Consumers who purchased Hisense QLED TVs in recent years may be entitled to compensation as the electronics giant faces a class action lawsuit accusing it of falsely advertising its televisions as “QLED” despite allegedly failing to meet industry standards for the technology. The lawsuit, filed in a U.S. district court, claims Hisense misled buyers into paying premium prices for TVs that do not deliver the enhanced color, brightness, or longevity associated with genuine Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diode (QLED) displays.
According to the complaint (read details here), Hisense marketed its TVs as QLED to capitalize on the popularity of the technology, which uses quantum dots to improve color accuracy and energy efficiency. However, plaintiffs argue the TVs lack the necessary components to qualify as true QLED displays, instead using “a cheaper alternative” that fails to match competitors like Samsung or TCL.
“Consumers were duped into believing they were getting cutting-edge technology,” the lawsuit states. “Hisense prioritized profit over transparency, harming both shoppers and the reputation of legitimate QLED products.”
Second Lawsuit Alleges Defective Main Boards in Hisense TVs
In a separate but related legal challenge, Hisense is also confronting a class action over claims that certain TV models were manufactured with defective main boards, leading to premature malfunctions such as flickering screens, audio failures, and sudden shutdowns. The issue, which plaintiffs say often arises just after the warranty period expires, has sparked outrage among buyers who allege the defect was known but not disclosed.
Affected customers report spending hundreds of dollars on repairs or replacements for TVs that allegedly “should have lasted years longer.” More on this lawsuit can be found here.
QLED vs. Reality: What Buyers Need to Know
QLED technology, pioneered by Samsung, relies on a quantum dot film layer to enhance LCD displays, offering brighter images and wider color ranges. Hisense’s alleged use of inferior alternatives, however, has left customers feeling shortchanged. “I paid extra for QLED because of the reviews, but the picture quality isn’t any better than my old TV,” said one frustrated buyer in the lawsuit’s comment section.
While Hisense has yet to formally respond to the allegations, industry analysts speculate the outcome could force stricter advertising standards for TV manufacturers. Meanwhile, the company continues to expand its product lineup, including its latest Hisense A9 Android smartphone, though this device is unrelated to the current legal disputes.
What Affected Consumers Can Do
Customers who purchased a Hisense QLED TV in the U.S. between 2020 and 2024 may be eligible to join the class action. Those experiencing technical issues are encouraged to document malfunctions and retain purchase receipts. For those still considering a Hisense TV, the disputed models remain available on platforms like Amazon (view here), though buyers are advised to research thoroughly.
Legal experts suggest affected individuals stay informed by following updates on the lawsuits, as settlements could include refunds, replacements, or warranty extensions. As one Reddit user quipped, “Caveat emptor just got a whole new meaning.”
This story is ongoing. Check back for updates as Hisense responds to the allegations.