TCL QM8 65" vs TCL S4 55"
Choosing between these TCL models depends entirely on your budget and use case. QM8's 65-inch Mini-LED QLED panel delivers exceptional picture quality with 5000 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision IQ, and 120Hz refresh rate—ideal for movie enthusiasts and gamers. Its 50W 2.1ch audio with Dolby Atmos, 6ms input lag, and VRR/ALLM support create a premium entertainment experience. S4 represents outstanding value at $279, offering true 4K resolution and HDR support on a respectable 55-inch LED display with 400 nits brightness, though its 60Hz panel and 30ms input lag disappoint gamers. Audio consists of modest 15W 2.0ch speakers without Dolby Atmos. For casual viewing and tight budgets, S4 excels. For serious cinephiles, gamers, or those wanting a flagship 65-inch centerpiece, QM8's superior contrast, brightness, gaming features, and audio justify the premium investment.
Full Specifications
| Spec | TCL QM8 65" | TCL S4 55" |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 400 x 300mm | 200 x 200mm |
| Weight | 68.3 lbs | 28.7 lbs |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 56.7 x 36.6 x 12.8 inches | 48.5 x 32.4 x 9.2 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 50 | 15 |
| Speakers | 2.1ch | 2.0ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 6 | 30 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG |
| Size | 65" | 55" |
| Type | Mini-LED QLED | LED |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 5000 | 400 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Google TV | Google TV |
| Voice assistant | Google Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | AiPQ Pro Processor | AiPQ Lite Processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| USB ports | 2 | 1 |
| HDMI ports | 4 | 3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
TCL S4 55"
Pros
- Extraordinary value at $279 for a 55-inch 4K Google TV
- Google TV offers access to virtually every streaming service out of the box
- Lightweight and easy to install — great for bedrooms, kitchens, or secondary rooms
- Decent picture for casual streaming at typical 8–10 foot viewing distances
Cons
- 60Hz panel is not suitable for gaming or fast-motion sports content
- Low peak brightness of ~400 nits struggles in bright, sunlit rooms
- No HDMI 2.1 — limits PS5 and Xbox Series X to 4K@60Hz only
- 15W audio output is thin and lacks bass — an external soundbar is recommended
- No VRR or ALLM means gaming performance is not a priority for this model
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