TCL’s 2025 TV lineup stretches from affordable entry-level models to advanced QD-Mini LED flagships. At the very top sits the X11K, an ultra-premium showcase of TCL’s most advanced technology. Just beneath it is the QM9K, the true flagship of the QM series, boasting class-leading brightness, thousands of dimming zones, and premium audio.
The TCL QM8K is positioned directly below the QM9K and above the QM7K, making it a smart middle ground for buyers who want more power and refinement than the QM7K offers, without stepping all the way up to flagship pricing. It blends high brightness, advanced local dimming, strong gaming features, and better-than-average built-in sound — all in a sleek, premium design.
If you’re seeking a high-end TV that delivers much of the flagship experience at a more accessible price, the QM8K could be your sweet spot.
TCL QM8K Short Review
The TCL QM8K strikes an impressive balance between performance and value. It delivers a picture quality that comes close to the flagship QM9K, thanks to TCL’s QD-Mini LED backlight system and thousands of dimming zones. HDR content looks especially stunning, with brilliant highlights, deep blacks, and minimal blooming — a noticeable upgrade over the QM7K.
Gaming features are another strength. The QM8K supports 4K at 144 Hz, VRR, ALLM, and TCL’s Game Accelerator 288, giving console and PC gamers smooth motion and low latency. While only two HDMI 2.1 ports support full 4K/144 Hz bandwidth, it’s still more than enough for most setups.
Audio, tuned by Bang & Olufsen, offers a more immersive and balanced sound profile than typical TVs, and support for Dolby Atmos FlexConnect makes it easy to expand with wireless speakers. Combined with its slim “ZeroBorder” design, the QM8K feels every bit like a premium centerpiece.
Overall, the QM8K is an excellent choice for anyone who wants near-flagship performance with fewer compromises than mid-tier models, but without the steep price of TCL’s absolute top models.
| TCL QM8K Prices | |
| 98-Inch (98QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
| 85-Inch (85QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
| 75-Inch (75QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
| 65-Inch (65QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
TCL QM8K Key Specs
Below is a spec summary for the QM8K series (various model sizes). Some values may vary by size (e.g. number of local dimming zones).
| Specification | Detail |
| Series / Model | TCL QM8K (2025 QD-Mini LED) |
| Sizes | 65″, 75″, 85″, 98″ |
| Display Type | QLED with Mini-LED backlight |
| Panel | CrystGlow WHVA (Wide Horizontal Viewing Angle) |
| Native Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Variable Refresh Rate | Yes (up to 144 Hz) |
| Game Accelerator | Game Accelerator 288 (1080p up to 288 Hz) |
| Peak Brightness | Up to ~5,000 nits |
| Local Dimming | “Halo Control” precision dimming (thousands of zones, varies by size) |
| HDR Support | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG |
| Audio | Bang & Olufsen tuned, Dolby Atmos & DTS Virtual:X |
| Wireless Audio | Dolby Atmos FlexConnect support |
| Smart Platform | Google TV (Chromecast, Google Assistant) |
| HDMI / Ports | 4 HDMI total (2 × HDMI 2.1 full bandwidth w/4K/144 Hz + eARC) |
| Design | Ultra-slim “ZeroBorder” design (~3.4 mm bezel) |
| Price |
TCL QM8K Pros and Cons
Before deciding if the TCL QM8K is the right TV for you, it’s worth weighing its strengths against some of its drawbacks. This model brings impressive performance upgrades, but like any TV, it isn’t perfect. Below are the main pros and cons to consider.
✅ Pros
- High Peak Brightness & Refined Local Dimming
The QM8K can hit very bright HDR highlights while maintaining solid contrast and minimal blooming under typical content loads. - Wide Viewing Angles (Improved for VA)
Thanks to the WHVA panel and anti-reflection design, off-center viewers still retain good color and contrast. - Solid Gaming Features
Native 144 Hz, VRR support, Game Accelerator 288, and ALLM help make it a good choice for modern consoles and gaming PCs. - Improved Built-In Audio
With Bang & Olufsen tuning, the included speakers outperform typical TV audio systems. The Beosonic interface for tuning sound adds flexibility. - Sleek Design & Thin Bezel
The “ZeroBorder” bezel and slim profile give it a premium, almost floating appearance. - Wireless Speaker Flexibility
The Dolby Atmos FlexConnect feature lets you wirelessly connect external speakers without strict positioning constraints.
Cons / Potential Downsides
- Input Lag / Gaming Performance Not Top-Tier
Measured input lag (~13 ms in 4K/60Hz mode) is good, but not class-leading. Some competing TVs may offer lower latency. - Limited Full 144 Hz on Only Two HDMI Ports
Only two of the HDMI ports support full 4K/144 Hz bandwidth, which might limit connectivity flexibility for multiple high-end sources. - Bass / Audio Power Limitations
While improved, the internal speakers still struggle in bass-heavy or very loud settings. A dedicated soundbar or system is recommended for optimal results. - Smart Platform / Ad Intrusion
Google TV remains serviceable, but reviewers note its ad-centric nature and occasional UI clutter. - Price / Value Considerations
The QM8K is priced as a premium TV. While it offers excellent performance, some buyers may find OLED alternatives or TCL’s own QM7K a better value depending on priorities.
Why Should You Choose TCL QM8K?
The TCL QM8K is built for those who want premium performance without going all the way to the flagship tier. Positioned just below the QM9K and above the QM7K, it offers a great balance of brightness, advanced Mini-LED technology, and gaming-friendly features. If you’re looking for a TV that can deliver spectacular HDR highlights, smooth motion for sports and gaming, and a design that looks high-end in any living room, the QM8K stands out as one of TCL’s most compelling 2025 models.
It may not reach the absolute extremes of the QM9K or X11K, but for many buyers, it hits the sweet spot of performance, features, and value. Whether you want to enjoy movies in a bright living room, play the latest games at 144 Hz, or simply have a TV that looks as good as it performs, the TCL QM8K is an excellent choice.
Best for bright-room viewers and gamers who want premium Mini-LED performance at a slightly lower cost than the flagship models.
| TCL QM8K Prices | |
| 98-Inch (98QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
| 85-Inch (85QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
| 75-Inch (75QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |
| 65-Inch (65QM8K) | Check Today’s Price (Walmart.com)… |