When you're looking to upgrade your TV in 2024, two models that often come up in discussions are the Hisense 65" H9G ($1,505) and the TCL 65" QM8 ($998). Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your home.
The TV landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. Both of these TVs use quantum dot technology (tiny particles that enhance color), but they approach it differently. Think of quantum dots like having a better set of paint colors to work with - they help create more vibrant and accurate pictures on screen.
The TCL QM8, released in 2023, uses Mini-LED technology, which is like having thousands of tiny flashlights behind your screen that can turn on and off independently. This newer approach offers more precise control over bright and dark areas of the picture. The Hisense H9G, from 2020, uses traditional LED backlighting with local dimming zones - fewer but larger "flashlights," if you will.
Here's where things get interesting. The TCL QM8's Mini-LED technology lets it hit peak brightness levels around 1,300 nits (a measure of light output), while the Hisense manages about 1,000 nits. For context, most TVs from just a few years ago struggled to reach 500 nits.
In my experience testing TVs in both bright and dark rooms, the TCL's extra brightness makes a noticeable difference during daytime viewing. However, the Hisense actually performs better in dark room conditions, with deeper blacks and less "blooming" (that halo effect you sometimes see around bright objects on dark backgrounds).
Both TVs handle colors beautifully thanks to their quantum dot technology. However, they process images differently. The Hisense tends to produce more natural-looking colors, while the TCL can sometimes look a bit more vivid - whether that's good or bad depends on your preference.
If you're a gamer, this comparison gets pretty straightforward. The TCL QM8 supports HDMI 2.1 features like Variable Refresh Rate up to 144Hz, which helps eliminate screen tearing in games. It's basically future-proofed for current-gen gaming consoles.
The Hisense H9G, being a 2020 model, lacks HDMI 2.1 ports. It still handles 4K/60Hz gaming well, but you won't get the benefits of higher refresh rates or variable refresh rate technology. For casual gamers, this might not matter much, but competitive gamers should take note.
Both TVs run Google-based smart platforms, but there's a generational difference. The TCL uses the newer Google TV interface, while the Hisense runs the older Android TV system. In practical terms, both give you access to all major streaming apps, but the TCL's interface feels more modern and responds more quickly to commands.
Voice control works well on both, supporting Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. I've found the TCL's implementation to be more reliable, likely due to its newer hardware.
For home theater enthusiasts, both TVs offer strong performance but with different strengths:
The price difference is significant - nearly $500. The TCL QM8 at $998 offers newer technology and better specs at a lower price point. The Hisense H9G at $1,505 is harder to justify in 2024, given its older technology and higher price.
Consider your primary use case:
For most people in 2024, the TCL QM8 is the better choice. It offers newer technology, better gaming features, and higher brightness at a lower price point. The only compelling reason to choose the Hisense H9G would be if you're specifically looking for the best dark room performance and don't mind paying more for it.
Remember that both TVs will provide excellent picture quality - we're comparing two very capable displays. The differences we're discussing here are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things, and either TV will likely be a significant upgrade if you're coming from an older model.
What matters most is matching the TV to your specific needs and viewing environment. Consider your room's lighting, your typical viewing habits, and whether gaming features matter to you. These factors should guide your final decision more than specs alone.
| Hisense H9G ($1,505) | TCL QM8 ($998) |
|---|---|
| Peak Brightness - Critical for HDR impact and bright room viewing | |
| 1,000 nits | 1,300+ nits |
| Local Dimming Zones - More zones mean better contrast and less blooming | |
| 180 zones (standard LED) | 5,000 zones (Mini-LED) |
| Gaming Features - Important for next-gen console gaming | |
| 120Hz, no HDMI 2.1 | 144Hz VRR, HDMI 2.1 |
| Smart Platform - Affects daily usability and app performance | |
| Android TV (older, slightly slower) | Google TV (newer, more responsive) |
| Picture Processing - Impacts motion handling and upscaling quality | |
| Natural processing, excellent motion | Bright and vivid, good motion |
| Dark Room Performance - Matters for home theater and night viewing | |
| Excellent black levels, minimal blooming | Very good, some blooming visible |
| Release Date - Affects feature set and future support | |
| 2020 (aging but mature) | 2023 (current gen) |
| Audio Quality - Built-in sound quality for those not using external speakers | |
| 20W (2.0 channel) | 80W (2.1.2 channel with Onkyo) |
| Color Technology - Impacts color accuracy and vibrancy | |
| Quantum Dot (excellent range) | Quantum Dot (similar performance) |
The Hisense H9G ($1,505) offers more natural picture processing and better dark room performance, while the TCL QM8 ($998) provides higher brightness and more local dimming zones. For dedicated home theater use, the Hisense H9G's better black levels give it a slight edge for movie watching.
Yes, the TCL QM8 offers better value, being both newer and less expensive than the Hisense H9G. It includes newer technology like Mini-LED and HDMI 2.1 features at a lower price point.
The TCL QM8 is significantly better for bright rooms, with peak brightness exceeding 1,300 nits compared to the Hisense H9G's 1,000 nits. It also handles reflections better.
The TCL QM8 is superior for gaming with HDMI 2.1 support, 144Hz VRR, and lower input lag. The Hisense H9G is limited to 120Hz and lacks HDMI 2.1 features.
The TCL QM8 features a superior 80W 2.1.2 channel Onkyo sound system, while the Hisense H9G has basic 20W stereo speakers. However, for home theater use, an external sound system is recommended for both.
If your TV is over 5 years old, either would be a significant upgrade. The TCL QM8 offers better future-proofing, while the Hisense H9G still provides excellent picture quality for movie enthusiasts.
Both TVs perform well, but the Hisense H9G has superior dark room performance and more natural picture processing. The TCL QM8 offers better HDR highlights and more modern connectivity options.
The TCL QM8 uses the newer Google TV platform, which is faster and more refined than the older Android TV system on the Hisense H9G.
The TCL QM8 handles motion better and has higher brightness, making it superior for sports viewing, especially in well-lit rooms. The Hisense H9G still performs well but may show more motion blur.
Yes, both the Hisense H9G and TCL QM8 support all major HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG.
The Hisense H9G performs better in dedicated home theater environments due to its superior black levels and more natural picture processing. However, the TCL QM8 offers higher peak brightness for HDR content.
The TCL QM8 is current-generation and worth buying now. The Hisense H9G is older and, unless found at a significant discount, might be worth skipping in favor of newer models.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: rtings.com - bestbuy.com - techradar.com - youtube.com - digitaltrends.com - assets.hisense-usa.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - rtings.com - rtings.com - techradar.com - tcl.com - the-gadgeteer.com - nfm.com - ecoustics.com - careyscommunications.com - pcrichard.com - tcl.com
