Back in January, we highlighted the release of the TCL QM6K at CES, where we were impressed by its specs and features for a budget TV — many of which were exclusively available on premium brands only a few years ago. Last month, I set up a test model in our studio lab and took a deep, hands-on look at TCL’s recent flagship TV.
What’s new with this model
TCL introduced a number of upgrades from 2024’s Q6 QLED, all of which are integrated with its new Halo Control System. Part of that configuration is a Super High Energy LED Chip, which TCL claims boosts brightness output by 53% while enhancing light efficiency by 10%.
TCL’s Pangu lab also redesigned its backlighting system to reduce the optical distance (or “OD”) between the backlight and the diffuser plate of the QM6K and its future models. With this “Micro OD” approach, images will suffer less halo effect, even between the contrast of piercing whites and oily blacks. Through testing, I confirmed almost no halo effect on the QM6K; more on that below.
Also: Should you buy a Roku streaming stick in 2025? Here’s my buying advice after testing one
The QM6K also features a bi-directional 23-bit backlight controller aided by a high-contrast CSOT HVA panel with a stronger dark state to more efficiently block out light and provide over 65,000 levels of brightness as the LCD switches on/off. That equates to a lofty 7,000:1 static contrast ratio, which TCL says is five times higher than competitor models in the same price range.
Less complicated but equally smart is the design of TCL’s latest remote control. I like the size and feel of it in my hand. It’s 7.25 inches long, as compared to some 5.5-inch remotes that have become popular among major brands over the past year.
The device is less likely to be swallowed whole by my couch cushions, and I really appreciate an uncramped remote with fewer buttons. Most satisfying to me, though, is that the QM6K remote’s buttons illuminate as soon as you pick it up, or whenever it detects any motion. In my book, a light-up remote is a win.
Also: The default TV setting you should turn off ASAP – and why even experts do the same
Like many TVs in the sub-$1,000 range, the audio system is plenty loud if you need it to be, but lacking in the area of aural, cinematic splendor. Equipped with an Onkyo 2.1 speaker system, it has two back-firing speakers (L/R) and a built-in subwoofer.
The QM6K’s side panel has all the ports you need.
Adam Breeden/ZDNET
Having said that, I found a simple solution. I habitually turn off motion smoothing when viewing non-sports content, but in this case, turning on Motion Clarity and Dynamic Acceleration made a notable improvement; the text scrolling was very fluid, and the characters were far less fuzzy.
Also: The best TVs you can buy: Expert tested
Keep in mind this is simply a test for assessing certain visuals. The more practical assessment came with watching second-round NCAA tournament games, which looked vivid and beautiful. The QM6K’s motion clarity handled the fast-paced hoops action like a champ.
ZDNET’s buying advice
Debuting just a few months ago at $999, the 65-inch QM6K