TCL X11L: Super QLED Flagship Wows at CES 2026

• TCL's X11L flagship uses Super QLED (SQD-MiniLED) and targets extreme brightness and contrast.
• Peak brightness claimed at 10,000 nits with 20,736 local dimming zones.
• Slim 2 cm chassis, integrated Bang & Olufsen soundbar, and US prices from $7,000 to $10,000.
• Outperforms TCL's RM9L in brightness and contrast but lags slightly on very pure color saturation.

First impressions from CES 2026

TCL's X11L arrives as an unexpected flagship: a Super QLED (SQD) TV that prioritizes extreme brightness and ultra-fine local dimming instead of RGB Mini LED. We saw the 85-inch demo at CES and the initial impact is hard to ignore.

Design and build

The X11L's profile is notably slim—about two centimetres deep—thanks to SQD's single-colour LED approach. That thin chassis is paired with a full-width integrated soundbar co-developed with Bang & Olufsen, and a restrained metallic finish that reads premium.

Pricing and availability

TCL confirmed US pricing at CES 2026: $7,000 for 75-inch, $8,000 for 85-inch, and $10,000 for 98-inch. UK pricing is not yet announced, but the lineup positions X11L well above TCL's typical midrange models.

Technology that defines the X11L

Super QLED and Ultra colour filter

TCL combines a next-generation quantum-dot layer with a new ‘Ultra’ colour filter. Instead of RGB mini LEDs, the X11L uses single blue or white LEDs with quantum dots to produce color, which allows a slimmer panel and avoids RGB crosstalk.

Why that matters

With single-colour LED lighting, TCL can pack more independent dimming zones—TCL claims 20,736 zones—and maintain high illumination because LEDs are more consistently active. TCL also claims coverage of the demanding BT.2020 gamut.

Performance highlights

In the demo the X11L delivered extraordinary contrast: claimed 10,000 nits peak brightness and very controlled local dimming produced inky blacks alongside explosive highlights. The panel held brightness in mixed scenes better than nearby RGB Mini LED demos, including TCL’s own RM9L.

Trade-offs

While brightness and zone count impressed, very pure reds and greens looked a touch richer on the RM9L (RGB Mini LED). Off-axis viewing showed mild color shift and some haloing in high-contrast scenes.

Features and extras

The X11L ships with a Pro AiPQ processor, native 4K/144Hz gaming (switchable to HD/288Hz via Game Accelerator), Google TV, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Atmos support. An optional Z100-SW wireless subwoofer further beefs up low end.

Verdict — early but promising

TCL's X11L stakes a bold claim for Super QLED as a flagship path: record-setting brightness, huge dimming-zone counts, and a slim, premium design. Final judgment will depend on extended testing, but the X11L looks like a serious alternative to RGB Mini LED and ultra-expensive MicroLED options.