TCL 2025 C6K, C7K, C8K and C9K TVs with HVA/WHVA (CrystGlow) LCD panels for OLED image rendering?

In order to provide its Mini LED 2025 TVs with a visual rendering similar to that of Oled TVs, in addition to a seventh-generation backlighting system (see our TCL Mini LED TV news, a technology celebrating 10 years of innovation and our hyper-complete test of the TCL 65C8K TV (or 65C8K, 65C81K or 65Q8C) to learn more about the technologies implemented), TCL has also focused on the combination of two technologies. On the one hand, [abc]LCD[/abc] HVA (C6K/C7K) panels, on the other hand, WHVA (C8K/C9K) or HVA CrystGlow panels exclusive to the brand. These innovations reinforce the native contrast, improve performance in blacks and colors while eliminating reflections. Thus, the reproduction of content is faithful, whatever the viewing conditions.

HVA/WHVA, deep blacks and vivid colors££££ HVA and WHVA technologies take the basics of VA (Vertical Alignment) LCD panel technology, known for offering an excellent contrast ratio thanks to the ability of the LCD cells that compose it to effectively block light from the backlight in the "closed" position (see illustration below). Compared to conventional VA panels, and to put it simply, the HVA molecular configuration (patented by CSOT, the screen manufacturing division of TCL) offers even more precise alignment of the liquid crystals when they are not in use, considerably reducing residual light in dark scenes. The image gets rid of the sensation of slight haze that can appear on less bright scenes.

The WHVA version, for Wide High Vertical Alignment, adds yet another dimension. It concerns the widening of the viewing angle. Traditionally, on conventional panels, the image deteriorates as soon as the viewer moves away from the screen axis. Contrasts decrease considerably and colors fade. TCL overcomes this defect by using optical compensation filters and structural treatment of the panel. The image quality then remains stable, even when viewed at 50° or even 60° away from the axis. A major advantage for family use of the television, for example.

The result is a clear improvement in static contrast from the use of HVA/WHVA panels, with denser and deeper blacks. It is particularly noticeable in low-light scenes or when rendering HDR content, where every shade of gray counts. To be precise, this type of panel offers a contrast ratio of up to 5,000:1 and 7,000:1 respectively, much higher than that of VA panels (4,000:1 for the best) or IPS panels (generally around 1,000:1 to 1,500:1), for performances very close in this area to those of [abc]Oled[/abc] televisions.

CrystGlow anti-reflective treatment££££ The other innovation explaining the visual improvement of the 2025 TCL Mini LED TVs is based on a surface treatment that directly attacks one of the recurring enemies of screens, namely parasitic reflections linked to ambient light. The CrystGlow filter is not just a simple semi-gloss coating. It uses a "nanostructured" treatment, applied at a microscopic scale, to the surface of the panel. Its purpose is to diffract and disperse light from ambient light sources without compromising image clarity. Unlike some anti-reflective treatments that dull or gray out blacks, the CrystGlow process preserves the depth of blacks as well as color saturation, again for a rendering similar to that of an OLED diffuser. This treatment guarantees excellent readability of the screen, even if it is facing windows or in a room with strong ambient light.

HVA/WHVA: gaming, cinema, series and HDR highlighted££££ The combination of HVA/WHVA panels and CrystGlow treatment for its anti-reflective component on the C8/C9K series, therefore creates a display environment perfectly suited to demanding content, such as HDR films/series, high-contrast video games or sports broadcasts in broad daylight. The deep blacks offer better readability of dark scenes, without clouding or halo effects. Similarly, the wider viewing angle allows for a larger “comfortable viewing” space, perfect for group meetings. Finally, thanks to the semi-gloss anti-reflective treatment, the image remains readable in all circumstances.

With its seventh-generation backlighting system already mentioned in our columns, and an ever-increasing number of very large diagonal panels in its catalog, the HVA/WHVA innovation package (HVA panels appeared in 2022) represents the third stage of the TCL rocket whose ambition is to put its Mini LED 2025 TV series into orbit. So many technological building blocks brought together this year demonstrate that it is still possible to push the performance limits of the LCD process while controlling its production costs. With the avowed aim of competing with OLED in all directions, on the quality and immersion of the show offered of course, but also on the price aspect. This explains TCL's steady progress in television sales, with the brand now established in the Top 3 of the global market (second in volume and third in value).