TCL QM8L SQD 4K TV review: Rich color and bright HDR for less than the competition

The TCL QM8L SQD 4K TV is the latest addition to the company's upper-midrange Mini LED lineup, aiming to provide high-end picture quality at a competitive price. Building on the success of last year's QM8K, the new model incorporates TCL's SQD technology to enhance color reproduction.

In testing, the QM8L delivered a strong performance with vibrant colors, striking HDR highlights, and commendable black levels for a Mini LED television. It is available in four sizes: 65, 75, 85, and 98 inches. While launch prices ranged from $2,500 to $6,000, significant discounts are now common, making the 65-inch model frequently available for $1,498.

The design of the QM8L is sleek, featuring a panel depth of approximately two inches and TCL's ZeroBorder design with minimal bezels. The included pedestal stand is sturdy but its 14.5-inch depth may pose challenges for soundbar placement. The 98-inch model utilizes separate feet instead of a pedestal.

The TV comes with an updated remote control that includes backlit keys and dedicated buttons for brightness and picture modes, which the reviewer found preferable to the streamlined designs of some competitors. Connectivity includes four HDMI 2.1 ports, supporting up to 4K resolution at a 144Hz refresh rate, an upgrade from the previous QM8K model.