TCL MQLED85 / C765 vs SONY BRAVIA 3

Direct comparison

C765 / MQLED85

Info

BRAVIA 3 / K-(XX)S3

Info

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

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

Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2024

Complete the survey to find out the result

Panel type: LCD IPS

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2025

Complete the survey to find out the result

Overall rating

7.2

6.0

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    6.8

    5.4

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    6.6

    5.3

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    6.5

    5.7

  • Gaming on console

    8.6

    6.4

  • TV as a computer monitor

    8.6

    6.0

  • Watching in bright light

    6.3

    4.9

  • Utility functions

    6.5

    6.6

  • Apps

    9.6

    9.6

  • Sound quality

    6.9

    6.5

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

  • Google TV system – a vast library of apps and services

  • IPS panel with good viewing angles

  • Enhanced colours – (91% DCI-P3 colour gamut)

  • Supports Dolby Vision

  • Good upscaling – lower quality materials look surprisingly good

  • Excellent input lag and ALLM mode

  • Very good PC compatibility – supports 4:4:4 chroma, excellent font readability

  • Two remote controls included – modern minimalist and classic with a numeric keypad

  • Very good built-in media player – supports a wide range of files, even less common ones like HEIC

  • Thin bezels and modern design – a significant step forward compared to X75WL

  • Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X

Disadvantages

No like
  • Average viewing angles

  • Missing recording function

  • Tragic black - IPS matrix without local dimming

  • Limited brightness (approx. 350 nits), the image in HDR mode is not very appealing

  • Issues with backlight uniformity

  • The Google TV system can stutter

  • Lack of recording function from built-in tuners to USB memory

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.

Sony Bravia 3 is a television that brings several important improvements over its predecessor, while remaining true to its core. The biggest change is the design – slim bezels and sturdy metal legs give it a modern appearance that fits much better in a living room than the X75WL. Improved colours thanks to the PFS filter and really good upscaling should also be noted. It is particularly in lower quality content, especially in classic SDR, that the Bravia 3 shows its best side – colours look pleasing, the image is clear, and thanks to the IPS panel, viewing angles are at a very good level. It is perfectly suited for the role of a “classic” television receiver, where the convenience of watching from different spots in the room and decent quality of everyday content matter. A huge advantage remains the Google TV system. During our tests, there were times when the interface did not always work as smoothly as we would have liked, and some features could freeze. However, despite these imperfections, the presence of Google TV is a significant plus – access to thousands of applications and a full streaming library compensates for minor shortcomings. Unfortunately, what was weak in the X75WL remains weak here as well. The IPS panel has very low contrast and does not offer local dimming, making watching films in a dark room quickly lose its appeal – black resembles grey and effectively detracts from the enjoyment of the viewing experience. Additionally, the option to record content to USB, which was available in its predecessor, has been dropped. It is hard not to notice this and not add it to the list of downsides.

So who is the Bravia 3 for? Primarily for those looking to enter the world of Sony televisions at a potentially low price and who also appreciate the Google TV system. However, it is not the most attractive option in its class – competitors in this budget can offer models with Mini-LED backlighting, whose images perform several times better in terms of contrast and HDR. Therefore, the Bravia 3 is worth keeping in mind, but mainly when a solid discount is available. At regular price, it will be very difficult to stand out against its more cost-effective rivals.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
4 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
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
Build quality
Good
Good
Stand type
Legs
Legs
Bezel color
Graphite
Graphite
Stand
Base adjustment
Accessories
Stand
Two remote controls, Stand

Contrast and black detail

7.7/10

2.2/10

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

Local dimming function: No

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 SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,150:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,150:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,050:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,050:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

900:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Check the visibility of bright lights on a dark background. Mini-LEDs often struggle with this. The photo does not compare black levels – that’s what the video below is for.

The video accurately shows differences in contrast and black levels between TVs, as well as potential issues: halo around bright objects or Mini-LED zone operation visible as brightness jumps.

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.

The Bravia 3 in most variants, including the 65-inch model we tested, uses an IPS panel and unfortunately, this is not the best news for those who value depth of image and true velvety blacks. This technology has its advantages, as it offers decent viewing angles, but these come at the cost of very low contrast, which is particularly noticeable during evening viewings when we expect the screen to go dark where it should. However, this is not the end of the list of problems. Our unit also exhibited noticeable unevenness in blacks, which exacerbates the effect of their shallowness. For example, in a scene with a helicopter, the blooming in the corners of the screen and pronounced vignetting are clearly visible.

It's hard not to think that even a simple local dimming system could have salvaged the situation and added a touch of drama to the image, which is lacking here. Unfortunately, Sony has decided against such a solution, and as a result, we have a repeat of last year's issues. The Bravia 3 is therefore not a television that will charm you with cinema-like black depth. At night, instead of intense blacks, we are likely to see a grey pretending to be darkness, which may disappoint more demanding viewers.

HDR effect quality

6.2/10

4.6/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dolby Vision IQ, HLG
HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 95.0%, Bt.2020: 79.0%
DCI P3: 91.3%, Bt.2020: 69.0%

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 SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

316 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

327 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

369 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

236 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

379 nit

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

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

The photos show two HDR10 movies. 'Pan' is one of the brightest productions ever made, while 'Billy Lynn' (soldier) has brightness typical of streaming (Netflix, Prime, HBO MAX). Notice the intensity of effects and detail in whites.

Static HDR10

The photos present the visibility of white details in various HDR formats. They do not show brightness differences between TVs (these can be compared in the previous gallery).

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

The photos present the visibility of white details in various HDR formats. They do not show brightness differences between TVs (these can be compared in the previous gallery).

HDR luminance chart:

SONY BRAVIA 3

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.

Bravia 3 does not hide the fact that it belongs to the group of televisions that are rather modest in terms of brightness. Our measurements showed around 370 nits, which is a value teetering on the edge of where one can still speak of any HDR effect. For some, this is an acceptable level, while for others it is rather typical for SDR content, where spectacular highlights or vivid contrasts are not expected. The impression is that this is not a television for those focused on the highest image quality in demanding cinematic content. However, this does not mean that we cannot find any advantages here. Compared to its predecessor, the X75WL, Bravia 3 has gained an additional PFS filter, which works similarly to solutions known from QLED technology. Thanks to this, the DCI-P3 colour palette has been significantly widened and reaches over 91 percent, which in practice results in more saturated colours and a more pleasing image texture. As a result, even everyday content looks somewhat livelier, and films and series can surprise with vibrant visuals, despite limitations in brightness itself.

Factory color reproduction

5.2/10

5.8/10

This gallery shows how colors change after professional TV calibration. If you notice the difference, we recommend ordering this service at SkalibrujTV.com.

Factory Mode

After calibration

This gallery shows how colors change after professional TV calibration. If you notice the difference, we recommend ordering this service at SkalibrujTV.com.

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.

Sony Bravia 3 was primarily tested in film mode, which immediately proved to be the best choice among the factory settings. It is not a perfect picture, but compared to the eco mode that the television offers right out of the box, the difference is clear and positive. In film mode, one can notice a certain problem: the image appears too warm, which results from a lack of blue colour in the white balance. Despite this, in SDR content, the final effect can still be considered quite decent and satisfactory for everyday viewing. Much more serious errors occur in HDR materials. The Color Checker analysis showed considerable deviations, and poor brightness management, combined with limited colour gamut coverage, further exposes the shortcomings of the image in this mode. All of this makes HDR on the Bravia 3 appear unconvincing and can spoil the impression left by the quite decent SDR content setting. Fortunately, this is not an insurmountable situation. Various errors can be somewhat mitigated, and some can even be fully corrected through professional calibration. Therefore, we decided to check how the television would perform after such adjustments.

Color reproduction after calibration

7.8/10

7.5/10

The photos show how movies look on the TV. Pay attention to black detail visibility, colors, and shadow tint.

The photos show how movies look on the TV. Pay attention to black detail visibility, colors, and shadow tint.

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.

The calibration allowed us to extract significantly more from the Bravia 3 than we could have expected at the beginning. Firstly, it managed to compensate for the deficiency of blue, which had previously caused a noticeable warming of the image. After a slight adjustment to the white balance, most of the errors in the Color Checker measurements for SDR content virtually disappeared. The white tones became more natural, and the brightness management in gamma stabilised to an almost ideal level, not exceeding the threshold of human perception. Thus, it can be confidently stated that in SDR content, after a few adjustments to the settings, the Bravia 3 performs remarkably well. Significantly worse, although still definitely better than before calibration, are HDR contents. The white balance was brought into order, however, the limitations of the IPS panel are insurmountable. The lack of local dimming means that even the smallest elements can be overexposed, which immediately stands out. Colour-wise, the effect is also improved, though far from perfect – many errors still exceed the threshold of four or even five delta E units, meaning they remain visible to the human eye. It was already clear earlier that the Bravia 3 is not a television designed to impress with HDR quality. Nevertheless, it is gratifying that in SDR content, after calibration, the image can look truly excellent, and in this category, the television pleasantly surprised us.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7/10

8/10

These are selected scenes that show smooth tonal transitions from one color to another. If you see distinct banding, it’s the TV panel’s fault.

These are selected scenes that show smooth tonal transitions from one color to another. If you see distinct banding, it’s the TV panel’s fault.

These are selected scenes that show smooth tonal transitions from one color to another. If you see distinct banding, it’s the TV panel’s fault.

These are selected scenes that show smooth tonal transitions from one color to another. If you see distinct banding, it’s the TV panel’s fault.

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.

In terms of the fluidity of tonal transitions, the Bravia 3 performs really well. In brighter scenes, we did not notice any significant errors – the screen handles the blending of colours almost flawlessly and does not create artificial contours that can spoil the viewing experience. Similarly, in darker segments, there are no major issues with colour gradation, although another problem arises here. Strong brightening and uneven backlighting of the panel in dark scenes make it difficult to assess the gradation itself clearly, as the effect is spoiled by the unevenness of the image. However, when we focus solely on the blending of colours, the result should be considered very good.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

5.1/10

7/10

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

Smooth transition function

The match photo shows how the TV smooths weak tonal transitions in low-quality video.

Image scaling SD (576i)

The model photo shows how it handles upscaling of SD material.

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.

Bravia 3 brings something more to the Sony TV family than just a shared name. It stands out primarily for its ability to enhance the quality of weaker materials thanks to the processor used. Of course, we won’t find the advanced XR chip known from more expensive models here, but even so, it must be admitted that the image in lower resolutions looked surprisingly good. The scaling worked effectively, and most parts of the screen were free from the typical excessive edge tearing found in budget constructions.

Attention should also be paid to the function that improves the smoothness of tonal transitions. In the high setting, it works really well, effectively masking gradation imperfections without significant detail loss. It does happen, however, that the algorithm overly smooths elements that should remain sharp – for example, faces – but overall, the effect is beneficial. The best results were achieved precisely at the highest setting, and this option could be recommended to those watching lower quality content.

Blur and motion smoothness

7.5/10

5/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
144Hz
60Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
OK
OK
BFI function 60Hz
Yes, 120Hz (double contours)
Yes, 120Hz (double contours)
BFI function 120Hz
Yes, 240Hz (double contours)
No
Brightness drop with BFI
50%
22%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Blur (BFI function enabled):

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 fluidity of motion has never been a strong point of televisions equipped with 60 Hz panels, and the Bravia 3 is no exception. Nevertheless, Sony has added something that may appeal to those more sensitive to the way images are displayed. We are talking about the proprietary motion smoother, Motion Flow, which offers users a considerable range of adjustment options. Thanks to it, one can make the image smoother, even theatrical, or stick to a more cinematic style with the characteristic judder that many simply associate with the filmic atmosphere. These functions work with content at lower frame rates, such as films and series recorded at 24 or 30 frames per second, which are the materials we encounter on a daily basis. It is here that the motion smoother proves to be one of the most important features in everyday use of the television, and this is where the Bravia 3 performs quite well.

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.8/10

4/10

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

Bravia 3 is not equipment for e-sports enthusiasts or fans of night marathons with a controller in hand. The lack of 120 Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 ports closes the topic before it even has a chance to develop. This is a television for casual gamers who will play FIFA or racing games after work, not for someone who measures every frame in a spreadsheet. Nevertheless, Sony has added a few nice extras to ensure it’s not too sparse. ALLM works as it should, automatically switching the television to game mode (low latency). There’s even a simple Game Bar, which is clear. However, the biggest novelty here is the PlayStation Portal app. Thanks to it, you can launch PS5 games wirelessly and view them immediately on the television screen. It sounds great, but just a few minutes is enough to feel significant lag. In our opinion, it’s more of a showcase of capabilities than something that can be used every day. If someone really wants to play, it’s better to connect the console via HDMI cable and forget about wireless issues.

Input lag

9.8/10

10/10

SDR

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

HDR

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

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
16 ms
11 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.

Here, the Bravia 3 shows its best side. Latencies drop below 12 milliseconds in almost every resolution and mode, so the response to controller movements is instantaneous and there is no feeling of delay. It feels as though the console and the television are speaking the same language, without unnecessary pauses or hesitations. The Dolby Vision Gaming mode is particularly noteworthy. In its predecessor, the X75WL model, using this feature was simply a pain – input lag could exceed 100 milliseconds, which effectively spoiled the enjoyment of gaming. In the Bravia 3, this issue has been completely eliminated.

Compatibility with PC

8.6/10

6/10

Chroma 444 (max. resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
Yes
Font clarity
Very Good
Very Good
Readability of dark text and shapes
Average
Very Good
Input lag in PC mode (4K, max. refresh rate)
8ms
12ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
BGR
RGB
Max refresh rate
144Hz
60Hz
G-Sync
Yes
No

The photo shows the legibility of small fonts. Ideally, lines should be the same thickness on both light and dark text, with minimal pixel gaps.

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 applied IPS matrix, combined with properly functioning support for chroma 4:4:4, ensures that the readability of fonts is at an excellent level. Letters appear sharp, regardless of the background colour or the content itself, so working with documents or browsing websites does not strain the eyes. In this role, the television easily deserves a very good, if not outstanding, rating, as there are not many models in this budget that perform as well. Of course, if we look at the Bravia 3 from a PC gamer’s perspective, the picture is not quite so rosy. We won't find G-SYNC or Free Sync frame synchronization with graphics cards, nor high refresh rates, so the television is not the best choice for fast-paced computer games. However, it performs excellently as a monitor for work, whether in a home office or a student room, and in this respect, it is truly hard to criticise.

Viewing angles

3.2/10

6.6/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
80%
75%

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.

Thanks to the use of an IPS matrix, colours do not lose intensity as quickly as in the case of screens based on VA panels. Even when watching television with a larger group, when some people sit at an angle, the image remains clear and does not appear washed out. Of course, it is not at the level offered by organic OLED matrices, where the image looks identical from almost any position, but for an LCD television, the viewing angles in the Bravia 3 are among the better ones. This provides a sense of comfort and freedom, especially in larger living rooms or during family viewings, where it is difficult for everyone to find a spot directly in front of the screen.

Daytime performance

6.3/10

4.9/10

Panel finish
Satin
Satin
Reflection suppression
Average
Good
Black levels during daytime
Good
Good

Panel brightness

SONY BRAVIA 3: 337 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.

Bravia 3 performs quite decently in the face of daylight. The satin coating on the panel effectively reduces reflections, and the colours do not lose their intensity when stronger external light hits the screen. As a result, in typical home conditions, with blinds open or in a living room with a larger window, the image maintains its clarity. However, it must be remembered that this is not a high-brightness television. Bravia 3 has no chance of competing with brighter models, so in very sunny rooms, there are moments when the screen simply does not stand out against intense light. In normal conditions, it will cope without problems, but in more challenging scenarios, one should not expect miracles.

Panel details

Backlight Type
Mini-LED QLED
PFS LED
Software version during testing
V8-T653T01-LF1R134
6120600301
Image processor
MT5896 2,5GB RAM
MT5896 2,5 GB RAM

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity and thermal imaging:

Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 TV Panel details
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV Panel details

TCL MQLED85 / C765

SONY BRAVIA 3

TV features

6.5/10

6.6/10

  • HDMI inputs
    2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 48Gbps
    4 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
  • 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
  • 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)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    No
  • Teletext
    Yes
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    No
    Yes
  • Bluetooth headphones support
    Yes
    Yes
  • Simultaneous Bluetooth headphones & TV audio
    Yes
    No

Smart features:

  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    No
  • Voice search
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    Yes
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes
Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 TV features
Review TCL MQLED85 / C765 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features

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.

Smart TV Features

The biggest advantage of the Bravia 3 in everyday use is the presence of the Google TV system. Thanks to it, we have access to one of the largest libraries of apps and streaming services, so regardless of whether someone mainly uses Netflix, Disney+ or smaller platforms, everything is within reach. The Google voice assistant also worked very well, managing to respond to our commands quite "cleverly". In theory, the Google TV system should operate very smoothly, as Sony has been implementing it better than many cheaper competitors for years. Unfortunately, in the case of the Bravia 3, it is not as great as we might have hoped. During testing, we noticed slight stutters in the interface, and some functions, such as screen mirroring, simply refused to work. One might get the impression that the processor in this model sometimes struggles to handle the demanding system, and not everything works as smoothly as we would expect.

Classic Features

Even in the cheapest series, Sony can remind us of its experience with various users. The set includes two remote controls. The first is modern and minimalist, with a small number of buttons, which works excellently for using apps and Google TV functions. The second is a classic remote with a richer set of keys and a numeric keypad, which will be especially appreciated by older people accustomed to traditional solutions. This is a nice nod towards different user groups, and it must be acknowledged that Sony has solved this very practically. It's a pity, however, that the ability to record content from TV tuners to USB memory has disappeared compared to the X75WL model. The manufacturer has completely eliminated this function, so if someone was attached to it, they will unfortunately not find it in the Bravia 3.

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

Playing files from USB

8.9/10

9.6/10

Supported photo formats:

JPEG
Yes
Yes
HEIC
No
Yes
PNG
Yes
Yes
GIF
Yes
Yes
WebP
Yes
Yes
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.

Here Sony has really done a great job. The built-in player works quickly and doesn’t “complain” when launching various formats. We didn’t have to reach for external applications like VLC, as the television handled even files that can cause quite a few problems on other models – such as HEIC photos from Apple devices. It's a small detail, but one that shows the manufacturer wanted the user to have a complete sense of convenience. By plugging a film onto a USB drive or holiday photos onto an external hard drive, you can simply connect them and start watching on the big screen right away. No fuss, no installing additional software, no searching for workarounds. This is truly a rarity in televisions, and it must be admitted that in this aspect, the Bravia 3 really pleasantly surprised us.

Sound

6.9/10

6.5/10

  • Maximum volume
    -
    88dB
  • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby True HD 7.1
    No
    Yes
  • 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

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.

Bravia 3 plays in a rather flat manner, but makes up for it with loudness. It is perfectly suited for watching classic television, as the dialogues are clear and the mid tones are easily heard. This type of characteristic will be particularly appreciated by older users who primarily value speech intelligibility. However, if someone expects something more from the sound, like stronger bass or a wider soundstage, it is still worth reaching for a soundbar. The television supports modern codecs, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, so an external sound system can easily take advantage of their potential. This assures that with a relatively modest expense, one can achieve a much fuller and more engaging sound.

Sound Quality Test

No sound test video

Acoustic Measurements

No acoustic data

88dBC (Max)

75dBC