Key facts
- Prices for 98- and 100-inch TVs now start around $1,400.
- The TCL QM8K QLED 4K TV is recommended as the best overall option.
- The TCL Q65 QLED 4K TV is the top entry-level pick.
- The TCL QM8K features a Mini LED backlight with local dimming and a 144Hz refresh rate.
- The TCL QM7K QLED 4K TV offers a Mini LED backlight with local dimming and a 144Hz refresh rate.
- New 2026 models, QM8L and QM7L, feature TCL's SQD tech for wider color range.
The market for large-screen televisions has become more accessible, with 98- and 100-inch TVs now available starting around $1,400, a significant decrease from previous costs. A decade of experience in home entertainment gear review has informed the selection of the best large-format televisions.
The top overall recommendation is the TCL QM8K QLED 4K TV, praised for its excellent brightness and contrast at a competitive price point, often found on sale for under $3,000 despite a list price of $4,000. This model features a Mini LED backlight with local dimming and a 144Hz refresh rate, delivering impressive HDR performance and good contrast control, with minimal blooming or light bleed. While its black levels are not as deep as OLEDs, they surpass those of the QM7K. The QM8K is noted to outperform comparable Samsung models in image quality, often at a substantially lower cost.
For those seeking a more budget-conscious option, the TCL Q65 QLED 4K TV is highlighted as the best entry-level choice, offering a sharp, colorful image on a large screen for under $1,500.
The midrange category is led by the TCL QM7K QLED 4K TV, typically priced between $1,898 and $2,499. This model also utilizes a Mini LED backlight with local dimming, achieving a peak brightness of around 1,800 nits. While its HDR highlights are less impactful than the QM8K's, it provides solid performance for its price, with improved contrast handling in dark scenes and wider viewing angles than many QLED competitors in its tier. It also supports a 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming.
Newer 2026 editions, the TCL QM8L and QM7L, incorporate TCL's SQD technology for enhanced color range and brightness, but they generally come at a higher price point. The guide includes specific models like the TCL X11L SQD 4K TV for premium Mini LED and the LG G5 OLED 4K TV for high-end OLED options.