TCL QM8K (2026)
By Rick Baron & Bear · Verified 2026-05-21 · Brand: TCL
$900–$2,000 Check current price on Amazon → Live prices vary daily — Amazon link is affiliate (small commission, no cost to you).The 2025 QM8K is still sold into 2026 — TCL keeps prior-year flagships on shelves at sharp discounts. Sweet spot at clearance pricing. Roughly 80% of the QM9K experience for 50% of the price when discounted. Same Google TV, same Mini-LED, slightly fewer dimming zones.
Spec snapshot
Panel techMini-LED
Sizes65", 75", 85", 98"
ProcessorAiPQ Pro
Peak brightness~3,500 nits
Refresh rate120 Hz
HDMI4× HDMI 2.1
Smart TV OSGoogle TV
✓ Dolby Vision
✓ HDR10+
✓ Dolby Atmos
Best for & what to avoid
✓ Best for
- Clearance-pricing hunters (often under $1,500 at 75")
- Bright-room buyers willing to take last year's flagship
✗ Avoid if
- Buyers who must have the newest (go QM9K)
- When QM7K is cheaper for similar specs
Step up or step down?
Step down →TCL QM7K
Step up →TCL QM9K
★ Honest install take
Rick's overall TV-buying philosophy
Read Rick's full honest install take on TV buying — covers brand reliability, the 8K trap, why Costco beats Amazon for big TVs, and the whole-house platform argument.
TCL QM8K-specific install notes
[Rick — model-specific notes on the TCL QM8K. Common DOA / panel uniformity issues, mounting gotchas (eARC port location, weight), warranty experience, software bugs, and the one settings tweak you change on every install. 3-5 sentences.]