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The television market has evolved dramatically in recent years, with mini-LED technology emerging as a sweet spot between traditional LED and premium OLED displays. If you're in the market for a high-end 4K TV but don't want to splurge on an OLED, these advanced LED options offer compelling performance at more reasonable price points.
Today, we're comparing two standout models: the TCL 65" QM6K QD-Mini LED TV priced at $998, released in early 2025, and the Samsung 65" QN85D Neo QLED TV at $1,798, which hit the market in mid-2024. Both represent their manufacturers' attempts to deliver premium picture quality through mini-LED technology, but they take slightly different approaches to achieve their goals.
Before diving into specifics, let's establish what makes these TVs special: they both use tiny LED backlights (much smaller than traditional LED TVs) combined with quantum dot technology for enhanced color. This combination allows for more precise light control and brighter, more vivid images than conventional LED TVs could ever produce.
The fundamental technology behind both TVs deserves explanation, as it drives most of the performance differences you'll experience.
The TCL QM6K utilizes what TCL calls QD-Mini LED technology. This combines up to 500 independent dimming zones (areas of the screen that can be brightened or darkened independently) with TCL's new Super High Energy LED chips. These newer chips are 53% brighter than TCL's previous generation while consuming 10% less power—an impressive engineering achievement. The "QD" in the name refers to Quantum Dots, tiny particles that convert blue light to pure red and green, resulting in more accurate and vibrant colors.
TCL's approach with the QM6K, part of their 2025 lineup, focuses on maximizing brightness and value. They've prioritized raw performance metrics that will appeal to spec-conscious buyers, particularly in the area of peak brightness and refresh rate.
The Samsung QN85D, meanwhile, employs Samsung's Neo QLED technology with what they call Quantum Matrix dimming. Samsung doesn't explicitly state the number of dimming zones in their marketing, but based on teardowns and analysis, it appears to have somewhere between 400-600 zones in the 65" model. Samsung's approach emphasizes processing sophistication and refined light control over maximum brightness, with their NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor handling upscaling and image enhancement.
Samsung's 2024 Neo QLED line represents an iterative improvement over their 2023 models, with enhanced processing capabilities and slightly better light control, though the fundamental mini-LED architecture remains similar.
Brightness and contrast ultimately determine how impactful your viewing experience will be, especially with HDR content that depends on both deep blacks and bright highlights.
The TCL QM6K is a brightness powerhouse, capable of reaching up to 2000 nits in its brightest highlights. To put that in perspective, most standard LEDs max out around 500-600 nits, while even good OLEDs typically peak around 1000 nits. This exceptional brightness makes the QM6K particularly well-suited for bright rooms where ambient light would otherwise wash out the image. In a side-by-side comparison, HDR highlights like sunlight reflections on water or explosions have noticeably more impact on the TCL.
The QM6K's local dimming system with 500 zones performs admirably at minimizing the "blooming" effect (where light spills from bright objects into dark surroundings), though it's not perfect. In very challenging scenes—like white credits on a black background—you'll notice some halo effects.
The Samsung QN85D doesn't quite match the TCL's peak brightness, topping out around 1500 nits in its brightest mode, but it compensates with more sophisticated dimming algorithms. Samsung's years of experience in mini-LED implementation shows in how the QN85D handles tricky contrast transitions, with less visible blooming in challenging scenes. It's as if Samsung has traded some raw brightness for more precise light control, resulting in a more refined image, particularly in darker viewing environments.
For a dedicated home theater setup with controlled lighting, the Samsung's approach might be preferable, as its superior contrast control becomes more apparent in darker rooms. However, for living rooms with large windows or significant ambient light, the TCL's brightness advantage will likely be more beneficial.
Both TVs employ quantum dot technology to achieve expanded color volume (the range of colors they can display at different brightness levels), but they implement it differently.
The TCL QM6K delivers excellent out-of-box color accuracy—something that used to be rare in TCL models but has improved dramatically in recent years. It covers essentially 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, which encompasses the colors used in most modern HDR content. The QM6K's color performance is particularly impressive given its price point, rivaling TVs that cost significantly more.
The Samsung QN85D offers similarly excellent color coverage but edges out the TCL slightly in color processing. This manifests in more refined color gradients (areas where one color slowly transitions to another) and slightly more natural skin tones. Samsung has historically excelled at color processing, and the QN85D continues this tradition. The differences are subtle and might only be noticeable in a direct side-by-side comparison, but they contribute to the Samsung's more refined overall image.
HDR (High Dynamic Range) formats determine how a TV interprets HDR content from streaming services and discs. This area highlights a significant difference between the two models.
The TCL QM6K supports all major HDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and importantly, Dolby Vision IQ. Dolby Vision is considered the premium HDR format since it provides scene-by-scene optimization of brightness and color. The "IQ" version adds ambient light sensing to adjust HDR performance based on your room's lighting conditions. This comprehensive format support ensures the QM6K can display any HDR content at its best.
The Samsung QN85D, like all Samsung TVs, notably lacks Dolby Vision support, offering only HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG. Samsung has historically avoided Dolby Vision in favor of promoting the royalty-free HDR10+ standard. While HDR10+ offers similar scene-by-scene optimization, Dolby Vision is more widely adopted across streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+. This omission isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, but it does mean the Samsung won't be displaying certain content in its optimal format.
Not all content you watch will be pristine 4K, which makes a TV's ability to upscale lower-resolution sources critically important.
The TCL QM6K utilizes TCL's AiPQ Pro processor, which delivers good upscaling performance for most content. It handles the transition from 1080p to 4K quite well, adding detail without introducing obvious artifacts. However, with more challenging content—like heavily compressed streaming shows or standard definition sources—the limitations become more apparent, with occasional noise and artifacting.
The Samsung QN85D shines in this department, with its NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor providing noticeably superior upscaling across all content types. Samsung has invested heavily in AI-based processing, and it shows in how the QN85D handles difficult sources. Old DVDs, YouTube videos, and cable TV all look better on the Samsung, with more natural detail enhancement and better noise reduction. For households that watch a lot of non-4K content, this advantage could be significant.
Modern premium TVs have become increasingly gaming-focused, and both of these models offer excellent features for console and PC gamers alike.
The TCL QM6K boasts a native 144Hz refresh rate, which means it can display up to 144 frames per second—noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz TVs. TCL has also implemented what they call "Game Accelerator 288" technology, which uses frame interpolation techniques to create a 288Hz-like effect for even smoother motion. For PC gamers with high-end systems, the native 144Hz support could be a significant advantage.
The Samsung QN85D offers a 120Hz native refresh rate, which aligns perfectly with the capabilities of current-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. While not matching the TCL's 144Hz, 120Hz is still excellent for gaming and represents a substantial improvement over standard 60Hz displays.
Both TVs support Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology, which synchronizes the TV's refresh rate with the game's frame rate to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering. The TCL supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, while the Samsung supports both FreeSync and HDMI Forum VRR standards. In practical terms, both work well with modern gaming systems.
Input lag—the delay between pressing a button and seeing the result on screen—is crucial for competitive gaming.
The TCL QM6K delivers exceptional performance here, with input lag measuring under 10ms at 4K/120Hz in Game Mode. This is practically imperceptible and will satisfy even the most demanding gamers.
The Samsung QN85D isn't far behind, with input lag around 10-12ms in Game Mode. This difference is technically measurable but unlikely to be noticeable in real-world gaming scenarios.
Both TVs offer Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which automatically switches to the low-lag Game Mode when a gaming console is detected.
The Samsung QN85D includes some unique gaming features, like its Game Bar interface, which provides quick access to gaming-related settings, and Super Ultra Wide Game View, which supports ultrawide aspect ratios for compatible PC games. It also offers Mini Map Zoom, which can enlarge a portion of the screen—useful for spotting details in competitive games.
The TCL QM6K takes a more straightforward approach but offers all the essential gaming features most players will need. Its primary gaming advantage is the higher native refresh rate for PC gaming.
The TV's operating system determines how you'll interact with streaming apps and other features on a daily basis.
The TCL QM6K runs Google TV, which offers a content-focused interface that aggregates recommendations from various streaming services. Google TV provides excellent app support, with virtually all major streaming platforms available. The system feels responsive on the QM6K's hardware, with minimal lag when navigating menus. Voice control works through the built-in Google Assistant, and the TV also works with Alexa devices if you prefer Amazon's ecosystem.
The Samsung QN85D uses Samsung's Tizen OS, which has evolved significantly over the years. The latest version offers a full-screen smart hub with easy access to apps, inputs, and even Samsung's free TV Plus channels. Samsung's interface is feature-rich but can feel slightly more complex than Google TV. It includes tight integration with Samsung's SmartThings ecosystem for controlling compatible smart home devices. Voice control works through Samsung's Bixby assistant by default, though Google Assistant and Alexa are also supported.
In daily use, Google TV on the TCL feels more straightforward and intuitive, while Tizen on the Samsung offers more customization options but with a steeper learning curve.
While most enthusiasts will pair their premium TV with a dedicated sound system, built-in audio quality still matters for casual viewing.
The TCL QM6K features a 2.1 channel Onkyo speaker system with Dolby Atmos support. The ".1" indicates a dedicated woofer for better bass response. The sound quality is decent for built-in TV audio, with clear dialogue and reasonable bass presence, though it still falls far short of even a modest soundbar.
The Samsung QN85D employs what Samsung calls Object Tracking Sound Lite, which uses speaker positioning and audio processing to create the impression that sounds are coming from specific parts of the screen. This works surprisingly well for effects like car panning across the screen or aircraft flying overhead. The system also supports Dolby Atmos for enhanced spatial audio with compatible content.
For a dedicated home theater setup, you'll want external audio regardless of which TV you choose, but for bedroom or casual viewing scenarios, the Samsung's Object Tracking Sound provides a slight edge in immersion.
Beyond performance, the physical design of your TV affects how it fits into your living space.
The TCL QM6K features what TCL calls a FullView 360 bezel-less design, with minimal borders around the screen and a relatively slim profile. The build quality is good but not exceptional, with materials that feel appropriate for the price point rather than truly premium. The included stand is stable but fairly basic in design.
The Samsung QN85D offers a more refined aesthetic, with premium materials and an ultra-slim profile. Samsung's attention to design details is evident in the clean cable management system and the more stylish stand design. The overall look and feel is more luxurious, as you might expect given the price difference.
For wall-mounting in a home theater, both TVs support standard VESA mounts, though the Samsung's slimmer design will sit closer to the wall for a more flush appearance.
Now comes the critical question: is the Samsung worth its significantly higher price tag?
The TCL QM6K at $998 represents exceptional value, offering 80-90% of the Samsung's performance at about 55% of the cost. For most viewers, especially those upgrading from an older TV, the performance differences won't justify the price gap. TCL has historically focused on delivering maximum performance per dollar, and the QM6K continues this tradition admirably.
The Samsung QN85D at $1,798 asks for a substantial premium, but does deliver incremental improvements in processing, contrast control, and build quality. You're paying not just for slightly better performance but also for Samsung's reputation for reliability and their more refined industrial design.
After comparing these TVs across all important metrics, how should you decide which one deserves a place in your home?
Choose the TCL 65" QM6K if:
Choose the Samsung 65" QN85D if:
For most consumers upgrading their living room TV, the TCL QM6K represents the better value proposition, with performance that rivals the Samsung at a significantly lower price point. Its brightness advantage makes it particularly well-suited to typical living rooms with windows and variable lighting conditions.
However, enthusiasts building a dedicated home theater space with controlled lighting might find the additional cost of the Samsung QN85D justified by its superior processing and more refined contrast control. The Samsung's premium design and build quality also make it a better fit for upscale living spaces where aesthetics matter as much as performance.
Whichever you choose, both TVs represent the impressive state of current mini-LED technology, delivering exceptional picture quality that would have cost thousands more just a few years ago. The real winner is the consumer, who now has access to previously premium-only features at increasingly reasonable price points.
| TCL 65" QM6K QD-Mini LED 4K TV | Samsung 65" QN85D Neo QLED 4K Smart TV |
|---|---|
| Price - The bottom line for value assessment | |
| $998 (exceptional value for the performance) | $1,798 (premium price for incremental improvements) |
| Display Technology - Determines overall picture quality fundamentals | |
| QD-Mini LED with up to 500 dimming zones | Neo QLED (Mini LED) with Quantum Matrix technology |
| Peak Brightness - Critical for HDR impact and viewing in bright rooms | |
| Up to 2,000 nits (superior for bright environments) | Approximately 1,500 nits (still excellent, but not as bright) |
| Refresh Rate - Important for gaming and sports content | |
| 144Hz native with Game Accelerator 288 | 120Hz native with Motion Xcelerator |
| Processor - Affects upscaling, motion handling, and overall picture refinement | |
| AiPQ Pro (good processing, occasional artifacts with poor sources) | NQ4 AI Gen2 (superior upscaling and noise reduction) |
| HDR Support - Determines compatibility with premium HDR content | |
| Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG (complete format support) | HDR10+, HDR10, HLG (no Dolby Vision support) |
| Local Dimming Performance - Affects contrast and black levels | |
| Good control with occasional blooming in challenging scenes | More refined algorithm with better handling of difficult content |
| Color Volume - Impacts color accuracy and vibrancy | |
| 100% DCI-P3 with excellent out-of-box accuracy | 100% DCI-P3 with slightly better gradient handling |
| Gaming Features - Critical for console and PC gamers | |
| FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM, 4K@144Hz, <10ms input lag | ALLM, VRR, 4K@120Hz, Game Bar, 10-12ms input lag |
| Smart Platform - Determines content access and usability | |
| Google TV (intuitive, content-focused interface) | Tizen OS (feature-rich but more complex) |
| Audio System - Affects whether external speakers are necessary | |
| 2.1 channel Onkyo speakers with Dolby Atmos | Object Tracking Sound Lite with Dolby Atmos |
| Design & Build Quality - Impacts aesthetic appeal | |
| FullView 360 bezel-less design (good, not premium) | Sleeker profile with premium materials and better cable management |
| Power Consumption - Affects long-term electricity costs | |
| Good efficiency with Super High Energy LED Chip technology | Similar efficiency with slight edge to Samsung |
| Release Date - Indicates how current the technology is | |
| Early 2025 (newest available technology) | Mid-2024 (slightly older but still current) |
| Best Use Case - Who should buy each model | |
| Perfect for bright living rooms, gamers, and value-conscious buyers | Ideal for dedicated home theaters, premium homes, and processing-focused users |
The TCL 65" QM6K QD-Mini LED 4K TV is better for bright living rooms thanks to its higher peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits, compared to the Samsung 65" QN85D Neo QLED 4K Smart TV's 1,500 nits. This makes the TCL QM6K more effective at combating glare and maintaining vibrant images even in rooms with large windows or significant ambient light.
For most consumers, the TCL 65" QM6K at $998 offers better value than the Samsung 65" QN85D at $1,798. The Samsung does provide better processing, superior upscaling, and more refined design, but these incremental improvements may not justify the $800 price difference unless you specifically value these features or are creating a premium home theater setup.
The TCL 65" QM6K offers slightly better gaming features with its 144Hz native refresh rate (vs. 120Hz on the Samsung QN85D), slightly lower input lag (under 10ms vs. 10-12ms), and FreeSync Premium Pro certification. However, the Samsung provides unique gaming features like Game Bar and Mini Map Zoom. Both TVs support ALLM and VRR for next-gen console gaming.
For a dedicated home theater with controlled lighting, the Samsung 65" QN85D has a slight edge due to its superior contrast control and more sophisticated processing. Its refined dimming algorithms result in less blooming in challenging dark scenes. However, the TCL QM6K still delivers excellent movie performance at a much lower price point and includes Dolby Vision support, which the Samsung lacks.
Yes, both the TCL 65" QM6K with Google TV and the Samsung 65" QN85D with Tizen OS support all major streaming platforms including Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and others. The user interface differs between the two, with Google TV offering a more content-focused approach and Tizen providing a more customizable experience.
Both TVs handle motion well, but the TCL 65" QM6K has a slight advantage with its higher 144Hz native refresh rate compared to the Samsung QN85D's 120Hz. This results in slightly smoother motion handling, particularly noticeable during fast-paced sports like hockey or soccer. However, Samsung's superior processing may provide cleaner imagery with lower-quality sports broadcasts.
The Samsung 65" QN85D provides noticeably better upscaling performance thanks to its advanced NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor, which handles lower resolution content with fewer artifacts and better detail preservation. If you frequently watch cable TV, DVDs, or non-4K streaming content, this gives the Samsung an advantage over the TCL QM6K, despite the latter still offering good upscaling for most content.
While both TVs offer better built-in audio than budget models, most viewers would benefit from an external sound system. The TCL 65" QM6K features a 2.1 channel Onkyo speaker system, while the Samsung 65" QN85D includes Object Tracking Sound Lite. For a truly immersive home theater experience, a separate soundbar or surround sound system is recommended regardless of which TV you choose.
For HDR content, the TCL 65" QM6K has an advantage with its support for all major HDR formats including Dolby Vision IQ, which the Samsung QN85D lacks. Combined with its higher peak brightness, this gives the TCL better overall HDR performance, particularly with Dolby Vision titles from streaming services and UHD Blu-rays. However, the Samsung offers more refined contrast control for HDR10 and HDR10+ content.
Both the TCL 65" QM6K, released in early 2025, and the Samsung 65" QN85D, released in mid-2024, should receive software updates for at least 3-4 years. Samsung has historically provided longer software support for their premium models, which may give the QN85D a slight advantage for long-term use. Both TVs feature HDMI 2.1 ports and current smart platforms that should remain compatible with content and devices for many years.
Both TVs are suitable for wall mounting using standard VESA mounts. The Samsung 65" QN85D has a slight advantage with its slimmer profile (1.8 inches depth vs. approximately 2.3 inches for the TCL QM6K) and better cable management system, allowing it to sit more flush against the wall for a cleaner installation. Both TVs have thin bezels that provide a modern, streamlined appearance when mounted.
Both TVs are relatively energy efficient for their brightness capabilities. The TCL 65" QM6K features Super High Energy LED Chip technology that TCL claims is 10% more efficient than previous generations. The Samsung 65" QN85D also employs efficiency measures that keep power consumption reasonable. In practical terms, the power consumption difference between these models is minimal and unlikely to significantly impact electricity bills.
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