The 65-inch TCL QM7K is now available for just $797.99, reduced from its original price of $999.99. This price drop marks a significant discount, making it the most affordable option so far. The QM7K is far from being a basic model; it features mini-LED technology with full-array local dimming and supports a wide range of HDR formats, achieving brightness levels exceeding 2,000 nits. This means that HDR highlights are vibrant, contrast is well-maintained, and the display remains effective even in bright rooms. While it may not match the extreme brightness of TCL's premium QM8, the difference is hardly noticeable in most living rooms. If you're in the market for a robust gaming and streaming setup without exceeding a $1,000 budget, the QM7K is an excellent choice.
This TV is equipped with gamer-friendly specifications, including a native 144Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and input lag under 5ms for 1080p at high frame rates. Even at 4K60, the input lag remains below 14 milliseconds, which is well within the acceptable range for solid gaming performance. Connectivity options are also impressive, featuring four HDMI ports--two of which support 144Hz signals, along with USB, Ethernet, and optical audio connections. The smart features are powered by Google TV, offering compatibility with Apple AirPlay, Chromecast, hands-free Google Assistant, and access to all major streaming platforms. The remote is backlit, user-friendly, and includes shortcut buttons for popular apps, making navigation a breeze.
However, there are some minor drawbacks. The color tuning is slightly warm out of the box and may require adjustments, and the panel does not support ATSC 3.0, which means it lacks the newest over-the-air broadcast standard. Additionally, like most LED TVs, color saturation and contrast may diminish when viewed from sharp angles. Yet, these compromises are minor for most users who plan to use it as a living room centerpiece or a display for gaming. The QM7K has received an "excellent" rating from reviewers, solidifying its position as one of the best budget QLED TVs available.