If you are looking To have a TV that maximizes picture performance at minimal cost to suit your budget, you may want to keep the lucky number 7 in mind. Over the past few years, Hisense’s U7 TV line has delivered some of the best performance you can get for the money, including this year’s powerful U7N (8/10, WIRED recommended), while TCL’s 2023 Q7 and upgraded QM7 both have similarly high performance.
The QM7 typically costs more than the U7N, but it gives you a classier design and a slightly more refined image. From a pure performance perspective, you’ll be hard-pressed to get more without spending a lot, especially if you find it on sale.
Unfortunately, the software that drives the experience is harder to leave behind. During my initial review, adjusting the TV’s SDR picture mode also affected the HDR mode, which caused problems for several reasons. TCL provided a fix to me but there is no widespread update available to buyers yet, and at least one other reviewer has a similar problem.
Otherwise, there’s little to complain about in a TV that complements great performance with top-notch gaming features and one of my favorite smart interfaces. If you don’t mind rolling the dice on TCL’s potential software bugs, the QM7 might deliver.
A smooth setup
Assembling the QM7’s long base takes a little more effort than its dual-stand competitors, and its 4-pound heft makes the 65-inch model I reviewed weigh 50 pounds. The reward is a sturdy and stylish base, matched by slim chrome edges and a checkered back panel with a center woofer for a classy, if not completely distinctive, aesthetic.
The right input hub includes four HDMI inputs, two of which provide HDMI 2.1 support for gaming features such as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) at up to 144 Hz and ALLM (Variable Refresh Rate) automatic low latency). Like the U7N, TCL offers its own HDMI eARC port, meaning you won’t lose valuable gaming ports when connecting sound bar or recipient. That’s always appreciated; The QM7’s Onkyo sound system is decent, but I still recommend getting a separate sound system sound setting.
Photo: Ryan Waniata
The backlit remote offers some handy quick keys and a built-in microphone for Google Assistant commands. You can also summon hands-free Google via the TV’s built-in microphone, but if you’re not using an always-listening device, you can turn this feature off by flipping the switch below the front panel.
