As the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) kicks off, the narrative in the premium television space has been heavily focused on the rise of RGB LED technology. However, TCL is making a bold move to shift that conversation with the launch of its new flagship, the X11L SQD-Mini LED TV. Unveiled on January 5th, this model represents a significant technological leap, not by following the RGB LED trend, but by pushing the boundaries of mini-LED with a new color system and extreme specifications aimed at delivering unparalleled picture quality.
A New Approach to Color and Brightness
The TCL X11L is built on a mini-LED foundation but incorporates what the company calls its "Deep Color System." This system hinges on two key components: newly reformulated quantum dots and a proprietary CSOT UltraColor Filter. The quantum dots are designed to produce a wider color spectrum, while the filter works to ensure that color is delivered accurately at the pixel level. The result, according to TCL, is the ability to achieve 100% coverage of the demanding BT.2020, DCI-P3, and Adobe RGB color gamuts. This claim puts it on par with the color potential of RGB LED TVs but, as TCL argues, without the risk of color crosstalk—a phenomenon where light from adjacent colored LEDs can bleed and reduce saturation in real-world content.
TCL X11L SQD-Mini LED TV Key Specifications:
- Display Technology: SQD-Mini LED with Deep Color System
- Peak Brightness: Up to 10,000 nits
- Dimming Zones: Up to 20,000
- Color Gamut: 100% BT.2020, DCI-P3, Adobe RGB
- Key Features: CSOT UltraColor Filter, Dolby Vision 2 (via future OTA), Google TV with Gemini, Bang & Olufsen audio, Dolby Atmos Flex Connect
- HDMI Ports: 4 x HDMI 2.1
- Launch Prices (USD):
- 98-inch: $9,999.99
- 85-inch: $7,999.99
- 75-inch: $6,999.99 (available later)
- Status: Available for pre-order (85" & 98") as of January 5, 2026.
Unprecedented Specs for Contrast and HDR
Where the X11L truly aims to stand out is in its core performance metrics. The TV boasts an astonishing peak brightness of up to 10,000 nits, making it one of the brightest consumer displays ever announced. It pairs this with up to 20,000 discrete local dimming zones, a figure that triples the count on TCL's previous high-end QM9K model. This combination is engineered to deliver incredibly deep blacks, precise highlights, and fine shadow detail, effectively merging the high brightness of LED with the per-pixel contrast control associated with OLED technology.
Future-Proofed Features and Immersive Audio
TCL has equipped the X11L with features designed to keep it relevant for years to come. It is one of the first TVs announced to support the upcoming Dolby Vision 2 standard, which will be enabled via an over-the-air (OTA) update later in 2026. For connectivity, it includes four HDMI 2.1 ports. The smart platform is Google TV with the integrated Gemini assistant. Notably, the audio system is a collaboration with Bang & Olufsen, and early demos suggest it provides an immersive, high-fidelity soundscape with deep bass, negating the immediate need for a separate soundbar for many users. The TV also supports TCL's Dolby Atmos Flex Connect, allowing for wireless expansion with compatible speakers.
Announced Alongside: TCL A65K Soundbar
- Audio Partner: Bang & Olufsen
- Total Power: Up to 460W
- Features: Up-firing speakers, Dolby Atmos & DTS:X support, integrated 6.5-inch subwoofer.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, HDMI eARC (via HDMI 2.1).
- Price: Not announced at launch.
Availability and Aggressive Pricing Strategy
The X11L is available for pre-order immediately in 85-inch and 98-inch sizes, with a 75-inch model to follow in a few months. The launch prices are premium: USD 9,999.99 for the 98-inch, USD 7,999.99 for the 85-inch, and USD 6,999.99 for the 75-inch model. However, TCL has a well-established history of significant price reductions post-launch. The company's own example cites the 85-inch X11K, which launched at USD 9,999.99 but has since seen its price drop to USD 3,499.99. This pattern suggests that while the X11L enters the market as a cutting-edge, high-cost flagship, it may become a much more accessible high-performance option as 2026 progresses.
Conclusion: A Calculated Gamble in the High-End TV Wars
TCL's X11L launch at CES 2026 is a clear statement of intent. Instead of joining the crowd in RGB LED, the company is doubling down on refining mini-LED technology to its extreme. With groundbreaking specs for brightness and dimming zones, a new color system, and future-proofed connectivity, the X11L presents a compelling alternative for videophiles. Its success will ultimately depend on real-world performance matching its on-paper promises and whether TCL's aggressive post-launch pricing can make this technological powerhouse a viable contender against established premium brands.