Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) vs TCL Q6 50"
The Verdict
Both 4K TVs deliver solid value at budget-friendly prices, but they target different priorities. Samsung's CU8500 offers a larger 55-inch display with VA panel contrast advantages, though its 350-nits brightness limitation restricts HDR impact in bright rooms. TCL's Q6 compensates with nearly double the brightness at 600 nits, superior Dolby Vision support, and QLED technology for better color performance,all in a more compact 50-inch package that weighs 8 pounds less. Gaming performance slightly favors Samsung with 11ms input lag versus TCL's 14ms, though neither supports VRR. Audio specifications match identically at 20W 2.0ch without Atmos. For content consumption in average-lit spaces prioritizing brightness and color accuracy, TCL's superior 600-nit panel and $150 lower price make it the stronger value. Samsung justifies its premium mainly through screen size,compelling only if you need 55 inches specifically. TCL Q6 emerges as the better all-around choice for most buyers.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) if…
- →Affordable 4K at $479 makes it one of Samsung's best budget options
- →Crystal Processor 4K handles decent upscaling for the price
- →Tizen OS provides a full smart TV platform with all major apps
Buy the TCL Q6 50" if…
- →Dolby Vision and HDR10+ at $329 is outstanding value
- →QLED color volume is visibly better than basic LED at this price
- →Google TV provides the best app ecosystem available
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD)
Pros
- Affordable 4K at $479 makes it one of Samsung's best budget options
- Crystal Processor 4K handles decent upscaling for the price
- Tizen OS provides a full smart TV platform with all major apps
- HDR10+ support for compatible content
- Slim design with clean aesthetics for the price segment
Cons
- 60Hz panel — no 120Hz or VRR for gaming
- 350 nits brightness is too dim for convincing HDR
- 20W speakers are weak — external audio recommended
- Only 3 HDMI ports, none are HDMI 2.1
- No Dolby Atmos or Dolby Vision
TCL Q6 50"
Pros
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+ at $329 is outstanding value
- QLED color volume is visibly better than basic LED at this price
- Google TV provides the best app ecosystem available
- Lightweight and easy to mount or reposition
- Decent upscaling from 1080p content
Cons
- 60Hz panel limits gaming and sports viewing
- No VRR or true gaming features
- 600-nit brightness is modest for HDR highlights
- Build quality and remote feel budget-oriented
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) | TCL Q6 50" |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 200 x 200mm | 200 x 200mm |
| Weight | 30.4 lbs | 22.0 lbs |
| Dimensions | 48.4 x 28.0 x 1.0 inches | — |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 48.4 x 30.3 x 8.6 inches | 44.1 x 28.4 x 8.3 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 20 | 20 |
| Speakers | 2.0ch | 2.0ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 11 | 14 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | HDR10+, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG |
| Size | 55" | 50" |
| Type | Crystal UHD (VA LCD) | QLED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 350 | 600 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Tizen OS | Google TV |
| Voice assistant | Bixby, Alexa | Google Assistant, Alexa |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 |
| USB ports | 1 | 1 |
| HDMI ports | 3 | 3 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | — | AiPQ Processor |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in tvs, see all Samsung products or all TCL products. View full details for the Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) or the TCL Q6 50".