Choosing Between Premium Large-Format TVs: A Complete Guide

The Big Picture: Today's Giant TV Landscape

When it comes to creating a truly cinematic experience at home, nothing makes a statement quite like a TV over 95 inches. The LG 97" G2 OLED ($14,999) and the TCL 98" QM7 ($2,299) represent two different approaches to achieving this goal, each with distinct advantages for different users and environments.

These massive displays were both released in 2023, marking a significant year for large-format TVs becoming more accessible to consumers. While the technology hasn't changed dramatically since release, both represent the current state of their respective technologies - OLED and Mini-LED.

Understanding the Technologies

OLED vs Mini-LED: What's the Difference?

The LG G2 uses OLED evo technology, where each pixel creates its own light. Imagine millions of tiny lights that can turn completely off when displaying black. This results in what we call "infinite contrast" - the ability to show perfect blacks right next to bright highlights, without any blooming (that halo effect you might notice around bright objects on dark backgrounds).

The TCL QM7 uses Mini-LED technology with quantum dots, which is like having thousands of tiny flashlights behind the screen, grouped into zones that can dim independently. While it can't match OLED's perfect blacks, it can get significantly brighter, making it better suited for well-lit rooms.

Real-World Performance

Picture Quality

Having spent time with both displays, the difference in picture quality really depends on your viewing environment. In a controlled home theater setting, the LG OLED's perfect blacks and infinite contrast create an almost three-dimensional image quality that's simply stunning. When watching darker content like "Dune" or "The Batman," the shadow detail and depth are unmatched.

However, in a bright living room with large windows, the TCL's higher brightness (up to 2,400 nits compared to the OLED's roughly 1,000 nits) makes it more practical. Sports and daytime content remain vibrant and visible even with significant ambient light.

Gaming Performance

Both TVs support modern gaming features, but there are meaningful differences:

• LG G2:
• TCL QM7:

Value Consideration

The price difference between these TVs is substantial enough to be a major factor in most buying decisions. At $14,999, the LG G2 costs more than six times as much as the TCL QM7 at $2,299.

What does that premium get you?

• Perfect blacks and infinite contrast
• Better viewing angles
• Superior motion handling
• Premium build quality
• Better gaming performance

Is it worth the difference? For most users, probably not. The TCL delivers 90% of the experience for less than 20% of the cost. However, if you're building a dedicated home theater and want the absolute best picture quality regardless of cost, the LG OLED makes a compelling case.

Installation and Practical Considerations

Room Setup

The LG G2 is designed specifically for wall mounting, which means you'll need to factor in professional installation costs. It doesn't come with a stand, emphasizing its premium, gallery-like approach to TV design.

The TCL QM7 comes with a stand and can be wall-mounted, offering more flexibility in placement. Remember that both TVs are massive and heavy - you'll want to ensure your wall or furniture can support them safely.

Viewing Distance

For TVs this size, viewing distance becomes crucial. The optimal viewing distance for 4K content on a 97-98 inch TV is between 10-15 feet. Any closer and you might notice individual pixels; any further and you lose the immersive effect these massive screens can provide.

Home Theater Considerations

In a dedicated home theater setting, both TVs excel but in different ways:

The LG OLED offers:

• Perfect blacks essential for movie viewing
• Better off-angle viewing for wider seating arrangements
• Superior near-black detail
• No blooming around bright objects

The TCL Mini-LED provides:

• Higher brightness for HDR impact
• Better value allowing budget allocation to other components
• Less concern about burn-in for static images
• Excellent color volume

How to Make Your Decision

Choose the LG G2 if:

• You're building a premium home theater
• Perfect black levels are a must-have
• You mainly watch movies in a dark room
• Gaming performance is crucial
• Budget isn't a primary concern

Choose the TCL QM7 if:

• Value is important
• Your room has significant ambient light
• You watch a lot of sports or bright content
• You want placement flexibility
• You're comfortable with very good (versus best-possible) picture quality

Future-Proofing Considerations

Both TVs support modern features like HDMI 2.1, variable refresh rates, and the latest HDR formats. However, OLED technology has seen incremental improvements in brightness and longevity each year, while Mini-LED continues to increase zone count and brightness capabilities. Neither technology is likely to become obsolete soon, but Mini-LED may see more significant improvements in the near future.

Final Thoughts

For most buyers, the TCL QM7 represents the more practical choice, offering tremendous value and excellent picture quality that will satisfy all but the most demanding viewers. Its higher brightness and lower price make it a versatile option that works well in most environments.

The LG G2 is for the enthusiast who demands the absolute best picture quality and has the environment and budget to maximize its capabilities. It's a premium product that delivers premium results, but at a price point that requires serious consideration.

Remember that both TVs represent current high-end technology, and either one will provide an impressive viewing experience. The key is matching your choice to your specific needs, environment, and budget.

LG 97" G2 Series OLED evo 4K UHD Smart TV Deals and Prices

TCL 98" QM7 Series 4K UHD Smart TV Deals and Prices