Frequently asked questions

TCL TVs: our customers' frequently asked questions

Warranty, updates, model names that change by country, Belgian apps, soundbars, gaming or minor faults: here are the questions our customers ask us most often about TCL, with clear and honest answers.

By Clément, TV specialist at Nimestore · 6 min read · Published 16 October 2026
In brief
  • Statutory guarantee of two years ; no published update period
  • C89L = C8L, C79L = C7L, P89L = P8L, P79L = P7L
  • All the Belgian apps on Google TV, except Pickx
  • No risk of burn-in : no OLED at TCL

Warranty, service and updates

What does the two-year guarantee cover?

The Belgian statutory guarantee covers non-conformities present at delivery or appearing within two years: power failure, faulty panel, motherboard, etc. It does not cover a screen broken by an impact or a power surge. Keep your proof of purchase: it is what counts. If there's a problem, come back to us in store.

How long will my TCL receive updates for?

TCL has not published a set period not published an official period. Samsung (7 years) and LG (5 years) have, but TCL and Sony have not. In practice, Google TV and its apps keep evolving via Google and the Play Store, and TCL publishes firmware updates. If a long guaranteed update period is your priority, let us know: we will compare options with you.

Does the Sony and TCL agreement change anything for me?

Sony and TCL have announced a joint venture for Sony's TV business, due to start in April 2027 (TCL majority). It mainly concerns future Sony televisions. For a TCL bought today, nothing changes: warranty, service and updates remain those of TCL.

Model names, countries and differences

C89L, C8L, QM8L: how to tell them apart?

The C89L (sold in France, at Nimestore) and the C8L (Belgium, Netherlands, United Kingdom) are the same series, with identical official spec sheets except for the audio line. Same logic applies to C79L / C7L, P89L / P8L and P79L / P7L. By contrast, the American names (QM8L, QM7L) refer to other products: don't rely on US reviews when comparing.

What do the letters K and L mean?

It's the model year: L = 2026, K = 2025, J = 2024. A 65C6K is a 2025 model, a 65C89L a 2026 model. The full details are in the TCL 2026 range.

Why is the 55C89L less bright than the 65C89L?

At TCL, the figures vary by size. The 55C89L has an HVA panel, 1,008 zones and a claimed 3,000 nits; the 65C89L has a WHVA panel, 2,040 zones and 5,000 nits. The 6,000 nits often quoted apply to the 85 and 98-inch models.

C89L or C79L: is the price gap worth it?

Usually, yes, from 65 inches up: a panel with wider viewing angles, almost twice as many zones, much higher brightness, four HDMI 2.1 ports and promised Dolby Vision 2. The C79L remains an excellent buy if you're honest about your needs. Also compare Nimesclub member prices, which are sometimes very close.

P89L or P79L in 55 inches, at the same price?

On 15 October, the 55P89L and 55P79L had the same list price (€649.99). The P89L brings Mini LED and 144Hz, while the P79L remains a 60Hz QLED. At equal prices, we recommend the P89L, unless your product sheet shows a difference.

Apps, Smart TVs and connections

Do Auvio, VRT MAX and Play work on a TCL?

Yes. These apps are available on recent Google TV and Android TV: Auvio from Android TV 8.1, VRT MAX from Android TV 9, and Play. Streamz, VTM GO, Telenet TV, VOO TV+ and Orange TV Go are also available. RTL Play is likely but should be checked on the model on display.

And Proximus Pickx?

There is no Pickx app there is no Pickx app on retail TVs, TCL included. Proximus customers use their set-top box (TV Box V7), an Apple TV, a Chromecast or casting from their smartphone.

Can I send a video from my phone?

Yes, the Chromecast is built in to Google TV: tap the cast icon in YouTube, Netflix or Auvio. For AirPlay from an iPhone, support is not guaranteed across the whole range: check your model's product sheet.

Which soundbar should I connect to a TCL?

Any HDMI soundbar eARC will work, ideally Dolby Atmos compatible. Connect it to the TV's HDMI eARC port and turn on HDMI control (CEC): one remote is enough. On a C89L it's not essential; on a P79L (2 × 10 W) it's strongly recommended. Our guide TV sound and soundbars will help you choose.

Exploded view of an Audio by Bang & Olufsen speaker from a TCL C8L television
The sound on the C89L is tuned by Bang & Olufsen.

Can I receive digital terrestrial TV (TNT) on a TCL?

TCLs include a digital tuner; check the DVB-T2 HEVC compatibility on your model's product sheet. In Wallonia and Brussels, RTBF still broadcasts in DVB-T2 HEVC; in Flanders, VRT switched off its free signal in 2018. Most of our customers watch TV via their operator or apps.

Picture, gaming and burn-in

TCL C8L television on a low wooden unit in front of a bright picture window
Very bright Mini LED: ideal for a bright room, with no risk of burn-in.

Can a TCL get burn-in?

No. TCLs are Mini LED or QLED LCD screens, with no risk of burn-in, unlike OLED. News channels, static logos and video games pose no problem.

I can see a halo around the subtitles, is that normal?

A slight halo on a very black background is normal on a Mini LED: it's a limit of the technology. It is less noticeable on a C89L than on a P89L. Slightly reducing the local dimming level can lessen it. An OLED doesn't have this issue, but TCL doesn't make one.

Is my TCL compatible with 4K 120Hz for my console?

Yes on the C89L, C79L and P89L (native 144Hz), provided you use an HDMI 2.1 port and an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. No on the P79L, which is limited to 60Hz. The settings are detailed in setting up your TCL properly.

C
Clément's tip

Before calling after-sales service, always do two things: unplug the TV from the socket for a full minute, then check for updates. This sorts out many minor app or connection issues. And if the problem persists, pop into our shop with your proof of purchase.

TCLs in store

Minor faults to check yourself

No picture, but sound?

Check the source (Input button), then the HDMI cable: reconnect it or try another port. If the screen stays black, turn off the energy saving or 'screen off' mode in the sound menu.

Won't your TV switch on?

Check whether the standby light is on. Unplug the TV for a minute, plug it straight back into a wall socket (not into a power strip), then press the physical button on the TV. If nothing happens, contact us.

Is an app crashing or no longer starting?

In the Google TV settings, under Apps, clear the app's cache, then update it from the Play Store. Then restart the TV.

Does the Wi-Fi often drop out?

Move the router closer or use an Ethernet cable, which is more stable for 4K. The C89L models have Wi-Fi 6, the P79L Wi-Fi 5.

Is the remote no longer responding?

Replace the batteries, then re-pair the Bluetooth remote (usually by holding down two buttons near the TV; the combination is given in your model's manual).

These checks are general advice. If in doubt, never take the TV apart: ask our expert salesperson.

Discover the full range of the brand in the TCL space.

Frequently asked questions

What warranty comes with a TCL TV in Belgium?

Two years' statutory guarantee, provided by the seller. For any extended warranty, ask our expert salesperson what is offered at the time of purchase.

TCL or Hisense: which should you choose?

Both Chinese brands offer bright Mini LED sets at good prices. TCL runs Google TV, with all the operator apps except Pickx. Hisense mainly uses VIDAA, which is simpler but has fewer apps. Compare the two in store, at equal size and price.

Why is my TCL called C89L when reviews refer to the C8L?

It's the same series. The name C89L is used in France, where Nimestore buys its stock, and the name C8L in Belgium, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The official spec sheets are identical except for the audio line.

Is a TCL suitable for a PS5?

Yes, from the P89L onwards. The P89L, C79L and C89L support 4K 120Hz, VRR and ALLM. The C89L has four HDMI 2.1 ports and comes in 65 to 98 inches. The P79L, at 60Hz, is only suitable for casual gaming.

Are TCL TVs reliable?

TCL makes its own panels and is one of the two largest TV manufacturers in the world. As with any brand, a fault is always possible; it is covered by the two-year statutory guarantee. We remain your point of contact in store.

Do you need a Google account to use a TCL?

To make the most of all the features (apps, Gemini, recommendations), yes, and TCL also requires a free TCL account. Without an account, use remains limited. We can help you get set up in store.

Where are TCL TVs made?

TCL is a Chinese group. Its panels are produced by its subsidiary CSOT. The group also has an assembly plant in Poland for the European market, but the exact place of manufacture varies by model.

Is Dolby Vision 2 available on my C89L?

Not yet as of 15 October 2026. TCL has promised it via a future update for the C8L/C89L, with no specific date. The C89L already supports Dolby Vision IQ.

Need advice?

Come and compare the screens in person

At our Temploux shop, we switch on TVs side by side with your content. Or ask our expert salesperson online, right now.

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