Hisense U8QG vs. TCL QM8K: which Mini-LED TV is right for you?
The QM8K is TCL's flagship model in 2025, and as a result, you'll pay more for its performance and features compared to the QM7K, but it's well worth it. The QM8K also uses the Google TV smart platform and boasts both high brightness and exceptional color vibrancy.
In my opinion, the Hisense U8QG Mini-LED TV is one of the best TVs in 2025. But so is the TCL QM8K. Making matters tricky is that both 65-inch models of both TVs come in at the exact same price, sitting just under $1,300, which isn't half bad when considering the performance curve. So, which one is the better buy?
It's Hisense U8QG vs TCL QM8K to see which Mini-LED TV is the better Mini-LED TV. Read on below to see which one wins in this faceoff.
Hisense U8QG
TCL QM8K
Sizes
55", 65", 75", 85", 100"
65", 75", 85", 98"
Ports
3x HDMI 2.11x USB-C
2x HDMI 2.12x HDMI 2.0
Resolution
3,840 x 2,160p
3,840 x 2,160p
Refresh rate
165Hz
144Hz
HDR
Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, & HLG
Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, & HLG
Smart TV software
Google TV
Google TV
ATSC 3.0 support?
Yes
Yes
Processor
Hi-View Engine Pro processor
AIPQ Pro processor
Both the Hisense U8QG and TCL QM8K are very similar displays, leveraging Mini-LED backlighting and a quantum dot film. The QM8K has a WHVA panel, while the U8QG has an ADS Pro panel, both of which boast several advantages over IPS and VA types.
Neither is slim and light, however. The 65-inch U8QG, in particular, weighs about 53 lbs without the stand and 10 lbs more with the stand, making it a pretty hefty display. The TCL QM8K, on the other hand, weights less at just 46 ponds without the stand, but you'll still want some help if you decide to wall-mount it.
In terms of their audio, the U8QG has a 4.1.2-channel system with a power output that varies across screen sizes. The 65-inch model sits at 72W, and supports Dolby Atmos surround sound. Meanwhile, the QM8K has a 2.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos system designed by Bang & Olufsen.
It's tough to pick out a major winner here, given the similarities between these two TVs. If there is one thing the U8QG has over its flagship Mini-LED TV rival, it's that punchier sound system, which could be a particular highlight for users who don't want to spend extra on one of the best soundbars.
For that, I feel the Hisense U8QG is the better choice here in terms of design.
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Winner: Hisense U8QG
The Hisense U8QG is a bit of an oddball when it comes to its port selection. Instead of having four HDMI ports like most TVs, it's equipped with just three HDMI 2.1 inputs and a USB-C port video output and charging.
While that's an interesting addition on the U8QG, I find it a little niche for most TV buyers. It would make a whole lot more sense for the U8QG to have four HDMI slots with the USB-C port, as it's intended primarily for PC gamers.
The TCL QM8K does have four HDMI ports, but only two of them are the higher HDMI 2.1 spec. This is common for most budget Mini-LED models, but with so many sets moving away from HDMI 2.0 and the introduction of HDMI 2.2 making waves in the market, it's about time TV makers start offering a full range of 2.1 ports.
From this, you can deduce the U8QG is a slightly better display for gaming, but only if you're running one of the best gaming PCs. I do like the addition of a USB-C port, but I think it's a little niche right now. Even so, the U8QG still has three HDMI 2.1 ports, giving it a slight edge against its counterpart.
Winner: Hisense U8QG
Both Hisense and TCL have some great remotes to offer. There isn't too much of a difference between them, though I do like how the U8QG has a bit more button variety.
I think all-in, both are fantastic pieces of equipment and work well in bringing out the full range of use across your TV. It's also handy having a backlight on both remotes, so hats off to both contenders here.
Winner: Tie
Let's take a peek at the test results of both Mini-LED TVs to see how they stack up before diving into their performance.
Hisense U8QG
TCL QM8K
SDR Brightness (10%, in nits)
2,908
249
Delta-E (lower is better)
2.4
2.7
HDR Brightness (10%, in nits)
3,916
4,437
UHDA-P3 Gamut Coverage
97.53%
97.28%
Rec. 2020 Gamut Coverage
83.98%
80.11%
Input latency (milliseconds)
9.7
13
As I already mentioned, the U8QG sports some of the highest metrics we've seen this year and doesn't hold back in either SDR or HDR content.
That being said, the QM8K still topples it in the HDR category, which is really interesting, but the excess brightness might not be very valuable: Although Dolby Vision and HDR10 can spit out HDR images at up to 10,000 nits, most HDR content is mastered between 1,000 and 4,000 nits.
This means the U8QG hits the perfect number of 3,916 nits for HDR content. It also has a wider range in color coverage, if only very slight, with a Rec2020 gamut of 83.98% and UHDA-P3 of 97.53%. Those are especially superb, seeing as most TVs can barely top 70% of the Rec2020 gamut. Of course, the QM8K isn't too far behind.
Their low Delta-E scores (the lower the better) are particularly noteworthy for their excellent color accuracy right out of the box. These TVs are truly neck-and-neck, showing just how far Mini-LED TVs have come in the last five years.
In terms of non-quantifiable qualities, both TVs have an anti-glare film to diminish reflections, but I found the U8QG still suffered from them. This was especially true for late-night viewing with the lights on, which is really unfortunate.
On the other hand, the QM8K seemingly didn't standout in its off-axis viewing potential. That's a common complaint on a lot of Mini-LED TVs, so it only makes sense seeing it here on TCL's flagship 2025 set.
We also noted some poor audio performance on the QM8K, which is certainly not the case on the U8QG. The latter display has a truly bombastic system.
Give its higher SDR brightness metrics, subtle improvements in color volume and accuracy, improved input latency, and better audio, the standout winner here is the U8QG. But, it's still a very close competition.
Winner: Hisense U8QG
Both the Hisense U8QG and the TCL QM8K run on Google TV, making them both pretty adept in navigation and content curation. I've mentioned it before, but Google TV is probably the best interface you can ask for, even if it doesn't see many updates like its rivals in webOS and Tizen.
That being said, you still have access to all of the best streaming services, with the addition of tons of free content to dive into. Google TV has its own slew of channels to enjoy, but also has the Roku Channel for even more coverage of free FAST channels, which is great if you're not glued to one particular platform.
Google TV is also equipped with several smart home features, making it a great combo piece if you have smart shades, lights, or other smart tech around the house with hands-free voice controls. Gemini AI is also set to be added to Google TV later this year, which could give such sets a major boost in quality, especially in search and recommendations.
We can't recommend Google TV enough here at Tom's Guide. It's great on both TVs. Thus, both TVs get the win in my book.
Winner: Tie
It's here where things get a little tricky. The TCL QM8K is built with several awesome features that make it stand out for gamers, even though it skimps on HDMI 2.1 ports. Meanwhile, the U8QG has a really low input latency and a USB-C video output for wider PC adoption.
What stands out for me on the QM8K is its dynamic refresh rates: It can run games at higher speeds in lower resolutions, like 1080p and 1440p content in 288Hz, which is pretty awesome but really only pertains to PC gamers.
Both have pretty extensive gaming hubs and they're both equipped with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, which is great if you have an AMD GPU in your PC. Otherwise, it won't be that much of a major improvement for most users.
I find both TVs are fine for gaming, though I do think the U8QG might be the better comprise here for console players given its low input latency and additional HDMI 2.1 port. If you're more of a PC gamer, though, it really won't matter which TV you pick, as they're both some of the best gaming TVs.
Winner: Hisense U8QG
Hisense U8QG
TCL QM8K
Specs (25)
22
20
Design (25)
23
21
Performance (25)
24
23
Features (25)
23
23
Total Score (100)
92
86
The Hisense U8QG is one of the best TVs you can buy right now for the price, but given it shares the same price as the QM8K, you really can't go wrong with either one.
Both displays are built on the robust Google TV smart platform, offering you tons of free content to enjoy. Design-wise, they share almost identical qualities. Their panel types differ only ever-so-slightly, but you'll still get largely the same results out of both.
You can find the 65-inch QM8K for $1,297 and the 65-inch U8QG for $1,297 on Amazon at the time of writing. That's pretty incredible, especially seeing as the QM8K has dropped in price by a lot since its launch.
I think what matters here is the type of content you're watching on the regular. The U8QG has a better overall color volume and accuracy, but I find the QM8K will be beneficial most for those who want to get the best performance in HDR.
If you're more of a gamer, especially someone running a PS5 or Xbox Series X, the U8QG might be the better option. Then again, the QM8K does have some interesting features for PC players, but seeing that it doesn't have anything lower than 65-inch, I wouldn't recommend it.
Overall, the Hisense U8QG ekes out a win, but I wouldn't fault you for picking either.
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TCL 60 XE NxtPaper 5G specs vs. TCL 50 XL 5G, Samsung Galaxy A15 5G specs TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G TCL 50 XL 5G Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Display size, tech, resolution, refresh rate 6.78-inch FHD Plus, 2,460 x 1,080 pixels, 120 Hz refresh rate 6.78-inch, 2,460 x 1,080 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate 6.5-inch FHD Plus Super AMOLED; 2,340 x 1,080 pixels; 90Hz refresh rate Pixel density 396 ppi 396 ppi 420 ppi Dimensions (inches) 6.6 x 2.97 x 0.32 in. 6.6 x 2.9 x 0.32 in. 6.3 x 3.02 x 0.33 in. Dimensions (millimeters) 167.6 x 75.5 x 8.22mm 167.6 x 73.6 x 8.1mm 160 x 76.7 x 8.4 mm Weight (grams, ounces) 199.5g (6.9 oz) 195g (6.9 oz) 201g (7.09 oz.) Mobile software Android 15 Android 14 Android 14 Camera 50-megapixel (main + macro camera), 5-megapixel (ultrawide), 2-megapixel (depth) 50-megapixel (wide), 5-megapixel (ultrawide), 2-megapixel (depth) 50-megapixel (wide), 5-megapixel (ultrawide), 2-megapixel (macro) Front-facing camera 32-megapixel 8-megapixel 13-megapixel Video capture 1,080p at 30 fps 1,080p 1,080p at 30 fps Processor MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus MediaTek Dimensity 6100 Plus Mediatek Dimensity 6100 Plus RAM/storage 8GB RAM + 128GB 6GB RAM + 128GB 4GB RAM + 128GB Expandable storage Yes Yes Yes Battery 5,010 mAh 5,010 mAh 5,000 mAh Fingerprint sensor Side Side Side Connector USB-C USB-C USB-C Headphone jack Yes Yes Yes Special features 5G connectivity, TCL NXTPAPER e-reader mode, TCL AI functionality, 18W wired charging NFC, 5G connectivity, TCL NxtVision, 18W wired charging 25W wired charging, 800-nit brightness US price starts at $200 (128GB) $160 (128GB) $200 (128GB) UK price starts at £169 (128GB) £128 (128GB) £169 (128GB) Australia price starts at AU$329 (128GB) AU$242 (128GB) AU$329 (128GB) How we test phones Every phone tested by CNET's reviews team is actually used in the real world. We test a phone's features, play games and take photos. We examine the display to see if it's bright, sharp and vibrant. We analyze the design and build to see how it is to hold and whether it has an IP-rating for water resistance. We push the processor to its limits using standardized benchmarks like GeekBench and 3DMark, along with our own observations while navigating the interface, recording high-resolution videos and playing graphics-heavy games at high refresh rates. All the cameras are tested in a variety of conditions, from bright sunlight to dim indoor scenes. We try out special features, such as night mode and portrait mode, and compare our findings against similarly priced competing phones. We also test battery life through daily use and a series of battery drain tests. We consider additional features, such as 5G support, satellite connectivity, fingerprint and face sensors, stylus compatibility, charging speeds and foldable displays, among other useful tools, too. And we balance all this against the price to give you the verdict on whether that phone, whatever price it is, actually represents good value. Though these tests may not always be reflected in CNET's initial review, we conduct follow-up and long-term testing in most circumstances.
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- Tom's Guide
I'm a TV expert, and there's one button I miss having on remote controls
While on vacation recently, I settled into a charming hotel room for a two-night stay. It had all of the most charming hotel amenities: a carefully made bed with sheets tucked in way too tight, watery, mediocre coffee and a tiny, decade-old TV. These are all things I earnestly love. As the evening wound down and my eyelids began to droop, I found myself enamored with another novelty: the sleep button on the old TV's remote control. Not all will agree, but the only thing more soothing than falling asleep while a TV softly plays is falling asleep in a hotel room while a TV softly plays. The only downside is being startled awake by a loud infomercial several hours later. This is where the sleep button comes in. These days, the sleep button has migrated from your remote control to your TV's settings menu. In fact, TV remotes are getting smaller, sleeker and shedding as many buttons as possible. Don't get me wrong: I appreciate a slender clicker. But in recent years, essential buttons are being tossed to the side for the sake of minimalism. LG's latest AI Remote doesn't even have an input button, nor does Samsung's Solar Cell remote. These days, instead of having a dedicated button for a sleep timer, manufacturers are putting the function deeper and deeper in the settings. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. For example, most TVs that come with the Google TV software suite offer a sleep timer, but unless the TV-maker includes the option in a quick settings menu, you'll have to navigate to the System submenu and find Power & Energy. It's buried pretty deep. Depending on whether or not your Google-enabled TV supports voice commands, you can always 'Hey, Google' your way through the process, but based on my experience, content needs to be playing in order for this to work. You can always 'Hey, Google' your way through the process. Newer LG TVs (like the C5 OLED) put the option just a few clicks away in the quick menu that appears when you short-press the settings button. On newer Samsung TVs (like the S95F OLED), the sleep timer is accessible via the quick settings menu, too, and its icon can be shuffled around and placed closer to the front of the menu bar for easier access. For Roku TVs (like the Roku Plus Series), the sleep timer can be found in the Time submenu. This option is only available on Roku TVs, however, not Roku devices connected to a TV. If you're a sleep button fan and a Roku TV owner, I recommend picking up the Roku Voice Remote Pro. Not only is this a convenient upgrade to the already-excellent standard Roku remote, it also comes with two programmable buttons that can be customized to set a sleep timer. The Roku Voice Remote Pro is an essential upgrade for Roku owners. It offers backlit buttons, a rechargeable battery and programmable buttons that can be customized to quickly access your Roku TV's sleep timer. In recent years, Sony TVs have been built around the Google TV streaming platform with an extensive array of settings and functions layered on top of the Google interface. Fortunately, the sleep timer can be found within the quick settings menu. These options are fine and dandy, but I don't think anyone thinks they're convenient. I contend that the good ol' fashioned sleep button is essential — perhaps not as essential as an input button, but certainly more so than many dedicated app buttons whose sponsorships keep them glued under our thumbs. As mentioned, most TVs still offer some form of a sleep timer, but the function is typically buried beneath several layers of menu options — just beyond the reach of my drowsy, rapidly fading faculties. Look, I know it's a small thing, but when I'm drifting off to dream land but still want the gentle rhythms of a baseball game to carry me there, nothing will feel as cozy as jamming my thumb on a sleep button.
