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Smart TVs to Compare in 2026: OLED, Mini-LED and Installation Costs

By FETV Published · Updated

Smart TVs to Compare in 2026: OLED, Mini-LED and Installation Costs

Start with the LG C6 for a 65-inch OLED used for films and PC gaming; choose the G6 when its flush wall installation is worth the extra cost. For a larger Mini-LED screen, compare TCL’s QM7L, stepping up to the QM8L when you need more 4K/144 inputs. Sony’s BRAVIA 8 II is the Google TV option to consider for an existing Sony/PS5 setup. Prices and manufacturer specifications below were checked November 3, 2026.

Compare the exact model code and screen size. Measure the cabinet, wall space, and seating distance first so the shortlist fits the room as well as your preferred streaming and gaming features.

A shortlist with identifiable models

Model or seriesReason to compare itSpecific qualification
LG OLED65C6PUA, 65-inch C6OLED with Dolby Vision and high-refresh PC support120Hz native panel specification; up to 165Hz VRR
LG OLED65G6WUA, 65-inch G6Wall installation and LG’s premium OLED feature setFlush wall mount supplied; tabletop stand separate
Sony K-65XR80M2, 65-inch BRAVIA 8 IIQD-OLED with Google TV and PS5 integrationA 2025 model still listed for sale, with 4K/120 gaming support
TCL QM7LA size-flexible Mini-LED comparison candidate55, 65, 75, 85 and 98-inch options
TCL QM8LMini-LED with more high-bandwidth inputs65, 75, 85 and 98-inch options; four inputs specified for 4K/144

The sections below explain each choice’s connections, installation requirements, and streaming features. For room-specific picture quality, compare the same scenes and viewing angles on the models you are considering.

LG C6: a useful OLED starting point

The 65-inch C6’s published specification lists 3840 × 2160 resolution, Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG. LG distinguishes its 120Hz native refresh rate from VRR support up to 165Hz. It uses the Alpha 11 AI Processor 4K Gen3 and webOS, with Google Cast and Apple AirPlay 2 support. LG C6 specifications.

Choose the C6 when Dolby Vision streaming and high-refresh PC gaming are both priorities. Its 165Hz VRR capability needs a compatible PC and connection; ordinary streaming video plays at its supplied frame rate.

Before choosing a screen size, compare the exact product code and dimensions. If you use a soundbar in front of the television, measure the available clearance rather than assuming a stand photograph proves the speaker will fit.

LG G6: account for the installation package

The 65-inch G6 model OLED65G6WUA comes with a flush wall mount, while its stand is not included. LG markets Reflection Free Premium and Brightness Booster Ultra on this series. Its warranty footnote specifies panel, parts and labor coverage in year one, followed by panel-only coverage in years two through five with labor charged. LG G6 product and warranty details.

This is a meaningful comparison for a buyer planning a wall installation. Someone using existing furniture should add the compatible stand before comparing the total against a C6 or another TV.

For warranty budgeting, allow for labor charges after the G6’s first year even while the panel remains within its extended coverage. Check the written terms and installation package before comparing total costs.

LG’s U.S. store listed the 65-inch C6 at $1,399.99 and 65-inch G6 at $2,299.99 on November 3, a $900 difference before tax. That makes the C6 the stronger value for a conventional cabinet setup. The G6’s flush mounting arrangement is the main reason to consider spending more for this comparison. C6 price, G6 price.

Sony BRAVIA 8 II: an older model can remain relevant

Sony identifies the BRAVIA 8 II as a 2025 QD-OLED model, offered in 55 and 65 inches. The K-65XR80M2 runs Google TV and supports Dolby Vision, 4K at 120 frames per second, VRR and ALLM. Its PS5 features include Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode, subject to the stated connection and setup requirements. Sony BRAVIA 8 II.

Choose the BRAVIA 8 II shortlist entry when Google TV, PS5 integration, and compatibility with Sony theater equipment are priorities. Its Acoustic Surface Audio+ system produces sound through the screen.

Compare its delivered quote with the C6 before paying extra for the Sony integration. The BRAVIA 8 II’s linked size selector offers 55 and 65 inches; use another series for a larger screen.

TCL QM7L and QM8L: inspect the input differences

TCL’s current U.S. comparison lists both series as SQD-Mini LED with Google TV, 144Hz native refresh, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG. The QM7L lists four HDMI inputs but specifies 4K/144 for inputs 1–2; the QM8L lists four inputs at 4K/144. TCL 2026 comparison.

That distinction can matter when a high-refresh PC, consoles and an audio system share the TV. Map each device to an actual port, including whichever connection the manual designates for audio return.

TCL specifies series maxima of 3,000 nits for QM7L and 6,000 for QM8L, varying by screen size. Check the exact size’s specification. Both series list 144Hz native panels; the separate 288 Game Accelerator mode has its own resolution and input conditions.

The QM7L’s 55-inch option makes it relevant where the QM8L’s starting size is too large. Check the exact size’s product sheet through TCL’s support library.

Read OLED and Mini-LED as technologies, not scores

OLED uses self-emitting pixels, while the TCL Mini-LED models control a backlight. Compare the effects you can see in your room: dark-scene detail, light around subtitles, window reflections, and the view from side seating.

For your room, examine dark scenes with subtitles, reflections from the actual window direction, and the picture from the seats people will use. If viewing a store demonstration, ask which picture mode is active. Vivid showroom settings and curated demo footage are a poor substitute for material you watch regularly.

When comparing showroom sets, use the same familiar scene and similar picture modes. Look at text against dark backgrounds and faces from off-center seats; those checks are more useful than comparing two different promotional videos.

Check the complete streaming path

A Dolby Vision-compatible TV still needs a compatible title, service plan, app or playback device, and connection. Sony’s product footnotes explicitly condition premium playback on those elements and note that app availability can vary by region and device. Sony compatibility footnotes.

Write down the services you actually use, then check their supported-device lists for the model and country. A built-in app may be enough; an external player is another option if its interface or accessibility features suit you better.

Plan audio separately from the television’s Dolby Atmos compatibility. For effects behind the sofa, price a system with rear speakers and suitable placement. The soundbar and surround comparison explains the options.

Compare the installed cost

Use a basket that includes the TV, stand or mount, delivery, installation, required cables and any audio upgrade. Include tax on the applicable items.

LG’s November 3 C6 page advertises professional wall mounting and a matching mount when added to an eligible cart, through November 22. The G6 page advertises professional mounting and a matching stand under its eligible-cart offer. Inspect the cart and installation terms before adding separate installation or accessory charges to either TV’s price.

Confirm the return window, return-transport cost and policy for damage discovered at delivery. A discount is less useful if the screen does not fit the room or the installation requires unexpected work.

Choose by the constraint you cannot change

For a cabinet installation, dimensions and stand arrangement may decide the shortlist. For several gaming devices, port capabilities matter. For movie streaming, format and app compatibility matter. For a bright room, reflection behavior deserves attention alongside brightness claims.

For a 65-inch cabinet setup, begin with the $1,399.99 C6 and spend more only for a feature the room or equipment needs. For wall mounting, compare the G6’s flush-fit arrangement and the active installation offers. For multiple gaming sources, count the required high-refresh ports before choosing between the TCL series.

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