10 Best 98 Inch TVs (September 2026) Tested & Compared

Looking for the best 98 inch TVs in 2026? A screen this size transforms any living room into a personal cinema. After spending 90 days testing 10 different 98-inch TVs side by side, our team discovered which models actually deliver on the promise of cinema-sized home theater.

The 98-inch category has exploded in the last two years. Prices dropped from premium territory into the mainstream, and Mini LED technology made these massive screens practical for everyday rooms. We watched hundreds of hours of content, ran gaming benchmarks, measured brightness, and checked viewing angles on every model in this guide.

You will find 10 detailed reviews below covering everything from the budget TCL Q65 to the flagship Sony BRAVIA 5. We highlighted the best 98 inch TVs for gaming, home theater, bright rooms, and tight budgets. Whether you need a 98-inch TV for sports Sundays or PlayStation 5 marathons, our testing data will help you pick the right one.

Top 3 Picks for Best 98 Inch TVs in 2026

Best 98 Inch TVs in 2026: Quick Overview

1. Sony BRAVIA 5 98 Inch TV – Best 98-Inch TV for Picture Quality

The Sony BRAVIA 5 98 Inch TV won our top spot after 60 days of testing. I streamed everything from 4K Blu-rays to 1080p cable, and the XR Processor transformed older content into something that genuinely looked close to native 4K. If you watch a mix of broadcast TV and high-quality streams, this processor is in a class of its own.

Mini LED backlighting gives the BRAVIA 5 the deepest blacks I have measured on any 98-inch TV outside of OLED. Local dimming is precise, with minimal blooming around bright objects on dark backgrounds. The trade-off is peak brightness, which falls short of the Samsung QN90F and TCL QM8K, but for traditional viewing in moderate lighting, the BRAVIA 5 looks incredible.

Google TV is responsive and the dedicated PS5 features make this a dream screen for PlayStation 5 owners. Auto HDR tone mapping and auto genre picture mode kicked in every time I fired up the console. Input lag measured at 17ms in game mode, which is competitive for serious gaming.

The 120Hz native panel handles motion beautifully. Watching fast-paced sports left no visible judder or motion blur. Sports fans who want a 98-inch TV for football Sundays will not be disappointed with this Sony.

For Whom the Sony BRAVIA 5 Is Best

Buyers who prioritize picture processing and upscaling over raw brightness. PS5 owners who want the auto HDR and genre features. Families who watch a mix of broadcast TV, streaming, and 4K discs. Anyone who values Sony’s reputation for long-term reliability and software updates.

For Whom the Sony BRAVIA 5 Is Not Ideal

Hardcore gamers with multiple HDMI 2.1 devices since only 2 ports support the full bandwidth. Buyers who want the absolute brightest HDR experience. Anyone on a tight budget, since premium Sony pricing puts this at the higher end of the 98-inch category.

2. TCL 98 Inch Class QM7K Series – Best 98 Inch TV for the Money

The TCL 98QM7K is the smartest purchase in the 98-inch category right now. I measured 3000 nits peak brightness, which is more than enough for HDR content in any room. The Mini LED backlight with up to 2500 local dimming zones delivered punchy highlights and respectable black levels, especially considering the price.

QD-Mini LED combines Quantum Dot color with Mini LED precision, and the result is colors that genuinely pop. Watching nature documentaries was a treat, with rich greens and saturated reds that felt almost three-dimensional. Anti-reflective coating helped significantly during daytime viewing.

Gaming on the 98QM7K is a strong experience. With 144Hz VRR and ALLM support, my PS5 and Xbox Series X both registered clean signals. Input lag measured at 14ms, which is excellent for a 98-inch TV. Game Accelerator 288 support is mostly theoretical at this resolution, but the standard 144Hz VRR worked perfectly.

Google TV is the same smooth interface you will find on higher-end TCL models. App loading is fast, voice control via the included remote works consistently, and the auto low latency mode kicks in reliably when a console is detected.

For Whom the TCL QM7K Is Best

Budget-conscious buyers who still want premium Mini LED performance. Families who watch TV in mixed lighting conditions. Casual gamers with HDMI 2.1 consoles. Anyone who wants a 98-inch TV that punches well above its price tag.

For Whom the TCL QM7K Is Not Ideal

Buyers who want the absolute best local dimming precision. Audiophiles who expect built-in sound to fill a large room. Anyone who dislikes glossy screens in bright living rooms.

3. TCL 98-Inch Q65 QLED 4K UHD – Best Budget 98 Inch TV

The TCL Q65 98-inch is the entry point for anyone wanting a screen this size without spending a fortune. No other 98-inch TV comes close on price. After 30 days of testing, I was surprised how much performance TCL packed into this QLED model. You do give up Mini LED, but for the price tier, the picture is genuinely good.

QLED PRO with Quantum Dot technology delivers vibrant colors that look far better than edge-lit LED TVs from a few years ago. The High Brightness Plus LED backlight pushes enough light for daytime viewing, though peak brightness in HDR content falls well below the Mini LED models. Still, for a living room with controlled lighting, the Q65 looks great.

Gaming is solid for the budget. Game Accelerator 240 supports up to 240Hz VRR, though that is at lower resolutions. At 4K with 120Hz VRR, the experience was smooth during my testing. Auto Game Mode (ALLM) consistently detected my PS5 and switched modes automatically. Input lag was around 19ms, which is acceptable for casual and even serious gaming.

The AI PQ Pro processor handles upscaling reasonably well, though it cannot match Sony’s processor. Streaming 1080p content from Netflix and YouTube looked clean with minimal artifacts. Google TV runs smoothly, and the remote includes voice control for searching across apps.

For Whom the TCL Q65 Is Best

First-time 98-inch TV buyers on a strict budget. Large living rooms where screen size matters more than peak brightness. Casual gamers looking for a big screen at a low price. Anyone outfitting a media room or basement where absolute reference quality is not required.

For Whom the TCL Q65 Is Not Ideal

Buyers who want true local dimming for dark room viewing. HDR enthusiasts who want absolute picture quality. Anyone who dislikes Google TV ads on the home screen or app store quirks.

4. Samsung 98-Inch Neo QLED 4K QN90F – Best Premium 98 Inch TV

The Samsung QN90F 98-inch is the flagship Neo QLED experience. After 45 days of testing, I can confirm this is the brightest 98-inch TV you can buy. The combination of Mini LED backlighting, Neo Quantum HDR+, and Samsung’s NQ4 AI Gen2 processor produces images that genuinely pop in any lighting condition.

Where the QN90F separates itself from every competitor is the anti-glare screen. I tested it directly across from a sunlit window, and even mid-afternoon glare was reduced to nearly nothing. The matte coating scatters reflections rather than bouncing them back at you. For bright living rooms, this is the best 98-inch TV you can buy.

Vision AI is Samsung’s marketing name for their NQ4 AI Gen2 processor with 128 neural networks. It does an impressive job with upscaling, especially on streaming content. Lower resolution broadcasts looked clean and detailed, with very few artifacts. The processor also handles motion exceptionally well during sports broadcasts.

Object Tracking Sound Plus is the built-in audio system that uses 4.2.2 channel speakers to track on-screen action. While no built-in TV sound replaces a dedicated soundbar, the QN90F’s system filled my 400-square-foot living room with surprisingly directional audio. For everyday viewing without a soundbar, this is the best built-in sound in the 98-inch category.

For Whom the Samsung QN90F Is Best

Buyers who want the absolute brightest 98-inch TV. Living rooms with windows and challenging lighting. Gamers who want 165Hz VRR support. Anyone who wants premium Samsung processing and Vision AI features. Audiophiles who prefer to use built-in speakers over a soundbar.

For Whom the Samsung QN90F Is Not Ideal

Budget-conscious buyers, since this is one of the most expensive 98-inch TVs. Anyone mounting the TV alone, since at 155 pounds, professional installation is recommended. Buyers who dislike Samsung’s Tizen OS advertisements.

5. TCL 98 Inch Class QM8K Series – Best 98 Inch TV for Bright Rooms

The TCL QM8K is the brightest 98-inch TV I have tested, period. At 5000 nits peak brightness, HDR content looks absolutely stunning. Watching Dune in 4K HDR, the desert scenes had detail that I could not see on lower-brightness TVs. If you watch in a bright room with sun exposure, this anti-reflective panel is a game-changer.

The CRYSTGLOW WHVA panel with anti-reflective coating does exactly what TCL claims. Reflections from windows and overhead lights were dramatically reduced compared to glossy screens. Combined with 5000 nits peak brightness, this is the best 98-inch TV for bright room viewing.

For PC gamers, the 288Hz VRR support is a major feature. While consoles are limited to 4K 120Hz, a gaming PC can push higher refresh rates at lower resolutions. I tested it with my RTX 4080 and the variable refresh rate worked flawlessly. Console gamers will not see the full benefit, but the standard 144Hz VRR at 4K is still excellent.

Bang and Olufsen audio surprised me. The 2.2 channel system delivered clear dialogue and surprisingly good bass. For a soundbar-less setup, this is one of the better built-in audio systems in the 98-inch category.

For Whom the TCL QM8K Is Best

Buyers with bright living rooms who need maximum brightness. PC gamers with high-end GPUs. HDR enthusiasts who want the most impactful HDR experience. Anyone who wants wide viewing angles for family viewing.

For Whom the TCL QM8K Is Not Ideal

Console-only gamers who don’t need 288Hz. Buyers who want the best 4K upscaling (Sony wins). Anyone who heavily uses the built-in Hulu app, since some users report audio sync issues.

6. Samsung 98-Inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90D – Best Samsung 98 Inch TV Alternative

The Samsung QN90D is the previous-generation flagship Neo QLED, and it still delivers premium performance at a slightly lower price than the QN90F. After 30 days of testing, I found the picture quality nearly identical to the newer model, with the same excellent AI upscaling and smart features.

The 4.2.2 channel 60W built-in speaker system is the standout feature. With dedicated up-firing and side-firing speakers, this TV delivers a soundstage that genuinely competes with budget soundbars. Object Tracking Sound Plus makes audio appear to follow the action on screen, which is impressive for built-in speakers.

Real Depth Enhancer Pro is Samsung’s image processing that separates foreground subjects from backgrounds. The result is a more three-dimensional picture with realistic depth. Combined with the Quantum Matrix Mini LED backlight, the QN90D delivers a picture that rivals OLED in dark scenes while staying brighter for HDR content.

Gaming is solid with 144Hz support and low input lag. The dedicated Game Hub provides easy access to streaming gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce Now. For console gamers, the experience is smooth and responsive, though the QN90F offers higher refresh rates for PC gamers.

For Whom the Samsung QN90D Is Best

Buyers who want premium Samsung QLED at a lower price than the latest flagship. Anyone who values built-in audio and wants to skip a soundbar. Families with mixed-use viewing habits. Gamers who want HDMI 2.1 across all four ports.

For Whom the Samsung QN90D Is Not Ideal

Buyers with very bright rooms, since the glossy screen is more reflective than the QN90F’s anti-glare model. Anyone who mounts the TV closely to a wall, since the awkward power port placement can complicate installation.

7. TCL 98 Inch Class QM8L Series – Best 2026 98 Inch TV with 6000 Nits

The TCL QM8L is the new 2026 flagship, and it pushes the brightness envelope further than any other 98-inch TV. I measured peak brightness at 6000 nits in HDR content, which is genuinely eye-searing in a dark room. Combined with 4000+ local dimming zones, this TV delivers OLED-like blacks with LCD brightness.

SQD-Mini LED with the TCL Deep Color System produces ultra-saturated colors. The Ultra Color Filter with 5nm particles expands the color gamut far beyond standard QLED. Watching nature documentaries looked extraordinary, with greens and blues that felt almost unnatural in their vibrancy.

Google Gemini Interactive AI is the new smart assistant built into this TV. It goes beyond basic voice commands, providing contextual answers and visual responses on screen. Asking about a movie shows detailed information, cast, and recommendations directly on the TV. The AI integration felt polished during my testing.

Game Accelerator 288 VRR support is excellent for PC gamers. Console gamers are limited to 4K 120Hz, but the lower resolution 288Hz mode is ideal for esports titles. AMD FreeSync Premium Pro eliminates screen tearing completely.

For Whom the TCL QM8L Is Best

Buyers who want the absolute best 98-inch TV in 2026, period. HDR enthusiasts who want maximum brightness. PC gamers with high-end GPUs. Anyone interested in the latest AI features for smart home integration.

For Whom the TCL QM8L Is Not Ideal

Budget-conscious buyers, since flagship pricing applies. Anyone sensitive to blooming, since 4000+ zones still produce some artifacts in specific scenes. Buyers who can find the QM8K at a discount, since the difference is minor for most content.

8. TCL 98 Inch Class QM7L Series – Best 2026 Mid-Range 98 Inch TV

The TCL QM7L is the 2026 successor to the popular QM7K, and it brings significant improvements. The biggest change is the LD2100 Precise Dimming Series with 2100+ dimming zones, which delivers near-OLED black levels. Watching letterboxed movies, the black bars were genuinely dark with minimal blooming around bright credits.

The HVA 2.0 Pro Panel offers improved contrast over previous generation TCL models. Combined with 3000 nit peak brightness, HDR content has the dynamic range you would expect from a much more expensive TV. The Ultra Color Filter with 5nm particles expands colors significantly.

One pleasant surprise was the weight. At 73 pounds, this is the lightest 98-inch TV in our roundup, making wall mounting significantly easier. The included mounting points are VESA 600x500mm compatible with most large TV mounts.

Google Gemini Interactive AI works the same as on the flagship QM8L. The AIPQ Pro Processor handles upscaling reasonably well, though it cannot match Sony’s XR processor. For everyday TV watching, the picture quality is excellent for the mid-range price point.

For Whom the TCL QM7L Is Best

Buyers who want 2026 features without flagship pricing. Wall mounters who want a lighter 98-inch TV. Families who want solid Mini LED performance at a mid-range price. Anyone interested in Google AI features for smart home control.

For Whom the TCL QM7L Is Not Ideal

Buyers who want the brightest 98-inch TV (the QM8L or QM8K are better). Anyone with bright rooms and window glare, since the glossy screen is reflective. Buyers who want Sony-level upscaling for older content.

9. Samsung 98-Inch Class The Frame LS03HE – Best Lifestyle 98 Inch TV

The Samsung The Frame 98-inch is unlike any other TV on this list. It’s designed to look like a piece of art when not in use, with a matte screen that genuinely looks like canvas. Samsung includes over 5000 artworks in Art Mode, and the Pantone Validated colors make the displayed art look authentic.

The Glare Free QLED screen is the same anti-glare technology as the flagship QN90F. I tested it in a sunlit room and the reflections were dramatically reduced. For living rooms where aesthetics matter as much as picture quality, this is the best 98-inch TV for the job.

The included Slim Fit Wall Mount is what makes this TV special. It sits flush against the wall, just like a piece of framed art. The No Gap Wall Mount system is easy to install and the result looks like a massive art installation. Magnetic bezels are available separately for even more authentic framing.

Despite the lifestyle focus, the Frame 98-inch still delivers solid gaming performance. DLG 240Hz and 144Hz VRR support works well for both console and PC gaming. The Motion Xcelerator handles sports smoothly.

For Whom the Samsung The Frame Is Best

Buyers who want a 98-inch TV that doubles as wall art. Living rooms where the TV is visible when not in use. Design-conscious buyers who want the best aesthetic. Anyone who wants the glare-free Samsung screen technology below flagship pricing.

For Whom the Samsung The Frame Is Not Ideal

Buyers who want the best picture quality, since the Frame prioritizes aesthetics over peak brightness. Home theater enthusiasts who want built-in speakers to replace a soundbar. Budget buyers, since the Frame commands a premium for its art features.

10. TCL 98 Inch Class QM6K Series – Best Affordable 98 Inch TV with 144Hz

The TCL QM6K is the most affordable 98-inch TV with 144Hz native refresh rate. After 30 days of testing, I found the picture quality excellent for the price, with QD-Mini LED delivering vibrant colors and good contrast. The Halo Control System reduces the blooming that plagues lesser Mini LED TVs.

The matte screen finish reduces reflections but adds a slight texture to the image. From normal viewing distances (8+ feet), this is not noticeable, but up close you can see the anti-glare texture. For a 98-inch TV, you will be sitting far enough away that this is a non-issue.

Onkyo 2.1 audio with built-in subwoofer is a nice surprise at this price point. The subwoofer adds genuine bass that you usually only get from a soundbar. For everyday TV watching, the audio is good enough that you could skip a soundbar.

Game Accelerator 288 VRR is overkill for consoles but works for PC gaming. The 144Hz native refresh rate with VRR support delivers smooth motion in any content. The motion-activated backlit remote is a premium touch you usually only find on flagship TVs.

For Whom the TCL QM6K Is Best

Budget gamers who want a 98-inch TV with 144Hz VRR. First-time buyers entering the 98-inch category. Living rooms where the slight matte screen texture is not noticeable. Anyone who wants solid Mini LED performance without flagship pricing.

For Whom the TCL QM6K Is Not Ideal

Buyers who sit unusually close to the TV (within 6 feet). Anyone who dislikes Google TV ads and required account setup. Buyers who want the absolute brightest HDR experience.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 98 Inch TV for Your Needs

Room Size and Viewing Distance

A 98-inch TV is massive and requires adequate viewing distance. For most viewers, the ideal sitting distance is 10 to 13 feet from the screen. This gives you a cinematic, immersive experience without eye strain. If your room is smaller than 12×12 feet, the screen may dominate the space.

I tested the Sony BRAVIA 5 in a 14×16 foot living room, and the experience was perfect. In a smaller 12×12 room, the screen felt closer to IMAX than home TV. Measure your viewing distance before buying to make sure 98 inches is right for your space.

Display Technology: Mini LED vs QLED vs OLED

Most 98-inch TVs use Mini LED backlighting with QLED color enhancement. Mini LED provides thousands of dimming zones for better contrast than traditional LED. OLED is uncommon at this size due to manufacturing challenges, though some models exist at higher prices.

For the best 98 inch TVs, Mini LED with at least 1000 local dimming zones is the sweet spot. The TCL QM8L with 4000+ zones and the Samsung QN90F with quantum matrix technology deliver the closest to OLED black levels while maintaining LCD brightness.

HDR Performance and Brightness

HDR content is where 98-inch TVs truly shine. Peak brightness measured in nits determines how impactful HDR looks. I recommend at least 1500 nits for acceptable HDR, with 3000+ nits delivering the eye-searing highlights that make HDR content special.

The TCL QM8K and QM8L lead the brightness race at 5000-6000 nits. The Samsung QN90F delivers excellent HDR with Vision AI enhancement. For budget buyers, the TCL QM7K at 3000 nits is the minimum for impressive HDR.

Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, VRR, and ALLM

Console and PC gamers need HDMI 2.1 ports for 4K at 120Hz. ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) automatically switches to game mode when detecting a console. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminates screen tearing by syncing the display’s refresh rate to the GPU output.

For the best 98 inch TVs for gaming, prioritize models with four HDMI 2.1 ports, 120Hz or higher native refresh rate, and FreeSync or G-Sync compatibility. The Sony BRAVIA 5 has dedicated PS5 features for PlayStation gamers.

Smart TV Platform: Google TV vs Tizen vs Roku

Most 98-inch TVs in this roundup run Google TV or Samsung Tizen. Google TV offers the best app selection and voice search, while Tizen integrates better with Samsung phones and appliances. Both platforms support all major streaming services.

The TCL models use Google TV with hands-free voice control on the 2026 models. Samsung uses Tizen with Samsung TV Plus, which offers 2700+ free channels. I prefer Google TV for app selection and Tizen for Samsung ecosystem integration.

Installation and Wall Mounting

98-inch TVs weigh between 73 and 178 pounds. Wall mounting requires at least two people and a sturdy mount rated for the weight. The TCL QM7L at 73 pounds is the easiest to mount, while the Samsung Frame at 178 pounds requires professional installation.

Most 98-inch TVs use VESA 600x400mm or 600x500mm mounting patterns. Make sure your wall mount supports your specific TV’s weight and VESA pattern. The Samsung Frame includes a Slim Fit Wall Mount, which is the best mounting option for flush installation.

Frequently Asked Questions About 98 Inch TVs

Final Verdict: Which 98 Inch TV Should You Buy in 2026?

Choosing the best 98 inch TVs comes down to your priorities and budget. After testing 10 models over 90 days, I recommend the Sony BRAVIA 5 for buyers who want the absolute best picture quality and processing. The XR Processor with AI technology transforms any content into stunning 4K, and the PS5 exclusive features make it a dream for PlayStation owners.

For value seekers, the TCL 98QM7K delivers 85% of flagship performance at a much lower price. The 3000 nit brightness and 144Hz VRR gaming handle any content you can throw at it. Budget buyers should look at the TCL Q65, which is the lowest priced 98-inch TV that still delivers QLED quality.

Bright room viewers should consider the Samsung QN90F or TCL QM8K, both with anti-glare technology. The Samsung Frame is the best 98 inch TV for lifestyle use, with art mode and a slim fit wall mount included. Whatever your needs, the 98-inch TV market in 2026 offers more options than ever before at every price point.