TCL QM8 vs C855: Which Best Premium QD-Mini LED TV To Choose in 2025

In today’s premium television market, TCL has established itself as a formidable competitor offering high-end technology at competitive price points. Two of their flagship models, the TCL QM8 (also known as QM851G in some markets) and the TCL C855, represent the pinnacle of their current display technology. Both feature cutting-edge QD-Mini LED technology, but with some key differences that might influence your buying decision. Let’s dive deep into a comprehensive comparison of these two premium models to determine which offers the better value proposition for your specific needs.

Company Details & Release Information

Full Specifications Comparison

Overall Rating

★★★★★ TCL QM8: 4.6/5

★★★★☆ TCL C855: 4.5/5

Customer Feedback Reviews

Pros & Cons

TCL QM8 (QM851G)

Pros:

TCL C855

Pros:

Comparison Description

When comparing the TCL QM8 against C855, we are considering two of the best premium QD-Mini LED TVs from TCL that have a lot in common but also some differences that will influence your buying choice.

Display Tech

Both models feature TCL’s latest QD-Mini LED technology, merging quantum dot color and mini LED backlighting for outstanding picture. The C855 boasts up to 2160 local dimming zones and a whopping 3500 nits peak brightness, whereas the QM8 does not mention precise dimming zones but provides comparable high brightness. The C855 takes a fraction of an inch ahead with its custom six-crystal light-emitting chip and wide-angle even-light lens for better backlight uniformity.

Design Philosophy

The C855 focuses on an ultra-slim uni-body design with magnetic wall mounting and cable management capabilities, perfect for users seeking a minimalist, sleek installation. The QM8 boasts a FullView Metal Bezel-less design with edge-to-edge glass that’s just as visually appealing but with a unique aesthetic approach. For style-prioritizing consumers, the C855’s ultra-slim form factor could be the clincher.

Gaming Performance

Both the TVs are great for gaming with 144Hz VRR, ALLM, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. The QM8 promotes its Game Accelerator 240 technology whereas the C855 touts its Game Master features. In real-world application, both provide the best of gaming performance for console and PC gamers, with the difference not being much in capabilities but more in marketing.

Audio Experience

Both boast top-of-the-line ONKYO sound systems with up-firing speakers supporting Dolby Atmos. The QM8 has marginally more total wattage in its 2.1.2 sound system for the 65″ model (80W compared to 60W), although the bigger models in both ranges deliver progressively more powerful sound systems. The sound quality is outstanding on both, with the possible advantage going to the QM8 based upon brute power.

Smart Features

They both operate on Google TV with integrated voice assistants and voice-free control. The QM8 specifically markets compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit alongside Google Assistant, which could make it more adaptable to users with varied smart home systems.

Availability and Value

The QM8 seems to be promoted more extensively in North America with deep discounting (often significantly below MSRP), whereas the C855 appears to have more visibility in European and global markets. The QM8 often provides great value when on promotion, sometimes retailed for less than half of its MSRP.

In the TCL QM8 vs C855 review, which TV is better largely depends on what your personal priorities are. The C855 is more streamlined in design and brighter in specifications, whereas the QM8 provides better value for money and broader smart home ecosystem support.

Final Verdict

Following an in-depth comparison of the TCL QM8 vs C855, both high-end Mini LED TVs prove TCL’s dedication to bringing top-tier display technology to mass market consumers in more affordable price ranges than much of the competition.

Best Value: The TCL QM8 (QM851G) is a standout value proposition, particularly when on sale (which is common in North America). With robust gaming features, great picture quality, good audio, and wide smart home compatibility, it offers top-shelf performance at mid-shelf pricing when on sale. As such, it is our pick for most shoppers seeking the optimal combination of features and cost.

Best for Design Geeks: The TCL C855 wins on design with its wafer-thin thickness, magnetic mounting mechanism, and advanced cable management. Along with its maximum peak brightness (3500 nits) and as many as 2160 zones of dimming, it’s the go-to for someone who values how things look and top-tier display features. If wall-mounting in a design-centric room is a priority for you, the C855’s thin profile has an advantage all its own.

Final Recommendation

For most consumers, particularly in North America, the TCL QM8 represents the better overall value while still delivering exceptional performance across all key metrics. However, if the ultra-slim design and potentially higher brightness of the C855 align with your specific needs and it’s readily available in your market, it’s also an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.

In the TCL QM8 vs C855 argument, you’re deciding between two great TVs that beat many others in their respective price segments. Ultimately, your choice will depend on local pricing, availability, and whether the design benefits of the C855 warrant any price premium over the QM8 in your local market.

Comparison FAQs: TCL QM8 vs C855

Is the TCL QM8 superior to the C855?

That depends on your personal requirements. The TCL QM8 is more value for money and is more readily available in North America with great gaming capabilities. In contrast, the C855 offers better picture quality with additional zones of local dimming (2160), greater peak brightness (3500 nits), and a high-end ultra-thin design with magnetic wall mount. If budget is an issue, the QM8 is a great option. If you desire the best possible picture quality and high-end design, the C855 edges it out.

Which television displays superior picture quality, the TCL C855 or TCL QM8?

The TCL C855 technically produces a tad higher picture quality with 2160 local dimming zones, 3500 nits of peak brightness, and enhanced six-crystal light-emitting chip technology. It also incorporates a wide-angle even-light lens, which enhances backlight uniformity. Still, the QM8 produces outstanding image quality that is every bit as good as much pricier TVs from other manufacturers, based on identical 4K resolution, QD-Mini LED technology, and compatibility with all the same HDR formats (Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG). For most people, the difference will be negligible unless you’re viewing in a side-by-side format.

Which of these models has better gaming performance, the QM8 or C855?

Both televisions boast great gaming capabilities, but the QM8 may have an edge with its Game Accelerator 240 technology. The two models both feature support for 144Hz Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). The QM8 is heavily promoted to gamers in North America and has received good reviews in terms of gaming performance specifically. If you’re picking for gaming, either one would be an incredible option, but the QM8 tends to be more affordable while keeping very similar gaming specs.

How does the TCL QM8 sound compared to the C855?

In the 65-inch sizes, TCL QM8 features slightly stronger speakers with 80W total audio output (2x20W L/R + 20W Subwoofer + 2x10W Up-firing) than the C855 with 60W system (2x10W main + 2x10W subwoofer + 2x10W up-firing). They both share ONKYO-designed speaker systems with Dolby Atmos support and up-firing speakers for height channels. Both have stronger audio systems in bigger sizes such as 85-inch and beyond. While each TV provides better-than-average onboard audio, serious audio buffs would still find it worthwhile to add an external sound system or soundbar.

Why is there so much of a price disparity between these models in some regions?

The price difference differs by country and is determined by a number of factors. The C855 is a more up-market model in TCL’s Asian and European product lines with more advanced picture processing technology and design features. The QM8 (QM851G) is often slashed in price in North America as part of TCL’s move to aggressively acquire market share. Various distribution channels, duties on imports, and regional marketing also influence prices. In North America, the QM8 usually offers far greater value for money, whereas in Europe and Asia, the price disparity might be less, making the premium features on the C855 that much more reasonable.

Which TV offers smarter features and OS performance?

Both sets have Google TV operating on them with comparable core smart features such as hands-free voice control. The only difference is that the QM8 has wider ecosystem support, supporting Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit, whereas the C855 mostly works with Google Assistant integration. Operating system performance would be virtually identical since they employ the same processors. Both models have experienced occasional software crashes, which is typical of smart TV platforms, and both receive regular software updates.

In what ways are the TCL QM8 and C855 designs different?

The design aesthetic varies quite notably. The C855 boasts a high-end ultra-slim uni-body design with magnetic wall mounting feature, so it appears as an art piece when mounted. It also features advanced hidden cable management for a clean look. The QM8 has a more conventional look in smaller sizes, although the larger versions (85″ and up) have a FullView 360 Metal Bezel-less Design. If design and minimalist mounting are key, then the C855 holds an advantage.

Which is best suited for light-filled rooms?

The TCL C855 benefits in well-lit rooms thanks to its ultra-low-reflection screen. Both TVs provide great brightness (the C855 3500 nits peak and the QM8 about 2000 nits), but the anti-reflection feature of the C855 makes it exceptionally suited for bright conditions. Higher-end versions of the QM8 (like QM891G) do feature anti-glare tech, but it’s not as emphasized in default QM8 marketing.

Do both TVs have the same streaming apps and content available?

Yes, as both run Google TV, the same streaming apps are available: Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Apple TV+, etc. Both have Chromecast built-in, and QM8 also has Apple AirPlay 2, which might appeal to Apple ecosystem users. Content availability is based more on your location and subscriptions than the TV model.

Which TV is best for movie viewing?

For serious movie watching, the TCL C855 has an edge due to its greater number of local dimming zones (2160), better contrast abilities, and anti-reflection coating for dark rooms. Both TVs handle all premium HDR formats like Dolby Vision IQ and are IMAX Enhanced certified. The C855 may offer deeper blacks and contrast, though the QM8 still performs excellently, especially at its lower price point.

What is the warranty like for each of these models?

Both models feature the standard 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty, covering material and workmanship defects under normal use. Extended warranties can be bought via retailers or third-party companies and are region/store specific. TCL’s warranty policy is consistent across high-end models, so neither has an edge here. Check regional documentation for details.

Are replacement parts and repairs easily available for both models?

Availability varies by region more than by model. In North America, QM8 may have better support, while in Europe and Asia, C855 may be better supported. TCL is expanding its service network, but check local service center availability before purchasing. Replacement parts are typically supported for a few years post-release for both models.

What TV is more power efficient?

Specific energy consumption figures are not detailed, but both TVs likely have similar power usage due to their QD-Mini LED tech. High brightness HDR content will naturally consume more power. Neither is Energy Star certified per available specs. Regional energy labels offer the most accurate comparison.

Are both TVs easy to connect external speakers to?

Yes. Both support HDMI eARC, optical digital audio (SPDIF), and headphone outputs. HDMI eARC enables high-bitrate audio formats like Dolby Atmos to external sound systems. Connectivity options are essentially the same on both models.

Which has better future-proofing?

Both TVs are well future-proofed with 4K, HDMI 2.1, 144Hz, and full HDR format support. The QM8 has a slight North American edge with ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV tuner. The C855’s higher dimming zones and brightness might better handle future HDR content. Frequent software updates ensure both models remain capable for years.