TCL 65-Inch Q68 QLED 4K Smart TV Review Dolby Vision and Gaming Features Explained

Description

Eye-Catching Design and Build Quality

From the moment I set up the TCL 65-Inch Q68 QLED Pro 4K UHD Smart TV, it was hard not to admire its sleek and bezel-less design. The clean, modern aesthetic immediately elevates the room, blending seamlessly with my other decor. At 57.8 pounds, it’s sturdy without being overly heavy, and mounting it on the wall was a smooth process. Its 16:9 aspect ratio and 65-inch display size are perfect for immersive viewing, whether you’re binge-watching your favorite series or enjoying a movie night. The black finish adds a touch of sophistication, making it look more premium than its price might suggest.

Picture Quality That Pops

The QLED Quantum Dot Technology delivers an impressive range of vibrant colors, covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space. I tested it with an array of content, from high-action scenes to picturesque landscapes, and the colors felt rich and lifelike. The 4K UltraHD resolution is truly a game-changer—every detail is crisp, from the smallest facial expressions to the most intricate textures in background scenery. A standout feature for me is the Full Array Local Dimming with over 150+ zones, which adapt dynamically to on-screen content. Watching dark, moody scenes felt immersive thanks to the deep blacks and exceptional contrast.

Even in a brightly lit room, the High Brightness PRO LED Backlight ensures that everything remains vivid and clear. With a peak brightness of up to 600 Nits, highlights dazzle in a way that makes action sequences and nature documentaries especially stunning. The HDR PRO+ technology, which supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG, ensures that contrast and colors are optimized across various HDR formats. This TV truly shines in delivering a cinematic experience.

Performance for Gamers and Streamers

Gaming on this TV was an absolute treat. With Game Accelerator 120, the variable refresh rate (VRR) goes up to 120Hz, which significantly enhances gameplay fluidity. I played a few rounds of fast-paced action games, and the responsiveness was on point, with no noticeable lag or stuttering. The Auto Game Mode (ALLM) automatically detects when a gaming console is connected, ensuring the lowest input lag and latency. For anyone who takes their leaderboard rankings seriously, this feature could be a game-changer.

Streaming is equally seamless, thanks to the TCL AIPQ Processor with Deep Learning AI. It optimizes color, contrast, and clarity scene by scene, making even older, non-4K content look surprisingly good. With Google TV as the operating system, navigating through apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+ feels intuitive and snappy. Voice commands work flawlessly with the included voice remote, and the option to sync it with Alexa or Chromecast adds to its convenience.

Audio That Matches the Visuals

Audio quality can often be overlooked in TVs, but this model doesn’t disappoint. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X creates a surround-sound-like experience, even without external speakers. I was particularly impressed with the Enhanced Dialogue Mode, which makes conversations in movies and TV shows crystal clear. This feature is especially helpful for those late-night viewing sessions when I don’t want to crank up the volume but still want to catch every word.

While the built-in speakers do a commendable job, audiophiles might still prefer pairing it with a soundbar for a fuller, more immersive soundstage. However, for everyday use, the audio performance is more than sufficient.

Key Benefits

• Quantum Dot Technology delivers vibrant, lifelike colors.
• 120Hz VRR ensures smooth, responsive gaming and action sequences.
• HDR PRO+ supports advanced HDR formats for enhanced contrast and accuracy.
• Bezel-less design creates a sleek, modern aesthetic.
• Google TV integration provides easy access to a wide range of apps and services.

Caveats

• The built-in speakers, while decent, may not satisfy audiophiles looking for a cinematic audio experience.
• As with many QLED TVs, there’s a slight glare in extremely bright rooms, though manageable with proper placement.
• Some users might find the remote control to be overly simplistic, lacking the tactile feel of higher-end models.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to other 65-inch QLED models, it holds its own surprisingly well. Competitors like Samsung’s Q60 series offer similar Quantum Dot Technology, but they often come at a higher price point without necessarily adding significant value. While Samsung may edge out in terms of brand recognition, the TCL matches or surpasses it in features like Game Mode and brightness levels.

LG’s NanoCell TVs are another alternative but lack the same level of HDR support and don’t quite match the TCL’s advanced gaming features. On the other hand, brands like Vizio offer competitive pricing but don’t include the same level of polish in their operating systems or display optimization.

Where this TV excels is its balance of performance and affordability, offering features like Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos that are often reserved for higher-end models. If you’re looking for an all-rounder that doesn’t break the bank, this is a solid contender.

Worth Every Penny

In terms of price to quality ratio, this TV is hard to beat. It provides a premium viewing experience at a fraction of the cost of its high-end competitors. While it may not have the brand prestige of Samsung or LG, it delivers on all the features that truly matter—stunning visuals, smooth gaming performance, and a user-friendly interface. It’s an investment that feels justified for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment setup without going over budget.

Additional information