If you happen to’re trying for a TV that maximizes image efficiency with a minimal hit to your funds, it’s possible you’ll wish to hold the fortunate quantity 7 in thoughts. For the previous few years, Hisense’s U7 collection TVs have provided a few of the finest 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 related high performers.
The QM7 often prices greater than the U7N, nevertheless 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 if you happen to 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 supplied a repair for me, however there’s no broad replace for consumers but, and no less than one different reviewer had an analogous situation.
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 one in every of my favourite sensible interfaces. If you happen to don’t thoughts rolling the cube on TCL’s potential software program bugs, the QM7 might 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 classy base, matched by slim chrome bezels and a checkered bottom with a middle woofer for a sophisticated, if not altogether distinctive aesthetic.
The appropriate-side enter hub contains 4 HDMI inputs, two of which provide HDMI 2.1 assist for gaming options like VRR (Variable Refresh Charge) at as much as 144 Hz and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). Just like the U7N, TCL supplies a separate HDMI eARC port, that means you gained’t lose a treasured gaming port when connecting a soundbar or receiver. That’s all the time appreciated; the QM7’s Onkyo sound system is first rate, however I nonetheless suggest a separate audio setup.
{Photograph}: Ryan Waniata
The backlit distant provides some helpful fast keys and a built-in microphone for Google Assistant instructions. It’s also possible to summon Google hands-free by way of the TV’s onboard microphone, however if you happen to’re not into an always-listening machine you possibly can disable it by flipping the change beneath the entrance plate.
