Samsung QN90C 65" (4K Neo QLED) vs TCL QM8 65"
The Verdict
Samsung's QN90C commands a premium price at $1,799 with superior mini-LED dimming zones (32x), brighter peak performance (2,000 nits), and more sophisticated audio with 2.2.2ch object tracking sound. Its Tizen OS integrates seamlessly with multiple voice assistants. However, TCL's QM8 delivers exceptional value at $999, featuring an astounding 5,000-nit peak brightness that dramatically outpaces the Samsung, plus Dolby Vision IQ support and a more intuitive Google TV interface. Both handle gaming identically with 6ms input lag and 120Hz refresh rates. The QM8's brightness advantage proves transformative for bright rooms and HDR content, while the QN90C's superior dimming control and audio engineering justify its premium for those prioritizing contrast precision and immersive sound. For budget-conscious buyers seeking stellar picture quality, the TCL is genuinely difficult to beat. For cinephiles demanding reference-grade contrast and audio, Samsung edges ahead. The QM8 represents better value per dollar.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung QN90C 65" (4K Neo QLED) if…
- →Excellent value for a Mini-LED flagship at $1,799
- →2000 nits peak brightness is outstanding for HDR in bright rooms
- →4x HDMI 2.1 with 4K@120Hz and VRR for next-gen gaming
Buy the TCL QM8 65" if…
- →Exceptional value — up to 5,000 nits peak brightness for under $1,000
- →One of the brightest consumer TVs available regardless of price bracket
- →All four HDMI 2.1 ports with VRR and ALLM for 4K@120Hz gaming
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung QN90C 65" (4K Neo QLED)
Pros
- Excellent value for a Mini-LED flagship at $1,799
- 2000 nits peak brightness is outstanding for HDR in bright rooms
- 4x HDMI 2.1 with 4K@120Hz and VRR for next-gen gaming
- Slim anti-reflection screen works well in rooms with windows
- Object Tracking Sound moves audio to match on-screen action
Cons
- No Dolby Vision support
- Some blooming visible in very dark scenes with small bright highlights
- Viewing angles are narrower than OLED — best for straight-on viewing
- Tizen ads on the home screen detract from the premium experience
TCL QM8 65"
Pros
- Exceptional value — up to 5,000 nits peak brightness for under $1,000
- One of the brightest consumer TVs available regardless of price bracket
- All four HDMI 2.1 ports with VRR and ALLM for 4K@120Hz gaming
- Google TV provides a smooth, well-supported smart TV experience
- Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ covered for the full HDR ecosystem
Cons
- Aggressive brightness can look oversaturated out of the box — calibration recommended
- Mini-LED blooming is more visible than on premium Samsung or Sony panels
- Build quality and remote feel cheaper than Samsung or Sony equivalents
- Fan noise under extreme brightness conditions reported by some users
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung QN90C 65" (4K Neo QLED) | TCL QM8 65" |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 300 x 300mm | 400 x 300mm |
| Weight | 53.0 lbs | 68.3 lbs |
| Dimensions | 57.0 x 32.7 x 1.0 inches | — |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 57.0 x 35.3 x 11.4 inches | 56.7 x 36.6 x 12.8 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 60 | 50 |
| Speakers | 2.2.2ch Object Tracking Sound+ | 2.1ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 6 | 6 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | Quantum HDR 32x, HDR10+, HLG | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG |
| Size | 65" | 65" |
| Type | Neo QLED Mini-LED | Mini-LED QLED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz (144Hz via firmware update) | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 2000 | 5000 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Tizen OS | Google TV |
| Voice assistant | Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 |
| USB ports | 2 | 2 |
| HDMI ports | 4 | 4 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | — | AiPQ Pro 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.
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