TV Comparisons
Samsung M70H vs Samsung M80H vs TCL QM5K: Which One Should You Buy?
The 2026 Samsung M70H is an affordable Mini LED-backlit 4K TV offered from 43 to 85 inches. The reviewed 55-inch model produced appealing color and better dark-room black levels than expected, but its software-based dimming is not full-array local dimming and its HDR highlights lack the impact of brighter Mini LED televisions. Every size uses a native 60Hz panel, while the 55-inch and larger models add a reduced-sharpness DLG 120Hz gaming mode. It is best suited to value-focused shoppers watching in controlled lighting rather than bright rooms or enthusiasts seeking 4K at 120Hz.
7.4Tech Steve score
out of 10
out of 10
Samsung M70H vs. M80H vs. TCL QM5K: Which Mini LED TV Is Better?
These three Mini LED TVs serve different shoppers. The Samsung M80H is the clear gaming choice because it supports 4K at 144Hz and delivers the strongest combination of color, highlight detail and processing. The Samsung M70H is the affordable Samsung option, with strong perceived contrast and an appealing factory HDR presentation, but its 60Hz panel and software-based dimming limit it. The TCL QM5K offers hardware full-array local dimming, Dolby Vision, Google TV and stronger built-in audio on sizes 55 inches and larger, although its native 4K refresh rate is limited to 60Hz and its default picture appeared overly bright in several scenes.
| Feature | M70H | M80H | QM5K | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model year | Samsung M70H: 2026 | Samsung M80H: 2026 | TCL QM5K: 2025 | Model year alone does not establish performance or value. |
| Available sizes | Samsung M70H: 43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 85 inches | Samsung M80H: 55, 65, 75, 85 inches | TCL QM5K: 50, 55, 65, 75, 85 inches | It offers the widest range and is the only series with a 43-inch option. |
| Backlight and local dimming | Samsung M70H: Mini LED with software-based Supreme Mini LED Dimming | Samsung M80H: Mini LED with software-based Supreme Mini LED Dimming | TCL QM5K: QD-Mini LED with hardware full-array local dimming | It is the only model with verified physical full-array local-dimming control. |
| Verified dimming zones | Samsung M70H: Not disclosed | Samsung M80H: Not disclosed | TCL QM5K: 312 zones on the 75-inch size; other sizes not established | The 75-inch QM5K has a verified hardware-zone count, while the Samsung systems are software-based. |
| Native panel refresh rate | Samsung M70H: 60Hz | Samsung M80H: 144Hz | TCL QM5K: 60Hz | Its physical panel refreshes at 144Hz. |
| Maximum refresh at native 4K resolution | Samsung M70H: 60Hz | Samsung M80H: 144Hz | TCL QM5K: 60Hz | It is the only model that accepts up to 144Hz without reducing the 4K resolution. |
| Reduced-resolution high-frame-rate modes | Samsung M70H: None | Samsung M80H: DLG 240Hz on 85-inch only, with reduced resolution | TCL QM5K: Up to 144Hz at 1080p or 1440p on 55-inch and larger sizes | The M80H reaches a higher rate on one size, while the QM5K offers its mode across more sizes; both require reduced resolution. |
| HDR formats | Samsung M70H: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | Samsung M80H: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | TCL QM5K: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG | It supports Dolby Vision in addition to the formats available on the Samsung models. |
| Factory SDR picture | Samsung M70H: Strong contrast but could hide shadow detail | Samsung M80H: Rich color, visible detail and strong highlights | TCL QM5K: Bright but sometimes washed out | It was preferred overall for SDR in the factory-setting comparison. |
| Demonstrated factory HDR presentation | Samsung M70H: Preferred balance in the demonstrated HDR scenes | Samsung M80H: Colorful but dark in one scene | TCL QM5K: Neutral with a grayer appearance | Its HDR presentation was preferred in the demonstrated scenario. |
| Factory 24fps motion | Samsung M70H: Less smooth before adjustment | Samsung M80H: Less smooth before adjustment | TCL QM5K: Smoothest default presentation | It appeared smoothest in the 24fps motion tests without changing settings. |
| Gaming features | Samsung M70H: 4K/60Hz, VRR, ALLM and basic game controls | Samsung M80H: 4K/144Hz, VRR, ALLM, FreeSync Premium and Game Bar | TCL QM5K: 4K/60Hz, VRR, ALLM, Game Bar and reduced-resolution 144Hz on 55-inch and larger | Native 4K/144Hz and the most complete set of gaming controls make it the strongest gaming option. |
| HDMI inputs | Samsung M70H: 3 | Samsung M80H: 3 | TCL QM5K: 3 | All three provide three HDMI inputs. |
| Built-in audio | Samsung M70H: 2.0-channel, 20W | Samsung M80H: 2.0-channel, 20W with Object Tracking Sound Lite | TCL QM5K: 2.0 on 50-inch; Onkyo 2.1 with integrated subwoofer on 55-inch and larger | The 55-inch and larger models include an integrated subwoofer and Dolby Atmos support. |
| Smart platform | Samsung M70H: One UI Tizen | Samsung M80H: One UI Tizen | TCL QM5K: Google TV | Platform preference depends on the shopper’s preferred interface and connected ecosystem. |
M70H Mini LED 4K Smart TV
A 2026 Mini LED-backlit 4K Samsung TV with One UI Tizen, HDR10+, VRR, ALLM and sizes from 43 to 85 inches.
Key technology
Mini LED Processor 4KProcesses and upscales incoming material for display at up to 4K resolution and adjusts picture processing for the content.
Pure Spectrum ColorUses Samsung's phosphor-based color technology with the Mini LED backlight to expand the range of displayed colors.
Mini LED HDRSamsung's HDR processing and backlight designation for the M70H series; no numerical peak-brightness claim was published per size.
Supreme Mini LED DimmingSoftware-based contrast and dimming processing. Samsung's specification footnote says it is not full-array hardware-based local dimming.
Motion XceleratorSamsung motion processing intended to improve clarity during fast-moving video on the television's 60 Hz panel.
DLG 120HzA reduced-sharpness high-frame-rate mode offered only on the 55-, 65-, 75- and 85-inch sizes. It is not 4K 120 Hz and does not change the physical 60 Hz panel specification.
Color BoosterPicture processing that increases color intensity based on the displayed scene.
OTS LiteVirtual audio processing designed to make sound appear to follow movement on the screen.
Q-SymphonyAllows compatible Samsung soundbars or speakers to operate together with the television's speakers.
Soccer ModeA selectable mode that adjusts picture and sound for soccer viewing; Samsung distinguishes it from the AI Soccer Mode offered on higher models.
Samsung Gaming HubProvides access to supported cloud-gaming services through the television without a connected console, subject to service subscriptions and controller requirements.
Knox SecuritySamsung's security platform for protecting supported television data, services and connected functions.
Buyer advantages
- Appealing color performance from the Mini LED backlight and Color Booster processing
- Better dark-room black levels than expected during the 55-inch evaluation
- Six sizes ranging from 43 to 85 inches at approachable starting prices
- VRR, ALLM, HGiG and eARC are supported across the series
- One UI Tizen includes Samsung TV Plus, AirPlay, Google Cast and Gaming Hub
- The 75- and 85-inch models offer narrow and wide stand-foot positions
Things to consider
- Native 4K refresh rate is limited to 60Hz on every size
- DLG 120Hz reduces image sharpness and is unavailable on the 43- and 50-inch models
- Supreme Mini LED Dimming is software-based rather than hardware full-array local dimming
- Reflective screen is a poor fit for rooms with many windows or visible lights
- HDR highlights are less impactful than on brighter Mini LED televisions
- Only three HDMI inputs, with no optical audio output listed for the US model
- Basic 20-watt audio system does not include Dolby Atmos
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43"UN43M70HAFXZA | — | 200 x 200 | 24.1 in | 4.9–6.7 ft | — |
| 50"UN50M70HAFXZA | — | 200 x 200 | 29.4 in | 5.7–7.8 ft | — |
| 55"UN55M70HAFXZA | — | 200 x 200 | 32 in | 6.3–8.6 ft | — |
| 65"UN65M70HAFXZA | — | 200 x 200 | 39.6 in | 7.4–10.1 ft | — |
| 75"UN75M70HAFXZA | — | 400 x 300 | 49.2 in | 8.6–11.7 ft | — |
| 85"UN85M70HAFXZA | — | 400 x 300 | 55.6 in | 9.7–13.2 ft | — |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker System2-channel
Included SubwooferNo
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts20 W
Dolby AtmosNo
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Digital 5.1 decoding
Voice AssistantsBixby, Amazon Alexa, Works with Google Assistant
Optional AccessoriesCompatible VESA wall mount, Samsung Full Motion Slim Wall Mount, Compatible Samsung Q-Symphony soundbar or Wi-Fi speaker, Compatible Bluetooth voice remote where required
Connectivity
HDMI Ports3
HDMI Inputs3
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs0
AirPlayYes
ChromecastYes
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
VRRYes
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyMini LED-backlit LED LCD
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingNo
HDR FormatsHDR10, HDR10+, HLG
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches37.7 x 22.0 x 3.0 in
Weight Without Stand lb14.3 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches43.7 x 25.3 x 3.0 in
Weight Without Stand lb18.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.2 x 27.9 x 3.0 in
Weight Without Stand lb21.8 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches56.9 x 32.7 x 3.0 in
Weight Without Stand lb31.1 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.7 x 37.7 x 3.0 in
Weight Without Stand lb47.6 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.4 x 42.7 x 3.0 in
Weight Without Stand lb62.6 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemOne UI Tizen
ProcessorMini LED Processor 4K
Specifications
Screen Sizes43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 85
VESA By Size43": 200 x 200 mm, 50": 200 x 200 mm, 55": 200 x 200 mm, 65": 200 x 200 mm, 75": 400 x 300 mm, 85": 400 x 300 mm
Stand Width By Size43": 24.1 inches, 50": 29.4 inches, 55": 32.0 inches, 65": 39.6 inches, 75": 49.2 inches default; 31.2 inches minimum, 85": 55.6 inches default; 37.6 inches minimum
Stand Depth By Size43": 6.2 inches, 50": 7.8 inches, 55": 7.8 inches, 65": 8.7 inches, 75": 11.0 inches, 85": 12.8 inches
Picture Modes SDRDynamic, Standard, Eco, Movie, Filmmaker Mode
M80H Mini LED 4K Samsung Vision AI Smart TV
A 2026 Samsung Mini LED television with 4K resolution, a native 144Hz panel, three 4K 144Hz HDMI inputs and One UI Tizen.
Key technology
Mini LED with AI ModeUses compact Mini LED backlights together with AI-based picture processing to adjust image clarity, color and contrast.
Pure Spectrum ColorSamsung's phosphor-based color technology intended to reproduce one billion color shades without positioning the M80H as a quantum-dot Neo QLED model.
Motion Xcelerator 144HzSupports variable-refresh-rate gaming at up to 3840 x 2160 and 144 Hz when connected to a compatible PC and graphics card.
DLG 240HzA PC gaming mode that can raise the input rate to 240 Hz by reducing image resolution; it is not a 4K 240 Hz or native-panel specification.
NQ4 AI Gen2 ProcessorSamsung's picture and sound processor for AI-assisted 4K upscaling, scene analysis and audio optimization.
4K AI UpscalingUses AI-based processing to scale lower-resolution sources toward the television's 4K output resolution.
Auto HDR RemasteringAnalyzes SDR material and applies processing intended to produce HDR-like highlight, color and contrast characteristics.
Color Booster ProUses AI scene analysis to strengthen colors that the processor identifies as comparatively muted.
Real Depth EnhancerAdjusts contrast in selected parts of an image to emphasize foreground depth.
Object Tracking Sound LiteProcesses the built-in stereo speakers to make sound appear to follow movement on the screen.
Q-SymphonyAllows the television speakers to operate with a compatible Samsung soundbar instead of automatically disabling the TV speakers.
AI Sound ControllerProvides separate adjustment of voices, music and sound effects on supported content and inputs.
Vision AI CompanionIntegrates conversational search, AI picture and sound controls, content discovery and supported third-party AI agents into the TV interface.
AI Soccer ModeRecognizes soccer content and applies sport-oriented picture and sound adjustments when the feature is enabled.
Buyer advantages
- Native 4K 144Hz panel with VRR, ALLM, FreeSync Premium and HGiG
- All three HDMI inputs support the TV’s full 4K 144Hz capability
- Natural-looking color and skin tones in initial movie viewing
- Blooming appeared limited on the reviewed 55-inch unit
- SmartThings provides simple setup and phone-based control
- One UI Tizen includes streaming, cloud gaming, casting and smart-home features
- 75- and 85-inch models offer narrow and wide foot positions
- Q-Symphony and eARC provide useful soundbar integration
Things to consider
- Supreme Mini LED Dimming is software-based rather than full-array hardware-based local dimming
- Only three HDMI inputs and one USB-A port are provided
- No optical digital-audio output for older sound systems
- Fixed-height feet left limited soundbar clearance on the reviewed 55-inch model
- Built-in audio is limited to a 20-watt, two-channel system without listed Dolby Atmos
- Remote uses conventional batteries and lacks a dedicated input button
- Minor uniformity variation, motion blur and judder were visible on the reviewed unit
- Peak brightness and dimming-zone counts are not published
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55"UN55M80HAFXZA | — | 200 x 200 | 31.98 in | 6.3–8.6 ft | — |
| 65"UN65M80HAFXZA | — | 200 x 200 | 39.56 in | 7.4–10.1 ft | — |
| 75"UN75M80HAFXZA | — | 400 x 300 | 49.21 in | 8.6–11.7 ft | — |
| 85"UN85M80HAFXZA | — | 400 x 300 | 55.55 in | 9.7–13.2 ft | — |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker System2-channel system with Object Tracking Sound Lite
Speaker Count2
Included SubwooferNo
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts20 W
Dolby AtmosNo
Room CorrectionAdaptive Sound+
Dialogue EnhancementActive Voice Amplifier and AI Sound Controller
Voice AssistantsBixby, Amazon Alexa, Works with Google Assistant
Optional AccessoriesSamsung Full Motion Slim Wall Mount compatible with Y22-supported models, Samsung SlimFit Cam, Zigbee/Thread dongle
Connectivity
HDMI Ports3
HDMI Inputs3
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs0
AirPlayYes
ChromecastYes
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz144 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz144 Hz
VRRYes
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyLCD television with Mini LED backlighting
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingSupreme Mini LED Dimming; Samsung states that this is software-based rather than full-array hardware-based local dimming.
HDR FormatsHDR10+, HLG
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.22 x 27.87 x 3.02 in
Weight Without Stand lb22 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches56.85 x 32.72 x 3.02 in
Weight Without Stand lb30.9 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.63 x 37.70 x 3.03 in
Weight Without Stand lb48.7 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.41 x 42.66 x 3.03 in
Weight Without Stand lb62.8 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemOne UI Tizen
ProcessorNQ4 AI Gen2 Processor
Specifications
Screen Sizes55, 65, 75, 85
VESA By Size55": 200 x 200 mm, 65": 200 x 200 mm, 75": 400 x 300 mm, 85": 400 x 300 mm
Stand Width By Size55": 31.98 inches, 65": 39.56 inches, 75": 49.21 inches basic position; 31.22 inches narrow position, 85": 55.55 inches basic position; 37.56 inches narrow position
Stand Depth By Size55": 7.83 inches, 65": 8.74 inches, 75": 11.02 inches, 85": 12.83 inches
Picture Modes SDRFILMMAKER MODE
QM5K Series QD-Mini LED QLED 4K UHD Smart TV with Google TV
A 60Hz QD-Mini LED television with full-array local dimming, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Google TV.
Key technology
QD-Mini LEDCombines a quantum-dot color layer with a Mini LED full-array backlight and local dimming.
TCL Halo Control SystemA group of backlight, lens, panel and processing technologies designed to improve light control and reduce visible halos around bright objects.
Condensed Micro LensShapes and focuses light from the Mini LED backlight to improve uniformity and zone control.
Micro-ODReduces the optical distance between the backlight and LCD layers, supporting a thinner chassis and tighter light control.
HVA PanelA high-contrast vertical-alignment LCD panel designed to provide stronger native contrast than a conventional IPS-type LCD.
Bi-directional 23-bit Backlight ControllerProvides fine control over the intensity and color-temperature behavior of the backlight.
Transient ResponseCoordinates backlight changes with moving picture elements to reduce delayed illumination and dark or bright trails.
Game Accelerator 144Allows 55-inch and larger models to accept up to 144Hz at reduced 1080p or 1440p resolution. It does not provide 4K 144Hz, and the 50-inch model does not support this mode.
Motion Rate 240 with MEMCMotion interpolation and backlight processing applied to the native 60Hz panel; it is not a 240Hz native-refresh specification.
Buyer advantages
- Hardware full-array Mini LED local dimming provides physical backlight-zone control
- HVA panel and quantum-dot color layer are designed for stronger contrast and wider color
- Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG
- Factory 24fps motion looked smoother than the two Samsung models
- Onkyo 2.1-channel audio with an integrated subwoofer is included on sizes 55 inches and larger
- Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X, eARC and optical audio offer flexible sound-system compatibility
- Google TV includes Chromecast, while AirPlay is also supported
- Sizes 55 inches and larger accept up to 144Hz at reduced 1080p or 1440p resolution
Things to consider
- The native panel and maximum refresh at 4K are limited to 60Hz
- Game Accelerator 144 reduces resolution to 1080p or 1440p
- The 50-inch model lacks both Game Accelerator 144 and the integrated subwoofer
- Default Movie mode appeared too bright or washed out in several scenes
- Black areas and letterbox bars could look gray in the factory-setting comparison
- Only three HDMI inputs are provided
- A physical dimming-zone count is established only for the 75-inch version
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50"50QM5K | — | 300 x 300 | 33.5 in | 5.7–7.8 ft | — |
| 55"55QM5K | — | 300 x 300 | 39.3 in | 6.3–8.6 ft | — |
| 65"65QM5K | — | 300 x 300 | — | 7.4–10.1 ft | — |
| 75"75QM5K | — | 300 x 300 | — | 8.6–11.7 ft | — |
| 85"85QM5K | — | — | — | 9.7–13.2 ft | — |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker System50-inch: 2.0-channel without subwoofer; 55-inch and larger: Onkyo 2.1-channel system with integrated subwoofer
Speaker Count2
Woofer Count1
Included SubwooferIntegrated on 55-inch and larger models; absent on the 50-inch model
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Dolby AtmosYes
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital, PCM
DTS SupportYes
DTS Audio FormatsDTS Virtual:X
Voice AssistantsGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa
Connectivity
HDMI Ports3
HDMI Inputs3
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs1
Video PassthrougheARC audio passthrough supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital and PCM according to the product documentation.
AirPlayYes
ChromecastYes
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
VRRYes
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyQD-Mini LED-backlit QLED LCD
Panel TypeHVA
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingFull-array Mini LED local dimming marketed as Precise Dimming Series.
Local Dimming Zones By Size75": 312
HDR FormatsDolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
Picture Modes HDR10Movie
Picture Modes HDR10 PlusMovie
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches43.7 x 25.4 x 2.7 in
Weight Without Stand lb19.6 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.4 x 28.1 x 2.2 in
Weight Without Stand lb26.8 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches56.9 x 32.7 x 2.2 in
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.8 x 37.8 x 2.2 in
Weight Without Stand lb50.7 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemGoogle TV
ProcessorTCL AiPQ Processor
Specifications
Screen Sizes50, 55, 65, 75, 85
VESA By Size50": 300 x 300 mm, 55": 300 x 300 mm, 65": 300 x 300 mm, 75": 300 x 300 mm
Stand Width By Size50": 33.5 inches, 55": 39.3 inches
Stand Depth By Size50": 11.1 inches, 55": 11.0 inches, 75": 13.4 inches
Picture Modes SDRIntelligent, Vivid, Standard, Sports, Movie
Picture Modes Dolby VisionDolby Vision Bright, Dolby Vision Dark
Which one should you buy?
The Samsung M80H is the best fit for serious gamers and shoppers who want the strongest all-around Samsung presentation. Its native 144Hz panel, 4K/144Hz inputs, FreeSync Premium, richer factory color and more capable processor are meaningful upgrades, although it still has only three HDMI inputs, lacks Dolby Vision and uses software-based rather than hardware full-array dimming. The M70H is better suited to value-conscious Samsung buyers who prioritize strong perceived contrast over high-refresh gaming. It can produce deep-looking blacks and an attractive HDR image, but its 60Hz ceiling, limited game controls, occasional loss of shadow detail and absence of Dolby Vision are important tradeoffs. The TCL QM5K is the home-theater value alternative for shoppers who want hardware full-array local dimming, Dolby Vision, Google TV, optical audio and an integrated subwoofer on larger sizes. Its default picture may need adjustment, and it cannot display 4K above 60Hz. There is no universal winner: choose the M80H for gaming and overall refinement, the M70H for affordable Samsung contrast, or the QM5K for format support, hardware dimming and built-in audio value.
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