TCL vs. Hisense: I've tested both TV brands for nearly a decade, and here's my pick

Kerry Wan/ZDNET

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Hisense and TCL may have started out as budget-conscious alternatives to Samsung, LG, and Sony, but today, both brands offer top-notch TVs. Both have released Mini-LED models that offer higher refresh rates and brighter screens than OLED options, and in some cases Mini-LEDs even surpass OLEDs in color accuracy and contrast.

Also: 60Hz vs 120 Hz vs 165Hz: The best refresh rate for your home

Over the past year, I've gotten the opportunity to go hands-on with the TCL X11L and Hisense U8QG, putting them through a battery of tests, including Calman calibration and head-to-head comparisons to competitors.

And as much as I love a good OLED for streaming movies and console gaming, these Mini LED options have been impressive enough to make me reconsider what I think is the best TV tech.

Specifications

TCL X11L HIsense U8QG Display type SQD-Mini LED Mini LED Display size 75 - 98 inches 55 - 100 inches HDR Dolby Vision Dolby Vision IQ Audio Dolby Atmos Dolby Atmos Refresh rate 144Hz 165Hz VRR support AMD FreeSync Premium Pro AMD FreeSync Premium Pro Voice controls Alexa, Google Assistant Alexa, Google Assistant Price Starting at $3,500 Starting at $800

You should buy the TCL X11L if...

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