Comparing Hisense U8K vs TCL QM8, Q7 & U7K: Features, Performance, Picture Quality

Comparing Hisense U8K vs TCL QM8, Q7 & U7K: Features, Performance, Picture Quality

Introduction

Mini LED backlit TVs have exploded in popularity over the last couple years as an alternative to more expensive OLED TVs. With their tens of thousands of tiny LEDs and up to a few thousand local dimming zones, mini LED TVs can deliver stunning contrast and highlights akin to self-emitting OLED displays.

In this guide, we‘ll be comparing four highly regarded 2023 mini LED television models:

• Hisense 75U8K (75-inch)
• TCL 65QM8 (65-inch)
• TCL 55Q7 (55-inch)
• Hisense 65U7K (65-inch)

These TVs range in price from $1,000 to $3,000, aiming to bring high-end performance and features without the premium price tags of brands like Sony and Samsung. We‘ll analyze how they stack up across critical metrics like brightness, gaming, processing, and of course, picture quality.


Key Features

Backlighting & Dimming Zones
The Hisense U8K and TCL QM8 models both utilize over 5,000 mini LEDs paired with over 400 local dimming zones for precision control over contrast and brightness. This enables the TVs to selectively dim or boost parts of the image, unlike edge-lit LED TVs that have to brighten/darken the entire screen at once.

The TCL Q7 has far fewer dimming zones at under 100, while still utilizing quantum dot technology for wider color gamut. The Hisense U7K has the fewest dimming zones of the bunch. Generally, more dimming zones equates to better contrast, though it does not guarantee superior picture quality by itself.

Peak Brightness
In terms of peak brightness for HDR content, the U8K hits a blistering 2,500 nits which allows incredible specular highlights like sunlight glinting off glass or water. The QM8 trails slightly behind at 2,000 nits peak brightness in HDR while still being extremely luminous. The Q7 and U7K have peak brightness around 1,000 nits.

Gaming Features
The Hisense U8K and TCL Q7/QM8 all support 4K gaming at 120 Hz, plus features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). This makes them solid options for next-gen gaming on the PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth high frame rate performance. The U7K has a lower native refresh rate of 60Hz, lacking support for 4K120 gameplay.

Smart TV Experience
All four TVs run versions of Google‘s Android TV platform for apps and streaming services. The TCL models use TCL‘s own UI on top called Roku TV which offers an easy-to-use interface. Hisense‘s VIDAA platform is also intuitive but has less app support compared to Roku TV or Android TV itself.

Audio Capabilities
Neither brand is known for standout sound quality via the integrated speakers. The TCL Q7 and QM8 models support Dolby Atmos audio decoding but lack upward-firing or side-firing speaker drivers. External soundbars are recommended for an immersive audio experience, especially for movies and gaming.

Picture Quality Analysis

HDR & Dolby Vision Performance
Starting with high dynamic range (HDR) content, the Hisense U8K is able to achieve impressive specular highlights in extremely bright scenes thanks to its 2,500 nits peak luminance. Sunlight breaking through clouds looks more intense and natural compared to lower peak brightness displays. That said, its tone mapping could use some refinement as detail can get washed out in near-white regions.

The TCL QM8 hits a sweet spot of preserving fine detail in bright areas up to 2,000 nits while still providing impactful highlights. It processes Dolby Vision content with pleasing color vibrancy and contrast too.

Meanwhile, the TCL Q7 punches above its weight with impressive HDR color volume despite fewer dimming zones. Flesh tones and shaded regions retain accuracy compared to other models losing subtle detail.

Color Accuracy
In terms of wider color reproduction, all four TVs provide 100% DCI-P3 or better coverage required for cinema-grade color spaces. The quantum dot tech in the QM8 and Q7 enables saturated reds, greens, and vivid highlights that really pop. The U8K and U7K can appear slightly more muted in some content although skin tones remain natural looking.

Off-axis Viewing
As with most LED TV display technologies, viewing the U8K or QM8 at angles will result in contrast and color shifting, especially in dark scenes. The Q7 holds up a bit better off-angle thanks to TCL‘s advanced optics. OLED TVs still have the advantage here with their per-pixel light emission maintaining image integrity from all seat positions.

Motion Handling
When displaying fast movement like sports, the U8K and QM8‘s local dimming can produce some blooming and flashing artifacts around players and balls. Using a slower, clearer motion setting helps reduce this though at the expense of responsiveness. Meanwhile, the 60Hz U7K lacks any advanced motion settings but maintains a clean, consistent image during motion.

Upscaling Quality
For streaming lower resolution content, Hisense‘s proprietary Ai upscaling engine within the U8K and U7K models helps sharpen image clarity and reduce artifacts nicely. The TCL TVs rely on basic upscalers resulting in more muted colors and softer detail in upscaled 1080p or 720p video.

Performance Recommendations

Based on our picture quality analysis across various content types, here is how we would rank these mini LED contenders:

1. TCL 65QM8 – With superb contrast, accurate color, and improved gaming features over 2021 TCL OD Zero models, the QM8 offers the best overall package under $2,000. Dolby Vision content shines brightly and beautifully here.

2. Hisense 75U8K – Delivering jaw-dropping peak brightness and highlights that far exceed other models, the U8K is ideal for extremely bright viewing environments. Hisense continues to improve color tuning and smart features as well.

3. TCL 55Q7 – Despite weaker processing than the U8K/QM8, the Q7 can trade blows in areas like near-black detail and motion resolution while costing hundreds less. It‘s the best value by far.

4. Hisense 65U7K – Held back by mediocre contrast and lack of high-end gaming connectivity, the U7K finds itself outmatched in critical performance metrics. But at under $1,000, it satisfies casual TV viewers.

Conclusion

Hisense and TCL continue their battle for mini LED supremacy in the hotly contested sub-$2,000 price tier. Out of the gate, newer QM8 and U8K models show promising upgrades over prior generations with boosted brightness, rich colors, and sleek designs. Hardcore cinephiles and gamers should strongly consider the TCL 65QM8 which narrowly edges out the also-superb Hisense U8K. More budget-conscious shoppers can save big with the TCL Q7 punching far above its weight.

Have you decided between any models covered in this guide? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!