TCL MQLED85 / C765 vs Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D

Direct compare

C765 / MQLED85

Info

Neo QLED / QN92D / QN90D

Info

Available screen sizes: 55”65”75”85”98”

Available screen sizes: 43”50”55”65”75”85”98”

Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2024

Complete the survey to find out the result

Panel type: LCD VA (wide viewing angle)

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Tizen

Model year: 2024

Complete the survey to find out the result

Overall rating

7.2

7.8

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    6.8

    7.9

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    6.6

    7.9

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    6.5

    7.7

  • Gaming on console

    8.6

    9.1

  • TV as a computer monitor

    8.6

    8.6

  • Watching in bright light

    6.3

    6.4

  • Utility functions

    7.1

    7.7

  • Apps

    10.0

    9.3

  • Sound quality

    6.9

    6.9

Advantages

  • Great choice for gamers - plenty of features, low input lag, 144Hz

  • High brightness of the panel - good performance during the day

  • Good black levels and contrast

  • Advanced Google TV

  • Premium build at a low price

  • High brightness

  • Good contrast

  • Intuitive Tizen operating system

  • Great for gamers and sports fans (HDMI 2.1, 144Hz, low input lag)

  • Wide viewing angles - unusual for VA panels

Disadvantages

No like
  • Average viewing angles

  • Missing recording function

  • No recording function

  • No DTS format support - this may be problematic for those using Blu-ray

Our verdict

TCL MQLED85, or model C765, is a television that can truly surprise, especially in this price range. It is one of the cheapest models with mini-LED technology, which is immediately evident from the picture quality. The blacks are deep, and the brightness is sufficient even in a brightly lit room. Thanks to the large number of dimming zones, watching films in the evening is a pure pleasure – the blacks are genuinely deep, and the image in dark scenes appears clear. However, it is not perfect – in some shots, you can notice minor issues with small bright elements, but this is really a trifle compared to what this model offers. Google TV works excellently here – there are plenty of applications, and using the system is simply convenient. Voice control in Polish operates flawlessly, which can be particularly useful if you don’t want to type film titles using the remote. Of course, there are minor shortcomings, like the lack of recording features, but these are not things that hinder everyday use. For gamers, it is also a great option. Support for HDMI 2.1, VRR, and low input lag make the television handle consoles well and compete effortlessly with more expensive models from Korean or Japanese manufacturers. It's hard to find something better in this price range concerning smooth and responsive gameplay. During testing, we encountered a few minor software issues, but it's difficult to say if this is a significant drawback. We hope that TCL will release updates, so there is a chance this issue will be resolved quickly. TCL MQLED85/C765 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a television with good picture quality and modern features at a reasonable price. This model combines accessible mini-LED technology with a convenient Google TV system, while also performing exceptionally well in gaming. The minor software shortcomings are something you can live with, especially considering what this television offers in its class.

Samsung offers two top models with 4K resolution when it comes to MiniLED technology. In this test, we took a closer look at the perhaps not so "high-end" QN95D, but rather the QN90D, which can also be found under the name QN92D. Samsung proudly calls its MiniLED televisions the NeoQLED series. It is precisely because of this technology that the television offers excellent contrast and high brightness, making movie watching an experience reminiscent of a true cinema. During everyday use, the Tizen system performed excellently. It is fast, intuitive, and allows seamless switching between applications. We also appreciated how well the television managed lower quality materials – traditional television and older films looked better than we expected, and the advanced image processing algorithms did their job. This is a television that truly enhances the reception of content that is not always in high resolution. The solar remote was a pleasant surprise for us. Although minimalist and with a limited number of buttons, it proved to be very practical – allowing us to control not only the television but also other devices, such as the decoder (Canal+) and the soundbar. This meant we could reduce the number of remotes on the table, which immediately improved usability. Additionally, solar charging – a simple idea that eliminates the need for battery replacements and aligns with ecological trends. As for the picture in different conditions, the television performs well in both bright and dark rooms. High brightness and numerous dimming zones handle most content, although sometimes in contrasty scenes a halo effect is visible. The colours are vibrant and natural, and the QLED coating adds intensity to them. For even better results, we opted for calibration – after which the picture looked even more detailed and natural, which only reinforced our belief that the QN92/QN90 is an excellent choice. And what about motion on the screen? It is absolutely smooth. The 144 Hz panel performs excellently with dynamic scenes – fast actions, sports, games – everything looks natural and without blurring. We particularly appreciated the Auto Motion Plus Game feature, which makes games running at 30 frames per second look smoother, resembling 45 frames, and at 60 Hz, motion becomes even more natural, as if operating at 90 Hz. For gamers, this is a significant advantage, especially since low input lag and features like game bar further enhance the gaming experience. This is a television that will perform well in any situation – from evening screenings to gaming marathons. The QN92D is a practical television, well-designed, and offering picture quality that is truly hard to ignore. An ideal choice for those looking for something more than just an ordinary screen for everyday content.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
0 x HDMI 2.0, 4 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
Other inputs
RCA (Chinch)
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

Where to buy

No links

No links

Contrast and black detail

7.7/10

7.9/10

Local dimming function: Yes, number of zones: 720 (36 x 20)

Local dimming function: Yes, number of zones: 504 (36 x 14)

Contrast:

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Contrast and black detail

Result

30,150:1

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Contrast and black detail

Result

17,500:1

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Contrast and black detail

Result

9,500:1

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Contrast and black detail

Result

5,750:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Contrast and black detail

Result

69,000:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Contrast and black detail

Result

5,500:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Contrast and black detail

Result

2,700:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

TCL MQLED85/C765 stands out due to its use of a VA panel and Mini LED backlighting, which makes a significant difference compared to traditional backlighting systems. Mini LED, with its considerably smaller diodes, allows for more precise control of the screen's backlighting, resulting in much better contrast and deeper blacks. The 55-inch model we are testing has an impressive number of over 700 local dimming zones, providing exceptional precision in image display. However, it is worth noting that the number of backlighting zones may vary depending on the screen size – for larger diagonals, the number of zones naturally increases due to the larger screen area, allowing larger displays to achieve better results in terms of contrast and black levels. Thanks to the vast number of zones, the TCL MQLED85/C765 achieved a performance comparable to OLED screens on our first test scene from the film "Oblivion," offering nearly reference-level contrast. But what happens when we test this model in even more demanding conditions? How will the television perform in more challenging scenarios? Overall, the TCL MQLED85/C765 performs very well in displaying blacks, but in some cases, the local dimming algorithm is not perfect. On dark backgrounds, smaller bright elements can lose clarity and brightness, as confirmed by our recent test scene from the Pioneer Kuro test disc. Despite some imperfections in the local dimming algorithm and the slight occurrence of the HALO effect (which is a bright halo around bright objects on a dark background caused by screen local dimming deficiencies), the results achieved by the TCL MQLED85/C765 are impressive, especially considering its price. This television offers contrast and black depth that can compete with models that are even half again as expensive.

Samsung QN92D is one of the highest models of NeoQLED 4K (mini LED) from the Korean manufacturer for 2024. Although it does not offer as many local dimming zones as its more refined sibling Samsung QN92D, the number of 504 dimming zones in the 55-inch version is still impressive. The VA panel works well with this solution, providing excellent results in terms of contrast. The contrast in Samsung QN92D is outstanding for a non-OLED television. Even in challenging scenes, like those from the films "Oblivion" or "Arrival", the contrast is nearly infinite and can compete with the best televisions in the OLED segment, which is quite rare among LED-backlit televisions. However, mini LED technology has its limitations compared to organic panels, which can lead to certain issues. For example, on the latest test pattern from Pioneer, the television struggles significantly. This may be due to a very aggressive dimming algorithm, causing the mini LED lights to sometimes be unable to "decide" what to do – whether to illuminate certain elements or maintain black levels. Despite these shortcomings, Samsung QN92D is one of the best LCD televisions in terms of contrast and black levels.

HDR effect quality

6/10

6.8/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dolby Vision IQ, HLG
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 95.0%, Bt.2020: 79.0%
DCI P3: 94.0%, Bt.2020: 78.0%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Brightness measurement

Result

1016 nit

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Brightness measurement

Result

365 nit

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Brightness measurement

Result

765 nit

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Brightness measurement

Result

235 nit

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 Brightness measurement

Result

1178 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Brightness measurement

Result

1947 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Brightness measurement

Result

617 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Brightness measurement

Result

738 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Brightness measurement

Result

271 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D Brightness measurement

Result

1479 nit

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

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

Static HDR10

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Dynamic: HDR10+

HDR luminance chart:

Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D

TCL MQLED85 / C765

The television TCL MQLED85/C765 handles HDR well. In the tested movie scenes where the screen is covered with 100% brightness, the model achieves impressive results of around 1000 nits, providing intense and realistic rendering of HDR content. However, similar to contrast, the dimming algorithm may exhibit certain limitations. Despite a large number of Mini LED zones, the television does not always manage to "wow" the user with brightness in very challenging test scenes. For example, in the scene from the film "Life of Pi," where a bright moon appears against a dark background, and in another scene from "Sicario 2," where a very bright light effect is visible on a dark background, the television did not reach maximum intensity. For users expecting perfect HDR performance in such extreme cases, the TCL MQLED may be slightly disappointing. However, in terms of colours, the television stands out with very high coverage of the DCI P3 colour palette at 95%, which is an impressive result, comparable to much more expensive models. TCL MQLED85 / C765 offers support for various HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+, which is significant for cinema image enthusiasts. Although this model achieves brightness over 1000 nits, TCL MQLED85 may struggle to reflect details in very high-contrast scenes. For better HDR quality control, C765 is equipped with a dynamic tone mapping option, making the image more realistic and natural depending on the content.

During synthetic tests, Samsung QN92D displayed its incredible capabilities in terms of brightness. The graphs clearly indicate that the television can achieve an impressive 2000 nits, giving it a solid power base to compete with the best models on the market. Such a result places it at the forefront, especially in the context of displaying HDR content, where brightness plays a crucial role. However, what happens when we transfer the tests to real film scenes? Under favourable conditions, such as the first scene from the film Life of Pi or the last scene where the image is entirely flooded with light, Samsung QN92D can achieve nearly laboratory results, impressing with its brightness. The situation looks different, however, when small, bright objects appear on a dark background, as in the fourth scene from the film Sicario. In such cases, the television does not perform as well – brightness drops several times, and the maximum values under the best conditions are around 600 NITS. Similar to the case with contrast, these limitations arise from the use of an aggressive local dimming algorithm. This algorithm aims to reduce the 'halo' effect around bright objects on a dark background, but often at the expense of overall brightness. As a result, while the television excels in brightly lit scenes, its ability to display full brightness is limited when it comes to small, vivid elements.

Factory color reproduction

5.2/10

6.1/10

Factory Mode

After calibration

Factory Mode

After calibration

The television TCL MQLED85/C765 was tested in movie mode, which, although it seems to be the best setting from the manufacturer, is not without flaws. The colour reproduction in HD/SDR mode MQLED85 shows some shortcomings. In the analysis of white balance, there is a significant lack of blue, which can affect the overall image quality, especially in bright scenes where blue shades are crucial for natural representation. The overall shape of the image may then appear too warm. Regarding gamma contrast, the graph shows a large jump above the reference line of 2.4 at the beginning, which may suggest significant dimming of brightness in darker areas, leading to loss of detail in black. Then, for most of the time, the values lie below this line, which may lead to loss of detail in brighter parts of the image. Such a distribution can negatively impact perceived image quality, particularly when watching regular television in HD quality.

In the case of 4K HDR image quality of the TCL MQLED85/C765, there is a noticeable excess of red in the analysis of white balance. This excess can significantly affect the viewer's experience, leading to several significant effects. Firstly, an excessive amount of red can make other colours, such as green or blue, appear muted or unnatural. This distortion of colour balance can result in an overall impression of "over-saturation," which detracts from the naturalness and authenticity of the image. As for contrast, the EOTF (Electro-Optical Transfer Function) graph indicates that most values are above the reference line, suggesting an intense boost in brightness in bright areas of the image. However, there is an exception at the beginning of the graph, where the EOTF line is below the reference line, which can lead to excessive dimming of small light elements.

Users should be aware that despite using the best mode, which is movie mode, the television is not free from flaws in terms of image settings, so it is worth considering adjusting the settings to achieve better results.

The best mode that consistently reproduces colours on the Samsung QN92D is, as it has been for years, the Filmmaker mode. Although it generally offers decent colour quality, it is not without significant issues. Let’s start with the analysis of images in HD/SDR quality. The biggest challenge here is white balance – the graphs show considerable instability, with a pronounced red dominance, making the image too warm. This distortion causes shades to be unnaturally shifted towards warmer tones, which can negatively affect the perception of materials with natural colours. The contrast, based on the gamma graph, although not the worst, remains far from ideal, impacting the overall image quality, especially in darker scenes.

This problem persists with 4K materials, such as series or movies of higher quality. In this case, the white balance also proves faulty, with noticeable deficiencies in blue and red colour, leading to tonal shifts. Tests using the Colour Checker tool confirm these issues – all colours tend to shift towards yellow tones, further distorting the natural appearance of the image. Although the Filmmaker mode is one of the best available modes for watching cinematic content, it still requires improvements, especially concerning colour accuracy and white balance.

Color reproduction after calibration

7.8/10

8.7/10

After the professional calibration of the television TCL MQLED85/C765, its colour properties in movie mode have significantly improved, resulting in a much more satisfying visual experience. Both in SDR and HDR modes, the white balance shows no serious errors, and the graph appears much better harmonised. Users can now enjoy natural colour reproduction, which is crucial for obtaining an authentic experience when watching films. It is worth noting that in HDR content, there may be slight colour reproduction errors at the end of the graph, but these are much smaller than before calibration. As a result, characters and landscapes become more realistic, enhancing the depth of immersion in the story.

In terms of contrast, the gamma curve, responsible for HD quality, has been completely free of drops below the reference line, meaning better detail visibility in dark scenes. Nevertheless, there is still a slight boost at the beginning of the graph, which may affect the perception of bright elements. For HDR content, the EOTF curve also exhibits smaller errors, although certain issues with medium tone reproduction may still be noticeable. The EOTF curve measured on actual movie scenes still shows a significant brightness boost, making the image appear more intense but artificially brightened. This is a typical problem for TCL televisions, which may appeal to inexperienced viewers, but can be irritating for those more familiar with an ideal image.

What benefits does professional calibration bring for film enthusiasts? Thanks to it, viewing becomes even more realistic and immersive, and each scene can be fully experienced, preserving details and natural colours.

After calibration, the Filmmaker mode on the Samsung QN92D television shows significant improvement, particularly in terms of SDR content. The white balance has been greatly enhanced – the previous colour misalignment and dominance of red have been eliminated, resulting in a more natural colour reproduction. In terms of brightness, although the gamma chart did not require significant adjustments, it has been stabilised, which affects overall picture quality.

Regarding high-quality materials, the white balance has also improved in this case. However, it is important to note the contrast. The EOTF curve, which illustrates values in this area, initially seems correct. However, when we look at the details, the television struggles to maintain appropriate contrast in film materials. The EOTF curve reveals certain discrepancies, suggesting that despite advancements, there are still areas needing improvement in this aspect. The television still strives for excellence in contrast reproduction. One advantage of this television is colour saturation. Skin tones are rendered very well, and although some colours can be slightly oversaturated, the final effect looks truly appealing – the colours appear rich and vibrant.

Despite some shortcomings in contrast, after calibration, the Filmmaker mode on the Samsung QN92D offers excellent picture quality, with natural colour reproduction, making it a great choice for watching films.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7/10

9/10

The fluidity of tonal transitions in the television TCL MQLED85/C765 is quite decent, although some issues are noticeable in both bright and dark test scenes. In particular, colour blending is evident in the scene from the film "The Green Knight", where the red colour of the water transitions to black. Despite these imperfections, the overall quality of gradation is acceptable and does not overly detract from the visual experience. The television handles most scenes well, offering satisfactory tonal transitions, which contributes to an overall pleasing visual experience that will not spoil our cinema enjoyment.

The fluidity of tonal transitions in the TV Samsung QN92D is excellent, making the image appear remarkably natural, without noticeable disturbances. In scenes with complex colour gradations, the TV performs superbly, ensuring smooth and uniform transitions. Competing OLED TVs in a similar price range can successfully take a cue from this, as the Samsung QN92D offers quality that places it on par with models equipped with QD-OLED matrices.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

5.1/10

7.2/10

Image without overscan on the SD signal
OK
OK
Smooth transition function
No
OK

Smooth transition function

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Let’s take another look at the tonal transitions in the TCL MQLED85/C765 television, but in the context of poorer image quality. Despite the presence of the "Gradual Smoothing" option, when set to "low," the effects are practically invisible, disappointing users expecting an improvement in image quality. On the other hand, the "high" setting produces minimal results, and worse still, it can blur significant details, negatively affecting the sharpness and clarity of the displayed image. However, in the context of image scaling, the television successfully displayed the image without overscan, meaning we do not lose any part of the view. The image looks rather decent, and details such as tree branches or the outlines of models do not exhibit significant jaggedness, which positively impacts the visual quality.

Let’s check how the Samsung QN92D television performs with tonal transitions in very poor quality materials. The noise reduction feature demonstrates good effectiveness, improving the smoothness of tonal transitions even in challenging conditions. However, it should be noted that, as with other Samsung televisions, the effectiveness of this feature may lead to the removal of desirable elements, such as film grain, which can sometimes affect the authenticity of the image.

Regarding digital processing, the Samsung QN92D television also performs excellently. During testing, the image was presented very well, with the model shown in a natural and correct manner. Details such as branches in the background were reproduced with great precision, highlighting the television's ability to enhance the quality of low-resolution materials.

Blur and motion smoothness

7.5/10

7.5/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
144Hz
144Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
OK
OK
BFI function 60Hz
Yes, 120Hz (double contours)
Yes, 60Hz (image flickers)
BFI function 120Hz
Yes, 240Hz (double contours)
Nie
Brightness drop with BFI
50%
72%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Blur (BFI function enabled):

Image flickers in this mode

TCL MQLED85/C765 is equipped with a panel featuring a standard refresh rate of 120 Hz, with the capability to increase to 144 Hz when connected to a powerful computer. The television also offers a multi-level motion smoother, primarily aimed at users wishing to enhance motion fluidity in films. It allows for the adjustment of effect intensity on a scale from 0 to 10, enabling precise tuning of image smoothness to individual preferences. The response time of the panel is decent, but not perfect. We can observe blurring occurring behind both dark and medium objects.

The Samsung QN92D television is equipped with a 144 Hz panel; however, when watching content using the smoothness feature, the maximum refresh rate is 120 Hz. This means that both gamers and those who watch a lot of sports will be satisfied with the picture quality. It is also worth mentioning the available image enhancement options, such as the "blur and judder reduction" feature, which allows users to adjust the smoothness to individual preferences on a 10-point scale. Blur reduction is responsible for increasing the sharpness of quickly moving objects, while judder reduction smooths motion, eliminating the "stutter" effect. Thanks to these advanced settings, optimal visual experiences can be achieved, making the Samsung QN92D ideal for both dynamic scenes and intense gaming sessions.

In terms of motion blur, the television performs really well, and it is hard to find anything to criticise. The only comment we might have is a slight overshoot effect noticeable on dark backgrounds during our test with "Ufoludkiem". Nevertheless, with the advanced smoothness settings, the Samsung QN92D is perfect for both dynamic scenes and intense gaming sessions.

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.8/10

9.5/10

  • ALLM
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR range
    48 - 144Hz
    48 - 144Hz
  • Dolby Vision Game Mode
    Yes
    No
  • Correct implementation of HGIG
    Yes
    Yes
  • 1080p@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • 1440p@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • 4K@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • Game bar
    Yes
    Yes

TCL MQLED85/C765 has received an impressive rating in the gaming features category, making it an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts. The television supports all the latest technologies that significantly enhance the gaming experience. Among the key gaming features is ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), which automatically switches the TV to low-latency mode, minimising response time and ensuring smooth gameplay. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) functioning in the range of 48 to 144 Hz eliminates stuttering and screen tearing in dynamic game scenes. Additionally, the TV supports Dolby Vision Game Mode, which provides better image quality in games with exceptional colour depth and contrast. TCL MQLED85/C765 also features a decent if not the best implementation of HGiG (HDR Gaming Interest Group), optimising HDR game display; however, for TCL, it causes detail in whites to be brightened, resulting in some elements merging into a white blob - we can read more about this in the colour reproduction section. It supports various resolutions, such as 1080p@120Hz, 1440p@120Hz, and 4K@120Hz, allowing players to enjoy higher image quality and better fluidity. The Game Bar feature allows easy switching between game settings and quick parameter control, greatly simplifying the adjustment of the television to individual needs. With support for G-Sync and FreeSync technologies, users of NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards will be pleased with the refresh rate synchronisation capabilities, eliminating tearing and stuttering issues, thereby providing a smoother and more immersive gaming experience.

MQLED85/C765 is a television that combines advanced technologies and excellent support for gamers, making it the perfect choice for those who wish to maximise their gaming experiences.

The Samsung QN92/QN90 television is an excellent choice for avid gamers, worthy of the highest recommendations. This model offers virtually all the features available on the market in terms of gaming, making gameplay even more exciting. One of its key features is the 120 Hz panel, which provides exceptional motion smoothness, vital during dynamic action games. The television also has low input lag, ensuring lightning-fast responses to player commands. Additionally, technologies such as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) adjust the refresh rate and automatically switch the television to game mode, enhancing the gaming experience even further. An additional advantage is the Xbox app, which allows playing favourite titles directly on the television, eliminating the need for a console. This is a typical feature of Samsung televisions, which makes them unique in the gaming world.

Auto Motion Plus Game is a feature that truly deserves praise for Samsung. It is a motion smoother that performs excellently in games, allowing for the perception of a higher frame rate – a 30 frames per second image looks like 45, and 60 Hz becomes close to 90 Hz. Importantly, this feature does not introduce significant lag (input lag does not exceed 25 ms), so it does not negatively affect gaming comfort, unlike many other motion smoothers available on the market. As a result, players can enjoy a significantly smoother image without compromising on responsiveness.

Input lag

9.8/10

9.9/10

SDR

1080p60
16 ms
13 ms
1080p120
8 ms
11 ms
2160p60
16 ms
13 ms
2160p120
8 ms
11 ms

HDR

2160p60
16 ms
13 ms
2160p120
8 ms
11 ms
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
16 ms
2160p120 DV
8 ms

The latency time on the TCL MQLED85 television reaches impressively low levels in all conditions. Even the most demanding gamers will surely appreciate the minimal input lag of just 8 ms at 4K 120 Hz settings with HDR. Moreover, the latency remains at the same level even with Dolby Vision HDR turned on, which is not the case for many competing models.

The input lag category is crucial for gamers, and the Samsung QN90D performs exceptionally well in this aspect. Input lag values below 13 ms are impressive, which means that the delay between pressing a button on the controller and the response on the screen is minimal. Such a low value allows for smooth and responsive gaming experiences, which is sure to please both casual gamers and professionals for whom every millisecond of reaction time counts. This makes the Samsung QN92D an excellent choice for those who value precision and speed in gameplay.

Compatibility with PC

8.6/10

8.6/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
Yes
Font clarity
Very Good
Very Good
Readability of dark text and shapes
Average
Average
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
8ms
13ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
BGR
Max refresh rate
144Hz
144Hz
G-Sync
Yes
Yes

TCL MQLED85 will perform well as a computer monitor. With support for chroma 4:4:4, the text on the screen is sharp and legible, which is important for those working with word documents or spreadsheets. One of the greatest assets of this model is its exceptionally low input lag in "PC" mode, which is just 8 ms. This is a reference-level result that ensures fluidity and responsiveness, crucial for both gamers and those engaged in video editing. However, it is worth noting that there is a certain issue related to font display on dark backgrounds. When zooming in on the tested font image, one can see that the horizontal lines are darker compared to the vertical ones. This means that the sub-pixels in the television do not fully illuminate in this case, which can affect the quality of the displayed text. Nevertheless, the overall performance of TCL MQLED85 as a computer monitor is very good and will certainly meet the expectations of many users.

The television stands out with high performance, supporting chroma 4:4:4 and offering exceptionally low input lag. These features allow users to enjoy fluidity and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for office work and everyday applications. However, one noticeable drawback is the poor visibility of horizontal lines on dark backgrounds. On the test pattern, the letters on the right appear more like vertical lines, which can be frustrating for some users. Nevertheless, the television generally works well with computers, providing comfort in performing daily tasks. It is also worth mentioning in this paragraph the "Remote PC" feature; thanks to Microsoft's collaboration with the Korean giant, we can pair Windows PCs seamlessly and use Office 360 applications.

Viewing angles

3.2/10

7.1/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
80%
65%

The viewing angles on the TCL MQLED85 television are not its strong suit. The use of a VA panel means that the picture loses a significant amount of brightness when viewed at an angle. Changing the viewer's position, especially when watching with a larger group, can cause colours to appear less saturated and the contrast to become less pronounced. For this reason, it is recommended to sit directly in front of the screen to fully enjoy the picture quality. Although the television offers excellent colour reproduction from a direct view, the loss of brightness and detail at an angle can be problematic for those planning to use the television in a larger room or from different locations.

In the case of TVs with VA panels, one can usually expect limited viewing angles; however, Samsung QN90D surprises in this category. Thanks to the applied coating that widens the viewing angles, the television offers truly good performance, which is rarely seen in devices with this type of panel. Although VA panels are not usually the best in this regard, in this model the picture remains clear and vibrant even when viewed from the side, making it an excellent choice for larger rooms and group viewing.

TV efficiency during daytime

6.3/10

6.4/10

Matrix coating
Satin
Satin
Reflection suppression
Average
Average
Black levels during daytime
Good
Good

Matrix brightness

Average luminance SDR

Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D: 629 cd/m2

TCL MQLED85 / C765: 618 cd/m2

MQLED85 performs reasonably well in daytime conditions, and it is worth noting the satin finish of the panel. Although it doesn't handle reflections perfectly, it offers decent performance in various lighting conditions. An average brightness level of over 600 nits is an impressive achievement, allowing for comfortable viewing even in well-lit rooms. As a result, the television performs well both during the day and during evening movie sessions, providing satisfactory picture quality.

The television performs excellently in bright rooms due to its high brightness, especially when watching standard television. A constant brightness level of 600 nits ensures excellent visibility even in intense daylight. Unfortunately, despite the use of a satin finish, handling reflections is average, which may affect viewing comfort. An additional downside is the matrix that improves viewing angles, which causes reflections of sunlight to spread vertically, potentially further reducing viewing comfort in a bright environment.

Details about the matrix

Backlight Type
Mini-LED QLED
Mini-LED QLED
Software version during testing
V8-T653T01-LF1R134
1106
Image processor
MT5896 2,5GB RAM

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity:

TCL MQLED85 / C765

Samsung Neo QLED QN90D / QN92D

TV features

7.1/10

7.7/10

  • System
    Google TV
    Tizen
  • TV reception
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
  • Recording to USB (terrestrial TV)
    No
    No
  • Recording programming
    No
    No
  • Picture in Picture (PiP)
    No
    Yes
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    Yes
  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    Yes
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes
  • Possibility to connect Bluetooth headphones to the TV
    Yes
    Yes
  • Possibility to simultaneously use Bluetooth headphones and the TV speaker
    Yes
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    No
    Yes
  • RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen)
    RF
    RF
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    No
  • Teletext
    Yes
    Yes

TCL MQLED85 television offers many features that enhance user comfort, with the centrepiece of its functionality being the Google TV system. This modern interface allows for easy content searching as well as access to applications available in the Google Play store. Users can utilize voice search in Polish, which greatly facilitates navigation and allows for the quick discovery of interesting programmes, films, or applications. It is also worth noting that Google TV is currently the only system on the market that does not restrict Polish users in accessing applications, offering the greatest availability among all platforms. However, in the context of traditional television viewing, this television has its limitations. It does not offer recording functionality, which may be a significant drawback for those who would like to save their favourite programmes. Additionally, the absence of the Picture-in-Picture (PIP) option limits the ability to simultaneously follow several video sources. On the other hand, the television features the "MultiVision" function, which allows for screen division between the television and a mobile device. This enables users to use applications on their phone while simultaneously watching a television programme. This solution will certainly appeal to those who enjoy multitasking and want to watch television while using social media or browsing the internet on their smartphone. Despite certain limitations, the TCL MQLED85 presents itself as a solid option for users who value modernity and functionality.

The Samsung QN92D television stands out with its modern Tizen operating system, which offers users an intuitive and visually pleasing environment. Tizen ensures smooth and quick browsing of applications, significantly enhancing the comfort of using the television. With its extensive ecosystem, users can easily connect the QN92D to other devices. The television supports numerous features that facilitate everyday use, such as controlling set-top boxes with the remote, eliminating the need for multiple remotes. Thanks to the AirPlay feature, Apple device users can seamlessly stream media from their iPhone. Additionally, there is a remote PC function that allows users to utilise their computer on a large screen, as well as the Office 365 application, making the QN92D an ideal solution for both work and entertainment.

Furthermore, like many Samsung televisions, the QN92D offers an Ambient Mode feature that allows users to customise the appearance of the television to blend with the surroundings. Users can display a variety of images or information, making the television an elegant part of interior decor even when not in use. Speaking of decor, it is certainly worth mentioning the device's appearance. It is truly very slim, around 2cm at its thickest point, which is impressive. The metal frame undoubtedly gives the impression of a premium device, and the stand included in the package is sturdy.

However, for those using traditional television, the QN92D may prove to be somewhat disappointing, as the Polish market lacks the feature for recording television programmes. Nevertheless, the television offers a PiP (Picture-in-Picture) function that allows simultaneous viewing of two programmes at the same time. The Samsung QN92D is a richly functional television that meets the needs of both gaming enthusiasts and multimedia users, while also aesthetically fitting into modern interiors.

Playing files from USB

8.9/10

9.1/10

Supported photo formats:

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

Maximum photo resolution:

4 Mpix
Yes
Yes
6 Mpix
Yes
Yes
8 Mpix
Yes
Yes
10 Mpix
Yes
Yes
12 Mpix
Yes
Yes
16 Mpix
Yes
Yes
20 Mpix
Yes
Yes
24 Mpix
Yes
Yes
28 Mpix
Yes
Yes
32 Mpix
Yes
Yes

Thanks to the built-in player, the television is capable of playing most file formats found on external storage devices, making it a versatile tool for consuming multimedia. However, there may be certain limitations in supporting some formats, which could be annoying for more demanding users. Fortunately, the Google TV system allows the installation of other media players from Google Play, which helps eliminate compatibility issues. As a result, users have the option to choose applications that best meet their needs, significantly enhancing the functionality of the television.

The built-in player in QN90D should satisfy a large portion of users. It will easily play most popular video and audio formats. However, more demanding users may notice some shortcomings – it is not possible to play photos in HEIC format, popular on Apple devices, as well as a few other, less widespread photo formats.

Apps

10/10

9.3/10

OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Viaplay
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
MAX
OK
Kodi
OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Viaplay
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
No
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
MAX
No
Kodi

Sound

6.9/10

6.9/10

  • Subjective sound quality:
    6.9/10
    6.9/10
  • 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
    No
  • DTS-HD Master Audio:
    Yes
    No

The sound of the television TCL MQLED85 can be described as decent, making it sufficient for daily viewing of films, television programmes, and games. The speakers branded by Onkyo offer surprisingly good audio quality, and the sound does not screech or distort even at higher volumes.

The television is equipped similarly to the QN95 with a 4.2.2 speaker system with a total power of 70W (the exception here is the 50' variant with a 2.2 layout and the 43' with a 2.0 layout). Despite its very slim casing, the television delivers loud and clear sound, and the overall balance is good. We deducted points as standard, just like with any other Samsung model, for the lack of DTS format support. It is also worth mentioning the proprietary Q-Symphony feature, which allows synchronising the television sound with Samsung's soundbar.