Over the years, TCL has built a reputation for quality performance at a lower cost compared to its competitors, particularly in the TV space. While the company may have found success in that area, its venture into soundbars with the new Q85H falls short of expectations.
TCL Q85H – Design and Features
To its credit, TCL’s Q85H soundbar boasts a sleek design that gives off the appearance of a high-end system. While it may not be as physically imposing as some of Samsung’s flagship offerings, it does feature a nice gloss finish that resembles the aesthetic of other top brands like SVS. However, looks can only take a product so far.
- Drivers: 15 total speakers
- Connections: HDMI 2.0, HDMI eARC 2.1, Bluetooth 5.1, Optical Digital Audio, USB
- Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS: X
- Dimensions: 41.5” x 4.86” x 2.68” (soundbar); 8.66” x 14.51” x 10.67” (subwoofer)
- Weight: 11.8 pounds (soundbar); 13.4 pounds (subwoofer)
The Q85H comes with rear satellite speakers that may not offer much in terms of power cables, but they are usually long enough for most setups. The subwoofer included in the system is housed in a decent-sized cabinet, making it easy to fit into your room. The remote control provides basic settings to customize the sound output, though the results may vary.
Connection-wise, the Q85H is equipped with standard features such as HDMI 2.1 eARC port, Bluetooth 5.1, and WiFi with Apple AirPlay support. While this is a nice addition, other flagship soundbars offer more features like Google Chromecast support or compatibility with smart assistants, which may be missed on the Q85H.
TCL Q85H – Performance
During a comprehensive two-week testing period, the Q85H failed to deliver on its promises. The audio quality lacked detail, with unbalanced sound that favored loud action sequences over dialogue. The subwoofer’s bass notes interfered with other channels, and the rear speakers gave off strange reverberations instead of true surround sound.
Settings on the Q85H were limited and ineffective, with minimal customization options for different audio channels. The preset EQs offered little improvement, leaving users with subpar sound quality. However, music performance could be salvaged with careful adjustments to the settings.
TCL Q85H – The Competition
For the price of the TCL Q85H, there are several alternatives available that offer better value and performance. The Sonos Arc provides exceptional Dolby Atmos sound and a versatile ecosystem for expanding audio options. Vizio’s Elevate 5.1.4 system delivers comparable components at a lower price point with superior sound quality. If budget is not a concern, Samsung’s HW-Q990D or HW-Q990C offer cinematic sound experiences that outshine the Q85H.