TCL MQLED85 / C765 vs Samsung Neo QLED QN95D

Direct compare

C765 / MQLED85

Info

Neo QLED / QN95

Info

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

Available screen sizes: 55”65”75”85”

Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2024

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Panel type: LCD VA (wide viewing angle)

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Tizen

Model year: 2024

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Overall rating

7.2

7.9

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    6.8

    7.9

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    6.6

    8.1

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    6.5

    7.7

  • Gaming on console

    8.6

    9.2

  • TV as a computer monitor

    8.6

    8.6

  • Watching in bright light

    6.3

    6.5

  • Utility functions

    7.1

    7.7

  • Apps

    10.0

    9.3

  • Sound quality

    6.9

    7.0

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

  • Excellent brightness - great for HDR content

  • Very good contrast

  • Wonderful choice for gamers (HDMI 2.1 4K@144Hz, low input lag)

  • Wide viewing angles - unusual for this type of panel

  • Modern design

  • Camera included

Disadvantages

No like
  • Average viewing angles

  • Missing recording function

  • No recording support

  • No DTS format support - may pose a problem for Blu-ray users

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.

The Samsung QN95D immediately made a great impression on us. Right from the start, we felt that the Tizen system is intuitive and quick. The fast access to streaming applications such as PrimeVideo, Netflix, and MAX, as well as the ability to integrate with the SmartThings ecosystem, makes using the television simply convenient. The solar remote is a clever solution – eco-friendly and practical, as it allows control of other devices, such as a decoder (e.g. Canal+) or soundbar. While watching films and series, we quickly noticed how much of a difference the MiniLED technology makes. Thanks to the precisely functioning backlight zones, the picture gained incredible depth - which was confirmed by our contrast tests. The blacks are truly deep, and bright scenes using HDR stand out with excellent detail despite the lack of Dolby Vision. Additionally, the high brightness combined with the anti-reflective coating allows for comfortable viewing even in a sunlit room. When we played on this television, we immediately appreciated the low input lag and the fluidity of the image. The 144 Hz panel and support for HDMI 2.1 guaranteed dynamic and responsive gameplay, regardless of the game. All these features made every gaming session pure pleasure, especially in dynamic titles where precision and lack of delays matter. In terms of design - which is worth mentioning for this television - the QN95D simply looks great. The slim housing, solid central stand, and Ambient Mode function, which allows the screen to blend into the room's decor, give it an elegant touch. The included camera is an interesting addition that can be useful during video calls or when using interactive applications – like personal training through the Daily+ tab. However, for such, let’s be honest, an expensive piece of equipment, there are a few downsides. The lack of a recording function and support for sound in DTS:X format may be a problem for users seeking this feature. Nevertheless, the Samsung QN95D is a television that combines exceptional picture quality, functionality, and elegant design. The MiniLED backlighting makes a real difference here, especially if we care about deep blacks, high contrast, and excellent brightness. This is a device that will perform well during movie screenings, dynamic gaming, and everyday television watching.

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

8.3/10

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

Local dimming function: Yes, number of zones: 1344 (24 x 56)

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 QN95D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Contrast and black detail

Result

218,000:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Contrast and black detail

Result

61,000:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Contrast and black detail

Result

10,500:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Contrast and black detail

Result

4,900:1

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 QN95D is a television that certainly attracts attention thanks to the use of a VA panel and innovative Mini LED backlighting. This model stands out with an impressive number of 1344 local dimming zones, achieving an exceptional level of contrast and black depth. It is worth noting that the number of backlighting zones may vary depending on the screen size – in larger models, these zones naturally increase, allowing for even better performance in terms of contrast and black levels. Mini LED, with smaller diodes, enables more precise control of backlighting, significantly enhancing the quality of the displayed image. The tested 55-inch model handles detail reproduction excellently, and its ability to adjust brightness in different parts of the screen results in a phenomenal visual effect. During our tests, Samsung QN95D on the test pattern from the film "Oblivion" surprised us with results that could compete with OLED televisions, offering nearly reference-level contrast. However, how does the television perform in more challenging conditions? In more demanding scenes, the local dimming algorithm may show some flaws. In some cases, on dark backgrounds, smaller bright elements may lose a lot of brightness, which we noticed during tests with the Pioneer Kuro test disc. Additionally, when we take a closer look (e.g. a scene from the film Sicario 2), some imperfections can be observed. The television sometimes struggles with brightness optimisation – in some scenes, it dims elements too much, while in others, it brightens the screen too intensely. These phenomena can be noticeable enough to capture the viewer's attention, especially in demanding night scenes. However, if we do not pay much attention to the mentioned imperfections, Samsung QN95D proves to be one of the best choices in terms of black depth among displays with MiniLED technology.

HDR effect quality

6/10

6.5/10

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: 95.0%, 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 QN95D Brightness measurement

Result

1798 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Brightness measurement

Result

542 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Brightness measurement

Result

805 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Brightness measurement

Result

269 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN95D Brightness measurement

Result

1528 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 QN95D

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.

Samsung QN95D handles HDR exceptionally well, achieving a peak brightness of around 2000 nits. In the tested movie scenes, where the screen is fully lit, the television provides intense and realistic representation of HDR content, significantly enhancing the visual experience. Nevertheless, similar to contrast, the dimming algorithm may sometimes show limitations. Despite the considerable number of Mini LED zones, the television does not surprise the user with incredible brightness. For instance, in scenes from the film "Life of Pi," where a bright moon appears against a dark background, and in excerpts from "Sicario 2," where a strong light effect occurs on a dark background, the television displays very poor results. At such moments, the television attempts to reduce the halo effect by darkening the image to a level reminiscent of SDR quality. As a result, blacks appear deep and uniform, but this comes at the cost of losing some detail in bright areas. It is a compromise aimed at maintaining the best possible quality of black, although it simultaneously causes the image to lose a bit of its dynamism. Despite certain flaws in the operation of the local dimming algorithm, this television deserves praise for its wide coverage of the DCI-P3 colour gamut. This is made possible by the use of a quantum dot coating, also known as QLED technology, which allows for vibrant and rich colours.

Factory color reproduction

5.2/10

5.9/10

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.

In the category of factory colour reproduction, the television Samsung QN95D was tested in Filmmaker mode, which offers the best settings from the manufacturer. Nevertheless, it is not entirely free from flaws. In the case of HD content, there is a noticeable colour deviation, particularly in white balance, where the red colour clearly dominates the graph. The situation improves with 4K HDR content; however, there are still significant drops in blue colour reproduction. These effects can be observed in a scene from the film "Star Wars," where the protagonist is depicted in overly warm tones.

As for contrast, we can observe an initial large jump on the gamma graph, indicating that the television effectively highlights the brighter parts of the image. However, at the end of the graph, we notice a distinct drop, which may mean that in darker tones, details can be lost. Such a shape of the gamma curve can affect the way users perceive dark scenes, where some details may become too blurred or too dark, causing the image to lose clarity. It is also worth noting the curve responsible for brightness (EOTF), which is quite correct, except for the initial drop.

Although Samsung QN95D boasts impressive parameters and advanced technologies to deserve the title of one of the best televisions on the market, it requires certain adjustments in colour reproduction and contrast to fully utilise its potential.

Color reproduction after calibration

7.8/10

8.9/10

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 picture on the Samsung QN95D television achieves truly impressive results. The white balance is perfectly aligned, and error readings rarely exceed 2, which means that colours are displayed very accurately. Most samples from the Color Checker test fall within an acceptable error range, confirming that the television reproduces hues excellently. The contrast has also improved significantly, and the gamma curve is more stable, resulting in better visibility of details in both dark and bright scenes. However, it is worth noting the EOTF (Electro-Optical Transfer Function) curve, which shows some discrepancies in film tests. Although the television performs well in most scenes, details in the blacks can still be lost in more extreme cases – this is due to an aggressive dimming algorithm.

Nevertheless, these minor imperfections do not detract from the overall picture quality. After calibration, the Samsung QN95D impresses with its visual quality, offering an exceptional experience that will certainly satisfy anyone looking for a top-tier television.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7/10

9.1/10

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 is one of the strongest points of the Samsung QN95D television, which received a very high rating in this category. Such results are rarely seen in televisions that offer such high brightness. Thanks to the precise operation of the panel, tonal transitions are exceptionally smooth and natural. The only noticeable shortcomings might be slight errors around the blacks, but they are subtle enough that most users are unlikely to notice them. This makes the Samsung QN95D an excellent choice for those who value image quality and detail, especially in scenes with complex lighting.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

5.1/10

7.2/10

Image without overscan on the SD signal
OK
No
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.

The Samsung QN95D television handles tonal transitions even in lower quality materials, thanks to the noise reduction feature employed, which functions like a gentle gradation. This feature is extremely effective, smoothing out the image and eliminating unwanted noise while significantly improving the quality of the displayed material. However, as is often the case, too much effectiveness can lead to unintended side effects. In some materials, this feature may also blur elements that should remain sharp, such as film grain.

Despite this, the television performs well in the context of image scaling, eliminating larger jagged edges. In a scene where branches are visible, they are not excessively artificially sharpened, allowing for a natural appearance, and the model does not have an artificial outline. Overall, this means that even in more challenging conditions, the film material presents itself satisfactorily on the Samsung QN95D. The only downside when watching HD/SD content (such as regular terrestrial television) is the fact that we have a slightly cropped image – this is caused by the so-called overscan, which cannot be turned off.

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%
73%

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 panel in Samsung QN95 performs very well in terms of motion blur and smoothness of movement. With a refresh rate of 120 Hz and features for reducing blur and judder, the picture settings can be customised to personal preferences, whether for watching films or for dynamic sports broadcasts. The user has the option to adjust the smoothness of the image on a 10-point scale – from a more frame-like appearance reminiscent of traditional film to a smooth, almost theatrical effect, which works particularly well for sports transmissions.

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.

Samsung QN95D offers quite a few features that gamers will appreciate. First and foremost, the television supports variable refresh rate (VRR), which allows for smoother gameplay, eliminating issues with tearing, especially during dynamic scenes. We also find the auto low latency mode (ALLM) feature, which automatically switches the television to low latency mode when it detects a connected console or computer, ensuring more responsive controls.

Furthermore, the QN95D Samsung has a game mode that reduces input lag to a very low level, which is crucial in games where reflexes play an important role. With a high refresh rate of 120 Hz, the picture is exceptionally smooth, significantly enhancing the experience of fast-paced action games and sports productions. The television also supports G-Sync and FreeSync technologies, which further enhance gameplay smoothness and improve user comfort. An interesting addition is the 'Game Bar' – a special menu that provides quick access to all game-related settings, allowing easy adjustments of picture and parameters to suit user preferences without the need to interrupt gameplay.

Although the Samsung QN95D does not support Dolby Vision – which is quite obvious for Samsung televisions – it does offer the HGiG feature, which ensures appropriate picture quality in HDR games, in line with the creators' vision.

Input lag

9.8/10

9.8/10

SDR

1080p60
16 ms
14 ms
1080p120
8 ms
12 ms
2160p60
16 ms
14 ms
2160p120
8 ms
12 ms

HDR

2160p60
16 ms
14 ms
2160p120
8 ms
12 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.

QN95D Samsung stands out with excellent input lag performance, achieving values below 15 ms. This is an impressive result that is not dependent on resolution or refresh rate. With such low latency, gamers can enjoy the TV's instant response to their commands, which is crucial in dynamic games. Whether we are playing 4K titles at 120 Hz or lower resolution games, the QN95D ensures exceptional gameplay smoothness and precise motion rendering. Such a level of responsiveness makes the TV an ideal choice for any avid gamer.

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
12ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
BGR
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.

In the category of collaboration with a PC, the Samsung QN95D television stands out with its high performance, offering support for 4:4:4 chroma and impressively low input lag. Thanks to these features, users can enjoy fluidity and responsiveness, making it an ideal choice for office work or everyday applications. However, one noticeable issue is the poor visibility of horizontal lines on a dark background. In the test image on the right, it is evident that the letters resemble vertical lines, which can be somewhat frustrating. Nonetheless, the television generally offers good compatibility with a computer, and users can expect comfortable operation in their daily tasks.

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, QN95D Samsung surprises in this category. Thanks to the applied coating that widens viewing angles, the TV offers really good performance, which is rarely seen in devices with this type of panel. Although VA panels are usually not the best in this regard, in this model, the picture remains clear and vivid even when viewed from the side, making it an excellent choice for larger rooms and group watching.

TV efficiency during daytime

6.3/10

6.5/10

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

Matrix brightness

Average luminance SDR

Samsung Neo QLED QN95D: 655 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.

In the daytime performance category, QN95D Samsung, despite using a glossy panel, may struggle with highly visible reflections on the screen. As seen in the photo on the right, the lamp disperses to the left and right, which is a result of the anti-reflective coating used. However, overall this coating performs very well when the television displays any colours other than black, where reflections become more noticeable. It is worth noting that the television achieves very high brightness for SDR content, exceeding 650 nits, which provides comfortable viewing even in bright rooms.

Details about the matrix

Backlight Type
Mini-LED QLED
Mini-LED QLED
Software version during testing
V8-T653T01-LF1R134
1120
Image processor
MT5896 2,5GB RAM

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity:

TCL MQLED85 / C765

Samsung Neo QLED QN95D

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 Tizen system in Samsung televisions is characterised by simplicity and speed of operation. The central point of the interface is the "Smart Hub," which allows for quick access to the most important applications and recommended content, such as Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video. Tizen also supports the Multi View function, allowing for simultaneous viewing of several image sources. Integration with AirPlay enables easy content sharing from Apple devices, and there is voice control in Polish. Users can control the television, search for content, and perform other operations using voice commands, which significantly facilitates the daily use of the device. One of the most distinctive elements of Samsung QN95D is the included Slim Fit camera, which offers functionality that goes beyond the standards of other models currently on the market. Thanks to the applied "POGO" connector, the camera can be easily connected directly to the television. It allows for video calls and personal training functions using the camera. This innovative approach opens up new possibilities for users in terms of interaction with the television.

It is also worth mentioning the solar remote control, which is an eco-friendly solution—it does not require battery replacement as it charges using solar energy. This remote is also universal, allowing control of other devices, such as the Canal+ decoder, without the need for additional remotes. This is a significant convenience that enhances user comfort. Features dedicated to users of traditional television include picture-in-picture (PIP), allowing for the simultaneous viewing of two programmes. However, the lack of recording functionality may be a disappointment, as this could be a drawback for some users.

Playing files from USB

8.9/10

8.9/10

Supported photo formats:

JPEG
Yes
Yes
HEIC
No
No
PNG
Yes
Yes
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 the Samsung QN95D television is undoubtedly one of its stronger points. It handles almost all video and audio file formats that we tested exceptionally well. The exception is the lack of support for Dolby Vision, which aligns with Samsung's policy, and less popular codecs. A significant advantage is the support for Polish characters in subtitles and the ability to customise font colours, which greatly improves the comfort of watching content with subtitles. A downside may be the limited support for photo formats – the television mainly supports JPEG, and there is a lack of support for more advanced formats such as PNG or Apple HEIC.

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

7/10

  • Subjective sound quality:
    6.9/10
    7/10
  • 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 sound in Samsung QN95D is at a very good level thanks to the 4.2.2 system with a power of 70W. It provides clear, crisp audio, and the bass is well-balanced, which works well both for watching films and gaming. The support for Dolby Atmos adds a spatial effect, allowing for a fuller audio experience. However, there is a lack of support for DTS, which is a typical feature for Samsung TVs, but it may be a downside for those attached to that format. Overall, the sound performs very well and should meet the needs of most users.