TCL 6 Series vs Hisense U8H and U7H: In-Depth Comparison

If you‘re shopping for an affordable 4K TV that still delivers great picture quality, names like TCL and Hisense deserve your attention. The TCL 6 Series has earned praise as one of the best values in home entertainment. But Hisense models like the U8H and U7H QLED TVs provide some stiff competition.

How do these sub-$1,000 television lines stack up? This in-depth guide compares the TCL 6 Series to Hisense‘s U8H and U7H across crucial categories like display technology, picture quality, gaming performance, and more. Read on to see which one is the best fit for your needs.

Overview and Key Specs

Let‘s begin with a high-level overview before diving into the details:

table {
font-family: arial, sans-serif;
border-collapse: collapse;
width: 100%;
}

td, th {
border: 1px solid #dddddd;
text-align: left;
padding: 8px;
}

tr:nth-child(even) {
background-color: #dddddd;
}

As you can see, these three models match up closely in core areas like 4K resolution and maximum 120Hz refresh rates. But differences in display technology, peak brightness, and smart platforms do set them apart.

Next let‘s analyze how these specs translate into real-world performance.

Display Technology

One key difference is how the TCL 6 Series and Hisense models produce their picture. The 6 Series uses mini-LED backlighting paired with Contrast Control Zones for more precise control over brightness and darkness across the screen.

The Hisense U8H utilizes premium Quantum Dot LED (QLED) panels. And the U7H features Hisense‘s proprietary ULED technology. Both promise enhanced color, contrast and brightness compared to standard LED displays.

Experts agree that the TCL 6 Series‘ mini-LED backlighting gives it superior contrast and black level performance. Combined with its higher 1,000 nit peak brightness, HDR content really pops on this TV.

The U8H comes closest to competing on brightness at up to 1,500 nits. But most reviews found the TCL‘s local dimming and contrast handled real-world content better. The U7H lags furthest behind at only 600 nits peak brightness.

Winner: TCL 6 Series

Picture Quality

Across various expert reviews, the TCL 6 Series consistently earns top marks for overall picture quality. The mini-LED backlight unlocks top-tier contrast and black levels for the price. And quantum dot technology enables rich, accurate color reproduction.

TCL also leverages leading picture technologies like Dolby Vision IQ. This automatically adjusts HDR performance based on ambient room light levels. Industry-leading anti-glare filters also reduce distracting reflections.

The Hisense U8H delivers very strong picture quality for its lower price point. Impressive brightness, vibrant wide color gamut through its Quantum Dot LED panels, and solid black levels allow HDR content to shine.

Reviewers did notice more blooming and halo artifacts compared to the TCL 6 Series. This results from the TV‘s efforts to control its LED backlight zones. But for under $1,000, the U8H performs admirably.

Finally, while the entry-level U7H series also provides good picture quality for everyday content, it falters with HDR material. Lower peak brightness and lack of quantum dot color hurt the vibrancy that makes HDR impactful. Greyish black levels also took away from contrast on challenging scenes.

Winner: TCL 6 Series

Viewing Angles

One area where the TCL pulls further ahead is in off-angle viewing performance. Mini-LED technology enhances contrast and color from a wider range of seating positions. So even if you’re not centered directly in front, you’ll enjoy a pleasing, accurate picture.

Unfortunately, both Hisense models lose some luster (literally) when viewed from the side or above/below center. Backlight blooming becomes more apparent and blacks appear washed out and greyish.

So TCL definitely wins in rooms where people will be watching TV from multiple places around the room. Stick with the Hisenses if your seating arrangement is more head-on focused.

Winner: TCL 6 Series

HDR Support

All three TVs provide extensive support for today’s major HDR formats:

• HDR10
• HDR10+
• Dolby Vision

So you can enjoy a growing library of enhanced content from streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+, and HBO Max. This includes brighter highlights, a wider spectrum of color, and improved contrast.

It bears repeating that the TCL 6 Series‘ mini-LED backlight and Quantum Dot panels give it superior capability to actually display specular highlights and expanded color gamuts.

The Hisense U8H comes closest thanks to its own Quantum Dot technology combined with impressive peak brightness. But most reviews reveal the TCL still delivers more realistic, nuanced HDR images.

The U7H feels a step behind with standard Wide Color Gamut LED panels that lack the same color volume and luminance to make HDR truly dazzle.

Winner: TCL 6 Series

Gaming Performance

For gamers, both the TCL 6 Series and Hisense U8H are fantastic options. They combine 4K 120Hz refresh rates, Auto Low Latency Mode, Variable Refresh Rate and ultra-fast response times. This means silky smooth visuals and lag-free controller input for next-gen gaming.

The TCL 6 Series also supports other gamer-friendly specs like AMD FreeSync variable refresh rate technology. Together with THX Certified Game Mode, you enjoy console and PC games fully optimized.

While the entry-level U7H provides decent gaming visuals, higher input lag disqualifies it for competitive online multiplayer or fast-paced action titles. Stick to story-driven single player experiences here.

For lag-free gaming with optimal HDR color and contrast, the TCL 6 Series and Hisense U8H both fit the bill impressively at their prices.

Winner: Tie – TCL 6 Series and Hisense U8H

Audio Support

None of these LED/LCD TVs can compete with premium OLED sound quality and volume. But they all include basic support for modern audio formats like Dolby Atmos 3D audio. This creates more immersive sonic environments when streaming supported content.

Of course, you’ll need to connect a soundbar or speaker system to experience true cinema-quality sound. Expect better bass response and clarity compared to the tiny built-in speakers.

Audiophiles in search of booming sound for movies and music should look to adding surround sound speakers or a soundbar. But for everyday TV watching, the internal speakers get the job done.

Winner: Tie

Smart TV Platforms

TCL offers both Roku TV and the newer Google TV platform across different 6 Series models:

• Roku TV – Widget-driven home screen, channel-focused streaming app access, robust search and voice control. Unique benefits like private listening, Roku Mobile App control, and cross-device streaming ecosystem.

• Google TV – Content-centric rows of movie/TV show recommendations. Play next watchlist powered by Google machine learning algorithms. Integrated Google Assistant voice control. Casting from Android devices.

Meanwhile, both Hisense models now exclusively run the Google TV software. So comparing Google TV options only:

• TCL Google TV – Smooth and intuitive navigation. Broad app support from 100s of streaming sources . Effective recommendations and bookmarking tools. Unique TCL channels like live sports, viral videos and more.

• Hisense Google TV – Virtually identical Google TV features and streaming apps. Proprietary VIDAA launcher also offers custom content curation by genres, personalized viewing profiles, and an on-screen store for app exploration.

Since TCL offers both Roku TV and Google TV, it provides the most platform flexibility. But Hisense Google TV also makes personalization and content discovery refreshingly simple. Both approaches satisfy essential smart features, from built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant to comprehensive voice control.

It‘s mostly a toss up here, with your OS preference determining the winner.

Winner: Tie

Design and Connectivity

On the design front, all three models flaunt narrow-bezel construction for sleek modern aesthetics. The TCL 6 Series stands out for lighter weight than competitors. And with multiple stand positions available, you can tailor fit it to your cabinet space.

For connectivity, each TV includes 4 HDMI ports – enough for a Blu-ray player, game console, cable box and streaming stick simultaneously. Newer HDMI 2.1 inputs enable 4K gaming at 120fps, Variable Refresh Rate and Auto Low Latency Mode. One input also supports eARC (enhanced audio return channel) for sending uncompressed audio to soundbars.

So again, the TCL and Hisense models offer comparable physical connectivity and space-saving form factors. Your room size and layout preferences should drive decisions here rather than limitations around wall mounting or AV equipment hookups.

Winner: Tie

Price and Size Options

The TCL 6 Series is available in 55, 65 and 75-inch variants:

• 55-inch ($700)
• 65-inch ($1,000)
• 75-inch ($1,500)

Hisense U8H model sizes/pricing:

• 55-inch ($950)
• 65-inch ($1,150)
• 75-inch ($1,800)
• 85-inch ($3,200)

And the U7H can be purchased in:

• 55-inch ($700)
• 65-inch ($900)
• 75-inch ($1,400)
• 85-inch ($2,000)

So both brands cater to a range of room sizes, seating distances, and budgets. The sweet spot across reviews is the 65-inch option. This hits the widescreen real estate for immersive movies and gaming without overpowering smaller rooms.

Of course, 75-85 inchesScreen diagonals create an ultra-cinematic experience if you have ample space and seating further back. Just prepare for premium pricing over smaller models.

Winner: Tie

Pros and Cons Summary

TCL 6 Series

Pros:

• Best overall picture quality
• Excellent contrast and black levels
• Impressive HDR brightness/color
• Far superior viewing angles
• Low input lag and next-gen gaming features
• Flexible smart TV software options
• Attractive pricing for screen sizes

Cons:

• No 85-inch model yet unlike competitors
• Mediocre built-in audio

Hisense U8H

Pros:

• Bright, colorful HDR performance from QLED backlight
• Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
• Low gaming input lag
• Google TV offers robust streaming features
• Very affordable 75-85" screen options

Cons:

• Picture quality not on par with TCL 6 Series
• Colors and black levels fade at wider angles
• Prone to backlight blooming artifacts

Hisense U7H

Pros:

• High-end design and build quality
• Google TV smart platform is fast and intuitive
• Respectable picture and sound without breaking budget
• One of the largest screen size ranges

Cons:

• HDR performance falls behind competition
• Narrow optimal viewing angle
• Higher gaming lag times

Conclusion and Recommendations

For shoppers balancing premium features with reasonable prices, the TCL 6 Series stands at the top. Its mini-LED panels unlock stunning contrast, brightness and off-angle viewing – even besting more expensive rivals. Smooth gaming, intuitive Roku/Google TV software and Dolby Vision also check every box.

As long as built-in audio suffices for you, the TCL 6 Series brings exceptional overall quality to 55-75 inch spaces. Its winning combination of display technology, elegant design and smart connectivity cement its reputation as a true value leader.

Those wanting to save further without as many visual compromises should turn to the Hisense U8H. Quantum Dot color and solid Google TV user experience help justify its value pricing. Size options up to 85 inches also cater to supersized movie rooms. Just don‘t expect the 6 Series‘ level of HDR pop and off-center integrity.

For secondary rooms on a strict budget, the entry-level Hisense U7H also holds its own. Stick with smaller 55-65 inch models to appreciate the respectable brightness and streaming versatility. Just know you’re losing some capability to showcase today‘s finest picture advancements like Dolby Vision IQ and 120fps gaming.

In the hotly contested field of affordable premium TVs, the TCL 6 Series emerges on top for balancing performance, features and reasonable pricing. Hisense alternately satisfies either extreme value or supersized real estate if fitting your specific needs. But for the best images across a variety of mixed content and viewing environments, TCL 6 Series remains king among frugal shoppers.