TCL 98QM8L: 98-inch SQD-Mini LED Google TV
The TCL 98QM8L is a 98-inch class 4K SQD-Mini LED TV with a native 144Hz panel, four HDMI inputs and Google TV. Its 97.5-inch viewable screen combines a WHVA 2.0 Ultra Panel with local dimming and Audio by Bang & Olufsen. The WHVA 2.0 Ultra screen and four high-refresh HDMI inputs suit a setup with several compatible game or video sources. The black finish on the front, back and stand gives this model a consistent appearance whether it sits on furniture or is fitted to a suitable wall mount.
Picture quality and viewing angle
The screen has a 3840 x 2160 resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Its SQD-Mini LED system combines quantum dot color with a backlight that controls light in separate screen areas. This helps the TV present highlights and shadows within the same scene. The TSR AI Pro Processor manages picture processing, while the panel and backlight work together to show fine textures in compatible 4K content, from a film close-up to the grass on a sports field.
TCL specifies a 178-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angle for the 98QM8L. This is the manufacturer's stated viewing specification, not a promise that every seat produces an identical image. Room light, screen position and the angle of a chair still affect how a picture looks. For a wide seating arrangement, consider where the main seats sit relative to the center of this 98-inch screen before deciding its position.
HDR and picture settings
Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG are supported. Compatible HDR sources carry extra brightness and color information for the TV to use. Dolby Vision IQ works with the room's light conditions, while Filmmaker Mode provides a film-focused viewing option. An ambient light sensor and Warm, Normal and Cool color temperature settings offer further control over the picture. Sports, Movie, Game and PC modes are also included for different kinds of source material.
Motion and gaming
The native panel refresh rate is 144Hz. Motion Rate 480 with MEMC is a separate motion-processing feature, not a 480Hz native panel. Variable refresh rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, FreeSync Premium Pro and Game Bar support compatible game sources. Game Accelerator 288 is an additional gaming mode; it should not be taken to mean native 4K at 288Hz. Available resolution and refresh combinations depend on the input, connected hardware and settings used.
Streaming and connected viewing
Google TV brings streaming apps and connected entertainment to the 98QM8L. Supported services include YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+, subject to regional and app availability. An internet connection and any required subscriptions are needed for those services. Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2 support casting and screen sharing from compatible devices. Hands-free voice control and a backlit voice remote provide ways to search for content and navigate the interface. Account setup may be required for connected services, and app features can change over time.
HDMI, USB and wireless connections
All four HDMI 2.1 inputs support up to 4K at 144Hz with compatible hardware and cables. HDMI 1 also supports eARC for audio return. The network options include Wi-Fi 6 and one Ethernet connection. There is one USB 3.0 port and one USB 2.0 port for compatible media and accessories. An RF input supports an antenna connection; reception depends on the signal available at the installation site. These connections let this TV serve as a display for external equipment as well as a screen for its built-in streaming apps.
Sound and everyday controls
Audio by Bang & Olufsen is built in, with Dolby Atmos processing and Dolby Atmos FlexConnect capability. Movie, Music, Speech, Game, Night and Sport sound presets let you choose settings suited to the program. Surround effects depend on the audio source and listening setup. Closed captions, parental controls, a sleep timer and an accessible menu system support daily viewing. The backlit remote helps identify buttons when watching a film with the room lights dimmed.
Dimensions, weight and mounting
With the stand, the 98QM8L measures 85.30 x 50.10 x 16.50 inches in width, height and depth. Without the stand, it measures 85.30 x 48.70 x 2.10 inches. Weight is 123.50 lb with the stand and 121.30 lb without it. These are TV weights, not packed shipping weights. The VESA hole pattern is 600 x 500 mm. Match both the mounting pattern and the TV weight to a suitable bracket, and allow space for cables when planning its position.
