Is the TCL QM9K worth it over cheaper mini-LED TVs?

If you want a very large screen with high zone count, high brightness and 144Hz gaming, it delivers more of those than most sets at its level. Cheaper mini-LED models give up zones, brightness or refresh rate.

How does it compare with the QM8 or Samsung mini-LED sets?

The QM9K steps up in dimming zones and brightness over TCL's QM8 line and adds the NextGen TV tuner. Against Samsung's mini-LED flagships it competes on brightness and gaming features, while Samsung tends to edge it on processing and upscaling.

Does it support 4K 144Hz gaming on consoles and PC?

Yes. The panel is 144Hz native with Game Accelerator 288, and the HDMI ports accept 4K high-refresh signals. Check that your console or GPU and cable support the mode you want.

Do I need a soundbar with this TV?

Not necessarily. The Bang & Olufsen-tuned Dolby Atmos system is strong for a TV, but a soundbar or receiver with a subwoofer adds real bass and a wider front stage.

What mount does the 85-inch QM9K need?

It uses a 600 x 400 VESA pattern. Because of the size and weight, use a heavy-duty bracket rated for large TVs and anchor it into studs.

The television, its stand with screws, a backlit voice remote, the power cord and a quick start guide. HDMI cables are not included.

Where is the TCL 85" QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K Smart TV cheapest?

At Walmart, for $1,598.00, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the TCL 85" QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K Smart TV?

10 stores we checked sell it, including Walmart, Best Buy, Electronic Express, Wagner Appliance Sales, RC Willey.

TCL 85" QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K Smart TV Price History: Lowest $1,598.00

What reviewers say

Owners of TCL's high-zone mini-LED sets praise the brightness, black levels and gaming features for the size, and call the QM9K a strong value against bigger-name flagships. Common complaints center on blooming in dark scenes, upscaling of soft sources, and the size and weight of an 85-inch set.

What people mention

BrightnessPraisedOwners say HDR highlights pop and the screen stays readable in a bright room.
BloomingCriticisedSome see halos around bright objects on dark scenes, especially off-axis.
GamingPraisedPlayers report smooth motion and low lag at 4K 144Hz.
UpscalingMixedGood sources look sharp, but soft cable and older streams show their limits.
SetupCriticisedThe 85-inch panel is heavy and takes two people to lift and mount.
SoundPraisedThe built-in Bang & Olufsen system is called clear and loud enough for most rooms.

From Layby USA

LD6000 Precise Dimming with HDR6500 brightness holds deep black and hard highlights in the same frame
CrystGlow WHVA panel keeps contrast for viewers seated at the ends of a long couch
144Hz native refresh with Game Accelerator 288 for sharp, tear-free console gaming at 85 inches
ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV tuner picks up free over-the-air 4K broadcast without a subscription
Bang & Olufsen audio with Dolby Atmos, plus IMAX Enhanced certification
Presence sensor and TCL Halo Control adjust the panel to the room and to whether anyone is in it

Returns: Cancel anytime before dispatch; the fee is 15% of the total purchase price, capped at never more than you have paid, and only taken from payments already made.
Shipping: Free delivery once it's paid off; the item is ordered brand-new from an authorized US retailer and shipped free after the final payment.
In the box: Television, Stand with screws, Backlit voice remote, Power cord, Quick start guide

About the TCL 85" QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K Smart TV

The TCL 85QM9K is an 85-inch class 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) smart TV. It has a QD-Mini LED backlight and a CrystGlow WHVA panel with a 178° viewing angle, both horizontal and vertical. The design is ultra slim, with a metal, bezel-less build.

Screen size: 85 inches (Class)
Casting: Chromecast built in, Apple AirPlay 2
Voice assistants: Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Google Gemini
Dimensions: 74.4" x 45.7" x 14.6" with stand
VESA mount: 600 x 400

Specifications

Network Functionality: Google Chromecast Built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, Hands-Free Voice Control
Smart TV: Yes
HDMI Ports: 4
Internet Streaming Services: YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Disney+, Hulu, Max
Network Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet
Video Interface: HDMI
PC Interface: HDMI