Upon initial observation, distinguishing between a QLED TV and its OLED counterpart may not be obvious, but the price gap is quite stark. Many consumers may find that a well-crafted QLED model meets their viewing needs without the steep costs associated with OLED technology.

If this resonates with your situation, consider the TCL QM7. It’s a QD Mini-LED QLED TV that integrates Quantum Dot and Mini-LED technologies to enhance image clarity, contrast, and brightness while delivering lifelike colors. It also accommodates a broad array of HDR formats and excels as a gamer-friendly TV, all while remaining surprisingly budget-friendly.

Recently reviewed was the 65-inch version of the TCL QM7, and after thorough testing, it’s evident that this TV presents a fantastic option for those seeking a reliable QLED model without the hefty price tag associated with premium offerings like TCL’s QM8 or OLED TVs.

Pros, Cons, and Specifications of the TCL QM7

Specifications

• Type: QLED with QD Mini-LED technology
• Dimming Zones: Up to 1,240 dimming zones
• Brightness: Peak brightness up to 2,400 nits
• Ports: 4 HDMI (1x 4K/144Hz, 1x 4K/120Hz, 1x 4K/60Hz, 1x eARC/ARC with 4K/60Hz), 2 USB (1x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0), Ethernet, Digital Audio Out, Antenna Input, RF Input, Headphone Out, AV Input
• Screen Size & Weight: 55″ model – 28.9 lbs, 65″ model – 45.9 lbs, 75″ model – 63.1 lbs, 85″ model – 81.6 lbs, 98″ model – 130.1 lbs
• Resolution: 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels)
• HDR Support: HDR ULTRA with Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
• Input Lag: Low input lag with Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz, supporting up to 144Hz VRR
• Contrast: Enhanced contrast with 1,240 dimming zones
• Voice Assistant: Built-in Google Assistant; compatible with Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit
• Operating System: Google TV

Pros

• Impressive brightness levels (up to 2,400 nits)
• Strong contrast offering vibrant colors
• Integrated hands-free Google Assistant
• Compatible with numerous HDR formats
• Support for Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit
• Native 120Hz with VRR support up to 144Hz

Cons

• Saturated colors right out of the box
• Plastic construction may lack durability
• Wobbly stand requiring mounting for stability

Initial Impressions of the TCL QM7

At first glance, the QM7’s quality felt subpar due to the plastic body and overall build. However, these aspects are the compromises TCL made to keep the price accessible. The critical features and specifications are where the brand focused its resources. Once set up, the physical attributes became less significant compared to the TV’s performance.

Design Overview

Featuring sleek bezels, the QM7 has a contemporary aesthetic. The ports are well-positioned, making it a gamer-friendly choice with four HDMI ports, two of which support HDMI 2.1, including one capable of handling 4K at 144Hz. This layout allows for efficient usage of both game consoles and soundbars by preserving the more functional HDMI ports.

The center-placed stand offers a sufficient gap for soundbar placement; however, its stability may be lacking. Mounting the TV on a standard VESA bracket could enhance security and functionality for sound. The built-in “Ultra-Bass” subwoofer from Onkyo is visually appealing but lacks substantial auditory impact.

Image Quality Evaluation

Two standout features during the initial viewing experience were the impressive contrast and brightness. The contrast ratio, with a native level around 8,264:1 and an enhanced maximum of 66,900:1, surpasses many non-OLED units. The extensive number of local dimming zones significantly contributes to the deep blacks and clear highlights, offering exceptional visual fidelity for the price point.

The QM7 reaches peak brightness levels up to 2,400 nits, making it ideal for brightly lit environments. Watching content like the dark episodes of Game of Thrones demonstrated the TV’s proficiency in revealing intricate details in shadowy scenes, all while minimizing blooming effects even in high-contrast scenes.

Key Features

The TCL QM7 excels in versatility, supporting multiple HDR formats, including HDR ULTRA, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG. The optional HDR Ultra feature enhances room brightness according to the ambient light, although personal preferences may lead some users to turn this setting off.

Google TV Integration

The responsive Google Assistant incorporated in Google TV provides convenience, while compatibility with various streaming formats like AirPlay and Alexa extends usability. The interface is attractive, featuring an array of free channels through TCL TV and live Google TV content, though it leans more toward reruns and local broadcasts.

Gaming Performance

The QM7 showcases an impressive gaming experience when paired with consoles like Xbox Series X/S, delivering vibrant visuals and rapid refresh rates. Input lag remains minimal, enhancing performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios, though a sound delay when using the built-in speakers could be a minor hiccup.