Which TCL TV Has HDMI 2.1? (And Alternatives to Consider)

HDMI 2.1 is the most recent update of HDMI technology. Compared to HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1 supports higher video resolutions and refresh rates to give you the sharpest picture possible. If you’re in the market for a new TV, you may be wondering, “which TCL TVs have HDMI 2.1?”

Currently, certain TCL 6-Series models, Mini-LED models, XL Series models, and QLED models offer HDMI 2.1 ports. However, capabilities vary depending on the exact model, so be sure the TV you’re considering can support HDMI 2.1 technology before making a final decision.

Below, we’ll go into more detail about which TCL televisions offer these advanced HDMI ports. Read on before making your final decision!

Which TCL TVs Have HDMI 2.1 Ports?

Many TCL’s 6-Series 4K and 8K televisions have HDMI 2.1 ports. There is a total of four HDMI inputs, two of which are equipped with the 2.1 technology. Most models with 2.1 ports come with Google TV technology, but some Android TV models also offer these capabilities.

In addition, a portion of TCL’s new line of Mini-LED TVs includes HDMI 2.1 ports. In this line, TCL boasts cinema-inspired technologies that produce accurate color, along with advanced contrast and realism. One of these is the C825 model, which uses Android TV technology. Certain models from the QLED line also use this advanced HDMI input, including the C728, which also uses Android TV.

While TCL’s XL Series line does not have official HDMI 2.1 ports, they do support certain 2.1 features. These include a variable refresh rate and auto low latency mode. However, they do not support 120Hz bandwidth.

What is HDMI 2.1?

HDMI 2.1 is the newest update to HDMI technology. It supports video resolutions up to 10K and higher refresh rates than HDMI 2.0 ports, including 8K60 and 4K120. 2.1 technology also supports dynamic HDR formats and increases bandwidth up to 48Gbps. This means it can move nearly three times more data than 2.0 ports, ensuring any features dependent on high bandwidth are uncompromised.

In addition to this, HDMI 2.1 technology offers three other key features:

• Variable refresh rate
• Auto low latency mode
• Enhanced audio return channel

Let’s discuss these features more in-depth.

Variable Refresh Rate

HDMI 2.1’s variable refresh rate uses adaptive sync technology, perfectly aligning your TV’s refresh rate with your connected device’s frame rate. This is especially useful if you’ll be using your TCL TV for gaming purposes. It will render all pictures with perfect smoothness, eliminating any shaking caused by new frames rendering.

Auto Low Latency Mode

Auto low latency mode (ALLM) can detect when a gaming console or other HDMI device is connected. ALLM will automatically switch your television to the appropriate mode, depending on the connected device, to reduce lag times. It does this by turning off any unnecessary video processes that may be slowing down the audiovisual aspects.

Enhanced Audio Return Channel

Enhanced audio return channel, or eARC, is all about streamlining your audio. It allows you to connect any external speakers or soundbars with a single HDMI 2.1 cable. No additional wires are required. TCL TVs often include four separate HDMI ports, meaning you’ll still have three free to connect any other devices you have.

Alternative Options with HDMI 2.1 Technology

If none of the TCL options are right for you, there are a few other televisions with HDMI 2.1 connections you may want to consider. These include:

• LG C1 OLED
• Hisense U7G Android TV
• Vizio M-Series Quantum MQ6

Now, we’ll highlight the benefits of these alternative options.

LG C1 OLED

LG’s C1 OLED model features four HDMI ports, all with 2.1 technology. It’s pretty comparable in price to TCL’s 6-Series models and offers a fantastic picture quality with HDR support. It’s a great option to consider if you’ll be playing a lot of games on your TV, as it offers some of the best gaming performance available, along with better-than-average sound quality.

Hisense U7G Android TV

If you’re looking for something a bit less expensive, the Hisense U7G Android TV is a great option. It offers good color and sharpness, with a bright quantum-dot display. It’s marketed primarily as a gaming television but can handle nearly any HDMI 2.1 device you connect it to. This television also features Dolby Atmos sound, giving you high-quality audiovisual qualities at a lower price.

Vizio M-Series Quantum MQ6

Vizio’s M-Series Quantum MQ6 television is a great option for budget-conscious buyers. It includes three HDMI 2.1 ports, along with a high-quality quantum dot display and fast response times. While it has decent picture quality and performance, you’ll have to compromise when it comes to sound. However, this is still an excellent choice if you’re on a budget.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a TCL television with new HDMI 2.1 ports, the 6-Series, Mini-LED series, and QLED series are great places to start. HDMI 2.1 cables often offer significantly better picture and video quality than HDMI 2.0 cables and come with a plethora of features to make your experience better.