Scorata scores summarize analyzed review evidence on a 1–5 scale; they are not laboratory measurements or a simple average of customer star ratings. Feature scores summarize the reviews covering that feature. The overall score averages feature scores within each review, then combines review averages. When both expert and customer evidence are available, those two groups receive equal weight. Products can have different review coverage, so small score gaps do not establish a winner.
Recommendations prioritize important features for the category, with a score of at least 3.5, a gap of at least 0.25 points and at least two supporting reviews per product. Features with widely varying scores or broad connectivity contexts are excluded from recommendations. These safeguards do not establish statistical significance.
Quick verdict
What each product is best for
The review evidence points to a tradeoff: input lag and HDMI 2.1 port count versus local dimming performance and HDR brightness. Choose according to which strengths matter more to you; the overall score alone does not settle that choice.
Choose Sony BRAVIA 3 II for input lag and HDMI 2.1 port count.
Choose TCL 98QM8K for local dimming performance and HDR brightness.
Why these recommendations?
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
Where It Has the Edge
input lag is 4.8 vs 4.4. Game Mode is impressively responsive, even in timing-heavy PlayStation games. Lag rises substantially outside Game Mode, making external...
HDMI 2.1 port count is 5.0 vs 2.6. Four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 inputs stand out even against pricier Sony models. They make multiple modern consoles and...
judder handling is 4.3 vs 2.0. Film cadence is handled cleanly without extra setup for most 24p sources. Some 25p material and selected 60p...
TCL 98QM8K
Where It Has the Edge
local dimming performance is 4.7 vs 1.8. The many local-dimming zones control dark scenes exceptionally well, creating impressive contrast without conspicuous backlight spill in most...
HDR brightness is 4.8 vs 2.6. HDR highlights glow with unusually strong intensity, even across a nearly 100-inch screen. Some settings trade maximum output...
peak brightness is 4.8 vs 3.5. Peak HDR output is extraordinarily high, making highlights look brilliant on the giant panel. At the very highest...
Sony BRAVIA 3 II3.8 overall score
TCL 98QM8K4.0 overall score
Compare features
Scores are out of 5. Missing scores mean missing review evidence, not a missing feature.
Scored on both products
Performance
Picture quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Natural color and fine-detail processing make ordinary shows and daytime films pleasing to watch. More critical assessments find washed-out blacks and insufficient highlight punch on the 65-inch IPS model.
TCL 98QM8K
4.6
The 98QM8K produces an impressive cinematic picture with vivid color, strong brightness, and deep contrast. Its most demanding scenes can reveal processing imperfections.
Local dimming performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
1.8
Without independently controlled dimming zones, bright details and dark backgrounds cannot be optimized separately. This puts cinematic HDR and night viewing at a disadvantage against locally dimmed sets.
TCL 98QM8K
4.7
The many local-dimming zones control dark scenes exceptionally well, creating impressive contrast without conspicuous backlight spill in most content.
HDR brightness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.6
Moderately lit HDR scenes can look lively, but the measured output lacks the headroom to make tiny specular highlights sparkle. Opinions are more positive when judging against basic LCD sets.
TCL 98QM8K
4.8
HDR highlights glow with unusually strong intensity, even across a nearly 100-inch screen. Some settings trade maximum output for more comfortable viewing.
Contrast ratio
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
The lack of local dimming leaves dark scenes flatter than on many Mini LED rivals. Some users find the contrast acceptable with room lights on, especially on regional VA-panel versions.
TCL 98QM8K
4.4
Strong contrast gives bright objects depth against near-black backgrounds. The result approaches OLED in many scenes without matching pixel-level control.
Audio settings
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
An equalizer provides room for customization, but one assessment found the default tuning unpleasant enough to require several adjustments.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Audio presets and Bang & Olufsen tuning make it easier to soften harshness or emphasize speech.
Peak brightness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
SDR output handles ordinary room lighting adequately and improves on the earlier generation. It is not powerful enough to compete with brighter Mini LED sets.
TCL 98QM8K
4.8
Peak HDR output is extraordinarily high, making highlights look brilliant on the giant panel. At the very highest settings, that intensity can become uncomfortable or bring out fan noise.
Noise reduction
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.6
Compression blocks and digital noise are cleaned up while preserving a surprisingly crisp image. Very fine source detail may occasionally soften in the process.
TCL 98QM8K
3.5
Noise reduction cleans low-bitrate streams effectively, at the expense of a little fine texture in the softest material.
HDR performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.4
Some users enjoy the natural color and refined details in Dolby Vision films. Others find HDR underwhelming because poor native contrast and limited peak output flatten highlights.
TCL 98QM8K
4.4
HDR movies and games are the main attraction: blazing highlights, vivid color, and controlled blacks make demanding material stand out.
Gaming performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
Fast Game Mode response and four high-bandwidth ports are major strengths. Lab testing nevertheless finds more blur at 60Hz than the smooth 120Hz experience suggests.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
High-refresh 4K, low latency, and variable refresh rate make gaming enjoyable, with some caveats around motion blur and port availability.
Bass performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.4
Deep bass is consistently the weak link, with limited rumble in explosions, film scores and bass-heavy music. Speech and lighter material fare better.
TCL 98QM8K
3.3
Bass is stronger than expected for some built-in TV speakers, yet others hear an artificial or thin low end, particularly at high volume.
Picture detail
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.4
The XR processor makes textures, faces and object edges impressively distinct. Compressed material can lose a little fine detail during cleanup.
TCL 98QM8K
3.5
Fine texture and sharp HDR highlights lend images impressive depth, but low-quality inputs cannot reproduce the same detail.
White balance accuracy
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Factory white balance is good, if slightly warm with a touch of excess red in several shades. HDR color temperature is even closer to target.
TCL 98QM8K
3.2
White balance can be very close to reference after calibration, but some out-of-box modes show cooler or shifted tones.
SDR picture performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.7
News, broadcast sports and brightly colored animation look lively yet largely natural. Good out-of-box tuning and image cleanup make routine viewing a standout.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
SDR can look clean and natural in Filmmaker Mode, but factory default brightness and white balance vary markedly by preset.
Color accuracy
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.6
Natural skin tones and restrained saturation are recurring strengths, with strong SDR accuracy even before calibration. Some settings deliberately trade precision for brighter, punchier colors.
TCL 98QM8K
3.9
Colors can look impressively natural and accurate in suitable modes, yet accuracy varies by picture preset and sample.
Sustained brightness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
The backlight maintains adequate output in ordinary and moderately bright scenes rather than delivering dramatic localized highlights.
TCL 98QM8K
2.5
Peak brightness is dazzling, but the TV does not always maintain its maximum output indefinitely. Normal content seldom exposes the shortfall.
On-screen game visibility tools
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.4
Black Equalizer, crosshair overlays and related controls are practical additions for fast gameplay and shadow-heavy games.
TCL 98QM8K
4.8
Game Bar aids such as crosshairs and magnification offer useful on-screen information during play.
Sound quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.6
The built-in speakers emphasize crisp voices and can sound fuller than expected. They still lack the deep bass and cinematic scale of an external sound system.
TCL 98QM8K
3.9
The Bang & Olufsen-tuned system gets praise for its spaciousness and bass from some listeners, while others find it muddy or underpowered.
Picture mode tuning
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.2
Cinema and Professional favor natural images, while Standard and Vivid add punch for animation or sports. Selecting a preset is worthwhile because brightness and color differ noticeably.
TCL 98QM8K
4.5
Filmmaker Mode is a strong starting point for natural color, while standard and dynamic settings can exaggerate brightness or color.
Overall image accuracy
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Factory SDR colors are particularly well tuned, and HDR color mapping is mostly good despite some midtone and luminance errors.
TCL 98QM8K
4.1
Filmmaker and calibrated settings can deliver extremely accurate pictures, although factory presets and individual units draw less consistent praise.
Surround sound virtualization
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Virtual surround gives the built-in speakers a greater sense of spread than basic stereo, but it is not a substitute for separate surrounds.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
The integrated speakers can spread effects around the room, but they lack the scale of a dedicated theater system.
Other features
Motion handling
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.4
The 120Hz panel and Sony’s processing earn strong praise for sports and smooth camera movement. Lab testing is more cautious about blur at 60Hz, where transitions can look smeary.
TCL 98QM8K
3.7
Motion is acceptable to strong in ordinary sports and gaming, but difficult transitions and fast pans can produce blur or judder.
Input lag
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.8
Game Mode is impressively responsive, even in timing-heavy PlayStation games. Lag rises substantially outside Game Mode, making external navigation feel sluggish.
TCL 98QM8K
4.4
Game Master generally responds quickly enough for fluid console gaming, even if a few competing TVs measure lower input lag.
Flicker control
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
The standard DC-dimmed backlight is flicker-free, a welcome trait for viewers sensitive to ordinary PWM flicker.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Its unusual backlight drive pattern is not visually distracting to everyone, but flicker-sensitive users should be aware of it.
G-SYNC compatibility
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
G-SYNC Compatible operation is a useful addition for gaming PCs, complementing the set’s native 120Hz panel and low Game Mode input lag.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
G-SYNC-style VRR can misbehave when an NVIDIA system is fixed at 60Hz; higher-refresh desktop settings work better.
HDMI 2.1 port count
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
Four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 inputs stand out even against pricier Sony models. They make multiple modern consoles and a gaming PC much easier to keep connected.
TCL 98QM8K
2.6
There are only two full-speed HDMI 2.1 ports. The separate eARC connection is helpful for soundbars but limits complex receiver setups.
Black levels
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.4
The 65-inch IPS set struggles to deliver convincing blacks in dark rooms, where shadowy scenes can appear gray. Some other sizes or reviewers report better results, but panel differences make generalizations risky.
TCL 98QM8K
4.8
Deep, convincing blacks are a highlight of the local-dimming system, especially in dark-room viewing.
Judder handling
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Film cadence is handled cleanly without extra setup for most 24p sources. Some 25p material and selected 60p inputs need extra care or settings.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Slow pans can show judder, particularly in demanding film scenes; low motion settings sometimes improve it.
Low-resolution content handling
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.6
DVDs, 720p video and compressed streams are cleaned up well without heavy sharpening halos. Very low-resolution 480p images still have unavoidable softness.
TCL 98QM8K
2.3
Older streams and compressed broadcasts usually remain watchable, with useful artifact smoothing; very poor sources still expose their limitations.
Stand stability
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Metal-topped feet generally hold the panel securely and sit confidently on a wide cabinet.
TCL 98QM8K
2.5
The large panel can wobble slightly on furniture, so a secure stand or wall mount matters.
Motion clarity
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.8
Many sports and gaming sequences look strikingly smooth, but instrumented tests describe pronounced 60Hz smearing and slower dark transitions.
TCL 98QM8K
1.9
Quick action often looks clear, yet bright-to-dark transitions can smear noticeably at the highest refresh rates.
Image processing
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.8
Sony’s XR processing is a consistent highlight, making mixed-quality content look more refined without obvious artificial sharpening. Its improvements cannot fully overcome the native backlight limitations.
TCL 98QM8K
3.0
Picture processing gives sports, streaming, and high-quality films impressive scale, but motion and fine detail are not equally polished in every mode.
Black uniformity
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
The tested matte 65-inch IPS panel shows substantial clouding and uneven blacks. A separate VA variant was described much more favorably, emphasizing the importance of screen size.
TCL 98QM8K
4.7
Blacks stay impressively even with local dimming enabled, although some cloudiness appears with dimming off.
Banding control
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
Most gradients stay reasonably smooth, though mild visible banding prevents a truly spotless result.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Banding is generally restrained in regular viewing, though difficult test patterns can still reveal uneven transitions.
Distortion control
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Moderate and fairly loud playback stays clean without much audible breakup. The low-end extension remains limited despite that clarity.
TCL 98QM8K
2.8
Distortion is controlled in some listening tests, while others report harsher or muddier sound when the volume climbs.
Gradient handling
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
Color transitions look generally smooth, with a little banding in difficult gradients rather than major posterization.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Most colorful material looks smooth, but some challenging gradients show inaccuracies or banding rather than seamless tonal transitions.
Dirty screen effect
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Uniform areas are relatively clean, with little obvious blotching or vertical banding in the screen tests. Slight edge darkening remains visible on some patterns.
TCL 98QM8K
3.3
Dirty-screen effect is subdued on several samples, though lighter backgrounds can reveal mild patches or dark bands.
Stutter handling
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
Slow camera pans can show mild stutter; conservative interpolation reduces it without completely removing it.
TCL 98QM8K
2.3
Slow-panning 24p and 25p scenes can exhibit distracting stutter, although action scenes are usually more forgiving.
High-refresh-rate gaming
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
The native 120Hz refresh delivers fluid play on current consoles. PC users seeking 144Hz, 165Hz or faster must look elsewhere.
TCL 98QM8K
4.1
Fast 4K play looks engaging, with support up to 144Hz through compatible inputs; 288Hz gaming requires a lower resolution.
Free streaming channels
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Google TV Freeplay adds readily accessible channels without a separate antenna, a useful bonus when the TV is online.
TCL 98QM8K
5.0
Free live-channel offerings add convenience, though their presence alone does not determine the picture quality.
Gaming mode quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
PlayStation-oriented tuning produces a polished image and automatically selects low-latency settings. Custom picture controls are more limited than on higher-end Sony sets.
TCL 98QM8K
3.5
Game mode stays bright and responsive without sacrificing much dark-scene contrast.
Image realism and naturalness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
Skin tones, greens and blues retain a believable balance without the artificial saturation common to more aggressive picture presets.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Well-tuned movie settings deliver convincingly natural color, shading, and depth; some presets favor a less lifelike pop.
Local dimming zone transitions
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Without individually driven zones, the picture does not show zone pumping or flashing around moving highlights. The entire frame brightens together instead.
TCL 98QM8K
5.0
Local dimming follows moving highlights well, with some flicker as bright objects cross lighting zones.
Shadow detail
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Picture processing can preserve attractive texture in dark scenes, but the tested panel’s raised blacks make some subtle shadow gradations inaccurate.
TCL 98QM8K
3.1
Dark scenes can look rich and detailed, but some testing found crushed near-black detail and dim midtones, particularly with challenging HDR grading.
Motion artifacts
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
Fast transitions can show inverse ghosting and minor overshoot, even when most 120Hz motion looks clear. These issues are more apparent at 60Hz.
TCL 98QM8K
1.7
Some fast movement reveals ghosting, flicker, or other processing artifacts despite pleasing motion in typical viewing.
Upscaling quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Low-resolution broadcasts, older videos and DVDs come out surprisingly sharp and well controlled. This is one of the strongest reasons to choose the Sony over less expensive alternatives.
TCL 98QM8K
3.7
Lower-resolution programs are generally upscaled cleanly without aggressive artificial sharpening. They cannot match pristine native 4K material.
Glare resistance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Direct reflections are well controlled on the matte 65- and 75-inch versions. Glossy sizes show brighter mirror-like reflections, so placement matters.
TCL 98QM8K
3.5
Sheer brightness overcomes much daytime glare, but direct lights opposite the glossy screen still make obvious reflections.
Blooming control
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
The absence of local dimming avoids the usual isolated halos around subtitles and highlights. The compromise is an elevated glow across larger dark areas rather than genuinely deep blacks.
TCL 98QM8K
4.7
Blooming around subtitles and bright objects is usually very limited. Demanding patterns and off-axis views can still reveal some halos.
HDR highlight detail
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
Sony’s processing can make bright objects appear clear, but genuinely small HDR highlights are too dim on the tested 65-inch panel.
TCL 98QM8K
3.7
Bright HDR highlights stand out with remarkable intensity, though some material clips subtle detail at the very top end.
Response time
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.3
120Hz motion is usable but shows some pixel-transition overshoot; at 60Hz motion is substantially blurrier. Other evaluations of gaming response are more upbeat.
TCL 98QM8K
2.7
Response times are not uniformly fast; some extreme shade changes leave visible trails during rapid movement.
Calibration options
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.4
Color is already accurate in the preferred presets and can be refined further, with Calman support available. Missing granular color-management controls limit a full professional adjustment.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Fine calibration controls allow impressive gains in image fidelity, although the most accurate results may require time or professional equipment.
Dialogue clarity
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Voices remain intelligible through action sequences and at moderate TV volumes. This is a more consistent strength than music weight or bass impact.
TCL 98QM8K
3.9
Speech can sound crisp and distinct at ordinary volume, but one 98-inch measurement found dialogue somewhat muted.
Screen uniformity
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.8
The center stays relatively clean with minimal dirty-screen patches and no obvious near-black banding. Some edge darkening and clouding remain.
TCL 98QM8K
3.3
Bright-field uniformity is mostly good, but some samples show edge darkening, mild patchiness, or visible bands.
Reflection handling
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.7
The 65- and 75-inch matte screens control direct reflections well, making them appealing in bright spaces. Glossy sizes are more vulnerable to windows or lamps facing the screen.
TCL 98QM8K
3.1
The screen can reflect windows and lamps almost like a mirror. Indirect room lighting is much less troublesome.
Off-axis color shift
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
One regional screen showed a slight pink shift in a warm-toned game scene when viewed from the side, so important color work is better done head-on.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Colors shift or fade toward the edges of the seating area, especially on the very large panel.
Variable refresh rate
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
VRR helps match the screen to changing console and PC frame rates, reducing tears without sacrificing 120Hz input support.
TCL 98QM8K
3.8
VRR works well with consoles and AMD hardware, including low frame rates, but NVIDIA systems can tear in a locked 60Hz mode.
Color volume
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.4
Bright animated scenes and vivid daylight colors look lively, but dark saturated colors and extreme HDR highlights are harder for this panel to reproduce.
TCL 98QM8K
3.9
Bright reds, greens, and other saturated shades retain plenty of punch in HDR, though extremely pale scenes can lose a little saturation.
Large-screen immersion
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
The 100-inch option creates a particularly impressive, enveloping image at an unusually accessible price for a Sony with XR processing.
TCL 98QM8K
4.9
The 98-inch screen delivers a genuinely theater-sized image, making movies and games strikingly immersive.
Stand quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.3
Slim feet and a clean metallic look appeal to some reviewers, but the support positions are fixed and can be inconvenient.
TCL 98QM8K
3.7
The 98-inch model uses two wide-spaced feet that support the huge panel well, rather than the center pedestal found on smaller sizes.
Motion interpolation
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.8
Sony’s motion smoothing can reduce cinematic stutter effectively at conservative settings. Pushing it harder may add artificial trails or compromise other frame rates.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Motion smoothing can reduce judder with conservative settings, but high settings introduce artifacts and lost detail.
Remote control quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.2
The recycled-plastic remote is generally comfortable, tactile and useful. Some users would prefer a smaller body or larger setting buttons.
TCL 98QM8K
4.4
The backlit remote feels premium and its illuminated keys are useful in dark rooms, although the shape will not please everyone.
Gaming dashboard
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
A dedicated on-screen game menu groups VRR, black equalizer, crosshair and motion controls in one convenient place.
TCL 98QM8K
4.5
The on-screen gaming menu makes settings easy to reach without exiting the action.
Maximum volume
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
Some speakers are clear and ample for regular room listening, while lab testing found the maximum output unimpressive. Loudness depends on the volume and expectations involved.
TCL 98QM8K
3.3
Volume is adequate for some rooms but fails to impress everyone, and louder settings can compromise clarity.
Viewing angles
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
The tested 65-inch IPS panel holds colors reasonably well for people sitting off-center, making group viewing practical. VA-panel sizes can shift more when watched from the side.
TCL 98QM8K
3.8
The viewing cone is better than on some older VA screens, but the 98-inch model can shift color noticeably when seats move far off center.
Stand width
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.4
The two legs sit far apart and cannot be moved toward the center, so larger versions demand a wide media stand.
TCL 98QM8K
2.5
The two feet are spaced far apart, requiring wide furniture rather than a compact center stand.
Advertising intrusiveness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
Google TV includes on-screen ads even when personalized advertising is disabled. Basic offline setup removes them at the cost of smart functions.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Advertising on the Google TV home screen is a nuisance. Basic TV setup can remove ads, but sacrifices most smart-TV functions.
Color gamut
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.2
The DCI-P3 and SDR coverage are impressive for a direct-lit set, giving images pleasing variety. More demanding BT.2020 colors, especially rich blues and greens, are less complete.
TCL 98QM8K
4.2
Wide color coverage contributes to bold, lifelike HDR images and vivid animation. Accuracy is a separate question and may require choosing the right mode.
Content recommendations
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
The Google TV home screen offers reasonably useful suggestions alongside its familiar app and show navigation.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Google TV surfaces relevant programs effectively but includes promoted recommendations alongside personal picks.
HDMI port accessibility
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
Some rear inputs face downward and are awkward to reach after mounting, especially the eARC connection. Plugging in essential cables before hanging the set saves frustration.
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
Recessed HDMI jacks are difficult to reach when the panel is mounted close to the wall.
Ownership and support
HDMI 2.1 support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Every HDMI input carries the higher-bandwidth format needed for modern 4K/120Hz devices, a rare convenience in Sony’s lineup.
TCL 98QM8K
2.3
The two high-bandwidth HDMI connections handle modern gaming signals well, but they are not enough for every multi-console or PC setup.
Casting support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.3
Chromecast and AirPlay make wireless sharing practical, but discovery failed on one home network even when ordinary Wi-Fi connectivity remained stable. A phone hotspot restored casting.
TCL 98QM8K
5.0
Wireless casting makes it simple to send content from compatible phones and tablets to the large screen.
Large-screen value
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
The 100-inch version offers a huge 120Hz Sony screen with XR processing for unusually accessible money, even though its black levels trail premium alternatives.
TCL 98QM8K
3.3
The 98-inch model provides tremendous visual impact at a far lower price than similarly sized premium OLED TVs.
Chromecast support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
Chromecast functionality can work well once the TV is discoverable. One owner had to switch networks before Android or Mac devices could find it.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Chromecast gives Android and other compatible devices an easy route to the big screen.
AirPlay support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.3
Apple mirroring can be seamless on a suitable connection, but another setup failed to discover the TV on the home network. Results can depend on network configuration.
TCL 98QM8K
4.5
AirPlay 2 is convenient for sharing videos and photos from Apple devices.
Value for money
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.3
Plenty of reviewers like the Sony processing and four gaming-ready ports for the money, especially on sale. Others argue that cheaper Mini LED TVs or a closely priced BRAVIA 5 deliver better contrast.
TCL 98QM8K
4.1
The massive screen offers exceptional performance per dollar at a substantial discount, but the less expensive QM7K and newer rivals complicate the value calculation.
EARC support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
The audio return channel passes high-quality formats to a soundbar or receiver, including lossless movie soundtracks. Its downward-facing port can be fiddly after wall mounting.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
eARC passes high-quality sound to a receiver or soundbar without occupying one of the two fastest HDMI ports, with some switching tradeoffs.
FreeSync support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
FreeSync support joins HDMI Forum VRR to help keep fluctuating game frame rates free of visible tearing.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
FreeSync support makes console and AMD gaming smoother with less distracting screen tearing.
Setup ease
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Assembly and initial configuration are uncomplicated, with stands that slot into place and secure with screws. Large sizes still need assistance with lifting and positioning.
TCL 98QM8K
4.5
Google TV setup and initial connection are straightforward, particularly for people already using Google services.
Controls and connectivity
Tone mapping
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
Bright HDR scenes can abruptly clip instead of preserving subtle gradations, while midtones remain more consistent.
TCL 98QM8K
3.3
Tone mapping is a weak spot in some technical tests, with crushed dark detail and clipping near peak brightness, although other viewing modes earned praise.
Wi-Fi performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
Normal network speeds can remain solid even if casting devices cannot discover the TV. Switching to a mobile hotspot resolved the one reported problem.
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Wi-Fi connections proved reliable for demanding 4K streaming in home-network testing.
Operating system speed
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
The MediaTek-powered Google TV interface feels quick and responsive in normal use. Startup and occasional heavy-use stutters are less polished.
TCL 98QM8K
4.2
The interface generally feels quick and responsive, making navigation between entertainment apps straightforward.
HDR tone mapping accuracy
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
Near-black details appear raised and bright scenes can clip sharply at the panel’s peak output, reducing the intended HDR gradation.
TCL 98QM8K
2.3
Technical HDR accuracy is imperfect, with EOTF deviations and some clipped highlights despite the TV’s impressive brightness.
Menu responsiveness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Navigation is generally quick, and several users report smooth animation. A few occasional stutters and slower source changes keep it from being flawless.
TCL 98QM8K
4.2
Menus and picture settings are reasonably easy to navigate, especially with useful shortcuts, though not every operation feels equally snappy.
Smart TV platform
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Google TV is generally organized, fast and stocked with popular apps and voice features. Home-screen advertising and occasional software hiccups are the main downsides.
TCL 98QM8K
4.3
Google TV offers useful streaming apps and a familiar interface, though ads and personal preference can spoil the experience.
Comfort and build
Build quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
The chassis and stand feel sturdy in some size variants, and several owners describe a premium finish. Others think the plastic back and construction are merely adequate.
TCL 98QM8K
5.0
Materials and assembly generally feel sturdy and premium for a large LCD television.
Design and appearance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.1
The clean front and slim trim win admirers, though the heavy plastic rear and fixed wide feet strike others as old-fashioned. Appearance varies somewhat by size and region.
TCL 98QM8K
4.8
Nearly invisible bezels and premium metallic trim make this enormous TV look surprisingly elegant.
Bezel size
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.1
Some sizes and reviewers find the bezels pleasingly thin and unobtrusive, while the tested 65-inch unit has a thicker, dated-looking bottom edge.
TCL 98QM8K
4.3
The exceptionally narrow border makes the picture seem to float, helping the 98-inch screen feel less bulky.
Evidence available for one product
Ownership and support
Reliability
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
Direct-lit LCD hardware carries a low projected burn-in risk and resists some aging-related panel problems. A single backlight failure could affect a large screen area.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
4K at 120 Hz support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.9
Native 4K/120Hz support gives modern consoles smooth, responsive play on any of the four HDMI inputs. There is no higher-than-120Hz option for demanding PC players.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
4K gaming support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
Modern consoles can deliver 4K gameplay at 120Hz with VRR and automatic low-latency switching. Smooth responsiveness is the standout benefit.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Dolby Atmos support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Format compatibility helps the TV work with Atmos content and compatible external sound systems. The internal two-speaker setup does not deliver true room-filling surround on its own.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Dolby Vision support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Dolby Vision improves the balance of tone and detail for streaming movies and games, with bright and dark picture modes available. Physical brightness limits still hold back the most demanding highlights.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
DTS support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Broad DTS compatibility is useful for disc-based films and external audio gear, especially when paired with the full eARC passthrough.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
HDR10+ support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
1.8
There is no HDR10+ decoding, so compatible services fall back to standard HDR10. That omission matters more because the display has limited brightness headroom.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
HDR format support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG give good access to mainstream streaming formats. HDR10+ remains absent, even for services that offer it.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Tuner support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
The ATSC 1.0 tuner receives ordinary broadcasts but cannot handle the newer ATSC 3.0 4K over-the-air format.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Other features
Ease of use
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.8
Simple Google TV navigation and accessible quick settings keep daily operation straightforward. Advanced HDMI input formats may still require manual configuration.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
1440p input compatibility
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
PlayStation checks found 1440p unsupported despite excellent 4K/120Hz operation. Players who specifically need that resolution should check their setup.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Accessibility features
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
The remote’s raised, tactile buttons can be located without looking, helping make the TV easier to navigate for people with limited vision.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Account requirements
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Google sign-in is optional for basic TV use, which also removes home-screen advertising. Giving up the account means losing most of the smart features.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
AI scene optimization
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
The XR processor adjusts images based on the objects in a scene, and the resulting color enhancement is regarded as impressive rather than gimmicky.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Auto low-latency mode
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.4
The TV can switch into low-latency play automatically when a compatible console starts. That removes the need to hunt through menus before gaming.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Backlight strobing
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
Optional strobing can reduce persistence blur, but its 120Hz flicker produces distracting duplicated images with 60fps footage.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Burn-in resistance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
5.0
The direct-lit LCD construction carries very low risk of permanent image retention, reassuring viewers who leave static graphics on-screen.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Cable management
Sony BRAVIA 3 IINo score yet
TCL 98QM8K
4.0
Rear channels help organize cables, though recessed connections can be awkward once the TV sits close to a wall.
Energy efficiency
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
The Eco Dashboard offers easy access to consumption controls, though higher-performance settings trade reduced automatic dimming for greater electricity use.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Game Mode interpolation
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
There is no low-latency motion interpolation option, which is disappointing for players who want smoother retro games without added lag.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
HDMI enhanced signal configuration
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.3
Four advanced-capable HDMI ports are useful, but enhanced input formats may need to be selected individually before a console can display 4K at 120Hz.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Included accessories
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.5
Accessory policies differ by market: some installations provide a stand or mount during setup without extra charge, while another unit did not include either in the box.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Overall satisfaction
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
The BRAVIA 3 II wins praise for polished everyday viewing and full-featured gaming, but opinions diverge sharply on whether its plain backlight justifies Sony’s price. Dark-room performance is the recurring sticking point.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
PC text clarity
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Proper RGB and chroma 4:4:4 rendering keep Windows or PC interface text readable at both 1080p and 4K.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
PlayStation Remote Play functionality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
The built-in app lets owners stream gameplay from a PS5 located in another room or another home. It is a convenient addition for households that share a console.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Power-on readiness
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.0
A cold start can take a couple of minutes before full functionality returns, despite reasonably responsive operation afterward.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Refresh rate
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.8
The move to a native 120Hz panel is a substantial leap over the previous 60Hz model, especially for sports and consoles.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Remote control usability
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.8
Raised controls help with eyes-free operation, and the familiar layout is easy to learn. Small or closely spaced buttons can cause accidental presses.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Remote finder
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.7
The remote can emit a sound after a command from the TV, turning a misplaced remote into a quick search rather than an inconvenience. It is especially welcome as a small everyday convenience.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Remote layout
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.8
Useful app shortcuts and a customizable button speed common tasks. A few important controls could be larger and easier to distinguish.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Retail availability
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
1.5
The TV launched in several markets, but UK shoppers were specifically warned that there was no confirmed local release.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Screen coating clarity
Sony BRAVIA 3 IINo score yet
TCL 98QM8K
5.0
The glossy screen keeps pictures crisp but contributes to pronounced mirror-like direct reflections.
Screen mirroring
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Sharing photos or videos to the TV is convenient once connected, though responsiveness can differ between static images and moving footage.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Search quality
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Gemini voice search can help locate content in conversational language without digging through several app menus.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Storage capacity
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
There is enough room for mainstream streaming apps, but estimates around 15–18GB usable space can feel restrictive for large app collections.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Wall-mount compatibility
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
VESA mounting is supported, but downward and rear-facing inputs are awkward to access after installation. Connect eARC and other essential cables first.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Controls and connectivity
App performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 IINo score yet
TCL 98QM8K
5.0
Major streaming apps run smoothly, with convenient switching and broad availability.
App selection
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Google TV supplies a wide app catalogue, including major streaming services. Access and navigation are uncomplicated, making it well suited to routine streaming.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Bluetooth audio support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Wireless headphone listening is available, including a reported simultaneous speaker-and-headphone mode with separate volume adjustment.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Picture settings menu flexibility
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
3.0
Core adjustments remain useful, but higher-end Sony models offer more complete picture controls, including local-dimming and tone-mapping options.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Privacy controls
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
A physical microphone switch allows hands-free listening to be disabled. Google setup can also avoid a sign-in, though most connected services are then unavailable.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Smart home integration
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
AirPlay, HomeKit and voice commands add convenient control from phones and compatible home devices, including power and volume.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Voice assistant support
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.3
Hands-free commands and Google/Gemini tools make playback and search convenient, with a hardware microphone switch for opting out.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Performance
Audio/video sync
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
1.5
Gaming audio delay has been reported through both internal speakers and a soundbar, while controller-connected headphones avoided it. This is an isolated but potentially important complaint.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Automatic brightness adjustment
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.0
Ambient-light sensing can keep the image comfortable when room lighting changes. Manual brightness control is available by choosing a different energy setting.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Dark-room performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
1.3
The absence of local dimming makes black-heavy scenes much less immersive, especially on the 65-inch IPS model. Even enthusiastic owners often see a higher-tier backlight as preferable for nighttime films.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Daytime viewing performance
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Ordinary programs look bright, clear and colorful with the lights on, especially on versions with a matte screen. It is less forgiving when a bright window reflects directly in a glossy model.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Operating noise
Sony BRAVIA 3 IINo score yet
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
At extreme brightness settings, one 98-inch unit produced an audible fan hum. Lowering brightness eliminated it, at the expense of maximum output.
Sony Pictures Core streaming
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Sony’s dedicated app offers high-bitrate streams and IMAX-enhanced titles; free credits add appeal, while some content needs rentals or purchases.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Soundbar clearance
Sony BRAVIA 3 IINo score yet
TCL 98QM8K
2.0
The 98-inch stand barely lifts the screen above furniture, so many soundbars will obscure the lower picture.
Soundstage
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
The speakers can project a surprisingly broad and lively sound for their size, though the presentation remains limited by a two-channel TV layout.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Comfort and build
Inconsistent panel and coating by size
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
2.5
The 65-inch version uses a matte IPS panel, while the confirmed 50-inch VA version is glossy. These changes alter contrast, off-axis performance and glare, so conclusions from one size may not transfer perfectly.
TCL 98QM8KNo score yet
Size options
Sony BRAVIA 3 II
4.5
Screen sizes from 43 to 100 inches cover small rooms through giant living-room installations. Coating and panel variations make size selection more consequential than usual.
Choose the S90H for bright-room OLED viewing, deep blacks and top-tier gaming without flagship pricing. Skip it if you want Dolby Vision, a glossy screen or the simplest smart-TV software.
Best for bright Mini-LED picture, excellent built-in audio, easy Roku navigation, and responsive 4K/120 gaming. Skip it if you want ad-free menus, premium motion consistency, or stronger confidence in long-term...
Choose the QM8L for a big, brilliantly bright TV with vivid HDR, deep mini-LED blacks, low input lag, and four HDMI 2.1 ports. Skip it if you need OLED-clean motion,...
Choose the G6 for class-leading bright-room OLED picture, rich color, deep blacks and elite gaming. Skip it if you want strong built-in audio, polished launch firmware, no account sign-in, or...