TV Comparisons
TCL QM850G vs TCL R655: Which One Should You Buy?
The TCL QM850G and R655 are both 4K Mini-LED QLED televisions with native 120Hz panels, full-array local dimming, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ and strong gaming support. In Tech Steve’s side-by-side comparison, the QM8 delivered better black levels, smoother gradients, slightly stronger contrast and marginally smoother motion. He ranked the QM8 9 out of 10 and the R655 6 out of 10. The R655 remains an appealing value when discounted, but the QM8 is the stronger overall television thanks to its brighter HDR capability, Google TV platform, built-in subwoofer and more refined picture.
TCL QM8 vs. R655: Brighter Mini-LED Performance or Clearance-Price Value?
The TCL QM850G and R655 are both 4K Mini-LED QLED televisions with native 120Hz panels, full-array local dimming, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+ and strong gaming support. In Tech Steve’s side-by-side comparison, the QM8 delivered better black levels, smoother gradients, slightly stronger contrast and marginally smoother motion. He ranked the QM8 9 out of 10 and the R655 6 out of 10. The R655 remains an appealing value when discounted, but the QM8 is the stronger overall television thanks to its brighter HDR capability, Google TV platform, built-in subwoofer and more refined picture.
| Feature | QM850G | R655 | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tech Steve’s overall ranking | 9 out of 10 | 6 out of 10 | Steve preferred the QM8’s picture refinement, Google TV platform, built-in subwoofer, backlit remote and expanded controls. |
| Picture quality in side-by-side comparison | Deeper-looking blacks, smoother gradients, fewer visible artifacts and slightly stronger contrast | Strong overall picture with good contrast, sports performance and skin tones | The QM8 showed the more refined image across the comparison material. |
| Motion handling | Slightly smoother in slow and fast action | Good motion handling with only a modest difference from the QM8 | The QM8 appeared smoother, although Steve considered the improvement relatively small. |
| Smart platform | Google TV with Chromecast, AirPlay 2 and broad app access | Roku TV with AirPlay and HomeKit; no integrated Chromecast | Steve preferred Google TV’s app selection, voice functions and greater control. |
| Available screen sizes | 65, 75, 85 and 98 inches | 55, 65, 75 and 85 inches | R655 offers a smaller 55-inch option, while QM850G extends to 98 inches. |
| Native panel refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both series use native 120Hz panels. |
| Maximum refresh rate at native 4K | 144Hz on all listed sizes | 144Hz on 55, 65 and 75 inches; 120Hz on 85 inches | The QM8 maintains 4K/144Hz support across every size, including 85 inches. |
| Reduced-resolution high-frame-rate mode | Game Accelerator 240; reduced resolution, not 4K/240Hz | No equivalent mode established | The QM8 offers an additional high-frame-rate option for shoppers willing to trade resolution. |
| HDR formats | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG | Both support the same verified major HDR formats. |
| Peak brightness claim | Up to 2,000 nits claimed by TCL | No equivalent figure used for this comparison | The QM8 has the stronger documented high-brightness positioning and was treated as the brighter television in the comparison setup. |
| HDMI and gaming features | 4 HDMI inputs, 2 high-bandwidth gaming inputs, VRR, ALLM and FreeSync Premium Pro | 4 HDMI inputs, 2 high-bandwidth gaming inputs, VRR, ALLM and FreeSync Premium Pro | The core gaming connection set is comparable, apart from the R655’s size-dependent maximum refresh rate. |
| Built-in audio | 40W 2.1-channel system with subwoofer on every size | 20W two-channel on 55, 65 and 75 inches; 40W 2.1-channel on 85 inches | The QM8 includes a built-in subwoofer and 40W system consistently across the lineup. |
| Value positioning | Higher-performance option with additional picture, software and audio features | Potentially attractive clearance option with strong core picture quality | The better value depends on current pricing and the importance of the QM8’s added features. |
QM8 Q Class 4K Mini-LED QLED Google TV
A 4K Mini-LED QLED series with a native 120Hz panel, up to 4K/144Hz support, Google TV and a 40W 2.1-channel audio system.
Key technology
MINI-LED ULTRATCL's name for the dense Mini-LED backlight used to improve local control of bright and dark portions of the image.
High Brightness ULTRAThe QM850G series backlight system carrying TCL's manufacturer claim of up to 2,000 nits peak brightness.
Full Array ULTRA Local DimmingControls groups of Mini-LEDs independently to vary illumination across different areas of the screen.
TCL AIPQ Engine Gen3TCL's third-generation video processor for adjusting color, contrast, clarity and upscaling according to the incoming content.
Game Accelerator 240A gaming mode that permits input rates up to 240Hz by using a reduced-resolution signal; it does not make the physical panel native 240Hz and does not provide 240Hz at 4K.
Motion Rate 480 with MEMCTCL's motion-processing and frame-interpolation system; Motion Rate 480 is not the physical panel refresh rate.
Buyer advantages
- QM8 delivered better black levels, gradient handling and overall contrast in the side-by-side comparison.
- Both series support Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG.
- Both use native 120Hz panels and offer modern VRR and ALLM gaming features.
- QM8 supports up to 4K/144Hz across every available size.
- R655 can be an attractive Mini-LED value when found at clearance pricing.
- QM8 includes Google TV, Chromecast, AirPlay 2 and a 40W 2.1-channel audio system.
Things to consider
- Only two HDMI inputs on either series support the highest gaming signal rates.
- QM8 Game Accelerator 240 requires reduced resolution and is not 4K/240Hz.
- R655 uses Roku TV, which Tech Steve found less flexible and modern than Google TV.
- The 85R655 is limited to 4K/120Hz and requires wide furniture for its separated feet.
- The 98-inch QM8 also uses widely separated feet rather than the narrow pedestal found on smaller sizes.
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65"65QM850G | 2,000 nitsManufacturer peak-brightness claim displayed on the official 65QM850G product page; not an independent measurement. | 300 x 400 | 13.4 in | 7.4–10.1 ft | — |
| 75"75QM850G | 2,000 nitsManufacturer peak-brightness claim displayed by TCL for the 75QM850G; not an independent measurement. | 400 x 400 | 13.4 in | 8.6–11.7 ft | — |
| 85"85QM850G | 2,000 nitsManufacturer peak-brightness claim displayed on the official 85QM850G product page; not an independent measurement. | 600 x 600 | 15.7 in | 9.7–13.2 ft | — |
| 98"98QM850G | 2,000 nitsManufacturer peak-brightness claim displayed by TCL for the 98QM850G; not an independent measurement. | 600 x 600 | 67.56 in | 11.2–15.2 ft | — |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker System2.1-channel system with two main speakers and a built-in subwoofer
Speaker Count2
Woofer Count1
Included SubwooferYes
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts40 W
Dolby AtmosYes
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital, PCM
DTS SupportYes
DTS Audio FormatsDTS Virtual:X
Voice AssistantsGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa compatibility
Connectivity
HDMI Ports4
HDMI 2 1 Ports2
HDMI Inputs4
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs0
AirPlayYes
ChromecastYes
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz120 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz144 Hz
VRRSupported, including AMD FreeSync Premium Pro; up to 144Hz at 3840 x 2160. Game Accelerator 240 is a separate reduced-resolution mode and is not the native panel rate.
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyQLED LCD with Mini-LED backlight
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingFull Array ULTRA Local Dimming
Peak Brightness Nits2000 nits
HDR FormatsDolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches56.9 x 32.6 x 1.7 in
Weight Without Stand lb50.1 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.8 x 37.9 x 1.9 in
Weight Without Stand lb68.6 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.6 x 43.0 x 2.1 in
Weight Without Stand lb105.6 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches85.75 x 49.21 x 1.61 in
Weight Without Stand lb143.3 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemGoogle TV
ProcessorTCL AIPQ Engine Gen3
Specifications
Screen Sizes65, 75, 85, 98
VESA By Size65": 300 x 400 mm, 75": 400 x 400 mm, 85": 600 x 600 mm, 98": 600 x 600 mm
Stand Width By Size65": 13.4 inches, 75": 13.4 inches, 85": 15.7 inches, 98": 67.56 inches
Stand Depth By Size65": 11.7 inches, 75": 11.7 inches, 85": 13.8 inches, 98": 16.46 inches
6-Series R655 4K Mini-LED QLED Roku TV
A 4K Mini-LED QLED Roku TV with a native 120Hz panel, broad HDR support and up to 4K/144Hz gaming on the 55-, 65- and 75-inch sizes.
Key technology
Contrast Control ZonesTCL's local-dimming system independently adjusts groups of Mini-LEDs to increase the difference between bright and dark image areas.
AiPQ EngineTCL's image processor for optimizing color, contrast, clarity and upscaling.
Game Studio ProA collection of gaming functions that includes variable refresh rate, automatic low-latency mode and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.
HDR Pro PackTCL's grouped HDR feature set supporting Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10 and HLG on the R655.
Buyer advantages
- Strong Mini-LED contrast and picture quality make it competitive when viewed on its own.
- The 55-, 65- and 75-inch models accept up to 4K/144Hz with VRR, benefiting compatible gaming PCs.
- Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ support provide compatibility with both major dynamic-HDR formats.
- Roku TV offers a straightforward streaming interface plus AirPlay and HomeKit compatibility.
- The 55-, 65- and 75-inch sizes use a center pedestal that requires less furniture width than separated feet.
- Clearance pricing can make it a compelling alternative for shoppers who do not need the QM8’s additional brightness and audio features.
Things to consider
- Tech Steve found Roku TV less modern and flexible than Google TV, particularly for app selection and device connectivity.
- The 85-inch version is limited to 4K/120Hz, so it does not match the smaller R655 sizes or QM8 lineup at 4K/144Hz.
- The 55-, 65- and 75-inch versions use 20W two-channel audio without the built-in subwoofer included across the QM8 series.
- The 85-inch model’s feet are approximately 67.3 inches apart, requiring a wide media console.
- Only two HDMI inputs support the highest gaming signal rates, limiting direct connections for multiple advanced gaming devices.
- Integrated Chromecast is not included, making Google Cast use less convenient than on the QM8.
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55"55R655 | — | 300 x 300 | — | 6.3–8.6 ft | — |
| 65"65R655 | — | 400 x 400 | — | 7.4–10.1 ft | — |
| 75"75R655 | — | 400 x 400 | — | 8.6–11.7 ft | — |
| 85"85R655 | — | 600 x 400 | 67.3 in | 9.7–13.2 ft | — |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker SystemTwo-channel speakers on 55-, 65- and 75-inch models; 2.1-channel system with built-in subwoofer on the 85-inch model
Speaker Count2
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Dolby AtmosYes
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus
Voice AssistantsRoku Voice, Amazon Alexa compatibility, Google Assistant compatibility, Apple Siri/HomeKit compatibility
Connectivity
HDMI Ports4
HDMI 2 1 Ports2
HDMI Inputs4
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs0
AirPlayYes
ChromecastNo
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz120 Hz
VRR55-, 65- and 75-inch models support up to 144Hz VRR at 3840 x 2160. The 85-inch model is limited to 120Hz at 3840 x 2160.
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyQLED LCD with Mini-LED backlight
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingFull-array local dimming with Contrast Control Zones
HDR FormatsDolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.3 x 28.0 x 2.7 in
Weight Without Stand lb35.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches56.9 x 32.8 x 2.7 in
Weight Without Stand lb50.7 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.7 x 37.8 x 2.7 in
Weight Without Stand lb72.3 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.5 x 42.8 x 3.1 in
Weight Without Stand lb88.4 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemRoku TV
ProcessorTCL AiPQ Engine
Specifications
Screen Sizes55, 65, 75, 85
VESA By Size55": 300 x 300 mm, 65": 400 x 400 mm, 75": 400 x 400 mm, 85": 600 x 400 mm
Stand Width By Size85": 67.3 inches
Stand Depth By Size55": 11 inches, 65": 12.6 inches, 75": 12.6 inches, 85": 15.8 inches
Which one should you buy?
The TCL QM850G is the better choice for shoppers who want the strongest picture, brighter HDR capability, smoother gradients, Google TV, Chromecast and a built-in subwoofer at every size. Its entire lineup also supports up to 4K/144Hz, although Game Accelerator 240 operates at reduced resolution and only two HDMI inputs are the high-bandwidth gaming connections. The TCL R655 remains a worthwhile alternative for value-focused shoppers, particularly when available at clearance pricing. It retains Mini-LED local dimming, broad HDR support and up to 4K/144Hz gaming on the 55-, 65- and 75-inch versions. Choose it if you prefer Roku or the price difference is substantial, while remembering that the 85-inch version is limited to 4K/120Hz and uses widely separated feet.
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