As we dive into comparing two of the most interesting TVs of 2024, let's explore how the Samsung QN90D ($2,498) and TCL QM8 ($998) stack up against each other. Both use Mini-LED technology - think of it as having thousands of tiny lights behind your screen instead of just a few hundred - but they take different approaches to delivering value.
Mini-LED technology has revolutionized LED TVs by offering OLED-like contrast while maintaining LED's signature brightness. If you're wondering why this matters, imagine trying to watch a dark scene in a bright room - that's where these TVs really shine (pun intended).
The Samsung QN90D launched in March 2024, representing Samsung's latest refinements in their Neo QLED line. Meanwhile, the TCL QM8 hit the market in mid-2023, bringing flagship features to a more accessible price point.
Samsung's new AI-powered processor in the QN90D makes a noticeable difference in how it handles challenging content. When watching older shows or streaming compressed content, you'll see fewer artifacts (those blocky patches in dark scenes) and more natural colors. I've noticed this especially when watching content from the 90s or early 2000s - it just looks cleaner.
The TCL QM8 counters with raw brightness power. Its ability to hit up to 5,000 nits (a measure of brightness) means HDR content really pops. For context, most TVs struggle to hit 1,000 nits. However, its processing isn't quite as refined, sometimes resulting in slightly less natural colors.
In a dedicated home theater setting, both TVs perform excellently but differently:
Both TVs support 4K gaming at 120Hz (frames per second), but there are important differences:
For competitive gamers, the QN90D's lower input lag could make a difference. However, casual gamers likely won't notice the difference between 10ms and 15ms lag.
The choice between Tizen OS (Samsung) and Google TV (TCL) might be more important than you think:
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the price difference. At $1,500 less, the TCL QM8 delivers remarkable value. You're getting:
The Samsung QN90D justifies its premium with:
In daily use, both TVs excel but in different ways. The Samsung handles regular TV content and upscaled content better, while the TCL delivers more impressive HDR movies and shows. For most content, you'd be hard-pressed to notice significant differences unless they're side by side.
Consider these factors when choosing:
Both TVs represent different philosophies in the premium TV market. Samsung continues pushing the boundaries of processing and refinement, while TCL demonstrates that flagship features don't need flagship prices.
The TCL QM8 represents incredible value for most users, while the Samsung QN90D offers that extra level of refinement for those willing to pay for it. Neither choice is wrong - it's about matching the TV to your specific needs and budget.
For most people, the TCL QM8's value proposition is hard to ignore. Unless you specifically need Samsung's premium features or superior processing, the QM8 delivers remarkable performance at a much lower price point. However, if you're a discerning viewer, particularly sensitive to processing quality, or a serious gamer, the QN90D's premium features might be worth the investment.
Remember, the best TV isn't always the most expensive one - it's the one that best fits your specific needs, viewing habits, and budget.
| Samsung QN90D ($2,498) | TCL QM8 ($998) |
|---|---|
| Peak Brightness - Critical for HDR impact and bright room viewing | |
| 2,500-3,000 nits | 4,000-5,000 nits (noticeably brighter) |
| Local Dimming Zones - More zones mean better contrast and less blooming | |
| ~1,000 zones | ~2,500 zones (better HDR precision) |
| Input Lag - Critical for gaming responsiveness | |
| 9.1ms (exceptional) | 13.8ms (very good) |
| Motion Handling - Important for sports and action scenes | |
| Superior with less blur | Good, but slightly more motion artifacts |
| Smart Platform - Affects ease of use and app availability | |
| Tizen OS (refined but closed) | Google TV (more flexible, better integration) |
| Color Processing - Impacts how natural content looks | |
| Superior upscaling and accuracy | Good, but can appear oversaturated |
| Gaming Features - Matters for next-gen console gaming | |
| Gaming Hub, FreeSync Premium Pro, 144Hz | Basic VRR, 144Hz, ALLM |
| Audio System - Built-in sound quality | |
| 60W 4.2.2CH system | 80W 2.1.2CH system (better bass) |
| Release Date - Indicates technology generation | |
| March 2024 (newest tech) | May 2023 (previous generation) |
| Value Proposition - Price to performance ratio | |
| Premium price, refined experience | Exceptional value, 80% of premium features at 40% cost |
The Samsung QN90D ($2,498) has superior black levels and processing, making it better for controlled lighting environments. However, the TCL QM8 ($998) offers higher peak brightness for HDR content, which can be spectacular in dark rooms. For pure home theater use, the QN90D's better processing gives it a slight edge.
For most users, no. The TCL QM8 delivers about 80% of the premium features at 40% of the cost. Unless you specifically need the Samsung's superior processing or gaming features, the TCL offers better value.
The TCL QM8 actually outperforms the Samsung QN90D in HDR brightness, with peaks up to 5,000 nits compared to Samsung's 3,000 nits. It also has more local dimming zones, though Samsung's processing is more refined.
The Samsung QN90D has lower input lag (9.1ms vs 13.8ms) and better motion handling. It also includes the Gaming Hub and more advanced gaming features. While the TCL QM8 is good for gaming, the Samsung is superior for competitive gamers.
Both TVs handle motion well, but the Samsung QN90D has better motion processing with less blur. The TCL QM8 offers higher brightness which can be beneficial for daytime sports viewing.
Both TVs excel in bright rooms, but the TCL QM8 has higher peak brightness and excellent anti-glare properties. The Samsung QN90D performs very well too, but doesn't quite match the TCL's raw brightness output.
The TCL QM8 uses Google TV, offering better app selection and integration with Google services. The Samsung QN90D uses Tizen OS, which is more polished but more limited in functionality.
The TCL QM8 has a more powerful 80W system with better bass response. The Samsung QN90D has a 60W system that's more refined but lacks the same impact. However, for home theater use, external speakers are recommended for both.
Yes, both the Samsung QN90D and TCL QM8 have eARC support and multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, making them compatible with modern AV receivers and sound systems.
The Samsung QN90D has better upscaling for lower quality streams and more natural color processing. The TCL QM8 offers more impactful HDR for high-quality streams. Both support all major streaming services.
Both TVs support the latest HDMI 2.1 features and high refresh rates. The Samsung QN90D is newer (2024 model) with more refined processing, while the TCL QM8 (2023 model) still offers competitive specs that should remain relevant for years.
For most buyers, the TCL QM8 offers the best value with excellent performance. Only choose the Samsung QN90D if you specifically need its premium processing, gaming features, or prefer its ecosystem.
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: samsung.com - standardtvandappliance.com - gerhardsappliance.com - bestbuy.com - image-us.samsung.com - rtings.com - youtube.com - images.samsung.com - rtings.com - rtings.com - techradar.com - tcl.com - the-gadgeteer.com - nfm.com - ecoustics.com - careyscommunications.com - pcrichard.com - tcl.com
