Choosing Between Premium 98" TVs: LG QNED vs TCL QM8 - A Complete Guide

Introduction to Ultra-Large Format TVs

The market for massive 98" TVs has become increasingly competitive, with manufacturers like LG ($3,999) and TCL ($2,999) offering compelling options that bring theater-like experiences home. These aren't just bigger TVs - they're technological powerhouses that represent the cutting edge of display technology.

Understanding the Technology

Both TVs use advanced display technologies, but take different approaches. The LG QNED combines NanoCell technology (which filters out unwanted color wavelengths) with quantum dots (tiny particles that produce incredibly pure colors) to achieve impressive color accuracy. Meanwhile, the TCL QM8 uses Mini-LED technology with over 5,000 dimming zones - think of these as tiny spotlights that can be individually controlled, allowing for precise brightness control across the screen.

Picture Quality Deep Dive

In terms of brightness and contrast, these TVs show their different engineering priorities. The TCL QM8, released in early 2024, takes advantage of the latest Mini-LED advancements to deliver exceptional brightness - particularly useful for HDR content (High Dynamic Range, which shows a wider range of brightness and darkness). The LG QNED, while slightly older (late 2023), focuses on color accuracy and natural image processing.

Having tested both in various lighting conditions, I've noticed the TCL performs better in bright rooms thanks to its higher peak brightness. However, the LG's color accuracy is noticeably better when watching films that require subtle color gradations, like nature documentaries or carefully color-graded movies.

Gaming Capabilities

Modern gaming demands specific features from TVs, and both models deliver - but differently. The TCL QM8 supports gaming at up to 144Hz (meaning the screen can refresh 144 times per second) and includes AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for smoother gameplay. The LG QNED tops out at 120Hz but offers generally better motion handling for games running at lower frame rates.

Both TVs include HDMI 2.1 ports, which allow for high-bandwidth features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) - think of this as your TV and gaming console working together to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.

Smart Features and User Experience

The smart TV experience differs significantly between these models. LG's webOS platform, while more closed, offers a refined and stable experience. Google TV on the TCL provides broader app compatibility and better content recommendations through its AI-driven interface.

I've found Google TV's content suggestions particularly useful - it learns your preferences across streaming services and makes surprisingly accurate recommendations. However, webOS tends to be more responsive and has fewer ads.

Home Theater Considerations

For home theater enthusiasts, both TVs offer distinct advantages:

LG QNED Benefits:

• Better out-of-box color accuracy
• Superior motion handling for 24fps movies
• More natural film grain preservation

TCL QM8 Advantages:

• Higher contrast ratio
• Better HDR highlight performance
• More impactful dark room viewing

The TCL's Mini-LED system particularly shines (pun intended) in dedicated home theater rooms where you can control the lighting. The deeper blacks and brighter highlights create a more cinematic experience.

Value Proposition

At $1,000 less, the TCL QM8 presents compelling value, offering equal or better performance in several key areas compared to the LG QNED. However, value isn't just about price - it's about getting what you need.

Real-World Performance

In my testing, both TVs excel, but in different scenarios:

Bright Room Viewing:

• TCL QM8 performs better due to higher brightness and better reflection handling
• LG QNED maintains better color accuracy in bright conditions

Dark Room Viewing:

• TCL QM8 offers better contrast and HDR performance
• LG QNED provides more natural shadow detail

How to Decide

Choose the LG QNED if:

• Color accuracy is your top priority
• You watch lots of sports or fast-moving content
• You prefer a more polished smart TV interface
• Brand reputation is important to you

Choose the TCL QM8 if:

• You want the best gaming features
• You watch mainly HDR content
• Your room is bright
• Value is a primary consideration
• You prefer Google's ecosystem

Looking Forward

Both TVs represent significant improvements over previous generations, particularly in processing power and gaming features. The TCL QM8's Mini-LED implementation shows how quickly this technology is maturing, while the LG QNED demonstrates that quantum dot technology continues to evolve.

Conclusion

For most buyers, the TCL QM8 represents the better value, offering superior brightness and contrast at a lower price point. However, the LG QNED remains a strong choice for those who prioritize color accuracy and refined image processing. Your specific use case - whether it's gaming, movie watching, or bright room viewing - should guide your decision more than brand name or price alone.

Remember, at this size and price point, both TVs deliver exceptional experiences. The key is matching the TV's strengths to your specific needs and viewing environment.

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

TCL 98" QM8 Series 4K UHD Smart Google TV Deals and Prices