Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) vs TCL Q7 55"
The Verdict
Both 55-inch models offer 4K resolution and solid gaming features, but the TCL Q7 substantially outperforms the Samsung CU8500 in key areas. TCL's QLED panel delivers 1000 nits brightness versus Samsung's 350 nits, making a dramatic difference in HDR content visibility. Native 120Hz refresh rate with VRR support gives TCL a gaming advantage over Samsung's 60Hz fixed display, despite Samsung's slightly lower 11ms input lag. Picture quality favors TCL with Dolby Vision support and superior brightness handling. Audio is nearly identical at 20W 2.0-channel, though TCL includes Dolby Atmos. Connectivity differences are minimal, though TCL benefits from Wi-Fi 6 versus Wi-Fi 5. At just $20 more, the TCL Q7 represents significantly better value with superior display technology and gaming capabilities. Samsung CU8500 suits budget-conscious buyers who don't prioritize brightness or high-refresh gaming, but the TCL Q7 is the stronger overall choice.
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 Q7 55" if…
- →Both Dolby Vision AND HDR10+ support — rare at any price
- →120Hz with VRR for smooth gaming on PS5 and Xbox Series X
- →1000-nit brightness delivers genuine HDR punch for under $500
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 Q7 55"
Pros
- Both Dolby Vision AND HDR10+ support — rare at any price
- 120Hz with VRR for smooth gaming on PS5 and Xbox Series X
- 1000-nit brightness delivers genuine HDR punch for under $500
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for faster streaming
- Google TV with built-in Chromecast and Dolby Atmos decoding
Cons
- Only three HDMI ports — one fewer than many competitors
- QLED — no local dimming means contrast trails Mini-LED options
- Build quality feels cheaper than Sony or Samsung at this price
- Google TV home screen can be cluttered with recommendations
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) | TCL Q7 55" |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 200 x 200mm | 200 x 200mm |
| Weight | 30.4 lbs | 29.5 lbs |
| Dimensions | 48.4 x 28.0 x 1.0 inches | — |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 48.4 x 30.3 x 8.6 inches | 48.4 x 30.4 x 11.5 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 20 | 20 |
| Speakers | 2.0ch | 2.0ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 11 | 8 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | HDR10+, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG |
| Size | 55" | 55" |
| Type | Crystal UHD (VA LCD) | QLED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (native) |
| Brightness (nits) | 350 | 1000 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Tizen OS | Google TV |
| Voice assistant | Bixby, Alexa | Google Assistant, Alexa |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| 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 Q7 55".