Choosing Between Today's Biggest TVs: A Complete Guide to 98-inch Models

The Rise of Large Format TVs

Remember when a 65-inch TV seemed enormous? Well, times have changed dramatically. Today, we're comparing two of 2024's most impressive offerings in the ultra-large TV category - the LG 98" QNED 4K UHD Smart TV ($3,999) and the TCL 98" Q6 Series 4K UHD QLED Smart TV ($1,499). Both represent the growing trend toward cinema-sized displays for home use, but they take quite different approaches to delivering that big-screen experience.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into specifics, let's talk about what you really need to know about 98-inch TVs. These aren't just bigger versions of standard TVs - they're effectively home theater displays that require careful consideration of your space and viewing habits.

First, you'll need adequate distance - I recommend at least 12-15 feet for comfortable viewing. Any closer and you might find yourself turning your head to follow the action, which isn't ideal for long viewing sessions. You'll also want to think seriously about professional installation. These TVs weigh over 120 pounds each and require specialized mounting hardware and expertise.

Display Technology Explained

The LG QNED uses a combination of quantum dots (tiny particles that enhance color) and NanoCell technology (a filter that purifies colors). This hybrid approach typically delivers more accurate colors and better contrast than traditional LED TVs. Think of it as having both a color enhancer and a color purifier working together.

The TCL Q6 uses QLED technology, which relies solely on quantum dots. While slightly less sophisticated than QNED, modern QLED displays can still produce excellent picture quality. In my experience testing both technologies, the difference is noticeable in a side-by-side comparison but less significant in everyday viewing.

Performance Deep Dive

Picture Quality

Both TVs offer 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels), but their processing approaches differ significantly. The LG uses their α8 AI Processor 4K, which I've found particularly impressive at upscaling lower-resolution content - something crucial when you're stretching an image across a 98-inch screen.

TCL's AIPQ Engine performs admirably but doesn't quite match LG's sophistication in motion handling or upscaling. However, for most content - especially 4K streaming or Blu-ray movies - the difference isn't as dramatic as the price gap might suggest.

Brightness and HDR

Both TVs support multiple HDR formats (including Dolby Vision and HDR10+), but their brightness capabilities differ. The LG typically achieves higher peak brightness, which matters most in well-lit rooms or for HDR content. However, the TCL still produces enough brightness for most viewing environments - I've tested it in both bright rooms and dedicated home theaters with satisfactory results.

Gaming Features

If you're planning to connect a gaming console, the LG has a slight edge with better motion handling and more advanced gaming features. It supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) across all HDMI 2.1 ports. The TCL offers basic gaming features like Auto Game Mode, which work well but don't provide quite the same level of sophistication.

Smart Features and Usability

Here's where we see a significant divergence in approach. The LG uses webOS, a proprietary smart TV platform that's sleek and responsive but somewhat limited in app selection. The TCL uses Google TV, which offers a wider range of apps and better integration with other smart home devices.

I've used both platforms extensively, and while webOS is more polished, I find Google TV more practical for most users. It's regularly updated, supports more apps, and integrates better with popular services like YouTube and Google Photos.

Value Proposition

Let's address the elephant in the room - the price difference. At $3,999, the LG QNED costs significantly more than the $1,499 TCL Q6. This price gap is substantial enough that it becomes a major factor in the decision-making process.

The LG justifies its premium with:

• Better motion handling
• Superior upscaling
• More refined build quality
• Advanced gaming features
• Premium brand support

However, the TCL offers:

• Similar core picture quality
• Comparable brightness
• Better smart platform
• More than adequate performance for most users
• Exceptional value

Home Theater Considerations

For dedicated home theater use, both TVs have their merits. The LG's superior processing and motion handling make it slightly better for serious movie watching, especially with older or upscaled content. However, the TCL's performance with native 4K content is remarkably close, and its price advantage could leave room in the budget for better audio equipment or room treatment.

Both TVs support eARC for connecting to modern audio receivers, and both work well with external sound systems - something I strongly recommend for a proper home theater setup.

Real-World Performance

In my testing, both TVs excelled with high-quality 4K content from streaming services and Blu-ray discs. The differences become more apparent with lower-quality sources, where the LG's superior processing helps clean up compression artifacts and upscale more effectively.

For sports viewing, the LG's better motion handling gives it an edge, though the TCL still performs admirably. For gaming, while both support 4K gaming, the LG's more advanced features make it the better choice for serious gamers.

How to Decide

Choose the LG QNED if:

• Picture quality is your absolute priority
• You watch a lot of older or lower-quality content
• Gaming features are important to you
• You want the best motion handling
• Budget isn't a primary concern

Choose the TCL Q6 if:

• Value is a key consideration
• You primarily watch 4K streaming content
• You prefer the Google TV ecosystem
• You're comfortable with a newer brand
• You want to maximize your budget for other components

Final Thoughts

For most buyers, the TCL Q6 represents the better value proposition. It delivers 90% of the LG's performance at less than half the price. The LG QNED is undoubtedly the superior TV in technical terms, but its advantages are subtle enough that many viewers might not notice them in regular use.

The technology in both TVs represents significant advances over previous years, particularly in processing and color accuracy. While neither introduces revolutionary new features for 2024, they both demonstrate how far TV technology has come in making cinema-sized displays practical for home use.

Remember, whichever TV you choose, proper installation and setup are crucial for displays of this size. Budget for professional mounting and consider room treatment to get the most from your investment.

LG 98" QNED 4K UHD Smart TV Deals and Prices

TCL 98" Q6 Series 4K UHD QLED Smart TV Deals and Prices