TCL 98-Inch QLED 4K Smart TV Review Stunning Display and Gaming Features

Description

A Cinematic Experience with the TCL 98-Inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV

I’ve been testing the TCL 98-Inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV, and let me just say – this is not your average TV. With a whopping 98-inch display, it transforms your living room into a mini-theater. But beyond its sheer size, there’s plenty to unpack about its features, performance, and quirks.

Design That Commands Attention

The first thing that hit me was the bezel-less design. It’s sleek, modern, and makes the massive screen feel even more immersive. At just 2.81 inches thin, it’s surprisingly slim for its size. The matte black finish is understated but elegant, blending seamlessly with most decor styles. However, due to its size and weight (a hefty 120.2 pounds), mounting it on the wall or moving it around can be a challenge. I had to enlist help just to set it up, so keep that in mind if you’re considering this beast.

Stunning Picture Quality

This TV doesn’t just rely on its size to impress—it’s the QLED Quantum Dot technology that really blew me away. Colors pop with vibrant intensity, covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space. Watching nature documentaries felt surreal, with every blade of grass and ripple of water rendered in vivid detail. The HDR PRO+ with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG ensures that contrast and brightness levels are top-notch, no matter the content. I even tested it in a brightly lit room, and the High Brightness+ LED Backlight kept the picture clear and vibrant.

The 120Hz refresh rate, which can go up to a 144Hz variable refresh rate, made action scenes in movies and games buttery smooth. I didn’t notice any motion blur, thanks to the Motion Rate 480 with MEMC frame insertion. For gamers like me, this is a game-changer—literally.

A Gamer’s Paradise

Speaking of gaming, the Game Accelerator 240 and Auto Game Mode (ALLM) were standout features. I hooked up my console and was blown away by the responsiveness. The 240 VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminates lag, making gameplay feel seamless and competitive. Whether I was racing or battling opponents online, there was no input delay. This TV clearly caters to gamers, offering an edge in performance that most TVs can’t match.

Audio That Matches the Visuals

Audio is often overlooked in TVs, but not here. The built-in subwoofer delivers deep bass that you can feel, creating a more immersive experience. Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X further enhance the soundstage, making it rich and dynamic. I particularly loved the new Enhanced Dialogue Mode, which made conversations in movies and shows crystal clear, even during loud action sequences.

Key Benefits

• Massive 98-Inch Screen: Perfect for a theater-like experience at home.
• Vivid QLED Colors: Quantum Dot technology ensures vibrant, lifelike hues.
• Smooth Motion: 144Hz VRR and MEMC eliminate motion blur.
• Gaming Capabilities: Game Accelerator 240 and ALLM cater to gamers.
• Impressive Audio: Built-in subwoofer and Dolby Atmos create immersive sound.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas of concern.

• Size and Weight: At 120.2 pounds, it’s not easy to set up or move.
• Viewing Distance: The massive screen size may not suit smaller rooms.
• Limited App Ecosystem: While it runs on Google TV, some niche apps are missing.
• Price Tag: This TV is a premium product, and it feels like one in cost too.

Competitive Options

When comparing to other competing brands, a few models come to mind. The Samsung QN90C offers similar QLED technology, but its brightness levels don’t quite match the TCL’s High Brightness+ LED Backlight. On the other hand, LG’s C3 OLED excels in delivering perfect blacks, thanks to its OLED panel, but it lacks the gaming-centric features like Game Accelerator 240 and ALLM. For those seeking an alternative, the Sony X95L provides excellent color accuracy and build quality, yet its price point is often steeper. The TCL strikes a balance between cutting-edge performance and relative affordability, making it a compelling choice.

Bang for the Buck

Evaluating the price to quality ratio, I’d say this TV offers excellent value for its features. While it’s undoubtedly a premium product, the combination of QLED technology, HDR support, and gaming enhancements justifies the investment. Sure, it’s not exactly budget-friendly, but for those seeking a top-tier viewing experience, it’s worth every penny.

Overall, the TCL 98-Inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD Smart TV impressed me with its immersive visuals, responsive gaming features, and cinematic sound. While it has a few quirks, its strengths far outweigh them, particularly for movie buffs and gamers.

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