Just a few years ago, a 98-inch TV would have seemed absurd for most homes. But with advancing technology and dropping prices, these massive displays are becoming increasingly popular for dedicated home theaters and large living spaces. Today, we'll compare two leading contenders: the TCL 98" Q6 Series 4K QLED priced at $1,999 and the LG 98" UT90 Series at $2,499.
Both these TVs were released in early 2024, representing the latest in large-format display technology. The TV industry has made remarkable strides in recent years, particularly in processing power and panel efficiency, which has made these massive sizes more practical and affordable.
Before diving into the specifics, let's address the elephant in the room - these TVs are huge. At 98 inches (measured diagonally), they require:
The TCL Q6 uses QLED technology, which employs quantum dots - tiny particles that enhance color and brightness. This newer technology provides:
The LG UT90 uses a more traditional LED panel with their advanced processing. While it doesn't match the TCL's peak brightness, it offers:
In my testing, the TCL's superior brightness was immediately noticeable, especially when watching HDR content or using the TV in a bright room. The quantum dot technology makes colors pop in a way that's particularly impressive with nature documentaries and animated content.
Both TVs handle 4K content beautifully, but there are differences in how they process and display images:
For home theater use, both processors excel, but they have different strengths. The TCL tends to produce a more vibrant, dramatic image, while the LG offers more accurate, cinema-like performance.
Gaming has become a crucial feature for modern TVs, and there's a clear winner here:
The TCL Q6 offers:
The LG UT90 provides:
For serious gamers, especially those with current-gen consoles or gaming PCs, the TCL's superior gaming features make it the clear choice.
While both platforms are capable, Google TV offers more flexibility and features, though some users might prefer webOS's simplicity and reliability.
When considering value, it's important to look beyond just the price tag. The TCL Q6 typically sells for $500 less than the LG UT90, yet offers superior gaming features and brightness. However, LG's brand reputation for reliability and customer service shouldn't be overlooked.
Both manufacturers offer one-year warranties, but LG has a longer track record in the premium TV market.
For dedicated home theater use, both TVs offer distinct advantages:
Consider these key factors when choosing between these massive displays:
For most buyers, the TCL 98" Q6 represents the better value, offering newer technology and superior gaming features at a lower price point. However, the LG 98" UT90 remains a solid choice, especially for those who prioritize brand reputation and more traditional picture processing.
Remember that these are both excellent TVs, and your specific use case should guide your decision. Whether you're creating the ultimate gaming setup or building a dedicated home theater, either model can deliver an impressive viewing experience when properly set up and calibrated.
| TCL 98" Q6 Series 4K QLED | LG 98" UT90 Series |
|---|---|
| Price - The primary consideration for most buyers at this premium size | |
| $1,999 (often $1,499 on sale) | $2,499 (rarely discounted) |
| Display Technology - Determines color vibrancy and brightness capability | |
| QLED with quantum dots (superior brightness and color) | Standard LED (good but less vibrant) |
| Gaming Features - Critical for console and PC gaming performance | |
| 144Hz VRR, Game Accelerator 240, <10ms input lag | Basic 120Hz, Game Optimizer, standard input lag |
| HDR Support - Impacts movie and streaming content quality | |
| Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG (full format support) | HDR10, HLG (missing Dolby Vision) |
| Smart Platform - Affects app availability and ease of use | |
| Google TV (more apps, better searching) | webOS (simpler, less flexible) |
| Processor - Influences picture quality and upscaling | |
| AIPQ PRO with deep learning (newer tech) | α8 AI (proven but older tech) |
| Audio System - Built-in sound quality matters if not using external speakers | |
| 30W 2.0 channel with virtual surround | Basic stereo speakers |
| Panel Refresh Rate - Important for motion clarity | |
| Native 120Hz with MEMC up to 480 | Native 120Hz standard |
| Power Consumption - Impacts electricity costs | |
| 285W typical | 320W typical |
| Weight - Consider for mounting and installation | |
| 120.2 lbs | 134.9 lbs |
The TCL 98" Q6 Series has better contrast and brightness, making it superior for dedicated home theaters. Its quantum dot technology provides more vibrant colors and deeper blacks compared to the LG UT90, especially in dark room viewing.
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: bestbuy.com - tcl.com - walmart.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - greentoe.com - kitele.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - tcl.com - pcrichard.com - youtube.com - rtings.com - shopjetson.com - abt.com - rtings.com - rtings.com - pcrichard.com - lg.com - rcwilley.com - lg.com - elechid.com - lg.com
