TCL P7K / P79K vs TCL V6C

Direct comparison

P7K / P79K

Info

Available screen sizes: 43”50”55”65”75”85”

Available screen sizes: 43”50”55”65”75”

Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Android TV

Model year: 2025

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Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2025

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Overall rating

5.8

5.2

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    5.1

    4.9

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    5.5

    5.0

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    5.3

    3.9

  • Gaming on console

    7.1

    6.0

  • TV as a computer monitor

    2.0

    4.0

  • Watching in bright light

    4.6

    3.6

  • Utility functions

    7.0

    7.3

  • Apps

    9.6

    9.6

  • Sound quality

    6.2

    5.8

Advantages

  • Great black and high contrast

  • Support for 120 Hz in games (at lower resolutions)

  • Very low responsiveness (input lag), excellent for dynamic gameplay

  • Modern features for gamers, such as VRR and ALLM

  • Smooth Google TV system with a massive app base

  • Very well-functioning Google Assistant in Polish

  • Easy screen mirroring from your phone (support for AirPlay)

  • Attractive price

  • Attractive price

  • Advanced GoogleTV system with a large app library

  • Decent contrast thanks to the VA panel

  • Quite a good functioning dynamic tone mapping feature (often saves the TV in HDR content)

  • Low input lag below 15 ms

  • Presence of ALLM mode and simple Game Bar

  • Support for Dolby Vision Gaming (Xbox Series S/X)

  • Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making it easier to use with a soundbar

Disadvantages

No like
  • Low brightness, which makes the HDR effect poor, and the image is hard to see in sunlight

  • The image loses quality and colours when viewed at an angle

  • Not suitable as a computer monitor due to very poor readability of text

  • Strong dithering phenomenon (heavily digital image)

  • Very low brightness (~200 nits) = no cinematic effects

  • Narrow colour gamut coverage, especially in HDR content

  • Poor Dolby Vision implementation

  • Strong motion blur in dynamic scenes (panel only 60 Hz)

  • Average upscaling – the image can be artificially sharpened

  • Unusual subpixel arrangement making font readability difficult when working with PC

  • Limited viewing angles typical of VA panels

  • The TV performs poorly in heavily sunlit rooms

  • Google TV system can be sluggish and doesn't operate as smoothly as in more expensive models

  • No USB recording feature or Picture-in-Picture mode

Our verdict

It’s time to gather all observations. The TCL P7K / P79K is a television that smartly juggles compromises, offering significantly more in its price range than one might expect. Its undeniable advantage is the VA panel, which guarantees deep blacks and high contrast, while an impressively rich package for gamers (with VRR and support for 120 Hz at lower resolutions) makes it a phenomenal choice for console owners. The whole thing is tied together by a functional Google TV system. Of course, the low peak brightness means that HDR content lacks spectacular highlights, and the TV's performance in sunlit rooms is limited. And while, at its relatively low price, the P7K / P79K is quite a decent option, its biggest rival turns out to be… its more refined sibling, the P8K. Often FOR a small extra fee, we get a device that is a class above – with a native 4K 144 Hz panel, significantly better audio system, and generally higher operational quality, which is reflected in its much higher rating on our portal. Therefore, the final verdict must be as follows: if your budget is absolutely non-negotiable, the P7K / P79K will be a good and cost-effective choice. However, if you can afford to add a small amount, the P8K model will offer significantly more and will ultimately be a more satisfying investment.

The TCL V6C is a television whose appeal lies primarily in three elements: the Google TV system, several features beneficial for gamers, and a very low price. The biggest advantage is indeed Google TV – it provides access to an enormous library of apps, from the most popular streaming services to lesser-known programs, and it allows the use of AirPlay, screen mirroring, and voice search. For many users, this system alone may be a sufficient reason to consider a purchase. Additionally, there are simple yet practical features for gamers, such as ALLM mode, low input lag, and a Game Bar with parameter previews, which make occasional gaming on a console more convenient. The third argument, and perhaps the most important, is the price – it’s hard to find another model with Google TV in this class that offers such wide access to smart features. However, when it comes to picture quality, it’s clear that we are dealing with a significant number of compromises. The V6C is a very dim television. Colours remain dull, and in more demanding scenes, the image can be flat and lacking in detail. The contrast provided by the VA panel can be considered decent, but this comes at the cost of weak viewing angles. Additionally, there is motion blur in dynamic sports scenes, as well as an unnatural upscaling effect that often artificially sharpens details instead of enhancing them. So, who is this model for? The V6C is a television that will work well as a simple device for everyday watching of TV or YouTube, and its greatest strength is its operating system and low price. However, if we’re hoping for budget-friendly cinematic experiences or comfortable gaming in modern titles, this model will quickly reveal its limitations. Therefore, when purchasing it, one must be clear about what they are choosing – it’s a television for simple tasks, not a device that is meant to impress with picture quality.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
0 x HDMI 2.0, 3 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
3 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
Other inputs
Toslink (Optical audio)
Outputs
Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
Network Interfaces
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
Build quality
Average
Average
Stand type
Legs
Legs
Bezel color
Graphite
Graphite
Stand
Fixed
Fixed
Accessories
Stand
Stand

Contrast and black detail

5.2/10

5.2/10

Local dimming function: No

Local dimming function: No

Contrast:

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

4,000:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

6,500:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

2,700:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

2,800:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

3,800:1

Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail

Result

4,450:1

Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail

Result

4,900:1

Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail

Result

3,150:1

Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail

Result

4,250:1

Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail

Result

2,550:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail
Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail
Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail
Review TCL V6C Contrast and black detail

In discussions about image quality, the conversation almost always begins with the issue of black depth and contrast, which are parameters defining the plasticity and realism of the viewed world. And here, the TCL P7k/P79k immediately lays its strongest advantage on the table – a VA-type panel. It is its construction that ensures the native relationship between the brightest and darkest parts of the image is more than satisfactory, especially in the context of the price segment this model represents. In the majority of scenes, the achieved black has a noble depth, which allows for building an engaging spectacle for the viewer. To illustrate the scale, it's worth mentioning that competing constructions based on IPS panels often offer results that are even four or sometimes five times lower, which constitutes a chasm in direct comparison. Of course, as we venture into the territory of budget-oriented models, we must be aware of certain compromises. Thus, in the discussed television, we will not find an advanced local dimming system that could further enhance the impression of contrast. The absence of this feature is, however, fully understandable and constitutes a logical consequence of the product's positioning in the market – this technology in TCL's portfolio for 2025 has been reserved for higher-positioned, more prestigious series marked with the letter "C".

The TCK V6C uses a VA matrix, which is a solution that is considered quite a sensible choice in budget televisions. This type of panel offers high contrast and can provide pleasant experiences, especially during evening movie sessions. Of course, in this price range, it’s hard to expect local dimming – that technology is simply not present here. The effect is that blacks won’t be as deep and inky as in more expensive models, and at times they might resemble more of a shade of navy. Fortunately, this can be easily worked around – just turn on a soft light behind the television or place a small lamp in the corner of the room, and the eye will "trick" itself, making the blacks appear much better. Given the equipment in this range, the contrast can therefore be regarded as decent and sufficient for everyday viewing.

HDR effect quality

4.3/10

3.2/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 86.3%, Bt.2020: 65.0%
DCI P3: 80.3%, Bt.2020: 58.9%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

206 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

247 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

297 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

237 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

281 nit

Review TCL V6C Brightness measurement

Result

149 nit

Review TCL V6C Brightness measurement

Result

163 nit

Review TCL V6C Brightness measurement

Result

193 nit

Review TCL V6C Brightness measurement

Result

172 nit

Review TCL V6C Brightness measurement

Result

196 nit

Scene from the movie “Pan” (about 2800 nits)

Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality
Review TCL V6C HDR effect quality

Scene from the movie “Billy Lynn” (about 1100 nits)

Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality
Review TCL V6C HDR effect quality

Static HDR10

Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality
Review TCL V6C HDR effect quality

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality
Review TCL V6C HDR effect quality

HDR luminance chart:

TCL V6C

HDR luminance

TCL P7K / P79K

HDR luminance

When it comes to assessing HDR performance, we need to be clear and straightforward without any marketing fluff: the P7K/P79K is not and never was meant to be a champion in this area. The maximum peak brightness that this panel can generate hovers around just 300 nits. This represents a threshold, a sort of thin red line between what can be considered barely satisfactory HDR signal and what is, in reality, only slightly better than standard dynamic range (SDR), unfortunately leaning towards the latter. Synthetic tests confirmed this harsh reality – our measurements taken during movie sessions showed that the luminance in key bright scenes rarely exceeded 200-250 nits. Therefore, this is not a TV that would allow content created in a wide tonal range to truly shine, and that must be openly acknowledged.

Unfortunately, the issue of colour reproduction is presented just as conservatively. Although the manufacturer positions this model within the "QLED" family, owing to the use of a PFS LED filter, the results do not match the heightened expectations. The coverage of the wide DCI-P3 colour gamut reaches only 86%. Compared to the market, this is at best an average result, since most devices that utilise additional layers to expand the colour spectrum easily achieve values at a minimum of 90-92%.

When it comes to HDR, the TCK V6C clearly shows that it is not its strong suit. A peak brightness of around 200 nits makes it difficult to talk about true HDR effects – the picture simply remains too dark to bring out details in bright scenes or convey the appropriate dynamics. Although the television formally supports many HDR formats, it is not practically equipped for such demanding content. The lack of additional layers that enhance colors, such as QLED or PFS LED, further limits the appeal of the image – in more spectacular productions, the colours may seem washed out compared to more expensive models. Therefore, the V6C will primarily serve as a television for everyday viewing, YouTube, or SDR content, rather than as equipment for high-quality cinematic experiences.

Factory color reproduction

5.9/10

4.8/10

Review TCL P7K / P79K Factory color reproduction
Review TCL V6C Factory color reproduction

Factory Mode

After calibration

Review TCL P7K / P79K Factory color reproduction
Review TCL V6C Factory color reproduction

Factory Mode

After calibration

Every reliable assessment of image quality must start with selecting the most optimal, factory preset mode. In the case of the tested P7K/P79K model, the choice was made without hesitation for the "Film" mode. It is the mode that presents an image closest to the intentions of its creators, avoiding both the exaggerated brightness of the dynamic mode and the excessive dimming known from eco settings. And it must be admitted that, for a device in this price range, the factory calibration is surprisingly decent, although it is not without a few stumbles. The most noticeable shortcoming turned out to be the not entirely correctly set white balance. A slight dominance of the blue component gives the image a subtly cool, frosty character, straying from the ideal neutrality that the director intended to show us. The television handles the reproduction of greyscale in the standard dynamic range much better – the gamma curve is almost exemplary. The only slight reservation can be made for the darkest parts of the image, where a delicate deviation from the norm causes a loss of some detail in the shadows. The most significant challenge, however, for the TCL software was interpreting the HDR signal, as illustrated by the EOTF curve. The television follows its own, rather free path here – the darkest details are disproportionately brightened, followed by a noticeable slowdown in brightness increase for mid-tones. Fortunately, most of these imperfections are of a software nature, which can be eliminated. With that thought in mind, we proceeded to the process of professional calibration.

We started colour reproduction tests with the Filmmaker mode, which in theory should be the best choice straight out of the box. It certainly performs better than the Eco or Dynamic modes, which heavily interfere with the image and spoil its natural character. As you can see in the graphs, the factory tuning of the V6C is not ideal, although it's not a disaster either. The biggest issue turned out to be a lack of red – the TV clearly "cools" the image, which is especially noticeable on human faces, giving a "zombie skin" effect. This particular issue was the most bothersome during everyday viewing. Looking at the colour palette in HDR content, the shortcomings in red are also noticeable, and their source is the relatively narrow coverage of the colour space. Of course, every TV can be calibrated, so we decided to check how the V6C would perform after such an adjustment.

Color reproduction after calibration

7/10

5.2/10

Review TCL P7K / P79K Color reproduction after calibration
Review TCL V6C Color reproduction after calibration
Review TCL P7K / P79K Color reproduction after calibration
Review TCL V6C Color reproduction after calibration

The calibration process turned out to be spot on, especially in the context of standard dynamic range (SDR) content. We successfully managed to eliminate the tendency of the television to showcase cool tones, restoring white to its natural neutrality. Moreover, the precise adjustment allowed us to correct a slight error in the gamma curve, enabling the darkest parts of the image to regain proper depth, without any signs of unnatural brightness. The results are measurable and impressive – in the ColorChecker test, the vast majority of colour reproduction errors fell below the perceptual threshold, achieving a deltaE value of below 2. This is a result that more expensive models would not be ashamed of. Unfortunately, in the case of HDR content, we encounter a wall in the form of the panel's structural limitations. And although we managed to bring the colours into line, the software's specifics mean that the television still adapts brightness in its own way, as evidenced by the persistent, non-standard EOTF curve. To summarise, calibration adds tremendous value, but it is important to be aware that it won't overcome certain physical barriers. The slightly elevated blacks, resulting from the lack of local dimming, and limited peak brightness mean that HDR content won't always be able to showcase its full potential. This is simply not the main task of this display; its true strength, especially after professional tuning, lies in viewing SDR material.

My dear friends – we haven't faced such a difficult "calibration battle" in years. The V6C turned out to be one of the most stubborn TVs we've dealt with in the office. The calibration trials alone took us several hours of work and required a lot of patience. We finally managed to slightly warm up the skin tones, which made faces stop looking like they were pulled straight out of a horror film, a common issue with the factory settings. Unfortunately, that wasn't the end of it – the TV reacted to our adjustments in white balance in a completely unpredictable manner. Where we expected stability in the image in a certain area, new errors appeared, and Color Checker measurements showed deviations that couldn't be rationally explained. It's hard to say whether the fault lay with the software or the design itself, but one thing is certain – the V6C put up exceptionally strong resistance. Ultimately, the calibration brought improvement, especially in SDR content, where the image became more pleasing and natural. However, it must be clearly stated that the design limitations remain. The TV still flattens the image in HDR materials and has noticeable deficiencies in colour reproduction. This is equipment more suited for everyday TV watching or SDR content rather than for cinematic experiences in the highest quality.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

5/10

7/10

Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL V6C Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL V6C Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL V6C Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL V6C Smoothness of tonal transitions

The issue of the fluidity of tonal transitions, or popular grading, is another area where the P7K / P79K evokes mixed feelings and surprises with its dual nature. If we were to assess solely its ability to render smooth colour gradients, we would undoubtedly award it a solid score of 8/10. Unfortunately, this entire positive image is disrupted by the use of very aggressive and visually unpleasant dithering. This artifact is particularly noticeable on demanding test screens – such as the one depicting an actor submerged in red water – where rough, unnatural textures appear on uniform colour planes, revealing the digital nature of the image. This is particularly disappointing as it is not a new problem. It seems to be a sort of hangover from previous generations of budget TCL models, which is a shame, as it marred what is fundamentally a quite competent image and is a mistake that could have been avoided.

When it comes to the fluidity of tonal transitions, it doesn’t look too bad during everyday viewing. In most scenes, the image appears smooth, and the colours blend without noticeable disruptions. So you can comfortably watch movies or series without worrying about glaring artefacts. The problem only starts in more extreme moments – in very bright or exceptionally dark scenes, the V6C shows its limitations. You can then see slight "stepping" of colours, meaning a lack of perfectly smooth transitions. Fortunately, these are rather sporadic situations.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

7/10

5/10

Image without overscan on the SD signal
OK
OK
Smooth transition function
OK
OK

Smooth transition function

Review TCL P7K / P79K Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL V6C Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Review TCL P7K / P79K Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL V6C Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

After a series of harsh evaluations, thankfully, it’s time for some praise, and this is deserved by the TCL AiPQ image processor for its work in the field of digital processing and content scaling. It should be noted right away that we are not talking about the level known from flagship models; nonetheless, in the price segment represented by the P7K/P79K, the results achieved are more than solid. The function that smooths tonal transitions performs particularly well, effectively eliminating posterization, which are the characteristic bands often visible in materials with higher compression, for instance, from choose.tv. The algorithm can elegantly remove unwanted gradients, which ultimately looks really good. The television also handles upscaling competently, which means the task of raising low-resolution materials to 4K standard. The resulting image, although it may seem a bit too sharp out of the box, is fortunately not a problem. The software allows for free adjustment of this parameter using a sharpness slider, allowing the final appearance to be easily tailored to personal preferences.

When it comes to upscaling, the V6C doesn't bring anything groundbreaking to the table. Lower quality content is heavily sharpened, making the image look quite unnatural, at times almost artificial. This can be somewhat alleviated by reducing the sharpness level in the settings, but the effect isn't spectacular. The image still falls short of perfection. The digital processing itself performs better. The function responsible for smoothing tonal transitions works quite effectively, especially at the medium setting, where the image truly appears smoother. Unfortunately, its operation is rather aggressive – it heavily interferes with the overall scene, causing actors in the foreground to start looking like characters from super smooth soap operas. Therefore, we would not recommend using this option if a natural viewing experience is important to us.

Blur and motion smoothness

4.8/10

3/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
60Hz
60Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
No
No
BFI function 60Hz
No
-
BFI function 120Hz
No
-
Brightness drop with BFI
-%
-%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

The issue of fluidity and sharpness of motion image is inextricably linked to the fundamental parameter of the panel, and in the case of the TCL P7K/P79K, we are dealing with a panel that has a native refresh rate of 60 Hz. This specification at the outset defines its capabilities and makes it hard to unequivocally recommend it to enthusiasts of dynamic sports broadcasts. During quick camera movements, the image loses sharpness, and the panel also shows a slight tendency to smudge, which may be noticeable to more sensitive viewers. Fortunately, not everything in this aspect has been left to chance. The manufacturer has implemented a simple motion smoothing system, which is primarily used in film materials recorded at 24 or 30 frames per second. Thanks to a dedicated slider, the user can decide on the final nature of the motion – from maintaining a fully cinematic, slightly jerky image, to achieving a very smooth, almost theatrical effect. It is a simple yet effective tool that allows one to adjust the viewing experience to their own preferences.

Smoothing and motion fluidity are areas where the V6C quickly reveals its limitations. It's a 60 Hz TV, so it was hard to expect miracles here. In dynamic sports scenes, the image performs rather mediocrely. This is most noticeable in darker scenes, where distinct trails and blurred "halos" follow moving objects, which can be quite distracting. This is definitely a weaker point of this model. Fortunately, there is also a small plus. The V6C is equipped with a motion smoother that works while watching movies. Thanks to it, productions filmed at 24 frames per second, which is practically all cinema titles and series, can look smoother than they were actually recorded. Importantly, the intensity of the effect can be adjusted to personal preferences – from slight smoothing to the full "soap opera effect."

Console compatibility and gaming features

6.7/10

4/10

  • ALLM
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR
    Yes
    No
  • VRR range
    48 - 120Hz
    No
  • Dolby Vision Game Mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • Correct implementation of HGIG
    No
    No
  • 1080p@120Hz
    Yes
    No
  • 1440p@120Hz
    Yes
    No
  • 4K@120Hz
    No
    No
  • Game bar
    Yes
    Yes

Although on paper the native 4K@60Hz matrix might suggest that the TCL P7K/P79K is not a TV tailored for gamers, the reality turns out to be surprisingly different. On the contrary, the manufacturer has ensured a rich set of features that make it a very friendly companion for next-generation consoles. Onboard, we find key technologies such as ALLM, which provides automatic switching to low-latency mode, and VRR, or variable refresh rate, which eliminates screen tearing. The list is rounded off with support for Dolby Vision Gaming and a simple yet functional Game Bar. However, the real and extremely pleasant surprise is something else. It turns out that the TV effortlessly supports a high refresh rate signal of 120Hz, but at lower resolutions – 1080p and 1440p. This is fantastic news for console owners, who know how rarely games run in native 4K at a full 120 frames per second. The option to choose between higher resolution and doubled smoothness is therefore an incredibly sensible compromise.

In summary, while the P7K/P79K may not be the target screen for the most passionate, tournament gamers, it offers a package of options for casual or occasional console users that is hard to find among many competitors at this price point.

Even though the V6C is not a TV designed with avid gamers in mind, TCL has included a few features that may appeal to more casual users. You'll not find a 120 Hz panel or HDMI 2.1 ports here, but there is an ALLM mode that automatically switches the TV into low latency mode. There's also a quite practical Game Bar – a simple panel allowing the preview of basic parameters, changing the picture mode, or even enabling a virtual crosshair on the screen. Another interesting feature is the support for Dolby Vision Gaming, intended for Xbox Series S/X consoles – a nice addition, although in practice it doesn’t offer as much as in more expensive models. However, the biggest issue remains the HDR configuration. The HGiG function, responsible for adjusting the brightness and contrast of games to the capabilities of the panel, doesn't respond as we would expect – the picture can be overly dark or too flattened. As a result, a better solution turns out to be simply playing in SDR mode, where the V6C operates steadily and doesn’t try to pretend to be an HDR TV.

Input lag

9.9/10

10/10

SDR

1080p60
15 ms
14 ms
1080p120
10 ms
2160p60
14 ms
13 ms
2160p120

HDR

2160p60
14 ms
13 ms
2160p120
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
14 ms
13 ms
2160p120 DV

Completing this rich package for gamers is a parameter that has a direct impact on comfort and performance in gameplay – input lag. Already in native 60 Hz mode, the television can boast an excellent result of just 15 ms. However, the real magic happens when switching to 120 Hz mode, where the lag drops almost by half, reaching values below 10 ms. Such responsiveness ensures that every command from the controller is transmitted to the screen in the blink of an eye, which will be appreciated not only by professionals but by anyone who values smooth and direct interaction with the game.

The input lag measurement shows values below 15 ms, which is a level that is practically difficult to perceive with the naked eye. Even in dynamic games, the action remains responsive, and the controls are smooth. This is a result that can confidently be considered very good and sufficiently adequate for most players, even if the V6C is not strictly gaming hardware.

Compatibility with PC

2/10

4/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
No
Yes
Font clarity
Average
Average
Readability of dark text and shapes
Poor
Average
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
16ms
13ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
BGR
BGR
Max refresh rate
60Hz
60Hz
G-Sync
Yes
No
Review TCL P7K / P79K Compatibility with PC
Review TCL V6C Compatibility with PC

We finally arrive at the area that can undoubtedly be described as the biggest achilles heel of the TCL P7K/P79K – its compatibility with a PC. This is paradoxical because on paper, everything looks promising. The presence of G-Sync and support for high refresh rates at lower resolutions could suggest that it will also be a great monitor. Unfortunately, practice brutally verifies these assumptions. The key problem is the lack of support for full 4:4:4 chroma sampling. In everyday use, this translates to terrible font rendering quality – they, especially coloured ones, become jagged, surrounded by artifacts, and simply poorly readable. And that’s not all, as in PC mode, the problem of aggressive dithering also becomes apparent, giving the whole image an artificial, overly digital look. The only consolation in this situation is the fact that in games we can take advantage of the extra hertz and G-Sync technology, but these are not advantages that could compensate for the fundamental shortcomings in displaying a static interface. The verdict is therefore clear: while it may still hold up as a screen solely for gaming with a PC, in the role of a monitor for work or browsing the internet, the P7K/P79K simply performs poorly.

Cooperation with a PC is only partially satisfying. The television supports chroma 4:4:4, so at first glance, the fonts look quite decent. The problem arises when we take a closer look – under the microscope, it turns out that TCL has used an atypical subpixel arrangement in the V6C. Instead of the classic vertical layout, we have a horizontal arrangement here, which in practice causes various artifacts and unevenness in displaying letters. As a result, the fonts can appear jagged, and after prolonged use, the text can be straining on the eyes. Therefore, it’s hard to regard the V6C as a sensible substitute for a monitor – while it’s suitable for the occasional opening of a browser or watching content from a computer, it simply doesn't work as a primary screen for work. There’s also not much to say about gaming features, as they simply aren’t present.

Viewing angles

3.2/10

2.9/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
78%
79%

Moving on to the issue of viewing angles, we enter a realm where VA matrix technology dictates unavoidable conditions. As expected, this is the weak point of this model. It is enough to step away from the screen axis to observe a gradual degradation of the image: colours begin to fade, contrast noticeably drops, and blacks lose their depth. In direct confrontation with IPS panels, which are renowned for their generosity in this aspect, the VA matrix must concede superiority to its competitor. Is there a silver lining? Paradoxically, yes. Weak viewing angles are indeed the price we consciously pay for the fundamental advantage of this technology – a significantly higher native contrast and deeper blacks viewed head-on. Thus, we can say that this is a television that favours the viewer sitting in the “ideal” spot, offering them a maximally vivid image at the cost of universality.

The viewing angles on the V6C are the classic compromise we know from VA matrices. We gain solid black when watching straight on, but just a slight shift to the side clearly diminishes the image quality – colours fade and contrast drops. This is a typical limitation of this technology and probably won’t surprise anyone who has previously dealt with TVs. In practice, this means that the V6C works best in a “one sofa” setup – when watching straight in front of the screen, the black looks decent, but a larger group of viewers spread across the living room will quickly notice differences in the displayed image.

Daytime performance

4.6/10

3.6/10

Panel finish
Satin
Satin
Reflection suppression
Decent
Decent
Black levels during daytime
Good
Good
Review TCL P7K / P79K Daytime performance
Review TCL V6C Daytime performance
Review TCL P7K / P79K Daytime performance
Review TCL V6C Daytime performance

Panel brightness

Average luminance SDR

TCL V6C: 210 cd/m2

TCL P7K / P79K: 299 cd/m2

The last practical test for any television is its daily performance in daylight conditions when it must compete with ambient light. In this competition, the TCL P7K / P79K starts with a certain advantage due to its satin screen coating. Its structure does quite well at suppressing direct reflections, dispersing them and protecting the image from excessive colour fading or brightening of blacks. However, passive combat against reflections is one side of the coin. The other is the active ability to "punch through" bright surroundings, and here one of the key limitations of this model comes to light. The previously mentioned peak brightness of around 300 nits is simply too low to ensure a fully comfortable and dynamic viewing experience in a heavily sunlit lounge. In such conditions, the image may lack punch, and scenes with lower brightness may lose readability.

The V6C’s performance during the day isn’t one of its strong points. It’s a relatively dim television, which is why it simply struggles in heavily lit rooms. The satin finish on the panel somewhat dampens reflections and does indeed reduce troublesome glares, but it’s not enough to speak of full viewing comfort. When a lot of natural light floods into the room, the screen isn’t able to “break through” it, causing the image to appear dull and hard to read. The V6C is definitely a piece of equipment that feels much better suited for evening viewing than for sunny afternoons.

Panel details

Backlight Type
PFS LED
White LED
Software version during testing
V8-0008T01-LF1V441
V8-0008T01-LF1V441.001532
Image processor
RTD6748 2GB RAM
rtd6748 2gb ram

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity and thermal imaging:

Review TCL P7K / P79K TV Panel details
Review TCL V6C TV Panel details

TCL P7K / P79K

TCL V6C

TV features

7/10

7.3/10

  • HDMI inputs
    0 x HDMI 2.0, 3 x HDMI 2.1 48Gbps
    3 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
  • Other inputs
    Toslink (Optical audio)
  • Outputs
    Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
    Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
  • Network Interfaces
    Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
    Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
  • TV reception
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C

Classic features:

  • Recording to USB (terrestrial TV)
    No
    No
  • Recording programming
    No
    No
  • Picture in Picture (PiP)
    No
    No
  • RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    No
  • Teletext
    Yes
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • Bluetooth headphones support
    Yes
    Yes
  • Simultaneous Bluetooth headphones & TV audio
    Yes
    Yes

Smart features:

  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    Yes
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features
Review TCL V6C TV features

Smart Features – the power of Google TV

The heart and operational brain of the TCL P7K / P79K is the Google TV system, which in itself is a huge advantage. This platform opens access to an almost endless library of applications from the Play Store, ensuring we won't miss any key streaming service. Integration with other devices is exemplary – Apple device owners will appreciate the seamless cooperation thanks to AirPlay, while users of Windows and Android systems can easily take advantage of screen mirroring features. The Google Assistant also deserves a mention, as it handles voice search in Polish exceptionally well, remaining one of the most effective and convenient solutions of its kind on the market. The operation of the system on the tested model can be described as "above average." The interface is mostly smooth, but during testing, it experienced occasional slowdowns and even sporadic "freezes" that required a moment of patience. Minor hiccups are also noticeable in the translation of some system messages, which can be clumsy – these are merely minor oversights on TCL's part that do not affect overall functionality.

Classic Features

In the age of smart systems, traditional television functions often take a back seat, and this case is no different. A significant advantage is the inclusion of a classic remote control with a numeric keypad, which does not require precise aiming at the screen for communication, significantly enhancing user comfort. The presence of Bluetooth technology for connecting external devices, such as headphones or speakers, also counts as a plus. However, this is essentially where the list of conveniences ends. It's evident that TCL has placed nearly everything on the Google TV card, treating classic features as an absolute minimum. Thus, we won’t find options for recording programs from built-in tuners to a USB drive or the once-popular PiP (Picture-in-Picture) feature. It is therefore a basic package that simply works but offers nothing beyond what is essential.

SmartTV: GoogleTV

The biggest asset of the V6C is the Google TV operating system. It's an advanced platform that provides access to a vast array of applications – from YouTube, Netflix, Disney+ and HBO Max, to less popular programs that can be easily downloaded from the Google store. Additionally, there are useful features such as AirPlay, screen mirroring, and voice search. However, it’s important to note that Google TV is not the lightest system. In the case of the V6C, which is a budget television, there are sometimes noticeable lags and slower interface responses. This doesn't ruin everyday use, but it can be felt, especially compared to more expensive TCL models or competitors.

Classic Features

The V6C also doesn’t forget about solutions for those who use television in a traditional way. The package includes a classic remote with a large number of buttons, including a full numeric keypad. This is practical for people watching terrestrial or cable television. The television also offers teletext and a clear interface for managing channels. Notably, the Bluetooth support is hassle-free – we can easily pair headphones or a speaker. Therefore, the V6C performs solidly as an everyday television, though one must remember certain limitations. There’s no USB recording or picture-in-picture (PiP) mode, which are features that mainly older users might need. (Though not only 😉).

Playing files from USB

7.2/10

8.7/10

Supported photo formats:

JPEG
Yes
Yes
HEIC
No
No
PNG
Yes
Yes
GIF
Yes
Yes
WebP
No
No
TIFF
Yes
Yes
BMP
Yes
Yes
SVG
No
No

Maximum photo resolution:

4 Mpix
Yes
Yes
6 Mpix
Yes
Yes
8 Mpix
Yes
Yes
10 Mpix
No
No
12 Mpix
No
No
16 Mpix
Yes
Yes
20 Mpix
No
No
24 Mpix
No
No
28 Mpix
No
No
32 Mpix
Yes
Yes

The built-in media player in the P7k/P79k model is at least a curious case, putting us in quite an unusual situation. On one hand, its engine handles the decoding of most popular video formats, which is of course good news. On the other hand, we encountered a surprising and frustrating issue – the default application has a fundamental problem with correctly displaying Polish diacritic characters in subtitle files. Instead of letters like "ą", "ę" or "ż", empty squares or random, illegible symbols appeared on the screen. Fortunately, thanks to the flexibility of the Google TV system, this problem can be easily circumvented. Installing an alternative, advanced player, such as the tried-and-true VLC or KODI, fully resolves this inconvenience. The situation is strange in that this flaw did not occur in other TCL models we tested earlier. So we are dealing with a clear software oversight, which, hopefully, will be corrected in a future update.

Playing files from USB on the V6C is quite decent. The built-in player handles most popular video and audio formats well, and during tests, we didn't encounter significant issues with typical files. The biggest problem arose with very high-resolution photos - above 20 Mpix, the TV often refused to cooperate. We also noticed some minor functionality gaps regarding video playback. The video player lacks the option to change font colours, which worked without issues in other TCL models. Fortunately, these are inconveniences that are easy to get around. Thanks to Google TV, you can install external applications like VLC or KODI, which solve most problems and offer much broader file handling capabilities.

Apps

9.6/10

9.6/10

OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
OK
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
HBO_MAX
OK
Kodi
No
Apple_music
OK
Eleven_sports
No
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
No
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
OK
Steam Link
OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
OK
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
HBO_MAX
OK
Kodi
No
Apple_music
OK
Eleven_sports
No
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
No
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
OK
Steam Link

Sound

6.2/10

5.8/10

  • Maximum volume
    -
    83dB
  • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby True HD 7.1
    No
    No
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus (JOC)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby True HD
    No
    No
  • DTS:X in DTS-HD MA
    Yes
    Yes
  • DTS-HD Master Audio
    Yes
    Yes

In terms of the built-in audio system, the TCL P7k/P79k presents a level that can be described as functional and adequate, but lacking in audiophile ambitions. The speakers play quite loudly, and dialogues in films and TV shows are conveyed clearly and without distortion, which is crucial for everyday use. However, the audio scene definitely lacks the foundation of low frequencies. This is a direct consequence of the absence of a dedicated subwoofer – an element that in the higher P8K series, took the form of a large Onkyo subwoofer at the back of the cabinet, which contributed to its sound strength. Here, that element is simply missing, making the sound seem flatter and devoid of the depth that creates a cinematic atmosphere. We also noticed a peculiar issue with the software – when attempting to set the maximum volume, the TV automatically reduces it. It's hard to definitively say whether this is a form of protection against distortion or a minor software glitch, but it's a shame, as the power reserves seem to be a bit greater.

The sound on the V6C doesn't stand out from the competition in the same price range. The audio is quite flat, and there's simply a lack of bass. Fortunately, the television can play loud – measured at 83 decibels, it's a pretty decent result, and importantly, even at maximum volume, there is no unpleasant crackling that often plagues cheaper models. However, it's worth noting the support for advanced surround sound formats rather than just the quality of the built-in audio. The V6C handles Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, so connecting a soundbar or another external audio system won't be an issue and will allow full use of these codecs. This is a good sign for those planning to expand their setup with additional audio equipment.

Acoustic Measurements

No acoustic data

83dBC (Max)

75dBC