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The TCL 43P8M is a 43-inch 4K Android TV, but it is a discontinued model, and the available public evidence does not establish how well it performs in independent testing. TCL’s New Zealand specification sheet documents its resolution, ports, audio and mounting details; CHOICE identifies it as discontinued but restricts detailed test results to members. Treat this as a guide to the TV’s documented features—not a verified performance verdict—and check the exact regional model and its condition before buying.
What is the TCL 43P8M?
The 43P8M belongs to TCL’s P8M series and is described by TCL as a 43-inch 4K UHD AI Android Smart TV. TCL Mongolia’s product page identifies the model, while TCL New Zealand’s product sheet supplies the detailed specifications. Those documents relate to specific markets, so a TV sold elsewhere may differ in its ports, broadcast features, warranty or included accessories. [TCL Mongolia product page] [TCL New Zealand product sheet]
CHOICE lists the 43P8M as discontinued. That does not rule out used sets or remaining stock, but it means buyers should confirm current availability and seller terms rather than assume it is a current retail model. [CHOICE model page]
Picture specifications: what the numbers do—and do not—tell you
TCL’s New Zealand sheet lists a 3840 x 2160 resolution, 4K HDR, a 4000:1 contrast ratio, 270-nit brightness, 178-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angles, and Clear Motion Rate 100. These are manufacturer-stated specifications, not independent measurements; TCL notes that product specifications may change. The sheet does not establish actual brightness or contrast in use, HDR impact, motion quality or viewing-angle performance.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K UltraHD QLED color: Quantum Dot technology delivers over a billion vibrant, true-to-life shades in every scene
- HDR PRO+: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10 & HLG for enhanced contrast, accurate color, and fine detail across every format
- Dolby Atmos + DTS:X: Full spatial audio support across both major formats - Dolby Atmos and DTS:X/DTS Virtual:X - for broader soundbar and content compatibility
- Auto Game Mode (ALLM) + Game Bar: Automatic low-latency switching plus an on-screen overlay to fine-tune settings without leaving the game
- Motion Rate 240 with MEMC: Best-in-class motion clarity for fast sports and action, double the motion rating of typical competing QLEDs, for an ultra-crisp, blur-free picture
In particular, “Clear Motion Rate 100” is TCL’s label. It is not evidence that the panel has a native 100 Hz refresh rate. Likewise, the “4K HDR” designation alone does not show how bright HDR content looks or how effectively the TV displays it. [TCL New Zealand product sheet]
Smart TV features and app support
The New Zealand product sheet lists Android TV, Chromecast built-in, Google Play Store, Netflix and YouTube. These are the features documented for that market’s model sheet; they do not guarantee that every service remains available or supported on a particular used set today. App catalogues, software support and service compatibility can change, so check the TV itself and the current availability in your country before relying on a specific app. TCL’s global P8M family page provides additional platform context, but its legacy service references should not be treated as proof of current app support. [TCL New Zealand product sheet] [TCL Global P8M series page]
Ports, audio and physical specifications
TCL New Zealand’s sheet lists two HDMI inputs—one HDMI 1.4a and one HDMI 2.0, both described with HDCP 2.2—and one USB 2.0 port. Other listed connections are Ethernet, 2.4 GHz single-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, optical SPDIF, HDMI ARC, headphone output and AV input. The TV’s listed audio system is Dolby Audio with two 8 W speakers. This is a modest connection set to compare against the devices you plan to use; check the actual set’s rear panel because regional variants may differ. [TCL New Zealand product sheet]
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| Specification | TCL New Zealand product sheet |
|---|---|
| Display size and resolution | 43 inches; 3840 x 2160 |
| HDMI | Two inputs: one HDMI 1.4a and one HDMI 2.0; HDCP 2.2 listed |
| USB | One USB 2.0 input |
| Network and wireless | Ethernet; 2.4 GHz single-band Wi-Fi; Bluetooth |
| Other connections | Optical SPDIF, HDMI ARC, headphone output and AV input |
| Audio | Dolby Audio; 2 x 8 W speaker output |
| Dimensions with stand | 965 x 620.5 x 228.5 mm |
| Dimensions without stand | 965 x 564 x 73.6 mm |
| Weight with stand | 7.5 kg |
| Weight without stand | 7.4 kg |
All figures in this table are from TCL’s New Zealand product sheet, whose publication date is not stated and which warns that specifications may change. They should not be assumed to apply to every country’s version. [TCL New Zealand product sheet]
Rank #3
- A treat for the eyes: Sharp 4K brings out rich detail on our 43" flat screen TV, while colors pop off in lifelike clarity with HDR10. Roku Smart Picture cleans up incoming TV signals, optimizes them, and chooses the right picture mode.
- Seamless streaming: With fast Wi-Fi and apps that launch in a snap, Roku Select Series TVs get you to your entertainment quickly. You get excellent picture quality, clear sound, automatic updates, and more. It’s simple to use. Hard to outgrow.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
- A world of free entertainment: Enjoy a huge selection of free live TV, news, sports, movies, shows, and much more—all just a click away.
- More streaming, less searching: With personalized picks right on your Home Screen, quick access to the sports and entertainment you watch most, and fast and easy search in one place—the days of endless scrolling are over.
What independent testing establishes
CHOICE’s public page identifies the model and shows a subset of its specifications, but detailed test results and recommended products are restricted to members. The accessible information does not establish a picture, sound, usability, reliability, satisfaction or overall score. There is therefore no publicly verifiable independent test verdict here to support a performance recommendation. [CHOICE model page]
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Wall mounting the TCL 43P8M
TCL specifies a VESA mounting pattern of 100 x 100 mm and M6 screw size for the New Zealand model sheet. It also says the wall bracket is not included. Choose a mount that supports the 100 x 100 mm pattern and the TV’s weight, then confirm the required M6 screw length and hardware with both the mount and TV manufacturers before installation. Check the label on your particular set as well, especially if it is a regional variant. [TCL New Zealand product sheet]
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Vivid Display: Experience stunning 1080P Full HD resolution with QLED Quantum Dot Technology, delivering rich, vibrant colors and enhanced clarity for movies and TV shows.
- Optimized Backlighting: Direct LED Backlight technology ensures superior brightness uniformity and improved picture performance compared to edge-lit televisions.
- Smart Entertainment: Powered by Google TV, this smart OS offers access to over 700,000 movies and shows, intelligently organized with personalized recommendations.
- Seamless Connectivity: Equipped with two HDMI inputs (one with ARC) for gaming consoles and other devices, plus built-in Chromecast for streaming from thousands of apps.
- Private Listening: Bluetooth Personal Audio allows you to pair your favorite headphones for a private and immersive listening experience.
Rank #4
- Free Wall Mount : Enjoy a better view and angle from your living room or bedroom by mounting your TV on the wall, giving it a unique look and saving space with the wall mount.
- 1080P FHD Resolution Experience your favorite movies and TV shows in stunning 1080P high-definition picture quality for enhanced clarity and detail.
- QLED – Quantum Dot Technology Rich, vibrant colors bringing images to life.
- HVA Panel HVA Panel technology leads the industry, using nano-level bionic technology to add polyimide to the liquid crystal molecules to form a butterfly-wing-shaped microstructure, precisely controlling the light passing through the liquid crystal layer and greatly improving the screen contrast.
- Bluetooth Personal Audio Pair your favorite Bluetooth headphones to the TV for a private listening experience. FullView Metal Bezel-Less Design Elegant edge-to-edge glass design, sleek back panel.
What to check before buying a used or remaining-stock set
- Exact model and market: Confirm the label says 43P8M and ask which country variant it is. Regional specifications and warranty terms should not be presumed identical; for example, the warranty displayed on TCL Mongolia’s page applies to that territory, not universally. [TCL Mongolia product page]
- Working condition: Test the screen, sound, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, HDMI and USB with your own devices where possible. TCL’s regional support FAQ includes topics such as USB playback, remote operation, video and power problems, but its existence is not evidence that a particular set has those faults. [TCL Mongolia 43P8M FAQ]
- Apps and software: Check that the services you need still install and run on that TV in your country. Do not rely solely on older product-page app listings.
- Accessories and terms: Confirm the remote, stand and power cable are included, and check the return period, warranty and seller’s description. The product sheet specifically says the wall bracket is not included.
- Price and alternatives: Compare the offer with current local 43-inch TVs, paying attention to independently measured picture performance, HDMI needs, app support, physical condition and return coverage. CHOICE’s displayed historical price is not evidence of a current offer.
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.
