no complaint here
I got my 2023 model today for 800.00 after tax an insane picture and I went from an older Hisense tv with 4k. The brilliance of color is awesome and I'm super happy with it. Makes movies pop off the screen also paired with an earc HDMI for sound bar and this this is amazing home theatre.
75"*
Caleb are you gonna do a head to head with the QM8 and Hisense U8K when it becomes available? This kind of test will determine what I buy... But I was impressed with your QM8 review well done as always
Yep. This tv is tempting but I'm waiting to see what the U8K is like also. I prefer Hisense's processing to TCL's, so we will see
I saw this TV at BB yesterday and I was SHOCKED. I bought an A80L 77, but if that doesn't work out it's QM8 98 for me. It really is that good. It's a flamethrower! 🔥🚒🔥
You saw the 98in at best buy??
@@jeffcunningham0389 Nope. But I'd take a flier. Sorry for the misleadering wording.
I have made this TV my daily driver. All be it the Australian version. Not called a QM8. It is called a C845, It is the same TV. I did however land on the 75 inch version. Such a good picture, not only for the budget but for any budget. I was also blown away by the sound produced from it. I was watching something on it last week and there was a knock on the door. Sounded like it was my front door but it was actually from the TV. Easy to seet up and easy to use. The only ppat of this TV that I am not as impressed with is the remote which does not have any numbers marked on it to select channels. Minor gripe but overall it is super impressive. Highlly recommended.
This tv is on my short list for when my sony finally kicks the bucket. and for the 85 inch its around 2200 right now at best buy which isnt that bad at all. Will totally keep this one in mind.
Glad for this review. I bought this whole ass 75" QM8 and haven't really sat and played with it. Going to put it through it's paces this weekend. Shout out to you, Caleb!
Let me know what you think when you get a chance. I’m having this tv on my short list to buy later this year.
@@ldfrazi Bet. Do me a favor and try to reach out Sunday evening or Monday. I'll take note but I don't want to forget to get back to you, fam.
@@balthorpayne appreciate it, thanks!
Can u let us know how it does with 1080 and sports? Stuff that isn't 4k thanks
@@michaeladams1792 Will do. Wish basketball season didn't just end but I will give it a shot. So many settings to adjust out of the box.
My 75” QM8 is getting delivered tomorrow!
How do you like it? I just ordered the 75 now
@@Broxty We love it but should’ve gone with 85” since it was only $300 more at the time I got mine
Really interested to see how the Q7 fairs. The QM8 is the 6 Series' replacement in specs…but the Q7 is the replacement in price. So I'd be really interested to see a 3-way comparison between them, as well as the (I'm assuming will be?) standalone Q7 review
I'm more interested in the Hisense U7K, there seems to be a bigger step down with TCL from the 8 series models.
6 series is much more closer to q7 than qm8. the only downgrade on the q 7 is loss of miniled...which only impacts how efficiently it can get bright. It still gets really bright, has similar dimming zones as 6 series and more importantly has same newer processor as qm8.
@@johnb4905 The Q7 is a fantastic TV with great blacks, low bloom, gaming speed panel, great colors, and it's only $550.00 at Best Buy. The Q7 isn't mini dot but it doesn't need it because it does alot of things great after calibration...
@@blackcaesar8387That is absolutely not what mini led is for. It's to be able to have more zones and finer control over black levels, not have a brighter tv. Although since they are smaller you can fit more and have more light but that's not the main purpose of mini leds. Mini led does make a huge difference in reducing blooming and achieving OLED like Blacks.
One of my friends got one. Superb quality!
I purchased the 75” for the bedroom and I LOVE IT!!
Now I’m waiting on the 85” for the living room.
Trust me, this tv is AMAZING!!!
You won’t regret it. 👍😎💯
First of all thank you for being realistic as to how a tv will preform for most people. Too many reviews are either sponsored or geared toward enthusiasts who have FOMO. 😊
Just the review I was looking for. Was on the fence about smaller oled tv or 85 inch qled. Definitely going towards tcl now.
I was curious how the built in subwoofer sounded that you mentioned during the unboxing.
Managed to snag the s90c 77 for £2100 after cashback. Arrives Monday.🎉
I was hoping for a comment about the sound quality. Also, people seem to be complaining about muted colors using Dolby Vision. I suppose if there was an issue you would have mentioned it. I am a gamer, so I still have unanswered questions, but I will keep my eye on this TV. And it's a bummer about 24fps content. Thanks! (People seem to be arguing whether this is a true 10-bit or 8-bit FRC panel as well. TCL doesn't seem to wanna tell us.)
Great review... Im sitting here waiting on my 85" QM8 to be delivered on Sunday... So as most of us do, im soaking up all the related content in the meantime...😂
Cannot wait to run the RTX 4090 at 4K/120
Again, thsnks for this review... Seems I chose wise for the price!
Good going to buy this TV not worried about motion I turn my motion all the way up... I like soap opera effect.. Real smooth not judder perfect.. Now if best buy can deliver it.
Love your style Caleb. Easy to look at and easy to listen to.
I just wish the damn tv became available in Europe. Yes, there is a similar model with some specs worse, but at the same price, and would leave a bad taste in my mouth if i bought it.
This type of regional crap needs to stop. The world is a small place. It's like forcing youtube so that only NA and the region this is sold at could watch your review. And honestly, the manufacturers needs to be called out for this practice.
Love your vids. Seems like the sound mixing on this video is a little off. Your voice feels very soft compared to the music.
I have a lg oled c1 and I just bought this tcl and I must say... I know oled is king and all but I still find me going back to lcd qled tvs The brightness and colors are amazing... Sorry I like lcds better I have notice no blooming whatsoever... It's a beast of a TV..... Highly recommended!
Good to know! I'm debating between a used 83" LG C2 vs this new 85" TCL QM8. STill $3,000 for the 83" LG C2
@@matrix311 the qm8 all the way
Can you let us know how's the viewing angle performance? In FOMO's live calibration video the calibrators said they can't recommend this TV for living room with a sectional as there is bad color shift off angle. So can you let us know how it performs against other QLEDS like the ones from Samsung like the NEO QLED off angle? Same issue with last years U8H, it's only good when you watch it dead on center, even if you move few degrees off angle you will notice the shift. So waiting on Hisense U8K 85" since it uses ADS Pro panel instead of VA. So the viewing angle should be really good. Plus since they improved processing this year I don't think we will see color banding like last year model (basing it on U7K performance). So if contrast can match QM8, U8K can be the clear winner in larger sizes. QM8 uses VA panels in all sizes. Hisense U8K will be using ADS Pro panels in their 75" and 85" panels and rest are VA based on my research. If Hisense U8K also has some issues then will go for 77" Samsung QD-OLED. I hope that you compare 85" QM8 and 85" U8K.
I bought the U8k 75 since off angle viewing should be great. I also chose it because it handles upscaling better. We love old movies too. Motion handling was also mentioned as being better on the U8k so I really like that for Sports. No doubt, its tempting for the Qm8, but going from a 49 inch 2018 TV, 75 inches will be plenty bright already.
@3:05 I've been saying the same - the larger the TV the more light it puts out. A 85 inch TV's area is 140% larger than a 55 inch TV so it will put out 140% more light... Great analogy with the 6 vs 12 light bulbs!
14:15 into the video you may not be a video game player but you could do an input lag test for us gamers on this TV that would be a big help. As a gamer myself, I would like to know what the input lag is on this television in ( GAME MODE) I’m sure others would like to see it as well that do game. Thank you for your time.
Ive had my p607 since launch (6 years now?). No issues and its been on near 24-7. This may be my next tv as i need 120fps and vrr.
Brilliant review! Glad to hear you’re getting new gear. I’m saving for a CR250, myself. These QD based displays break our i1 PRO2s. 😅
The best TV reviewer IMO. I purchased and returned a Hisense U8H due to very poor motion processing and its color could have been better. I was waiting to see where QM8 was priced and Amazon has the 75" for $1,700. That pricing made me purchase the Sony X90K which is now $1,550 at Costco since it is a 2022 product. Why? After dealing with the U8H motion, that became a hot button issue for me. Sony processing is killer. I also greatly love Sony's color which looks natural to me. Buying end of year means I didn't pay "the Sony Tax". Finally.....I know the Sony X90K does not have Mini LED. I know it does have blooming in certain circumstances which the TCL QM8 beats the Sony on. But I made the decision to save $150 and get a tv with a 8/10 picture quality that has Sony's legendary reputation for building long lasting quality Bravia tvs, VS a 9/10 picture quality from TCL who has a less than stellar reputation for quality. I am replacing a 16 year old Samsung with over 60,000 hours on it. I believe my new Sony X90K has a better chance of giving me 15 years of service where I don't have the same opinion of the TCL. Just one mans opinion, and you know what that is worth. Just sharing my thought process. Good luck everyone with whatever sets you go with.
Sony X90K is a fantastic tv. I went for 65" X95K, but was looking at the X90K 75" initially. Had to have the anti-glare coating due to a very bright room (windows very close to the TV) and bought the TV to put it on wall in our house when we finally buy one. The X90K 65" and 75" actually have a higher native contrast than the X95K 65", so in some scenes the blooming is actually better! It doesn't have the same accuracy, color depth or black deepness, but you won't miss those either if you never saw them, the X90K is that good.
Why you want to keep a tv for 15 years, by the rate tv I’m tech is improving you need to upgrade every 5 years
Sony is trash. I've seen comparisons side by side and the colors are not great. Top 3 tv manufacturers in 2023 by sales in order are Samsung, TCL, Hisense, LG(way behind). Sony isn't even top 5 🙄
@@chrisy4011 Sony top oleds are the best tvs, they constantly win the professional av reviewers shootout comparison, don’t know about their other TVs though.
@@tracer073 TVs are at the point of diminishing returns. 8K is a joke and is all but dead. Even this reviewer spoke a year ago about how LED has peaked and it will be a while before we see more huge gains. SO, I make my purchases at those points in time and keep them long term. My 1080P Samsung I just let go of was 16 years old and still looked stellar for HD. I waited until we hit diminishing returns to switch to 4K. By not pissing away money chasing tiny gains on a tv year after year (and other stupid expenditures like that), I am able to buy my 45 foot Leopard catamaran I live on part of the year and my Dodge Viper which are a lot more fun than a tv.
QUESTION: How are the Viewing Angles of this VA Panel? Also, what are your thoughts about how this TV only has an ATSC 1.0 Turner rather than the ATSC 3.0 Turner?
I believed you even before I watched the video for 2 reasons. 1️⃣ You're a fantastic reviewer and 2️⃣ I have a C728 QLED from 2021, and it's just perfect. Sometimes it takes a while to light up in Smart HDR mode, but overall it's exactly what I needed.
Wow.. I don't remember you mentioned anything about the sound.. and sound quality.?? Sound and the quality of sound (especially dialogue) are extremely important to me..
I love your show, and have been subscribed for a long time now. Can you please talk more about dimming zones counts since the manufacturers always seem to drop that ball?
Was waiting for this Review!!
Thank you.
Love my 75QM8 and agree 100% with Caleb.
Steely Dan AJA album in the background = Automatic respect level raised.
Caleb, you just got me to order our third TCL TV from your review. 🙂
65 inch TCL QM8 is currently $1299 while the 65 inch Hisense U8H is $799. Is it worth the money for the TCL?
impressive colours, ease of control adjustments. Wait for it to reach to this side of world in coming months.
The QM8 looks fantastic but you need to go over TCL's fail rate and warranty and returns. How is the comparison with the larger brands there? Will this TV work as intended in 5-8 years?
TCLs are just fine I have two . One from 2017 and one from 2019 and both are running just fine. This is a person who have several highend sonys and a panasonic plasma.
Most of the big brand warranties are 1yr same as TCL. No vendor is backing up their product anymore. Hisense has a rare 2yr on theirs but not sure the warranty experience.
I hope a Hisense U8K side by side comparison is next.
75” is down to $1199 now, as much as people rave about the x90L and all the great things it does, the 75” X90L is still $1699. That $500 difference is hard to justify on a budget.
Your videos are outstanding! I've been cramming UA-cam University as we get ready to buy a TV and surround system for our home, which is being built. I was leaning toward the Hisense, but this video seals the deal for TCL. We'll be forced to use ceiling speakers for surround, I'd love your thoughts on whether Klipsch are the way to go on a semi-budget, and which Atmos capable receivers you like. Cheers!
Great video. One thing you did not mention is that this TV does not have an ATSC 3.0 tuner, just an ATSC 1.0. So, added $250 expense for an ATSC 3.0 tuner if you use an antenna for OTA in an area with good ATSC 3.0 coverage.
I'm surprised you didn't mention the lg c2 as a comparison. What I've seen so far is the c3 doesn't add that much and the c2 is in the same price range at 65 inches and seems like a more natural competitor while it's in stock
He probably didn't mention it because it came out last year. You wouldn't compare the pixel 8 to the galaxy S 22.
I think it’s a valid comparison and I think it’s worth a mention. I have an LG C1 and the QM8 and I gotta say, I prefer the QM8 in most instances. It gets so much brighter it just pops in ways with specular highlights that the C1 seems almost dull. Like when metal glints on screen I have to squint sometimes.
@@BoomerPlusUltra Not in my comparisons it didn’t, the C1 still easily looks better overall, especially black levels and contrast, but then again, my C1 is calibrated…
Because the C2 is Oled, and he already said it falls short of ANY oled for black levels and contrast…
@@bigcdub contrast only does so much given that it’s relying on the black levels to do the heavy lifting. I have our c1 in a light controlled room and it does look great, but in our extremely bright living room it’s not even close. I can barely see the C1 during the day. The QM8 still dazzles. Even in the evening the specular highlights on the QM8 pop in ways the C1 can’t compete with.
I bought a tcl series 6 r646 last year after watching your videos. No regrets… best tv I’ve seen. Oled comes close, but the brightness of the series 6 easily makes up for slightly less shadow detail.
😢 my son broke my 646 with his oculus remote.. tv repair company cant find another screen panel to replace.. might have to buy the qm8 but thats just money i didnt wana spend.. i miss my r646
R646 will go down as legendary tv for the price the picture quality is amazing and the sound quality is the best out there and the fact TCL stood by this tv and updated so much that it run flawlessly now, will definitely buy the TCL QM8 later on this year for sure
@@NuttnButKungfu i cant even find the 646 anywhere… been looking past few weeks and no luck. I guess gotta drop $1200 for the new one
@@youngjabelz88 TCL probably stop making them probably focusing on their 2023 line up i'm definitely droping 1200 on that QM8 too
Caleb, do you guys offer a purchasable calibration manual for the TV’s you review? Like if you were to calibrate the TV and then for $20-$50 offer a PDF, or video on what micro-settings you used to get there. Just curious.
So you either need calibration equipment(expensive for one tv) and trial/error using different content. The problem is everybody’s eyes are different. Each panel is different of the factory line. So people sharing there settings or methods doesn’t translate any better than random experiments for most people. After a while you get the feel, like seasoning food that you have cooked many times before, what you need to adjust.
I would love this! Great idea.
Get from- Quatum TV- youtuber. He is prob one of best for it. I have seen ppl at Bestbuy TV review at last 2 ppl mentioned used his calibration n worked well. Some ppl hate on d dude but his tv reviews, Calibrations are good.
Another great review. You are definitely a trusted source for TV purchasers.
Had to pick up a 65" QM8 for $900! Seemed like a no brainer coming from a 55" R615. I was eyeing the LG's OLEDs but can't spend twice as much for a 55". TCL earns my $ as the R615 has been great for over 5 years and will now be my bedroom TV. I'm also upgrading my gaming monitor to the Alienware 32" 240hz QD-OLED so it will be cool to compare the 2. Thanks for the content Caleb, always good info!
How do you like the TV?
@@brealll9647 I'm super impressed with it! Definitely a bright TV. Only minor issue is some motion clarity but for the price point I'm not complaining. The blacks are ridiculous for LED. My buddy came over to check out the setup and thought it was OLED until I told him it was Micro LED lol =)
@@Angry-_-Asian still liking it 3 months later ?
@@simonbaribeau4853 Hey Simon no major complaints after 3 months. I'd say the only thing I noticed is I would have to turn on 120Hz whenever I turned on the tv. Honestly I use my 4K 240Hz OLED monitor a lot more than the TV. Unfortunately the TV is sitting in storage at the moment while I'm moving.
I have a Samsung 65" QLED and I'm very happy with it!
Admittedly, You are the best in your class.
Just ordered the 65" QM8 after my 5 month old Hisense 65U8H started getting horizontal lines and then the picture going blurry! Luvkily I'm getting a refund from Hisense. So now its on to the TCL!
Are you enjoying the TCL?
Wow. If my continuing UST screen misadventures go awry this weekend, I may just have to switch to this. I have the 2021 55-inch 6 series in our living room (thanks mainly to your review) and love it. And good to know you're still playing the trumpet (I assume from the wedding season reference). Wish I could say the same.
TCL keeps getting better, and you to Caleb.
I got a service update and my tv looks fabulous
I bought a TCL 4-5 years ago, from that experience, I’ll never buy again. TV lasted a little over 2 years being on 24*7, displaying posters indoors.
That my first time buying a TCL, at the time I realised TCL Australia offered completely different models compared to USA. That’s still the case today, good luck trying to figure that one out.
Eh, I got a Sony Bravia that only lasted 2yrs, died, & was UNREPAIRABLE! A friggin' SONY! I've been a Sony guy for 30yrs, but it's ridiculous they can make something so expensive be disposable! 😢
Wish TV manufacturers would provide better calibration out of the box. Or provide a way for consumers to do a respectable calibration on their own without needing a ridiculous $$ amount of equipment. Why, because no one in my area does TV calibration. And I really researched calibrators, and talked to some who once did it and they no longer provide the service. Even BestBuy stopped offering calibration.
7:37 The average DeltaE is 1,66 according to your readings not 6,5 like you've said in the video - that's the max DeltaE. Or am I reading this wrong?
I'm just saying because you advised for calibration for this TV based on that statement and I don't think it's necessary with the visible outliers being around the white point and mostly due to luminance so it arguably matters less..
PS: Please keep showing us your measurement graphs it's super useful to see them and we can spot potential errors in the script.
Hey Caleb you should get both the QM7 & this years 2024 QM8 and review em soon
Re 14:50 check your quick start guide, TV can do 4k @144hz. Is You're HDMI Cable ok? Needs a Ver 2.1 Cable.
I want to give TCL another shot but I'm not that confident. I have the S546 and it has a problem where it turns off while I'm playing PS5. It previously manifested as an issue where the TV would either freeze or restart. I told TCL about the issue and they wanted me to record it for warranty. The problem was, it was intermittent so I'd have to sit there recording at all times if I wanted to catch it. It could have been days before it happened again.
Eventually it became consistent enough and the TV would just flat out turn off. Even if I turned it back on, the screen would soon flash once and a few seconds later. I contacted TCL again but this time I was already out of warranty. I cited that this case was being looked out before but it didn't matter, nothing could be done to replace the set.
I definitely don't want to run into these issues again. This set sounds so enticing but my confidence in purchasing is low.
How long in ownership did these issues show up?
@@paulcarlin5181 The freezing/restarting happened within the first 2 months.
The shutting off happened just after a year.
I find it odd that you call this the only QLED you need and your go to tv, yet you haven't reviewed the U8K yet - this tv's most direct competitor and didn't even mention it, yet mentioned just about every other more expensive set in comparison. I'll wait for the U8K review and hopefully a side by side!
Caleb, did you notice severe color degradation off angle? FOMO had a livestream the other day, and his calibrator said that all color was lost off angle. Haven’t heard anyone else make that claim on the QM8 before. Makes me hesitant about the 98” to say the least
Mini led is not meant for big off angle of course it will look awful. If you’re sitting slightly off to the side then it will be great still. Again DIRECTly from the side of course it falls off and turns ugly
@@sauce.unlocked Understood. But they mentioned a very small viewing window. Maybe I’ll have to try to get FOMO to elaborate a little
@@mack4477watched that calibration livestream too. And I recall he did say the viewing angle was narrower on the non-OLED TVs
@@LeezahB I remember seeing you in there. I was only around live for the first 45 minutes or so, but went through the rest of the video yesterday. I was definitely taken back when he said it, and specifically remember him saying Keanu looked dead and colorless off angle in the Matrix scene
@@mack4477I was there the whole time but can’t say my attention was 100% the whole time but I do recall the Keanu comment as well. Was it made specifically with respect to the QM8? If I am remembering correctly, it was.
As a gamer, cutting the vertical resolution to half is an absolute no go. Same goes for overall PC and Console usage. For maybe streaming apps and normal TV QM8 is a price-to-performance winner, but for someone who uses PC 99% of the time on the TV, Sony is the go to brand. Motion, accuracy and panel quality make it an easier purchase. A bit expensive, but if you want everything in one package, you have to pay.
Half resolution thing is only for 240hz. The TCL can do full 4K 120hz no problem. Honestly it seems great for consoles and PC with native 4K 120 VRR, Dolby vision gaming, 2 HDMI 2.1 ports (with eARC on a seperate one), and possibly native 4K 144hz. I really don't see why it would be considered worse than Sony for PC usage.
And I love Sony's motion too, but it makes very little difference for gaming. More motion & image processing = increased lag/response time.
@@Big_Dogg31 There is no 240hz 4K set here, and traditionally they have cut 4K120hz and 4K144hz VRR vertical resolution to half. 4K144hz would for sure be half resolution vertically. It would be a continuation of the trend for TCL, nothing new. (Edit: I see, you meant 1080p240hz game accelerator mode, apologies.)
If the 4K120hz is full resolution, that would be a great improvement, and make QM8 a much better TV than the predecessors.
Overall, TCL is simply behind in processing and motion, and that is why Sony Mini-Led or OLED or LG OLED C or G series are the way to go. Samsung is pretty good as well, but they are a bit more unreliable and panel quality is a lottery.
If I'm not mistaken most gamers who aim to be competitive aren't gaming on a big tv or at 4k anyways.
Caleb please help. The Dolby vision is very dark and hazy even when I set it to bright and even use a outside source
Any idea on how to fix it or what’s your settings at for Dolby vision?
Thanks for the honest review as always!
Hmmm motion is a big issue. Surely this is no good for watching sports? Or gaming?
The background music in the last few TV reviews is way too loud. One can barely hear what you are saying over the music. This is especially true in the beginning of those videos with the music getting quieter throughout the videos..
Looked like it had some pretty strong falloff around the edges of the picture in bright scenes. Nice telly though.
Would this handle brightness and motion rate for watching hockey ? I am using bell fibe in a dark room . Thank you. Great video! Any recommendations would be appreciated.
I really couldn't believe it when not only did LG cancel the A-series OLEDs in the US this year, but they also raised the MSRP of the B-Series by close to $1000. I mean, really, WTF? Why would anyone pay $3k+ for an entry level 77-inch B-series OLED when you can get an 85-inch QM8 for $2200 and a 75" for under $2000? Do LG and Samsung really think people are that stupid?
How is the QM8 compared to C935
I'm confused 😅
Interested, I'm just afraid of the Dolby Vision implementation leaving a lot to be desired. Hopefully TCL has purchased Spears and Munsils latest and hard at work creating a great firmware based on the discoveries found while using the disc.
Just got to keep after them. They fixed the fluctuations rather quickly. So if we keep after them, they'll make note of it and even if it can't be "fixed" this TV, it can be for their future TV's!
Great review. Love your videos. I'm currently waiting to see your review on the Hisense U8K to compare and buy... Because you're doing a review on the U8K, right!?
Wish it came in 55, which is the sweet spot for my smaller space.
I bought the QM8 and honestly the judder is so bad it makes it un watchable.
Is there anything we can do other than that judder setting? When using this the picture looks terrible.
Also is it possible you could post a text list of all the exact settings you recommend.
Interesting review. Toying with the TCL QM8 65" but also looking at Hisense Q7 or Q8 TV's.
Great content, TCL looks great. waiting to see comparison with Hisense
Man I was really hoping you would’ve touched on the sound, seems promising with that sub in the back.
QUESTION: I have an Onkyo TX-NR5009 TXH Ultra A/V Receiver. I don't want to have to replace it because it only has HDMI 1.4. The TCL QM8 has two HDMI 2.1 inputs with the eArc HDMI on a separate HDMI input. This would allow me to hook up two separate devices in need of 120h - such as an Xbox Series X and PC - while still having the A/V Receiver connected. The Hisense U8K has two HDMI 2.1 inputs; however, the eArc channel is on one of the two HDMI 2.1 inputs. This means the Hisense U8K would only allow me to connect one gaming device in need of 120hz. Do you have a suggestion to connect another HDMI 2.1 cable, such as a splitter of some kind that would not hurt performance?
Looks like the top of the range C935 we have in Europe since last year. I have the 75 inch version with 1920 dimming zones. Phenomenal Tv and I expect the QM8 to be perhaps a bit brighter.
Until you check for the Rainbow Effect from direct lights on the C935 and C835 it was very visible, this is a big no no if you have lights in the room when watching the TV. And I am amazed how 90% of reviewer does not mention such and important point. And I can assure you that for most of the people this should be a deal-breaker.