The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The TCL P8L is a QD-Mini LED television family with Google TV and a manufacturer-rated native refresh rate of 144Hz. Its often-advertised 288Hz figure is not 4K at 288Hz: TCL describes it as a 288 VRR Game Accelerator mode that operates through HDMI 1 and HDMI 2, while the Canadian 98-inch listing specifies 4K VRR up to 144Hz and 4K1K VRR up to 288Hz. Port counts, HDR support, mounting measurements and even available services depend on the exact screen size and regional model.
Quick answers
- How many HDMI ports does the TCL P8L have? TCL’s India page identifies HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 as the ports for the 288 VRR Game Accelerator, but does not establish a universal total. European TCLshop listings for the 55P8L and 65P8L specify four HDMI inputs and one USB 3.0 port. Do not apply that count to another size or country without checking its manual.
- Is the P8L 144Hz or 288Hz? It is a 144Hz-native television. The 288Hz claim describes a reduced-resolution, variable-refresh gaming mode: TCL Canada lists 4K2K at 48–144Hz and 4K1K at 48–288Hz for its Canadian 98P8L.
- Which HDR formats are supported? The Canadian 98-inch listing names Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Vision gaming, HDR10+, HDR and HLG. TCL’s global description says the family decodes multiple HDR formats, but that does not prove every format is present on every regional size.
- Does it use Google TV? Yes. TCL identifies Google TV as the smart-TV platform. Smart features require a Google Account, a free TCL Account and reliable broadband; applications and content vary by region.
Why the exact P8L variant matters
“TCL P8L” is a family name, not one globally identical specification sheet. TCL states that features, certifications and specifications can vary by model, diagonal size and market, and may change without notice. A 55-inch European listing and a 98-inch Canadian listing therefore provide useful examples, not a universal P8L port map.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Before buying or installing one, record the complete model code from the retailer page, carton or television label. Confirm the country edition, screen size and the support page for that code. This matters for HDMI count, which sockets carry high-refresh signals, HDR decoding, tuner standards, included accessories and wall-mount dimensions. A specification copied from a different regional page can be accurate for that page and still wrong for your television.
Refresh rate: native 144Hz versus the 288Hz gaming mode
144Hz is the panel’s native specification
TCL India describes the P8L as having a 144Hz native refresh rate and support for a 4K 144Hz signal path. “Native” refers to the panel’s stated operating rate; it is the appropriate figure when comparing the television with ordinary 120Hz or 144Hz gaming displays. It does not mean that every source, application or picture mode will output 144 frames per second.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
288Hz uses a different resolution and signal condition
The 288 VRR Game Accelerator is a boosted variable-refresh mode. TCL India says it is available through HDMI 1 and HDMI 2. TCL Canada’s 98P8L specification makes the trade-off explicit:
| Signal mode | Resolution wording on Canadian 98P8L listing | Variable-refresh range | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4K VRR | 4K2K | 48–144Hz | Full 3840×2160-class output at up to 144Hz |
| High-refresh VRR | 4K1K | 48–288Hz | Up to 288Hz with a lower vertical resolution than 4K2K |
Consequently, the safe description is “144Hz native, with a 288Hz VRR mode at 4K1K,” not “4K 288Hz.” A console or PC must support the required resolution, refresh rate and variable-refresh protocol, and the connection must use a compatible HDMI input. Actual frame rates still depend on the game, graphics hardware and settings.
Choosing the mode for a console or PC
- Use 4K2K VRR when image detail is more important and your source can sustain up to 144Hz.
- Use 4K1K VRR when a compatible PC game benefits from a higher refresh ceiling and you accept the lower resolution.
- Check the source’s output menu after connecting; the television’s information screen should report the negotiated resolution and refresh rate.
HDMI and USB ports: what is confirmed
Evidence for HDMI count
There is no single port count established for every P8L version in the available manufacturer information. TCL India confirms that HDMI 1 and HDMI 2 enable the 288 VRR Game Accelerator, but its family page does not state that all sizes have the same number or arrangement of sockets. TCLshop.eu listings for the European 55P8L and 65P8L state four HDMI inputs and one USB 3.0 port. Those are regional retailer specifications for two sizes, not proof of the Canadian 98-inch layout or another market’s model.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The Canadian 98P8L listing identifies video and HDR capabilities but does not provide a complete port-by-port table in the cited information. Treat the number of HDMI inputs, USB versions, eARC location and bandwidth as not stated until the exact regional manual confirms them.
Connecting a high-refresh gaming source
- Identify HDMI 1 or HDMI 2 on the television if you want to test the 288 VRR Game Accelerator described by TCL India.
- Connect the console or PC directly to that input with a cable rated for the source’s required bandwidth. Avoid assuming that an adapter, switch or receiver passes every high-refresh mode.
- On the source, select 4K output for the 4K2K mode, or the supported 4K1K/lower-vertical-resolution option for 288Hz operation.
- Enable variable refresh rate on the source where available, then open the television’s game-related picture controls and select the available Game Accelerator or VRR option. Menu names can differ by region and firmware.
- Open the source’s signal-information panel and verify the negotiated resolution and refresh rate. If 288Hz is unavailable, test 144Hz at 4K2K first; that separates a mode limitation from a cable or compatibility problem.
USB and audio cautions
One European 55P8L and 65P8L listing specifies a USB 3.0 port, but the evidence does not establish USB count or speed for every P8L. Likewise, the available pages do not establish a universal eARC socket number. Use the exact manual for soundbar wiring, external-drive compatibility and the location of any eARC-labelled HDMI port rather than relying on a family-level diagram.
HDR formats and what they mean
The most detailed HDR list in the available specifications belongs to TCL Canada’s 98P8L listing: Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Vision gaming, HDR10+, HDR and HLG. Dolby Vision IQ can adapt tone mapping using scene information and ambient-light data when the television and content support it. Dolby Vision gaming identifies the gaming profile. HDR10+ is a dynamic-metadata format, while HDR10 and HLG cover common HDR video and broadcast workflows.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
TCL Global describes the P8L family as decoding multiple HDR formats, but the cited global page does not establish that every named format is included on every size or regional edition. Therefore, use the Canadian list only for the Canadian 98-inch specification unless the support page for your model repeats it. An app or disc also has to carry the relevant HDR format; a television cannot add Dolby Vision or HDR10+ metadata to SDR content.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsChecking HDR in practice
- Confirm that the streaming title, game or disc is labelled for the desired HDR format and that your source output is set to allow HDR.
- Connect through a compatible HDMI path when using an external player; a switch or receiver can limit the signal even when the television supports it.
- When playback starts, check the television’s on-screen signal or picture information for HDR, Dolby Vision or HDR10+ status.
- If the picture looks washed out, test another certified source and cable, disable forced SDR/HDR overrides, and update source and television firmware before changing advanced picture controls.
Google TV features and account requirements
The P8L uses Google TV rather than a TCL-only smart interface. TCL says setup of its smart features requires a Google Account, a free TCL Account and reliable broadband. Google TV combines installed applications, live or on-demand recommendations and voice-search features where those services are offered. App catalogues, live-TV integrations, language options and voice features vary by country and can change independently of the panel hardware.
First-time setup
- Connect the television to Wi-Fi or wired broadband during the on-screen Google TV setup.
- Sign in with a Google Account, or create one if appropriate for the household. A Google Account is separate from the TCL Account requested for TCL services.
- Create or sign in to the free TCL Account when prompted.
- Install only the applications available in your region’s Google TV store, then check for television firmware updates.
- Review privacy, voice-assistant and content-profile settings before handing the remote to children or other household members.
Without reliable broadband, the display and connected HDMI devices can still be useful, but internet-dependent recommendations, streaming and updates will not work normally. Regional service availability is not a guarantee that a particular app appears on every P8L edition.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Screen sizes, resolution and mounting
TCL India’s family page lists 55-, 65-, 75-, 85- and 98-inch sizes. The Canadian listing discussed here is specifically the 98P8L and gives a 3840×2160 resolution. Do not assume that a size sold in one country is offered in another or that every diagonal has identical electronics.
| Evidence scope | Sizes or model | Resolution/refresh information | Mounting information |
|---|---|---|---|
| TCL India family page | 55, 65, 75, 85 and 98 inches listed | QD-Mini LED; 144Hz native; 4K 144Hz signal-path claim; HDMI 1/2 288 VRR Game Accelerator | Exact VESA pattern not stated |
| TCL Canada listing | 98P8L | 3840×2160; 4K2K VRR 48–144Hz; 4K1K VRR 48–288Hz | Exact VESA pattern not stated in the cited information |
| TCLshop.eu listings | 55P8L and 65P8L | Port details are regional retailer specifications | Different VESA measurements are listed for the two sizes; verify the exact manual |
Before ordering a wall mount, obtain the model-specific VESA spacing, screw size, depth clearance and television weight from the manual. The mount must be rated for the complete television weight, and a 98-inch screen usually needs more clearance and stronger handling than a smaller diagonal.
A practical buying and setup checklist
- Match the full model code, country and screen size, not just “P8L.”
- Decide whether you need 4K up to 144Hz or are prepared to use 4K1K for the 288Hz mode.
- Reserve HDMI 1 or HDMI 2 for a source that needs the advertised 288 VRR Game Accelerator.
- Confirm the total HDMI and USB count in the exact manual; the four-HDMI/one-USB-3.0 figure is established only for cited European 55- and 65-inch listings.
- Check the HDR list for your regional size instead of importing the Canadian 98P8L list.
- Verify Google TV apps, broadcast services and language support in your country.
- Confirm VESA dimensions and load rating before buying a stand or wall bracket.
Common problems and fixes
The source shows 60Hz instead of 144Hz
Check that the source output is set to 4K at 120/144Hz, connect directly to a compatible HDMI input, and remove intermediate equipment temporarily. A cable or receiver that negotiates a lower bandwidth can force 60Hz. Verify the result in the television’s signal-information panel rather than relying on a game’s estimate.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
288Hz is missing
288Hz is not a 4K2K mode. Select the supported 4K1K output, use HDMI 1 or HDMI 2 as identified by TCL India, enable VRR on the source and confirm that the PC or game supports that timing. If the source cannot output the required lower vertical resolution, 4K2K at up to 144Hz is the appropriate fallback.
HDR does not trigger
Confirm that the content carries HDR, that the player permits HDR output and that every device in the chain supports the signal. Test a direct connection and another known HDR title. The format list for one regional size cannot guarantee support on a different P8L variant.
Google TV apps or services are unavailable
Check broadband, Google and TCL account sign-in, country settings and firmware. App availability is regional; an application listed in another country’s store may not be offered on your edition.
What these specifications do not prove
The cited pages are TCL or retailer product descriptions, not independent laboratory tests. They establish advertised modes and feature support, but not measured brightness, contrast, blooming, input lag, colour accuracy, upscaling quality or sustained gaming performance. They also do not provide a complete port-by-port manual for every size and region or current retailer availability. Use the exact regional support page and manual for final purchasing, installation and compatibility decisions.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
