I bought the 75-inch model (2024 model) two months ago. For months, I read professional reviews online, and couldn’t decide among this, the Hisense U8, and (going a step up) the LG C4. I eventually ruled out the C4 because the extra $800 or so for the 77-inch model just wasn’t worth it for whatever minor difference I might actually notice in contrast/blooming in certain scenes when I’m watching a movie. I then ruled out the Hisense because the 75-inch model uses a different panel than the other sizes, with worse contrast (although better off-axis viewing).
That left the TCL, which was on my list in the first place for its brightness, fine contrast, and good sound quality. Keep in mind that high brightness does not mean that you’ll just be blinded by light all the time. Rather, certain things are very bright, such as sunsets and headlights, for example. So much so, that it adds almost a 3D aspect to the viewing experience.
I find the picture to be stunning, and easy to dial in. I set it to “movie,” and move the color temperature to “warm.” I turn on the motion control, but adjust only the judder reduction, to 1. I turn on the micro contrast to high as well. To me, that’s the most natural and crisp picture for just about everything. It’s not great at upscaling low bitrate or SD content, but that is not a priority for me anyway. I’ve looked for blooming in many different scenes, and only in the most extreme instances of contrast — with a bright light moving in a pitch-black environment — do I see very minor blooming. You have to be looking for blooming like a hawk though to detect any lack of total blackness in the black areas of the screen. The contrast is striking, the colors look natural, and the picture can be as bright as you need it to be.
I think the sound is great. Booming, even… and the dialogue is crisp and easy to understand when you set it to “voice.” Some reviews say “get a soundbar,” but those reviewers must have very high standards, because I can’t imagine needing more sound, unless you have a massive room or expect to feel like you’re in an IMAX theater. But you may demand more from audio than I do.
The interface for Google TV is very good and responsive, and I don’t notice any lag to speak of. I’ll note that I connect the TV directly with an Ethernet cable just to ensure a constant, fast connection without interference. I just have nothing bad to say about this TV. It looks and sounds great. My last TCL TV was still working fine after seven years, and hopefully this one will too. Worth every penny!
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