For those who’re wanting for a TV that maximizes image efficiency with a minimal hit to your finances, chances are you’ll wish to maintain the fortunate quantity 7 in thoughts. For the previous few years, Hisense’s U7 sequence TVs have provided among the greatest efficiency you will get for the cash, together with this yr’s punchy U7N (8/10, WIRED Recommends), whereas TCL’s 2023 Q7 and the upgraded QM7 are comparable prime performers.
The QM7 normally prices greater than the U7N, however it rewards you with a classier design and a barely more-refined image. From a pure efficiency perspective, you’ll have a tough time getting extra with out spending up, particularly in case you discover it on a very good sale.
Sadly, the software program that drives the expertise is tougher to face behind. Throughout my preliminary analysis, adjusting the TV’s SDR image modes additionally affected the HDR modes, which is problematic for quite a lot of causes. TCL offered a repair for me, however there’s no broad replace for consumers but, and no less than one different reviewer had a similar issue.
In any other case, there’s little or no to complain about in a TV that provides to its nice efficiency with top-line gaming options and considered one of my favourite sensible interfaces. For those who don’t thoughts rolling the cube on TCL’s potential software program bugs, the QM7 may repay handsomely.
A Slick Setup
Cobbling the QM7’s lengthy pedestal stand collectively takes a bit extra effort than rivals with dual-leg stands, and its 4-pound heft brings the 65-inch mannequin I reviewed to a weighty 50 kilos. The payoff is a sturdy and trendy base, matched by slim chrome bezels and a checkered bottom with a middle woofer for a complicated, if not altogether distinctive aesthetic.
The fitting-side enter hub contains 4 HDMI inputs, two of which provide HDMI 2.1 help for gaming options like VRR (Variable Refresh Price) at as much as 144 Hz and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). Just like the U7N, TCL offers a separate HDMI eARC port, which means you gained’t lose a treasured gaming port when connecting a soundbar or receiver. That’s at all times appreciated; the QM7’s Onkyo sound system is respectable, however I nonetheless suggest a separate audio setup.
{Photograph}: Ryan Waniata
The backlit distant affords some helpful fast keys and a built-in microphone for Google Assistant instructions. You can even summon Google hands-free through the TV’s onboard microphone, however in case you’re not into an always-listening gadget you possibly can disable it by flipping the change beneath the entrance plate.
