Hisense has been has been responsible for some of the best ultra short throw projectors, and the Hisense PX3-Pro is among its latest. The PX3-Pro has a daunting task following up on the Hisense PX2-Pro, but Hisense has pulled it off with some key upgrades.
The new Hisense PX3-Pro differs in design from the PX2-Pro, but under the hood, it gets an upgraded projection system that’s much brighter at 3,000 lumens and also boasts a 1080p/240Hz mode. This feature turns it from an exceptional ultra short throw (UST) projector into a speed demon of a gaming projector – Hisense even bills it as the "world's first designed for Xbox UST projector." And with rich color, strong contrast, and Dolby Vision HDR support, the PX3-Pro ranks up there with the best 4K projectors when it comes to picture performance.
While the PX3-Pro’s built-in sound isn’t quite as impressive as its picture, it at least has the volume level to match the visuals, and Hisense offers plenty of ways to connect to better speaker systems. All of this comes at a higher price than its predecessor, but it seems well worth the extra expense.
Hisense PX3-Pro review: price and release date
First available: October 2024
Price: $3,499 / £2,499
Availability of the Hisense PX3-Pro is set to begin in mid-October 2024. It is priced at $3,499 / £2,499, a marked increase over the lower brightness PX2-Pro, which launched at $2,999 in June 2023. Like the rest of the Hisense PX series, the PX3-Pro doesn’t come with a projection screen.
The Hisense PX3-Pro comes with a full-size remote control and features the Google TV smart TV platform for streaming (Image credit: Future)
Hisense PX3-Pro review: Specs
The PX3-Pro features dual HDMI 2.1 ports and supports gaming at 1080p/240Hz (Image credit: Future)
Hisense PX3-Pro review: design and features
Futuristic-looking design
All-in-one capability plus flexibility for different setups
Streaming and gaming benefit from hardware and software upgrades
Where the Hisense PX2-Pro was a simple under-the-hood refresh of its predecessor, The PX1-Pro, the new PX3-Pro sees some bigger changes both to its internal components and its outward appearance. The design has a stylistic resemblance to its predecessors, but it gives off more of a proper futuristic vibe than the prior models with their retro-futuristic looks.
The whole unit is done up in gray and silver surfaces of all types: matte, shiny, smooth, and coarse. It features large grilles on either side for air intake and exhaust – generating 3,000 lumens creates some heat even when using lasers. The front also gets a perforated grille for the built-in speakers. At either side of the grille are vertical slots in shiny housing that have standby lighting built in, so when the projector is turned off, these illuminate the mirrored finish inside. This may appeal to some, but I found it a little tacky compared to the PX2-Pro’s subtler design.
Style aside, perhaps the most critical design change is the projector’s size. It’s a little wider and taller than its predecessors, but not as deep front-to-back. That combined with a shift from a 0.25:1 throw ratio to a 0:22 throw ratio means the PX3-Pro can sit closer to a wall, protruding into the room less, and still provide a massive picture.
The PX3-Pro sits on four height-adjustable feet, which helps get the picture aligned with a screen. It also offers digital image correction and adjustable focus, letting you dial in everything perfectly.
Around the back, you’ll find three HDMI ports, including one with eARC. There’s also a high-speed USB type-A port (and another on the right side), and both and optical digital and 3.5mm audio output. With Google TV onboard, the PX3-Pro can tap into plenty of streaming services, including Netflix, and has both Wi-Fi 6E and Ethernet network connections.
The Hisense PX3-Pro has comprehensive high dynamic range support, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Its built-in speakers support Dolby Atmos and IMAX Enhanced for DTS, though audio is best passed on to an outboard sound system. Unlike its predecessors, the PX3-Pro offers Active 3D support (requires optional 3D eyewear).
There are still a few features the PX3-Pro could have benefitted from. Optical image adjustments beyond focus would be a welcome addition, especially zoom, though I’ve never seen that feature in a UST projector. A cover would be a more reasonable one, as dust can gather quickly on top of UST projectors.
Design and features score: 4.5/5
The PX3-Pro has exceptional color, along with powerful contrast in dim lighting conditions (Image credit: Future)
Hisense PX3-Pro review: picture and sound quality
Exceptional color and brightness
Crisp 4K picture with comprehensive HDR support
240Hz mode is a perk for gamers
The Hisense PX3-Pro builds on a strong picture quality foundation. The PX2-Pro offered stunning color from its tri-chroma projection system and the PX3-Pro takes that up a notch with a notably brighter picture, rated to reach 3,000 lumens. For some content, like cartoons and sports, that’ll make a very presentable picture even with high ambient room lighting. It also gives the PX3-Pro plenty of latitude in dim lighting conditions, with a bright enough picture that it can call for some dimming of the laser in a dark room.
While the projector has powerful contrast as is, a High Dynamic setting for Laser Luminance can further enhance its picture. I’m normally wary of settings like this that adjust the picture based on the content being displayed as they tend to have noticeable artifacts, but the PX3-Pro managed it admirably, with imperceptible transitions. The only odd behavior I noted was a sudden brightening when white subtitles appeared onscreen during dark scenes. Otherwise, this played out well for Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes, helping to punch up the bright scenes while avoiding pumping up black levels in dark ones.
The PX3-Pro’s comprehensive HDR support made the latest seasons of The Rings of Power in HDR10+ and The Avengers: Endgame in Dolby Vision both look fantastic. The wide color gamut of the triple-laser projection system played a big part in this, giving the PX3-Pro simply astounding color. One downside of this is that rainbows, a regular artifact of DLP technology, can seem a little more pronounced.
The PX3-Pro serves up a big, bright 4K picture ranging from 80 to 150 inches. While it’s possible to project images beyond these sizes, the focus range is limited and you may end up with a softer image.
For gamers, the Hisense PX3-Pro has something extra special in store. In addition to simply switching to a game mode with lower input lag, the projector can swap over to a 1080p/240Hz mode. This sacrifices some picture detail but provides buttery smooth visuals, and the DLP system has minimal ghosting. The gameplay is highly responsive and a big perk. Though the projector will also display 4K 120Hz signals, it doesn’t appear to display every frame but rather skips every other one as checked with Blur Busters’ frame skipping tool.
Audio on the PX3-Pro isn’t half-bad either. Its 50W Harman Kardon-designed speakers can get loud enough to match the size of the pictures the PX3-Pro projects, and the sound has an impressive range with booming bass, though it doesn’t get deep into sub-bass territory. What it really lacks is the spatial aspect. The stereo separation isn’t very wide, and there are no side, rear, or height channels. This means that even though the projector supports Dolby Atmos and Imax Enhanced for DTS, it’s best used with external speakers.
Picture and sound quality score: 4.5/5
The PX3-Pro's Google TV smart interface (Image credit: Future)
Hisense PX3-Pro review: value
High price but a compelling picture
Versatility adds to its value
The Hisense PX3-Pro doesn’t come cheap at $3,499. Its price puts it a ways above its predecessor and sets it up against others like the Epson Home Cinema LS800. It also raises the question of whether you should instead opt for a big TV since you can get an 83-inch OLED like the LG C4 for not too much more.
But the PX3-Pro brings a lot to the table. It has enough brightness and detail to comfortably stretch its 4K picture to massive proportions. The PX3-Pro also supports 3D content and a wide range of HDR formats, has a 240Hz refresh rate mode, and has Google TV built-in (with a fast enough processor to run it smoothly). There’s little question that the PX3-Pro UST offers a lot, and it’s a worthy rival to TVs and other projector types.
Value score: 4.5/5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Hisense PX3-Pro?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
Don’t buy it if…
Also consider...
Epson LS800 The Epson LS800 uses a 3LCD laser light source to beam a stunningly bright 4,000 lumens image. This makes it a great option for daytime sports viewing and it also has good built-in sound.
Tested at home in multiple, real-world viewing conditions
Presented the display with a variety of media and formats
I have tested numerous projectors and displays over the last half-decade
I tested the Hisense PX2 Pro at home, in real-world conditions. This saw it faced with ambient light coming in from numerous windows, in-room lighting, as well as ambient noise that both the projector and speaker systems had to overcome. The projector was tested both against a bare, white wall and an Akia Screens CineWhite screen. It was presented with standard definition and 4K HDR streamed content, and PC gameplay.
My testing evaluates the projector’s performance with respect to its price and competition from other models I and colleagues at TechRadar have tested.
I have been testing projectors since 2021 and displays for even longer.
I measured the Premiere 9’s input lag in milliseconds using a Leo Bodnar tester with the low latency mode switch on.
The Samsung Premiere 9 is a highly capable example of the best ultra short throw projectors and builds on the brand’s earlier successes in this growing market segment. The key to this popularity is the triple-laser light source that uses red, green and blue lasers to generate cinematic images that are bigger than the largest TV screens. But these pictures aren’t just big, they’re bright enough to handle white walls and ambient light, while creating a huge gamut for more vibrant colours.
Samsung’s The Premiere 9 uses single-chip DLP display technology, which results in sharply defined images due to there being no alignment issues, and while not strictly native 4K the level of detail on show is often impressive. The Premiere 9 delivers superb motion handling regardless of the content – a recognised strength of DLP – but also suffers from poor black levels, which is weakness of the technology. On the plus side, a triple-laser should help reduce incidences of rainbow artifacts that can accompany DLP tech.
The Premiere 9 delivers accurate pictures thanks to the inclusion of Filmmaker Mode, while highly effective HDR tone mapping also ensures shadows are detailed and highlights free of clipping. The colour gamut covers the entire HDR standard, and beyond, so, as a result, the performance with high dynamic range is exceptional. Whether it's HDR10, HLG or HDR10+ (but not Dolby Vision, an HDR format not supported by Samsung TVs and projectors) the pictures burst off the big screen with dazzling highlights and vibrant color primaries that are a treat for the eyes.
This beamer sports an attractive lifestyle-friendly design and is easy to install and set up, while the Dolby Atmos audio system is genuinely immersive – acting more like a built-in soundbar thanks to its 2.2.2-channel speaker layout. There’s also Samsung’s AI-enhanced Object Tracking Sound processing for non-Atmos audio. There are extensive gaming features, a full smart platform with a comprehensive choice of streamers, good connectivity, and a myriad of control options.
In fact, the only real complaint is the lack of any built-in tuners, but otherwise, this capable beamer artfully blurs the line between projector and supersized TV. It does an excellent job of producing big and bright images that rival the largest examples of the best TVs, and as a result, it provides a viable, more affordable, and definitely more practical alternative, and comes highly recommended.
SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9 review: price and release date
First available: September 2024
The Premiere 9 (LPU9D): $5,000 / £5,999
Samsung’s The Premiere 9 (LPU9D) is the new range-topper in the brand’s line-up of laser-powered ultra short throw (UST) 4K HDR projectors and is available now for $5,999 / £5,999. It replaces the older The Premiere LSP9T, although this is also still available for the same price of $5,999 / £5,999. In addition, Samsung will release the mid-tier Premiere 7 in October, although pricing has yet to be announced. The Premiere 9 is not currently available in Australia.
The Premiere 9 uses single-chip DLP display technology and supports HDR10+ high dynamic range (Image credit: Future)
SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9 review: Specs
The Premiere 9's lens (Image credit: Future)
SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9 review: design
Stylish and discreet design
Excellent connectivity
SolarCell remote control
The Premiere 9 is surprisingly stylish for a UST projector, with a curved chassis that’s well-built and finished in a neutral white. The front is covered in grey fabric, with the speakers behind, and there are air vents on either side for cooling. Despite being relatively large, this projector’s lifestyle-friendly design allows you to place it discreetly up against the wall.
Better connectivity is offered on The Premiere 9 than most other UST projectors, with three HDMI 2.0 inputs, one of which supports eARC. There’s also a USB port for multimedia playback and powering dongle-style streaming devices, an optical digital output, and an Ethernet port. The wireless connectivity includes built-in Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and support for Apple AirPlay.
Samsung provides a variation of the SolarCell remote included with its current range of TVs, although the controller is styled in white to match the projector. The zapper is well-designed, intuitive to use, and comfortable to hold. There’s also a far-field microphone for the built-in voice assistants, although those wishing privacy can switch this off at the back of the projector.
Design score: 4.5/5
Ports include 3 HDMI 2.0 connections (1 with eARC) (Image credit: Future)
SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9 review: features
Triple-laser light source
HDR10, HLG and HDR10+ support
2.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos audio system
Samsung’s The Premiere 9’s headline feature is its triple-laser light source that uses red, green and blue lasers for 3,450 lumens brightness plus a wide colour gamut and 20,000-hour lifespan. This gives it an advantage over most other UST projectors and delivers sufficient luminance to handle rooms with white walls, large windows or ambient light.
As a UST beamer it’s able to project 100 inches from only 11cm (around 4 inches) , and can fill a 130-inch screen at just 24cm (9.5 inches), so even those with limited space can enjoy big screen fun. You change the image size by physically moving the projector towards or away from the wall, centre it by moving to the left or right, and level it using the adjustable feet. There are also manual controls for focusing the image.
The Premiere 9 is a single-chip DLP projector with a claimed resolution of 4K – although this is achieved by shifting pixels. It also supports most high dynamic range formats with HDR10, HLG (hybrid log-gamma), and HDR10+. Samsung doesn’t support for Dolby Vision on any of its current displays, but the RGB laser light source ensures HDR is punchy with bright and vibrant colours.
This projector sports a built-in sound system with a 2.2.2-channel speaker layout and 40W of amplification. There’s support for Samsung Object Tracking Sound (OTS) AI-enhanced audio processing, along with Dolby Atmos decoding. As a result, there’s an immersive soundstage, with clear dialogue, width at the front, some bass presence, and effectively rendered overhead sound.
There’s also support for music casting, as well as various proprietary audio features such as AI-powered Adaptive Sound Pro enhancements, Adaptive Voice Amplifier Pro for making dialogue clearer, and Q Symphony for synching the Premiere 9 with a compatible Samsung soundbar. The latter would definitely provide benefits for those who enjoy seriously deep bass with their movies.
Once installed the setup is exactly the same as a Samsung TV, with the SmartThings app taking you through the entire process. Just follow the instructions, and within minutes you’ll have the Wi-Fi connected and all the streaming apps installed. There’s even a Vision Boost feature that uses a built-in light sensor to adjust the image brightness based on levels of ambient light in the room.
The Premiere 9 runs the full Tizen-powered smart TV system found in Samsung’s TVs, and crucially has sufficient processing power to ensure the platform is responsive. There’s smart assistance in the form of built-in Bixby and Amazon Alexa, along with a comprehensive choice of video streaming services. Where available these all offer 4K, HDR, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos.
For gaming, there’s support for ALLM (auto low latency mode), although when in the game mode the input lag is still 53ms, which is too high for competitive gamers. In addition, the HDMI 2.0 inputs cap the frame rate at 4K/60Hz and there’s no VRR. However, the motion handling is excellent, resulting in smooth gameplay that also benefits from the immersive big-screen images.
There’s a host of other features including Samsung’s Game Hub for gaming without a console, plus a Game Bar that curates all the main settings and technical data in one place and provides access to gaming-related settings for a more personalised gaming experience. Finally, the AI Auto Game Mode allows the projector to automatically optimise settings for specific gaming genres.
This is a well-specified projector and about the only TV features missing are built-in terrestrial and satellite tuners. This is fairly common on UST projectors, probably because it makes them easier to manufacture and market globally. While you can use the TV catch-up apps instead for most shows, if you really want to watch live linear broadcasts you’ll need a set-top box of some kind.
The Premiere 9 beams bright, colorful 4K images using a triple-laser light engine (Image credit: Future)
SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9 review: picture and sound quality
Sharp and detailed 4K images
Bright and punchy HDR
Extremely wide colour gamut
The Samsung Premiere 9 immediately impresses with its bright and punchy big screen pictures. There’s no doubt the triple-laser adds value, not just in terms of lumens but also with its wider colour gamut. The projected image is sharply defined thanks to the use of single-chip DLP, while focus and uniformity across the screen are also good, resulting in a clean and even presentation.
The out-of-the-box picture accuracy is excellent, with the white point close to the industry standard of D65, an even greyscale, and colours hitting close to their saturation targets for BT.709, but this can be improved through calibration. I was able to get a near reference-level accuracy through adjustment, and when you factor in the cost of a Premiere 9 the additional expense of a calibration is worth considering.
This accuracy also extends to HDR, with the Premiere 9 covering 100% of DCI-P3, and 92% of the even wider BT.2020 colur gamut. The previous generation of Samsung’s UST had trouble reigning in this massive native colour gamut, resulting in noticeable errors, so I was pleased to discover the accuracy of the Premiere 9 has definitely been improved with better tracking of saturation targets.
The blacks look more of a dark grey, which is fairly standard for a DLP projector, and while the claimed native contrast ratio is 1,500:1, I actually measured it at 1,700:1. The dynamic contrast ratio is a claimed 2,000,000:1, but this is basically achieved by turning the laser off on a black screen, so it doesn’t really reflect real-world content. There’s also a Real Depth Contrast Enhancer feature to help with contrast.
The Premiere 9 certainly has sufficient lumens to light up a 130-inch screen, even in the dimmer Filmmaker Mode, which doesn’t hit the brightness peaks of the Dynamic mode. It also means the HDR has plenty of punch and although the black levels might not be great, the tone mapping is very effective, sticking close to the PQ curve and thus avoiding unwanted crush or clipping.
The imaging is based around the Quantum Processor 4K picture engine, applying AI upscaling to lower-resolution content to take full advantage of the available pixels. The result is a finely detailed image, regardless of the original resolution, and the processing is also able to clean up the image, reducing noise or compression artefacts to deliver expertly rendered big-screen pictures.
As you’d expect from a DLP beamer, motion handling is superb, with the lightning-fast response times of the technology delivering smooth movement. Samsung includes its Motion Xcelerator technology, along with a Film mode to ensure that film-based content looks natural but is also free of judder, while fast-paced sports can enjoy smoother motion without introducing artefacts.
In standard HDR10, the brightly lit snowy landscapes of The Revenant look absolutely stunning. The same is true when watching Dune Part 2 with its desert vistas, and in both cases, these native 4K films reveal exceptional levels of detail in the sharply rendered images. Inside Out is a movie that fully utilises the wider gamut, and its deeply saturated colours really pop off the screen viewed on The Premiere 9.
Alita: Battle Angel includes HDR10+ and the Premiere 9 correctly detected the signal, applying the dynamic metadata to the tone mapping. The resulting images are well-defined, with colours that are rendered with skill, highlights that are bright, and impressive levels of detail in the shadows. There’s a lot of motion in this film as well, which was handled without judder or other artefacts.
Picture quality aside, the Premiere 9 is quiet in operation, with the noise level going from 30dB next to the chassis, down to 26dB at the main seating position. There is also an eye protection feature designed to automatically reduce the light intensity if something blocks the beam. It’s an important safety feature for anyone with small children or pets, preventing any vision damage.
Picture quality score: 4.5/5
Samsung's Gaming Hub provides easy access to cloud gaming apps from Xbox and other services (Image credit: Future)
SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9 review: value
More expensive than much of the competition
Cheaper and more convenient compared to a supersized TV
The Samsung Premiere 9 may seem expensive at $5,999 / £5,999, and it’s certainly not cheap compared to other ultra short throw projectors, but most of them don’t use a triple-laser with all the benefits that provides. The Premiere 9 also offers great value compared to jumbo-sized TVs, with the Samsung considerably more affordable than screens with panel sizes over 100 inches. It’s also a lot easier to install – just try getting a TV with a 110-inch screen into your living room.
If you’re looking for alternatives you could consider the Epson LS800, which doesn’t support HDR10+ or Dolby Vision but is even brighter at 4,000 lumens. There’s also the Hisense PX2-Pro, which only delivers 2,400 lumens but offers support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. However, neither has a sound system as good as the Premiere 9 nor do they offer as many gaming features or as comprehensive a smart platform.
Value score: 3.5/5
The Premiere 9's basic remote control for navigating its smart menus (Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the SAMSUNG THE PREMIERE 9?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
Don’t buy it if…
Also consider...
Epson LS800 The Epson LS800 uses a 3LCD laser light source to beam a stunningly bright 4,000 lumens image. This makes it a great option for daytime sports viewing and it also has good built-in sound.
Measurements taken using Calman calibration software
Evaluated using SDR and HDR content
As with all my TV and projector reviews I use a combination of subjective viewing and objective measurements against the industry standards. For projectors, I also do all my testing in a dedicated home cinema with a completely blacked-out environment and high-quality screen. In the case of the Premiere 9, I also tested it in my lounge in order to simulate the kind of conditions for which it was primarily designed.
The subjective testing is based around watching a variety of familiar scenes, primarily sourced from 4K and 1080p Blu-rays, plus the Spears & Munsil UHD Benchmark 4K disc. These scenes have been specifically chosen to evaluate a display’s black levels, contrast performance, colour accuracy, upscaling, image processing, motion handling, and HDR tone mapping.
For the objective testing, I measured the Premiere 9’s brightness, greyscale and colour gamut in SDR, before doing the same in HDR. I also evaluated the accuracy of the HDR tone mapping, along with the colour gamut coverage for DCI-P3 and BT.2020. To do this I used a pattern generator and colour meter combined with Portrait Displays’ Calman calibration software.
I measured the Premiere 9’s input lag in milliseconds using a Leo Bodnar tester with the low latency mode switch on.
Sony consolidated its TV lineup for 2024 with fewer models and a naming convention that was easier to follow. Perhaps what was most interesting about this move was that a mini-LED TV – the Bravia 9 – was spearheading the charge as the new flagship Sony TV, effectively demoting OLED to the next rung down. Enter the Bravia 8, a pure WOLED screen that replaces the excellent A80L.
If you want the absolute pinnacle of Sony’s OLED prowess, the A95L released in 2023 is still available to buy, complete with its much higher price tag. But you may not feel the need to stretch that high, since the Bravia 8 (on review here) takes the A80L's winning formula and makes a few notable improvements.
Sony claims this latest mid-range OLED model is brighter than its predecessor, yet manages to do without some of the brightness-boosting tech we’ve seen applied to other OLED TVs in the past couple of years. Instead, the Bravia 8 relies on Sony’s new Bravia XR processor to do the proverbial heavy lifting and stake a claim as one of the best OLED TVs you can buy.
This processor harnesses the power of AI to better understand the image on screen and make adjustments to ensure it’s delivered at its absolute best. And it does (for the most part) improve over the A80L where brightness is concerned to deliver a gorgeous picture no matter if you’re watching TV or movies, or playing games.
Sony’s Acoustic Surface+ audio system makes a return, maintaining the brand’s position as being one of the best TVs for sound thanks to actuators placed behind the screen to physically vibrate it – a feature that’s exclusive to Sony TVs. It means the Bravia 8 can go loud, is dynamically impressive and is capable of placing objects within a soundfield better than many other flat-screen TVs. When connected to one of Sony’s latest Bravia Theater soundbars – the Theater Bar 8 is a natural pairing – an Acoustic Center Sync feature can be used to turn the TV into a dedicated center channel speaker.
The Bravia 8 is a great option for gamers thanks to its support of all the major gaming features, including 4K support at 120Hz, an auto low-latency mode (ALLM), variable refresh rate (VRR) and Sony’s ‘Perfect for PS5’ tech that automatically adjusts picture settings to their optimum – for both games and movies – when a PlayStation 5 console is detected in either of its two HDMI 2.1 inputs. Yep, the Bravia 8 still only supports 4K/120Hz across two of its four HDMI inputs and you’ll need to use the one marked ‘eARC’ if you plan to connect an external soundbar. Sony isn’t alone in offering support across only half of its TV’s inputs, but it’s a shame that it’s still happening in 2024.
The main caveat at the time of writing, however, is that in some territories the A80L is still readily available and for a more affordable price. While there’s no doubt the Bravia 8 makes improvements over its predecessor, some customers either won’t notice, or won’t care for the admittedly incremental upgrades. The Bravia 8 is indeed Sony’s best mid-range OLED, but it’s not quite the generational leap we’ve seen between some other TV series – see the improvements Samsung makes each year with its S95 QD-OLED series as an example.
Sony Bravia 8 review: Price and release date
Announced in April 2024 for July 2024 launch
Pricing starts at $2,799 / £2,699 / AU$3,495 (55-inch)
No 83-inch model in 2024
The Sony Bravia 8 was announced in April 2024 and released in July 2024 in 55-, 65- and 77-inch sizes. The A80L predecessor was available in a larger 83-inch size, but that has seemingly been dropped this time around.
Pricing has remained relatively consistent compared to the A80L, with the 65-inch model I’ve reviewed setting you back $2,799 / £2,699 / AU$4,495. That’s $200 / £200 more expensive than the A80L in the US and UK and the same as the A80L’s launch price in Australia. Since launch, we’ve already seen small price drops in all markets, so it’s unlikely you would need to pay the full suggested retail price if you decide to buy.
The 55-inch Bravia 8 has been priced at $2,799 / £2,699 / AU$3,495 while the range-topping 77-inch retails for $3,899 / £3,499 / AU$6,995. The Sony Bravia 8’s pricing once again puts it squarely up against the LG C4 (the A80L and LG C3 were similarly priced in 2023) and in most cases, LG’s mid-range OLED comes out the more affordable, and it’s available in a greater variety of sizes.
LG’s telly offers full 4K/120Hz support across all four HDMI inputs, making it a better prospect for gamers and those with multiple external devices, but as was the case in 2023, LG’s TV has weaker built-in sound.
Sony Bravia 8 review: Specs
Sony Bravia 8 review: Benchmark results
Sony Bravia 8 review: Features
New Bravia XR processor
Voice Zoom 3 for improved vocal clarity
New eco-friendly remote control
The Sony Bravia 8 uses a standard WOLED panel as found in its A80L predecessor, but the key metric Sony is keen to advertise with the Bravia 8 is that it's capable of going 10% brighter, thanks to the aforementioned XR Processor. There’s no Micro Lens Array (MLA) or QD-OLED tech to be found here, so it is strictly the power of the new chip and its ability to better understand how to manipulate lighting that is going to result in that brightness boost.
Indeed, Sony says its new XR chip can better detect objects in scenes with greater accuracy and will then automatically optimize the picture to get as close to the creator’s intentions as possible. Also new in the Bravia 8 is a dedicated Prime Video Calibrated Mode (also a feature of the flagship Bravia 9) which will automatically adjust picture settings when you’re watching a raft of content on Amazon’s streaming service. This is in addition to the Netflix Calibrated Mode and Sony Pictures Core Calibrated Mode, both of which work in similar ways and have been carried over from the outgoing A80L.
The latest iteration of Sony's Eco Dashboard gives clear insights into how much energy the TV is using. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Voice Zoom 3, also taken from the high-end Bravia 9, is integrated into the Bravia 8, which can be used to boost (or decrease) voices and dialogue in whatever content you’re watching.
Elsewhere, there is little to separate the Bravia 8 and A80L from a features perspective. Both support Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG HDR formats (no HDR10+) and the Bravia 8 once again gets Google TV as the operating system of choice. Sony’s second iteration of its Eco Dashboard makes an appearance too, allowing you to adjust various energy-saving features and view their effects in a neat bar graph-style chart.
Sony also ships the Bravia 8 with a new Eco Remote that has a slight speckled appearance. This remote is made from 80% recycled materials, is backlit and recharges via USB-C.
Features score: 4.5 / 5
Sony Bravia 8 review: Picture quality
Wonderfully natural colors
Slightly increased brightness for improved HDR performance
Performs at its best in darker rooms
Sony’s claims of the Bravia 8 benefitting from a 10% brightness increase over the A80L certainly carry some weight, with its latest OLED TV recording a 149.5 nits measurement in HDR Filmmaker Mode on a full screen, compared to the A80L’s 139 nits based on our measurements.
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
There are noticeable differences in the 10% window brightness measurements in both HDR and SDR Standard modes, too. HDR Standard returned a result of 816.7 nits on the Bravia 8 (compared to the A80L’s 741 nits), while SDR Standard saw the Bravia 8 improve upon the A80L’s 247 nits with a measurement of 287.9 nits. Interestingly, measurements taken for SDR content in Filmmaker mode (or rather, Sony's own version called Professional) returned vastly different results and not in the Bravia 8’s favor, with a measurement of 99.4 nits compared to the A80L’s 224, indicating this is a picture mode you’ll want to avoid when watching SDR content.
Outside of this, it should mean the Bravia 8 will take everything that we loved about the A80L but throws in a helping of improved contrast and, with the new XR Processor acting as the brains of the operation, finer control of light for improved HDR performance.
As for color performance, the Bravia 8 does well against some of its closest competitors, covering 99.1% of the UHDA-P3 color gamut and 75% BT.2020. The LG C4, by comparison, returned results of 98.7% and 72.7%, respectively.
For my real-world performance tests, I streamed the opening fight sequence between Ta Lo and Xu Wenwu in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings on Disney Plus in its IMAX Enhanced version. It's a glorious test of color with various shades of green, yellow and red as the two go head-to-head with their own fighting styles. I was watching in a dark room and so selected the Dolby Vision Bright picture setting, which increases brightness without any sacrifice to detail and found the Bravia 8 reproduced this scene beautifully. Dolby Vision Dark was a little too dim for my preference in this case.
Sony’s XR Triluminos Pro technology, which aims to reproduce natural and accurate colors, worked to full effect, with the greens and yellows of the forest setting looking incredibly realistic – it was easy to notice the different shades depending on where the light was hitting and the characters’ faces were clear and detailed.
The Sony Bravia 8 demonstrates excellent control of light and highlights (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Even the rings around Xu Wenwu’s arms gave off a satisfying blue shine as they were powering up for attack, highlighting the Bravia 8’s – and more specifically, the XR Contrast Booster’s – ability to precisely control the light. What makes this all the more impressive is the fact that there is no MLA technology or Quantum Dot layer, but instead a traditional WOLED panel.
After we meet present-day Shang Chi and he’s speaking with friends in a dimly lit bar, the Sony Bravia 8 flexes its muscles with regard to picking out detail where there’s little to no light. His dark T-shirt is clearly distinguishable from his even darker cardigan, while the stripes on his female friend’s blazer can also be seen. There’s no discernible light blooming around the bright table lamps, both the one at the front and center of the screen, and the numerous others dotted about in the background.
The Sony Bravia 8 offers the option to switch to a dedicated 'calibrated' mode when watching content on Prime Video (as above), Netflix or Sony Pictures Core (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
An Ultra HD stream of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare on Prime Video provided a good opportunity to test out the new Prime Video Calibrated Mode. Switching this mode on and off is as simple as toggling a switch in the picture settings, but in the instance for this particular movie, I noticed absolutely no difference between the Calibrated picture settings and Sony’s own Professional picture mode (the brand’s version of Filmmaker mode). This could potentially be because the Bravia 8 doesn’t support HDR10+, which Prime Video uses, but regardless, in either mode, I was presented with a beautiful, natural image with great depth. I compared the same opening scene on the LG G4 and, while the better-specced TV did have more refined light control, it wasn’t quite the stark difference I was initially expecting – which is kudos to Sony.
I switched the overhead lights on and loaded up Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes on Disney Plus – while there was a fair amount of reflection noticeable in the opening, very dark scene, it wasn’t enough to distract me from my viewing. And that viewing was glorious, with the Bravia 8 managing to pick out the individual strands of fur on the apes, while also handling Caesar's burning funeral pyre without any noticeable signs of blooming.
Picture quality score: 4.5 / 5
Sony Bravia 8 review: Sound quality
Accurate placement of object sounds
Dynamically impressive
Still lacking in the bass department
Sony has once again employed its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology here, which sees actuators placed behind the screen to physically vibrate it, turning the entire surface into a speaker. Not a lot has changed in this iteration compared to the A80L, although Sony says its added a new tweeter to help boost higher frequencies and, in particular, dialogue.
It’s a really remarkable system – and the first time I’ve personally heard it in action – as when using the same opening fight sequence from Shang Chi, gusts of wind, flailing arms and attacks using the 10 rings were accurately placed within the soundfield; when an attack was landed towards the bottom left of the screen for example, that’s exactly where it could be heard, as opposed to a full sound coming from all speakers.
When I began the stream, I received a pop-up asking if I wanted to activate the IMAX Enhanced DTS:X soundtrack (the Sony Bravia 8 is an IMAX Enhanced-certified TV) and there was a genuine effect of height to the audio. These effects were only amplified the louder I turned up the volume and they remained distortion-free.
The Voice Zoom 3 feature works incredibly well, too, for any spoken content that you may have a little trouble hearing. Not only does increasing the level help dialogue become easier to hear, it does so without sounding separate from the rest of the soundtrack or other audio, instead sounding entirely natural. The same feature can be used when connected to an external soundbar or speaker system.
The only slight downside is that bass performance still isn’t a strong point of Sony’s audio system. While this will undoubtedly be a blessing to your neighbors, it does mean that despite the Bravia 8 being more impressive than its peers in the sound department, you will want to invest in one of the best soundbars to experience more engaging home cinema thrills. Taking the car chase scene from The Batman as a prime example, there isn’t a deep rumble from the Batmobile’s engine that you would get from an external subwoofer, but is certainly more engaging than most other TV sound systems.
Sound quality score: 4.5 / 5
Sony Bravia 8 review: Design
Height adjustable feet in two positions
Slimmer rear makes it easier to wall mount
Invisible speakers
As well as the Bravia 8 delivering a 10% increase in brightness, I’m going to also say it’s 10% better looking. For starters, Sony has slimmed the TV down to a depth of just 37mm, making it easier to wall mount in the process. This is due to Sony removing the protruding rear housing for all the connections, subwoofers and processing electronics on the A80L. Instead, the rear is a uniform panel – something Sony calls “One Slate” design – and the grid of etched squares has now been increased in size to cover the entire rear.
You’ll still find a similar set of connections on the right-hand side when viewed from the back, including four HDMI ports (only two of which are HDMI 2.1, and one of these supporting eARC), optical digital audio out, an ethernet port, RF antenna port, two USB type-A and an input S-Center speaker input, which you can use to turn the TV into a center speaker as part of a wider external sound system. If you connect one of Sony’s new Bravia Theater soundbars, you can bypass the need for this connection and still use the TV as a center-channel speaker via Acoustic Center Sync.
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The Bravia 8's feet can be adjusted to two different heights in both a narrow or wide position. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
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The Sony Bravia 8 TV remote is backlit and made from up to 80% recycled materials. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
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It employs a unique speckled effect. (Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
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(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Also new for the Bravia 8 – and the entire 2024 Bravia lineup – is the ability to position the included feet in any of four ways, up from the previous three. You can position them in either a narrow or wide configuration – meaning those with smaller TV stands can place the Bravia 8 on top with little issue – and this time you can raise the screen a few inches in both narrow and wide configurations, to better accommodate a soundbar beneath.
A single remote control comes in the box this time around, which is effectively the same as the one that shipped with the A80L. It’s relatively long and thin, with a central mic button for voice recognition – I figure this positioning is Sony’s attempt to encourage users to interact with the Bravia 8 more with their voice – and direct buttons for six streaming services at the bottom.
What is perhaps more interesting about this remote control, however, is the fact it’s made from approximately 80% recycled plastic, and the way in which Sony produces the speckled design means that each one is ever so slightly different. It’s backlit and rechargeable via USB-C.
Design score: 4.5 / 5
Sony Bravia 8 review: Smart TV and menus
Google TV smart system
Google Assistant baked in and 'Works With' Alexa/Apple HomeKit support
Eco Dashboard 2 for power saving tips
The Bravia 8 continues Sony’s appreciation for the Google TV platform, which is a smart thing to do. As expected, the full suite of major video and music streaming apps is available, along with (quite literally) tens of thousands of others. The home screen, which Google TV calls 'For You', shows you content you’re currently in the middle of watching across any installed apps, followed by recommended content based on your viewing habits and Google Search history across other devices when you’re logged into the same account. Google Assistant is available for voice commands and to help you find whatever you want faster.
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
I did appreciate Sony’s implementation of a quick settings menu system, whereby you just press a button on the remote control with the wrench icon to bring up a row of common settings along the bottom of the screen, each with its own set of choices to cycle through. The order of these can be personalized, so if you know you’re going to want to adjust picture and sound settings the most, for example, you can place these at the start of the row.
Sony has installed the second-generation of its Eco Dashboard in the Bravia 8, which presents the TV’s power consumption history in the form of animated graphs. You can also adjust power-saving settings from this screen, with the dashboard indicating how much power in kilowatt-hours (kWh) you’ll save.
Naturally, Chromecast is supported for streaming to the TV from compatible devices, as is AirPlay 2. And, despite using Google TV, Sony clearly doesn’t want to discriminate, as it’s added ‘works with’ support for Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit.
This was the first time in a long time I’d personally used Google TV. I’d read and heard good things, so I was keen to experience it for myself. However, in comparison to LG’s webOS TV system, which I’m very familiar with, I found Google TV here to be quite slow and clunky. Button presses on the remote control weren’t received with the immediacy I’d expect for a TV of this caliber.
Smart TV and menus score: 3.5 / 5
Sony Bravia 8 review: Gaming
4K @ 120Hz and VRR support
Dolby Vision Gaming for compatible sources
Improved 12.8ms input lag
The Bravia 8 presents itself as a great option for gamers thanks to its excellent color reproduction and improved HDR brightness, and is a natural partner for the PlayStation 5 thanks to Sony’s ‘Perfect for PS5’ feature that automatically adjusts the image to deliver optimum results.
Even if you don’t have a PS5, you can still benefit from VRR and ALLM, while Xbox gamers can take advantage of Dolby Vision Gaming. During my testing, I measured an input lag of 12.8ms, which is a significant improvement over the 16.5ms lag on the A80L, putting the Bravia 8 on par with the likes of the LG G4, although the LG C4 – Sony's closest competitor for this telly – undercuts it further with a figure of 9.2ms.
(Image credit: Future / Max Langridge)
Loading up Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and it’s clear the Sony Bravia 8’s excellent lighting control when watching video content is carried over to gaming. Spidey’s suit and buildings exhibit clear shine where they’re being hit by sunlight, while the stunning vistas in Grand Theft Auto 5 exhibited fantastic depth, with plenty of detail to buildings and bushland when viewed up close.
Sony’s Game menu pops up at the press of the Menu button on the TV remote control, bringing up quick-select options for game type, toggling VRR on or off and a new, previously promised feature to adjust the screen size. You're also able to toggle on an on-screen crosshair, which could help players of FPS games get an upper hand.
The picture does improve when switching to the LG G4, but this is to be expected with its greater control of light and increased peak brightness. But, for a mid-range OLED, the Sony Bravia 8 will be great for gamers.
The only thing that does continue to hold it back is that only two of its four HDMI ports support the 2.1 standard for 4K/120Hz. If you only have one games console, this won’t be an issue but, if you have multiple, then you'll be better served by a model from LG or Samsung. There's also no support once again for Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync.
Gaming score: 4/5
Sony Bravia 8 review: Value
Small premium over A80L but with improved performance
Already receiving discounts
LG C4 can be found for similar money
The Sony Bravia 8 presents itself as good value for money. Its launch price is a little higher than its predecessor in some territories, but you are getting a number of upgrades, such as the new processor and Dolby Vision Gaming mode, to justify it. However, since launch, we've seen its price come down and, at the time of writing, there are savings of up to $900 / £200 / AU$1,100 direct from Sony, with third-party retailers likely price-matching or beating those prices.
While some may have wished for a greater leap in terms of brightness, it’s not a total shock that Sony has continued to omit brightness-boosting technology, such as MLA or Quantum Dot, as these technologies are reserved for the flagship screens – the LG C4 gets the same treatment for example.
But considering what the Sony Bravia 8 can do, such as displaying movies with great detail and light control, and offering up a number of picture modes that work well as opposed to the one or two you sometimes find on competitor screens, it’s a fantastic, affordable option for those with dark rooms.
Value score: 4/5
Should I buy the Sony Bravia 8?
Buy it if...
You want a glorious TV for movies without breaking the bank
The Bravia 8’s beautifully natural image processing and 4K clarity makes it perfect for watching movies, especially in HDR, all for a relatively affordable price.
You want a TV to sound good without an external system
Sony’s Acoustic Surface audio system continues to prove why it’s the best at built-in sound. It’s fired directly into the room and is especially capable at placing objects in your space.
Don't buy it if...
You watch content during the day
The Bravia 8 does an admirable job at countering brightly lit rooms, but it can’t compete against TVs that have much higher peak brightness credentials.
You want a super slick TV OS
Google TV offers plenty in the way of apps and connectivity, but it’s slow and clunky in comparison to others on the market.
Also consider...
LG C4 LG has made great improvements to its mid-range OLED TV, including boosting its brightness to above-average levels. It continues to support 4K/120Hz across all four HDMI ports, making it a great choice for gamers. Read our full LG C4 review
TCL C855 If you're not loyal to OLED but you still want the best bang for your buck, the mini-LED TCL C855 is one of the best choices you could make. It delivers a stunning picture and has a strong set of features, all for an incredibly affordable price. Read our full TCL C855 review
Hisense U8N Another great choice for gamers with Dolby Vision gaming and 4K/144Hz support, the Hisense U8N is another wallet-friendly wonder. It can go incredibly bright, yet controls it well with powerful local dimming. Read our full Hisense U8N review
How I tested the Sony Bravia 8
While this was my first time using a Sony TV for an extended period of time, I have previously tried and tested a few LG TVs. So the first I did was dive into menus to familiarize myself with the setup, then played a variety of content from streaming apps and via 4K Blu-rays playing on a PlayStation 5 over the course of five weeks.
I streamed content in both SDR and HDR and assessed the available picture mode options for each from services including Netflix, Disney Plus and Prime Video. I found Professional to offer the best results for non-Dolby Vision content, and the Dolby Vision Bright setting for content produced in that HDR format. I also toggled between the calibrated picture modes for Netflix, Prime Video and Sony Pictures Core, and found the settings for Prime Video to be the weakest of the three, in the sense that there was no obvious difference to the overall picture.
The LG B4 is the company’s entry-level OLED TV series and follows in a long line of B-series models that provide a high-value option to fans of the best OLED TVs. At $1,699 / £2,099 / AU$2,999 for the 65-inch model I reviewed, the B4 is a sensible TV option for those who don’t want to spend big bucks on flagship models like the LG G4 and Samsung S95D, and also don’t want to deal with the shortcomings of mid-range mini-LED TVs – poor off-axis picture quality and limited gaming features to name just two.
A huge gaming upgrade the LG B4 gets over last year’s LG B3 is four sets of HDMI 2.1 ports compared to the B3’s two HDMI 2.1 connections. Otherwise, it uses a similar W-OLED display panel that doesn’t provide a picture brightness upgrade. That’s not to say the B4 doesn’t have an impressive picture – a new Alpha 8 AI processor with Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro and AI Super Upscaling features helps bring out the best in 4K and lower-resolution movies and TV shows, and it also provides sound quality benefits such as 9.1.2 virtual surround processing.
Sound quality isn’t a B4 strong point, so if you’re a movie fan or just like to crank the volume up loud, you’ll benefit from pairing it with one of the best soundbars. It also has a basic design, with support feet instead of the premium aluminum pedestal stand found on the step-up LG C4, and HDMI inputs split between side and back panel sections – an arrangement that makes a flush wall-mount installation more challenging. It does come with LG’s Magic Remote control, however, and it’s one of the best in the business for navigating smart TV menus.
Speaking of that, LG’s webOS 24 has a more streamlined layout than last year’s webOS 23 and features the same Quick Cards for conveniently browsing apps by category among other functions. A big portion of the home screen is devoted to ads, however, which seems to be the norm for smart TV homescreen layouts these days.
The B4’s four HDMI 2.1 ports support 120Hz pass-through, VRR (with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync), and 4K Dolby Vision gaming. Combine that with the TV’s extensive cloud gaming options, which include GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, Utomik, Blacknut, and Boosteroid, and low 9.1ms input lag, the B4 comes off as a relatively budget powerhouse among the best gaming TVs.
Which brings us to the topic of value. If you’re looking for a great gaming TV at a reasonable price, the LG B4 easily qualifies. Otherwise, its value is undercut somewhat by the LG C4, which might be a clear step up in price, but is available in a wider range of sizes, provides even more gaming features, and has a significantly brighter picture.
LG B4 review: Price and release date
The LG B4 OLED TV showing artwork in standby mode. (Image credit: Future)
Release date: March 2024
48-inch: $800 / NA / NA
55-inch: $1,399 / £1,399 / AU$2,199
65-inch: $1,699 / £2,099 / AU$2,999
77-inch: $2,699 / £3,099 / NA
The LG B4 series is the company’s entry-level OLED line, slotting just beneath the mid-range LG C4 series. B4 series OLED TVs were released in March 2024 in 48, 55, 65, and 77-inch screen sizes, though the availability of the 48-inch model appears to be limited to the US and a single retailer (Best Buy) at the time of writing. The 77-inch model also doesn’t appear to be available in Australia.
There’s a notable gap between LG’s entry-level and mid-range OLED TVs, with the 65-inch B4 I tested priced at $1,599 / £2,099 / AU$2,999 and the 65-inch C4 selling for $1,999 / £2,099 / AU$3,499.
Strangely, prices for both models in a 65-inch size were equivalent in the UK, though will probably change over time since TVs are discount so quickly these days. The current prices LG has listed are discounted from the original suggested prices, and you can expect to see them drop further as we near the end of 2024.
LG B4 review: Specs
LG B4 review: Benchmark results
LG B4 review: Features
The LG C4's four HDMI 2.1 ports are split between side and back panel sections. (Image credit: Future)
Standard W-OLED panel and Alpha 8 AI processor
New Dolby Vision Filmmaker mode
Four HDMI 2.1 inputs with 4K 120Hz support
The LG B4 uses a standard W-OLED panel and has the new Alpha 8 AI processor also found in the company’s top-tier mini-LED TVs for 2024. This features Dynamic Tone Mapping Pro and AI Super Upscaling with face detection for pictures, and AI Sound Pro for 9.1.2-channel virtual surround processing over the TV’s 2.0-channel speakers. B4 series TVs also have an anti-reflection screen that effectively reduces glare from bright room lights.
HDR support for the B4 series includes Dolby Vision (with Dolby Vision IQ), HDR10, and HLG formats. A new Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode makes its debut on 2024 LG OLED TVs, and this helps by disabling the motion smoothing that’s typically applied by default in Dolby Vision modes on other TVs.
A new and welcome addition to LG’s B-series OLED TVs is four HDMI 2.1 inputs, which lets you connect both Xbox Series X and PS5 consoles to the TV along with one of the best soundbars via HDMI eARC. These all support 4K 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and Quick Media Switching (QMS), a feature that enables seamless frame rate matching when connected to a compatible source such as an Apple TV 4K (2022).
LG’s webOS 24 smart TV platform is used for streaming on the B4 and it includes a wide range of apps including, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, Max, and more (but sadly not The Criterion Channel in the US). Cloud gaming is also supported, with apps including GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, Utomik, and Blacknut. LG’s Quick Cards, which give you easy access to app categories like Home Office, Games, Music, Home Hub, and Sports, get a refreshed layout in webOS 24 with the cards now cutting horizontally across the home screen’s center. Both AirPlay and Chromecast built-in are onboard for wireless streaming, and there’s your choice of Alexa or Google Assistant for voice commands.
Features Score: 4.5/5
LG B4 review: Picture quality
The B4's picture has rich colors but limited brightness compared to premium OLED TVs. (Image credit: Future)
Average brightness for an OLED TV
Very good overall picture quality
Anti-reflection screen
With a standard W-OLED panel rather than the OLED Evo (with Brightness Booster) one found in the LG C4, I didn’t expect the LG B4 to beat last year’s B3 when it came to brightness, and my measurements confirmed that. With the B4 in Filmmaker mode, peak HDR brightness measured on a white window test pattern covering 10% of the screen area was 656 nits, and a full-screen pattern measured 128 nits. Those are expected results for an entry-level OLED TV, although OLED TVs are generally getting brighter, with the C4 yielding results of 1,065 nits and 202 nits, respectively on the same brightness tests, so there's a massive leap in contrast and fullscreen brightness if you step up to the pricier model.
Otherwise, the B4’s lab performance was excellent. UHDA-P3 color space coverage in Filmmaker mode was 98.9% and BT.2020 coverage was 74%, results that basically match the performance of the C4. The B4’s averaged Delta-E values, which are used to determine grayscale and color accuracy, were 2.9 and 1.6, respectively. Once again, those numbers match our results for the C4 and are within the threshold we look for TVs to hit (we're happy with anything under 3.0)
The LG B4’s anti-reflection screen proved effective when watching with overhead lights on, with little to no glare visible even with TV shows with mostly dark, shadowy images like House of the Dragon on Max. I’ve recently tested several mini-LED TVs with stunningly high brightness such as the Hisense U8N and TCL QM815G. Compared to these, the B4 with its limited peak brightness lacked the same dynamic picture those sets delivered for daytime viewing, though the picture looked crisp and had rich color and great detail even when viewing upconverted non-4K TV shows.
I generally watch with my room lights dimmed and in those conditions, the B4’s picture revealed a high contrast range, along with exceptional shadow detail. This could easily be seen in the interior scenes from House of the Dragon, and it also helped to bring out the dynamic quality of the black-and-white images from Ripley on Netflix. And when I streamed Godzilla Minus One in 4K with Dolby Vision on Netflix, the subtle color range of this kaiju movie set in post-World War II came through perfectly thanks to the TV’s Dolby Vision Filmmaker Mode, which provides an accurate, director-approved presentation without having to muck with picture adjustments.
OLED TVs typically excel at motion handling and the LG B4 is no exception. When I watched a scene from the James Bond film No Time to Die where the camera pans to follow Bond crossing a cemetery on a rocky landscape, the picture looked solid and was impressively judder-free. The same held for a subsequent sequence where Bond is chased through city streets on a motorcycle in an action-packed high-speed chase.
Picture quality score: 4/5
LG C4 review: Sound quality
The LG B4's Magic Remote control allows for both point-and-click and scrolling navigation. (Image credit: Future)
2-channel speaker system
9.1.2-channel virtual Dolby Atmos
Decent sound but limited bass
The LG B4 has a basic 2.0-channel built-in audio system that uses down-firing speakers. Audio features are limited compared to other LG OLED TVs, but the B4 can output audio wirelessly to a Bluetooth speaker or headphones, and it also supports both Wowcast for lossless wireless Dolby Digital output to LG soundbars and wireless speakers, and WiSA, which does the same for WiSA-enabled speakers.
Otherwise, the B4 has an automatic volume adjustment feature to maintain a constant volume level when switching TV channels. It also has an equalizer adjustment and an AI Sound Pro mode that converts sound to virtual 9.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos.
Sound from the B4’s built-in speakers has decent balance and dialogue comes across as clear. It becomes a bit thin and edgy when you raise the volume, however, and there’s not much of a directional effect with Atmos soundtracks, even in the TV’s Theater sound mode. Selecting the AI Sound Pro mode, which provides virtual 9.1.2-channel upmixing of soundtracks, gave the sound a better sense of spaciousness, but it also thinned out the set’s already challenged bass and made dialogue overly crisp.
Sound quality score: 3.5/5
LG B4 review: Design
The LG B4's aluminum support feet. (Image credit: Future)
Aluminum support feet
Side and back panel input sections
Magic Remote control
The LG B4 uses a set of aluminum feet for support, and although they aren’t height- or width-adjustable, they are a design step up from the plastic pedestal stand used for last year’s B3. The feet provide sturdy support for the TV, which is otherwise a thin display panel with an input section protruding two inches out from the back.
A thin bezel surrounds the B4’s screen, giving it the same “all-picture” look as the C4. Connections on the back are split between two sections: one side-mounted with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB type-A port, and an antenna input; and the second back-mounted with with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB type-A port, an optical digital output, and RS-232 and Ethernet ports for control.
The Magic Remote that comes with the B4 gives you the choice to either point-and-click on apps and menu sections or traditionally scroll through them using navigation buttons. It has direct access buttons for the Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, Sling, and LG Channels apps, and there’s one to activate Alexa. A centrally located button activates the built-in mic for voice commands when pressed.
Design score: 4/5
LG B4 review: Smart TV and menus
The LG B4's webOS 24 smart interface has a streamlined appearance, with Quick Cards for storing apps by category – but also big banner ads. (Image credit: Future)
Streamlned Quick Card layout
App selection can be customized
Quick Menu for easy setup
LG’s webOS 24 smart interface is one of the best ones going, and it features a few modifications over webOS 23. The main one is a new streamlined look for Quick Cards section, with the categories – Games, Music, Home Hub, Sports, Accessibility, and Home Office – running horizontally across the middle of the screen. These let you easily access related apps or each category, and the Home Hub one lets you set up Matter-compatible devices such as smart lights and cameras for control via the TV.
Other elements of the main webOS screen include a horizontal row of apps running beneath the screen, with most major ones such Netflix, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Apple TV Plus, and Max represented. The selection and arrangement of these can be customized, making it easy to access the ones you want. Unfortunately, there’s a large banner at the top third with a rotating array of ads, but to be fair, most smart TV interfaces feature some degree of promoted content.
I really like LG’s Quick Menu, which appears as a vertical panel with various settings such as picture mode, pixel brightness, sound mode, sound output, and more when you press the gear icon on the remote control. Clicking on another gear icon in the Quick Menu calls up another settings menu, with advanced settings that let you perfectly dial in the TV’s picture. Another new feature in webOS 24 is an onscreen chatbot that covers a wide range of topics related to setup and use of the TV and even speaks to you.
Smart TV & menus score: 4.5/5
LG B4 review: Gaming
The LG B4's pop-up game menu provides quick access to gaming-related settings. (Image credit: Future)
Four HDMI 2.1 ports
Cloud-based gaming apps
Low 9.1ms input lag (Boost mode)
While last year’s LG B3 topped out at two HDMI 2.1 ports, the LG B4 ups that number to four with support for 4K at 120Hz, VRR (with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync), and 4K Dolby Vision gaming present on all of them. The inclusion of four HDMI 2.1 ports is a major upgrade when it comes to flexibility and future-proofing, and it makes the B4 an excellent gaming TV for the price.
Cloud-gaming apps located in the Games Quick Card include GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, Utomik, Blacknut, and Boosteroid. Any connected game console will also show up here, where it can be easily selected.
The B4 will automatically switch to Game Optimizer mode when an active console is detected. You can also press the gear icon on the remote to call up the Game Menu, a transparent bar overlay at the bottom of the screen that shows frame rate, VRR status and other information, and provides quick access to game genre picture and sound presets, dark area adjustment and more. With Game Optimizer on, the B4’s input lag measured an excellent 11.9ms, and 9.1ms with Boost mode enabled.
Gaming score: 5/5
LG B4 review: Value
The LG B4's LG Channels free TV grid guide. (Image credit: Future)
Least expensive LG OLED TV series
LG C4 not much more money
Better value for gamers
The 65-inch LG B4 I tested costs $1,699 / £2,099 / AU$2,999. That’s a fair price for an OLED TV with average brightness but overall excellent picture quality and a fantastic suite of gaming features. And the 48-inch version is an even better value at $800 – if you can find one.
The value of the B4 is made a bit problematic by LG’s own C4 series OLED. That model offers significantly higher peak brightness than the B4. It also has a more elegant design with a pedestal stand as opposed to the B4’s support feet and features Nvidia 144Hz certification – an important feature for PC gaming.
Any one of those factors could impact your decision to buy the C4 instead, which for the 65-inch model is priced not all that much higher at $1,999 / £2,099 / AU$3,499 (oddly, 65-inch B4 and C4 prices are equivalent in the UK). Even so, the B4 remains a very good value for what it offers, and most people – gamers especially – will be pleased with its features, picture, and basic sound quality.
Value score: 4/5
Should I buy the LG B4 OLED TV?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if…
LG B4 review: Also consider...
How I tested the LG B4 OLED TV
(Image credit: Future)
Tested over the course of two weeks
Measurements were made using Calman color calibration software
A full calibration was made before proceeding with subjective tests
When I test TVs, I first first spend a few days or even weeks using it for casual viewing to assess the out-of-box picture presets and get familiar with its smart TV menu and picture adjustments. I next select the most accurate preset (usually Filmmaker Mode, Movie or Cinema) and measure grayscale and color accuracy using Portrait Displays’ Calman color calibration software. The resulting measurements provide Delta-E values (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) for each category, and allow for an assessment of the TV’s overall accuracy.
Along with those tests, I make measurements of peak light output (recorded in nits) for both standard high definition and 4K high dynamic range using 10% and 100% white window patterns. Coverage of DCI-P3 and BT.2020 color space is also measured, with the results providing a sense of how faithfully the TV can render the extended color range in ultra high-definition sources.
For the LG B4, I used the Calman ISF workflow, along with the TV’s advanced picture menu settings, to calibrate the image for best accuracy. I also watched a range of reference scenes on 4K Blu-ray discs to assess the TV’s performance, and 4K HDR shows streamed from Max, Netflix, and other services.
The Mohu Vibe has a gray fabric front panel. (Image credit: Future)
The Mohu Vibe indoor TV antenna is unlike most other TV antennas in that it actually looks good. Only three things about the best indoor TV antennas really matter: Does it pull the stations you want at your location? Is its size and style compatible with your room? Is its price/performance in your range?
Mohu’s new Vibe claims a 50-mile range; it sports a decor-friendly form factor (about the size and shape of a supermarket sushi tray) and a discreet gray tweed-like finish, and at a $50 list-price – typically sold for half that amount – it’s going to fit a lot of budgets.
Setup couldn’t be easier: you can hang the Vibe on a picture hook or a screw (Mohu provides the latter, plus a sheetrock anchor), or do as I did and use double-sided tape (not supplied) against a window pane or smooth wall. A captive 12-foot cable leads from the antenna to the “Jolt” amplifier module – about the size of a box of TicTacs – but the coax whip from the amp is only six inches, so unless you supply your own, longer coaxial extension cable you’ll have to site the antenna within two arm-spans of your TV. A second cable attaches the amplifier to a USB port for power. This one is much longer, in case the TV has no free USB jack (you have to supply your own USB charger).
A screw and sheet-rock anchor are included for wall-mounting the Vibe antenna. (Image credit: Future)
Visually, the Vibe is about as unobtrusive as an antenna can get: it could be a motion sensor, or at a stretch, an arts & crafts decoration. As to performance, first our usual disclaimer, and it’s a very important one to understand and accept: Any TV antenna’s real-world reception depends enormously on two factors: its elevation, and what obstructions, natural or man-made, intervene between it and the desired signal(s) transmission towers. So our results, as always, represent one location only, and a pretty idealized one at that: a semi-rural spot at about 700 ft. above sea level, in a second-story window with a clear line-of-sight southeast, from whence a variety of signals emanate from the east, south, and southwest, at distances ranging from 17 miles to more than 75.
In this arrangement, the Mohu Vibe pulled in 27 stations (9 primary channels, such as 5.1, and 18 sub-channels like 27.2, 56.4, and so on). This is about 25% fewer than we obtained from Mohu’s slightly larger and bulkier Arc model – but note that atmospheric conditions will vary results from day to day and time to time. (In truth, antenna technology really hasn’t changed much since the Eisenhower years.) Only the one weakest station (a lower-power one a bit north of east, and thus well off the Vibe’s aimed axis) suffered the occasional picture blocking of a marginal signal strength; the others were all rock solid.
The Vibe should perform well in typical suburban and urban locations, and, given some elevation and lack of obstructions, even in more rural/distant locations, like our test site.
The included “Jolt” amplifier module attaches to the antenna and to your TV's USB port for power. (Image credit: Future)
Mohu Vibe: Price and release date
First available: September 2023
Price: $49.99
The Mohu Vibe’s $50 list price is reasonable, given its somewhat more attractive form and finish. (A seemingly perpetual 20% off deal cuts the price to around $40, and we’ve seen it for $25.) That said, there are myriad competing antenna designs, in a dizzying range of shapes, sizes, and forms, that will probably perform similarly, for prices from a bit less to a whole lot more.
The antenna's “Jolt” amplifier module. (Image credit: Future)
Should you buy the Mohu Vibe?
Buy it if...
You live in an urban/suburban area: The Vibe is a good option for receiving stations from stations located mostly within 25-40 miles or less.
You want a maximally unobtrusive antenna: The Vibe’s very compact form factor and gray fabric front panel allow it to virtually disappear in almost any environment.
Don't buy it if...
You live in rural/edge location: If you need to “pull” signals much beyond 40 or 50 miles, or are surrounded by hills or tall buildings, a raised (roof or mast/tower), outdoor (or high-attic-mounted) unit is still the best, and sometimes the only answer.
You want a setup app to optimize reception: Some pricier indoor antennas come with a custom setup app to help point the antenna for best possible reception, but no such app is provided with the Mohu Vibe.
Mohu Vibe review: Also consider
(Image credit: Future)
How I tested the Mohu Vibe
Tested at semi-rural location
Compared with powerful "reference" antenna
I test indoor TV antennas at a semi-rural, hilltop location with good elevation and a clear line-of-sight over nearly 360 degrees to TV transmitters ranging from about 15 to about 70 miles. This testing environment gives me the ability to evaluate models catering to a full spectrum of indoor antenna needs.
For the testing process, I first place the antenna high up in a south-facing window and run the tuning process on a TV with an ATSC 3.0 “next-gen TV” tuner. I then record the number of carriers tuned, along with the total number of sub-channels. A powerful inside-the-attic rooftop-type antenna at the same location is also used as a reference for comparison.
The Sanus VLT7 is a premium tilting TV wall-mount bracket with swivel functionality designed to cover a range of TVs from 42-90-inch sizes, holding up to 150 bls (68Kg) in weight. The Sanus VLT7 is almost identical in spec, but is cheaper. For our tests, however, we used the VLT7.
Installation of the VLT7 is incredibly easy, with a simple three-step process suggested by Sanus taking close to the 30 minutes suggested. The instructions provided are easy to follow and the construction and installation process ran smoothly. You'll need your own tools (mainly a screwdriver and socket wrench) and two people to carry out installation.
The VLT7's build quality is strong, with both the brackets and wall plate feeling reassuringly sturdy and robust. Most of the materials are made from a quality black metal which again feels premium and tough. The covers used to help hold the bracket hooks to the wall plate feel a little cheap and plasticky in comparison to the rest of the bracket, but this is the one complaint in an otherwise solid wall mount.
The VLT7 carries 15 degrees of tilt, and even with the weighty 20kg of the 65-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED feels comfortable at full tilt. A useful 15-degree swivel and 6.8 inches of extension means connections such as HDMI are easily accessible and changeable. Even when not in tilt mode, the VLT7 sits snug to the wall at 2.1 inches distance.
The VLT7 is priced at roughly $189.99 / £89 / AU$225, meaning its decent value for money in the UK, but pricey elsewhere. Although it caters to a large range of sizes, more affordable options are available such as the Mounting Dream MD2268-LK-02, one of the best TV wall-mounts, which also caters to a similar range 37-82 inch TVs, and is priced at $35 / £35 – a quarter of the price.
Sanus VLT7 review: Prices and release date
Priced at $189.99 / £89 / AU$225
First available 2021
Available from major online retailers
The Sanus VLT7-B2 is a tilting and swivel wall mount that fits 42-90-inch TVs. Available from online retailers for $189.99 / £89 / AU$225, it sits at the more premium end of the tilting TV bracket market.
The version we tested from Amazon is referred to as the VLT7. It's the same product but pricier in the UK and Australia, retailing for $189.99 / £129.99 / AU$269.99, so you're best getting the VLT7 if you're in those regions.
Sanus VLT7 review: Specs
Installation of the Sanus VLT7 TV wall-mount is a breeze. (Image credit: Future)
Sanus VLT7 review: Ease of installation
Easy installation process
Two people recommended
Simple instructions
Sanus says that the installation for the VLT7 takes 30 minutes and uses a 3-step process, and during my testing, this was pretty accurate. For our setup, we placed a wooden board onto a stud wall and used the four included lag bolts to hold the back plate in place. A clear template for how to measure is provided.
Installation of the lag bolts and back plate uses a 0.5-inch (13mm) socket wrench and was easy. Two people were required during installation – one to hold the back plate in place, while the other tightened the lag bolts.
The brackets are easily installed onto the back of the TV, with varying height options for different sizes in its vast 42-90 inch range. Included in the box were a large number of M6 and M8 screws (compatibility will vary from TV to TV). For our tests, we used the 65-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED, which worked with the provided M6 12mm screws. Spacers are also included in the box if required.
It’s worth noting that you will require your own tools for installation, with the most vital being the socket wrench and screwdriver. Within the instructions, Sanus recommends other tools including a tape measure, pencil and various drill bits depending on the wall type.
Ease of installation score: 4.5 / 5
The Sanus VLT7 feels comfortable even with larger TVs at full tilt (Image credit: Future)
Sanus VLT7 review: Build quality
Premium metal materials
Solid, sturdy feel
Cover on back plate feels cheap
Straight out of the box, the VLT7 feels weighty and premium. Its two brackets and back wall plate are made of a black metal that feels solid when held. Although the rear brackets were light, they still felt reassuringly sturdy during the installation process.
When installed on the wall, the 65-inch Omni QLED, which weighs 45 lbs (20 kg), felt secure on the VLT7 bracket. At full downward tilt, the Omni QLED didn’t feel like it was moving anytime soon. One thing I did notice, however, was that the plastic cover on the back plate (designed to cover the rear hooks) felt a little on the cheap side in comparison to the rest of the metal materials, but this was the only complaint I really had.
The VLT7 may be at the premium end of the wall-mount market, but its durability and solid, secure design make it worth it.
Build quality score: 4.5 / 5
The Sanus VLT7's back plate is large enough to allow space over in-wall plug sockets (Image credit: Future)
Sanus VLT7 review: Design
Good level of tilt and swivel
Wide back plate gives more installation freedom
Fairly snug to the wall
The VLT7 is designed to support larger, weightier TVs. Despite this, it hits a sweet spot of good extension and tilt, and can also fit snug to the wall when not in tilt mode.
With 15 degrees of downward tilt available, the VLT7 will prove useful to those who need to install their TVs high up on the wall. As we’ve already said, you can feel safe knowing that the VLT7 is ready to take the full weight of a TV even at full tilt. When not in tilt mode, the TV will only sit 2.1 inches from the wall and during my testing, that was the case with the 65-inch Omni QLED (although with a large depth overall it did stick out a little more). Another design advantage of the VLT7 is that its tilt function is more ‘automatic’ and doesn’t require manual adjustments each time, something that a budget tilting or full-motion wall-mount such as the Perlesmith PSSFK1 requires.
The VLT7 can also extend by 6.8 inches, giving plenty of access to the rear of the TV to swap any cables or manage connections. With the VLT7 extended and swiveled (again 15 degrees available here), the Omni QLED felt solid. I also tested whether moving a larger TV was doable on my own and thankfully the Omni QLED never felt unsecured.
Another useful design feature is the VLT7’s larger back plate. Although it initially looks cumbersome, the larger design is made with freedom of installation in mind, allowing enough room to accommodate any in-wall plug sockets or devices.
Design score: 4.5 / 5
The Sanus VLT7 with the 65-inch Omni QLED attached. (Image credit: Future)
Sanus VLT7 review: Value
Premium design and materials
Somewhat pricey
Cheaper alternatives available
As the VLT7 is a tilting bracket with swivel that holds 42-90-inch TVs, it requires a robust design and as such sits at the more premium end of the TV wall-mount market. While its design and build quality justify the price to an extent, it’s hard to ignore that there are cheaper alternatives.
The VLT7 retails for $189.99 / £89 / AU$225. Compare that with the Mounting Dream MD-2268, one of the best TV wall-mounts available, and its price becomes a bitter pill to swallow. The MD-2268 doesn’t offer the same features as the VLT7, with a 32-80-inch size range, 8 degrees of tilt, and no swivel, but it’s priced at $35 / £35 – a quarter of the VLT7's price in some regions.
Despite its more premium price, it’s hard to overlook just how sturdy and solid the VLT7 felt, even with the weightier 65-inch Omni QLED attached, and how easy it was to use.
Value score 4 / 5
Sanus VLT7 review: Should you buy it?
Buy it if...
You have a large or heavy TV The VLT7 is compatible with a large range of TV sizes – up to 90 inches – and when tested with a heavier 65-inch set felt reassuringly solid.
You want a good range of tilt With 15 degrees of downward tilt, the VLT7 will be useful in several situations, whether placed up high or compensating for glare in brighter viewing environments.
Don't buy it if...
You’re on a budget
The VLT7 is a premium tilting TV wall mount and as such comes with a higher price tag – even higher than some full-motion TV brackets.
You need a full-motion bracket Although the VLT7 can tilt and swivel, it doesn’t have the same level of movement as a full-motion wall-mount for angled viewing.
The VLT7 comes with everything you need except tools. (Image credit: Future)
How I tested the Sanus VLT7
Tested with 65-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED
Tested on a wooden stud board on drywall
Two-person installation
The Sanus VLT7 was installed on a wooden stud board placed over drywall, with holes made using a drill. The back plate was held to the board using a set of lag bolts installed with a socket wrench and the back brackets were installed using a basic Philips screwdriver.
For our testing, we opted to use the Amazon Omni QLED 65-inch to test the build quality and functionality of the VLT7. The Omni QLED is on the heavier side for a 65-inch TV, weighing 45 lbs (20kg) and sits roughly at the midway point of the VLT7's support range.
The VLT7 comes with screws and spacers to attach the bracket to the TV. For the Omni, the relevant sizes were M6 screws12-15mm in length, but this will vary from TV to TV. We had two people work on this installation as this is the safest approach, regardless of TV size.
The Zvox AV157 soundbar is a tough little sucker to review. That’s because it has one main purpose and doesn’t do much else compared to other soundbars, though it does that one thing well.
If you’re in the market for one of the best soundbars to enhance your TV viewing, the Zvox AV157 soundbar is not the one. However, if you need something to simply accentuate voices in your favorite shows or movies because they seem to get buried in the mix, then the Zvox AV157 is for you. People who are experiencing hearing loss will appreciate this small soundbar the most.
Similar to the Soundfun Mirai I recently reviewed, I found the Zvox AV157’s price a bit off-putting given that it's mostly a one-trick pony. But if you can’t hear what the heck Robert Pattinson is saying in Tenet, you’ll probably be willing to spend for it, though you could get a good mid-range soundbar such as the Sony HT-S2000 for not too much more money.
The Zvox AV157’s design is about as unobtrusive as it gets. It’s a small, black rectangular unit measuring just 17 x 3.3 x 2.9 inches with a front grille that indicates volume, input (indicated by the puzzling “In1d” and “In2A”) and Accuvoice and PhaseCue virtual surround (aka virtual surround sound) levels using an orange alphanumeric LED display.
Port-wise, the Zvox AV157 is very basic, offering just 3.5mm analog and optical digital audio inputs and a subwoofer/headphone output. It would have been nice for Zvox to also include an HDMI port with ARC capability since optical connections can be finicky.
For instance, I’ve had issues where I had to turn on a TV and connected speakers or soundbar in a particular order when using an optical connection. Considering this soundbar is aimed at older people who might find it difficult to troubleshoot connection issues, including an HDMI port would have been a good idea.
The Zvox has three 3-inch full-range drivers being fed 24 watts from a Class-D amplifier under the hood, so it will get loud enough for most people in a small to medium-sized room. Since this is a smaller unit, I wouldn’t recommend it for larger rooms, even if you need the dialogue-boosting capability.
I appreciate the AV157’s remote control, which is straightforward with large buttons that don’t require a hard press to register changes. Its size is substantial enough that you shouldn’t have issues losing it, at least not more than any other remote.
The Zvox AV157's alphanumeric LED display provides visual feedback to remote commands. (Image credit: Future)
As far as the soundbar’s performance goes, different people are going to feel differently about it. Again, that 24 watts offers more than enough power for smaller setups. And it provides an upgrade to normal budget flat-panel TVs that typically sport small, downward-firing speakers (a big reason why modern TVs sound worse than ones from a few decades ago) even without any special boosting or surround sound mode activated.
Since the AV157 is small, there’s not much in the way of bass and the high-end is nothing special. You have six levels at your fingertips when using the AccuVoice dialogue boosting feature, with each one pushing up the mid-range where voices sit, while six levels of SuperVoice tech simultaneously minimize background sounds.
The Zvox AV157 does a good job doing what it advertises. However, the more accentuated that mid-range gets, the more unnatural the audio sounds. In fact, voices end up sounding boxy. In a way, it’s kind of like a hearing aid in that they don’t make things sound better, just more audible.
Another Zvox feature, “PhaseCue virtual surround,” uses processing to, as its name suggests, deliver virtual surround sound. It has three levels and, like most virtual surround sound, it makes the sound just a bit more spacious. Still, it might be something you appreciate, since it gives a bit of depth to the AV157’s very mid-range-forward sound. An additional feature, Output Leveling, is used to modulate overall volume levels so TV commercials don't sound blaringly loud, for example.
If you have issues hearing dialogue, the AV157 can improve your TV viewing experience. Keep in mind, though, that TV speakers generally are subpar, so, if you wish you could hear dialogue a little bit clearer (and don’t have serious problems with your hearing), just upgrading to any decent soundbar will help.
The Zvox AV157's remote contains a full set of control buttons. (Image credit: Future)
Zvox AV157 Soundbar review: Price and release date
Price: $249 / £159 / AU$458
Released May 2020
The Zvox AV157 is on the pricey side for a diminutive soundbar, listing for $249 / £159 / AU$458. Just like the Soundfun Mirai ($299) which fills a similar need, I find the price a bit much for a soundbar that mainly boosts the frequencies where dialogue resides. But at least the Zvox also comes with virtual spatial audio to spice things up. It also can frequently be found on sale for less than $249.
Of course, there are cheaper soundbars out there that have a dialogue mode or the ability to boost mid-range frequencies such as the Roku Streambar, which costs $130 / £130. The Streambar has a whole host of extra functionality including the built-in Roku platform and HDMI ARC support, but not the Zvox’s precision voice boosting, which is something people who are hard of hearing will appreciate.
Both optical digital and analog audio inputs are provided, but no HDMI. (Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Zvox AV157 soundbar?
Buy it if...
You want something easy to use Navigating its features is easy thanks to a remote with big buttons and clear labeling. You won’t have issues adjusting the various features to your liking.
You want something compact The Zvox AV157 is petite. If you’re tight on space, you won’t have to worry about fitting it into your setup.
Don't buy it if...
You want natural-sounding dialogue While its dialogue-boosting feature works well, it doesn’t retain the natural timbre of your media’s audio. If you’re even something of an audiophile (even with some hearing loss), you’ll have trouble enjoying the sound.
You need an HDMI port It’s unfortunate that there’s no HDMI port, especially since optical connections can be finicky to deal with.
Zvox AV157 Soundbar review: Also consider
(Image credit: Future)
How I tested the Zvox AV157 Soundbar
I used the Zvox AV157 Soundbar for a week
Tested with both TV and movies
I used the Zvox AV157 Soundbar regularly for a week, viewing TV, movies, and Youtube videos. I compared it to just my TV’s speakers to see what kind of improvement it offers and found that, as I’ve stated in the review, it’s good at what it’s designed for. If you’re hard of hearing, this is a good but slightly pricey option. I
I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.
The Hisense U8N is the company’s next-to-top mini-LED TV series for 2024, slotting in between the Hisense U7N and Hisense U9N. This new series follows the same path as the Hisense U8K, one of the best TVs of 2023, by boosting brightness over its predecessor and refining picture processing with a focus on local dimming performance.
While most TVs provide only incremental improvements over last year’s model, the new Hisense U8N takes a dramatic performance leap, specifically in its peak brightness, which is nearly twice what I measured on the Hisense U8K. Local dimming has also been improved, and even the TV’s sound quality seems better. Many of these performance boosts mirror what I found on the new TCL QM851G mini-LED model that rivals it – perhaps not surprising given the determination both brands have shown in recent years to not just break through, but dominate the US TV market.
The Hisense U8N has mostly similar gaming features to the U8K, with two HDMI 2.1 ports that support up to 4K 144Hz, VRR including FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM, and Dolby Vision gaming, Those features, plus a Game Bar menu for on-the-fly tweaking of picture settings, make it a great TV for gaming, although we really want to see four HDMI 2.1 ports in the best gaming TVs. Google TV is used for the U8N’s smart TV platform in the US, and Hisense’s own VIDAA platform in the UK, Australia, and elsewhere.
Along with video and audio performance, design is an area where Hisense made some tweaks for the new series. The U8N has an adjustable-height pedestal stand as opposed to the U8K’s adjustable-width support feet. And Hisense’s full-size, backlit remote control is also a big improvement on the cheap-feeling compact one included with last year’s U8K. It also has an ATSC 3.0 tuner for receiving next-gen broadcast TV channels in the US.
Hisense TVs continue to be high-value options, and that includes the new U8N. At $1,499.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,699 list for the 65-inch model and with price drops in the US since launch, the U8N provides formidable competition to mini-LED offerings from traditional premium brands like Samsung, Sony, and LG, and is even priced lower than the TCL QM851G while providing mostly similar features and performance, making it an incredibly tempting option.
The U8N's full-scale remote control features a backlit keypad. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Price and release date
Release date: April 2024
55U8N: $1,099.99
65U8N: $1,499.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,699.99
75U8N: $1,799.99 / £2,299 / AU$3,699.99
85U8N: $2,799.99 / AU$4,999.99
The Hisense U8N series was released in April 2024 in screen sizes ranging from 55 inches to 85 inches. All sizes are available in the US, while the 65- and 75-inch models are sold in the UK and the 65-, 75-, and 85-inch sizes in Australia.
Prices for all models have dropped in all markets for the U8N series since launch, with the 65-inch model I tested selling for $1,299 in the US at the time of writing. Prices tend to fall fast on Hisense models in the US than in the UK and Australia, so the TV may be better value there than in other countries – I'm based in the US, and I'll be making my value judgments on the aggressive US pricing.
Hisense U8N review: Specs
Hisense U8N review: Benchmark results
Connections include two HDMI 2.1 ports and an ATSC 3.0 tuner input (US only). (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Features
2x HDMI 2.1 inputs with 144Hz support
Built-in ATSC 3.0 tuner
Low-reflection screen
Hisense U8N series TVs feature a new Hi-View Engine PRO processor that, according to the company, “leverages deep learning” to deliver AI-fueled dynamic HDR tone mapping, face detection, and detail enhancement. The mini-LED backlight in U8N series TVs is specified as having twice as many local dimming zones as last year’s U8K series models. It also has an anti-glare low-reflection screen, a 50W 2.1.2-channel built-in speaker system with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, Wi-Fi 6E for streaming, and an ATSC 3.0 tuner in the US to receive next-gen TV broadcasts.
For high dynamic range support, the U8N series handles Dolby Vision (IQ), HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG formats, and there’s a Filmmaker Mode for an accurate, director-approved picture out-of-the-box without having to play with picture settings. The U8N series is also IMAX Enhanced certified.
Gaming features on the U8N series include two HDMI 2.1 ports with support for up to a 144Hz refresh rate, VRR including FreeSync Premium Pro, and 4K Dolby Vision gaming. The Google TV smart TV platform is used for US models and Hisense’s own VIDAA platform in the UK and Australia. AirPlay 2 and Chromecast are onboard for wireless streaming, and Google voice assistant is supported, with the option to use either the remote control’s built-in mic or the TV’s internal mic for hands-free control.
Features Score: 4.5/5
Google TV's screensaver options include a wide range of colorful abstract and nature images. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Picture quality
High brightness
Powerful local dimming
Just-average motion handling
I've mentioned it a few times already, but this TV is astonishingly bright. Measured in Filmmaker mode at the default picture settings, the 65-inch U8N essentially matched the peak brightness numbers (in Movie mode) of the TCL QM851G, which had earned a designation as the brightest TV TechRadar had yet tested at the time of our review. An HDR white window pattern covering 10% of the screen yielded 2,851 nits, and a full-screen pattern measured 805 nits. The U8N also had outstanding brightness in Standard mode with both HDR and standard dynamic range sources, measuring 2,920 and 2,770 nits, respectively, on a 10% pattern.
The U8N also had strong measured results for color, hitting 96.3% of UHDA-P3 (the color space used for mastering 4K Blu-rays and digital cinema and streaming releases) and 81.9% of BT.2020. Color accuracy in Filmmaker mode was below the margin of error threshold we use for a benchmark (ie, if it were any more accurate, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference anyway), though grayscale accuracy came in slightly above that point – a situation helped by changing the Gamma preset in the TV’s picture Brightness settings sub-menu to 2.2, bringing it to a high-enough level of accuracy.
What did all of the above equate to when watching TV with the Hisense U8N? Pictures were wonderfully bright and punchy, with impressive detail and depth. Watching a broadcast of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the powerful effect of overhead lights beaming on the athletes brought the games to life, while colors in the uniforms looked rich and robust. Mind you, this was a regular high-definition broadcast, though it was carried with Dolby Vision HDR in the US on ATSC 3.0 broadcast TV channels.
(Image credit: Future)
I generally found the Hisense U8N to be a great TV for viewing sports, with its high brightness complemented by a low-reflection screen that made quick work of any would-be glare induced by my room’s overhead lights. The one weak point was the U8N’s off-axis uniformity – when viewed from a far off-center seat, both color and contrast noticeably faded.
The U8N’s powerful local dimming delivered deep blacks and refined shadows in shows such as House of the Dragon on Max. When I watched the season 2 finale, scenes that take place in dark chambers revealed plenty of detail in the backgrounds and the characters’ clothing. Candles illuminating these spaces popped out briskly against the dark backgrounds, giving pictures a strong sense of dimensionality.
Checking out a few segments from the demo reel section of the Spears & Munsil Ultra HD Benchmark 4K Blu-ray disc that I use to evaluate local dimming, there were virtually no backlight blooming artifacts to be seen in high-contrast images. A starfield test sequence indicated that the TV’s local dimming was a bit too aggressive at its High setting (the default in Filmmaker Mode), however, obscuring bright pinpoints of light that were otherwise visible with the local dimming set to Low or Off.
Motion handling on the U8N is one of its weaker points. When I watched a scene from No Time to Die where James Bond walks across a craggy hillside cemetery, the texture of the landscape and the monuments lining it both lost detail and took on a “smeared” quality as the camera panned horizontally. Setting the Blur and Judder adjustments in the Custom Motion Enhancement sub-menu to a low setting (I settled on 3 for both) fixed this, however, and didn’t introduce any noticeable soap opera effect.
Picture quality score: 4.5/5
That's a subwoofer on the U8N's back panel, in case you need it spelled out for you. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Sound quality
2.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos speaker system
Extensive sound adjustments
Very good sound quality
The Hisense U8N’s 2.1.2-channel built-in speaker system supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive sound formats. A subwoofer on the TV’s back panel (a slightly protruding, vented section that’s actually labeled “subwoofer”) adds a good dose of bass to soundtracks and there are upfiring speakers for height effects.
Hisense provides plenty of settings to tweak audio quality in the TV Sound Effect menu. There are seven sound mode presets, including Theater (the one I mainly used) and Intelligent Sound. An Advanced Settings sub-menu offers Auto Acoustic Tuning, a process that uses the mic built into the remote control to adapt the sound to the space the TV is set up in, along with Equalizer, left-right Balance, and subwoofer level settings.
I was very impressed with the U8N’s sound quality. Dialogue was clear and full, and the built-in subwoofer made bass effects sound surprisingly weighty. The sound level was plenty loud in my space even with the volume at a relatively low setting. When I watched a chase scene through a village in No Time to Die, directional effects such as the trajectory of the cars and motorcycle came across vividly, extending well beyond the screen, and Atmos effects such as the clanging of a church bell had an impressive sense of height as well. Although we usually recommend adding one of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars to a TV, I think plenty of people will be happy with the U8N’s built-in speakers.
Sound quality score: 4.5/5
The U8N's adjustable-height aluminum pedestal stand. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Design
Basic, pleasing design
Four HDMI ports (2x HDMI 2.1)
Backlit remote control
The HIsense U8N has a basic, but pleasing design. Metal is used for the TV’s frame and pedestal stand and the screen is surrounded by a 0.25-inch thin bezel.
Connections on the TV’s side panel include food HDMI ports (2x HDMI 2.1) and an optical digital audio output, headphone jack, and a 3.5mm analog composite video/stereo audio input. There are also two powered USB type-A ports, along with Ethernet and serial data connections.
The Hisense U8N comes with a better-than-average remote control. Although comprised of plastic, it has a faux-brushed aluminum surface and sits well in the hand. The keypad is backlit, and there are direct access buttons for the Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, YouTube, and Tubi streaming apps.
Design score: 4/5
The U8N's Google TV interface. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Smart TV and menus
Google TV with hands-free voice assistant
AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in support
Extensive picture and audio settings
The U8N series uses the Google TV smart TV platform in the US, and Hisense’s own VIDAA platform in the UK and Australia. Google TV on the model I tested was similar to my experience with other TVs that use the same platform, including models from Sony and TCL. Google TV has a fairly simple main screen layout, with a large top window and a central row displaying suggested content, with some suggestions drawn from your viewing and Google web browsing history. A bottom row lists apps you’ve subscribed to, and you can edit the order of apps or remove them from the row altogether.
Tabs at the top of the screen let you switch between the main Google TV interface and Live, Apps, and Library screens, with the latter showing movies and shows you’ve purchased or rented from Google TV. The Live TV program grid can be sorted by a range of channel categories (Google TV, Popular, Movies, News & Opinion, Kids, and more) and also lets you view only broadcast TV programs pulled in by the built-in tuner. A separate broadcast TV guide provides a more detailed view of broadcast listings and it provides extended data for ATSC 3.0 channels (US models only). Using this, I was able to determine that the Summer Olympics in Paris was being broadcast in HDR with Dolby Atmos audio, both of which are features of the next-gen ATSC 3.0 broadcast format.
As with other Google TVs, picture settings are easily accessed by pressing the gear icon on the remote control and then selecting the picture menu. Another, more convenient, option on the Hisense U8N is to press the Menu button on the remote, which calls up a scrolling horizontal bar at the bottom of the screen that provides quick access to preset picture and sound modes. The bar layout can also be customized, letting you add settings like brightness, local dimming, and more for easy access.
Smart TV & menus score: 4/5
The U8N's Game Menu lets you make quick gaming-related picture adjustments. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Gaming
2x HDMI ports with 4K 120Hz, VRR up to 144Hz support
Game Bar menu
13.1ms measured input lag
The Hisense U8N features two HDMI 2.1 ports with support for 4K 120Hz, VRR up to 144Hz (including FreeSync Premium Pro), ALLM, and Dolby Vision 4K gaming. A Game Bar menu can be accessed when the TV is in PC/Game mode, giving you quick access to gaming-related adjustments.
Input lag measured with a Bodnar 4K input lag meter was 13.1ms. That’s a slight improvement on last year’s Hisense U8K, and while higher than some of the best gaming TVs, it’s below the 15ms threshold that serious gamers look for.
Gaming score: 4/5
Google TV's Live TV guide incorporates free streaming and broadcast TV channels. (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U8N review: Value
Great value
Price drops since launch
Less pricey than traditional premium TV options
The 65-inch version of the Hisense U8N that I tested lists for $1,499.99 / £1,799 / AU$2,699.99 and is currently selling for $1,299 in the US. That’s an excellent deal for a TV with great overall picture quality plus high-level gaming features.
Looking over the competition, the TCL QM851G, another 2024 mini-LED model, hits even higher brightness peaks than the U8N, and also features an anti-reflection screen for daytime viewing. The QM851G pretty much matches the Hisense when it comes to gaming features, though it has more powerful 2.1.2-channel built-in speakers.
And then there’s the Samsung factor. The Samsung QN85D, the company’s least expensive mini-LED model, currently sells for $1,599 at 65 inches. It has lower peak brightness than the Hisense, a noticeable degree of backlight blooming, and similar limitations when it comes to off-axis viewing. Where the QN85D shows advantages over the U8N is its more sophisticated Tizen smart TV platform and comprehensive set of gaming features, including four HDMI 2.1 ports and a Gaming Hub that provides convenient access to cloud-based gaming apps from Xbox, Nvidia GeForce Now, and others.
Another TV that competes with the Hisense U8N is the Samsung QN90C (currently $1,399 for the 65-incher). Although it’s a 2023 model, the QN90C is still rated as our best TV for sport in that guide, has higher brightness than the Samsung QN85D (though it’s not as bright as the Hisense), better off-axis viewing uniformity, and the same suite of gaming features. At just $100 more than the Hisense U8N, it’s a tempting choice for sports fans and gamers while stocks last.
But that just emphasizes what fantastic value the Hisense is – even Samsung's previous model still isn't being sold as cheaply as the U8N, let alone any of the Hisense's 2024 competition. You can't get more TV for your money than this right now.
Value score: 5/5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Hisense U8N?
Buy it if…
Don't buy it if…
Also consider...
(Image credit: Future)
How I tested the Hisense U8N
Tested over two weeks
Measurements made using Calman color calibration software
Movie picture mode used for subjective tests
When I test TVs, I first spend a few days or weeks of casual viewing to assess out-of-box picture presets and familiarize myself with its smart TV menu and picture adjustments. I then select the most accurate preset (typically Filmmaker Mode, which was the case with the Hisense U8N) and measure grayscale and color accuracy using Portrait Displays’ Calman color calibration software. The resulting measurements provide Delta-E values (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) for each category, and allow for an assessment of the TV’s overall accuracy.
Along with those tests, I make measurements of peak light output (recorded in nits) for both standard high-definition and 4K high dynamic range using 10% and 100% white window patterns. Coverage of DCI-P3 and BT.2020 color space is also measured, with the results providing a sense of how faithfully the TV can render the extended color range in ultra high-definition sources.
For the Hisense, I used the Calman ISF workflow to assess its picture accuracy, which was good in the default Movie mode, though it required some calibration to achieve a more perfect result.. I also watched a range of reference scenes on 4K Blu-ray discs to assess the TV’s performance, along with 4K HDR shows and movies streamed from Max, Netflix, and Hulu.
The BenQ W5800 provides a strong reminder that there’s nothing quite as dazzling as a home theater, especially one with a specialized projector, a screen that covers a full wall, cozy chairs, and a top-notch speaker setup. At $5,999 (£4,599, AU$8999), the W5800 is aimed at hardcore cinephiles who demand very few compromises on visuals and do not need on-board speakers or built-in smart TV platforms. To that end, the W5800 is a display and nothing else.
Make no mistake – the BenQ W5800 is a fantastic display. It provides hardware adjustments for image placement and sizing to make it easy to get a perfect image wherever the projector is set up. And as you'd expect from the best 4K projectors, it has a dazzling, color-rich picture that looks great with a broad variety of content. Many cheaper projectors offer automatic image adjustment, but they almost invariably do so by simply cropping or distorting the image digitally – compromises the BenQ W5800’s manual hardware adjustments avoid.
Still, the BenQ W5800 suffers from the diminishing returns of many a premium product. You can get brighter projectors for the price, but you might miss out on some of the professional setup flexibility found here. For example, an ultra short throw projectors like the Epson EpiQVision Ultra LS800 easily beat it when it comes to brightness, but they can be fussier to set up for a geometrically perfect image.
If you already have a big home theater that’s aching for a projector upgrade, the BenQ W5800 will be a fantastic option. But for most people, other, cheaper solutions should suffice.
BenQ W5800 projector review: price and release date
Release date: May 2024
MSRP: $5,999 (£4,599 / AU$8999)
The BenQ W5800 was launched in May 2024 at a starting price of $5,999 (£4,599 / AU$8999). Given the W5800’s premium status and relative newness, it’s unlikely to see major price changes anytime soon.
BenQ's W5800 supports the HDR10+ high dynamic range format (Image credit: Future)
BenQ W5800 projector review: Specs
Input connections include two HDMI ports (one with eARC) (Image credit: Future)
BenQ W5800 projector review: design and features
Sizable, with a stylish design
Lacks built-in sound and streaming
Motorized zoom, focus and offset
The BenQ W5800 immediately lets you know it means business. It’s a large, regal projector, nearly every bit as large as the Epson Pro Cinema LS12000, with a symmetrical design and a massive lens sitting at the center. This is flanked by loads of air intakes and ventilation slots that occupy much of the surface area. The benefit here is that the projector’s cooling fans are low-pitched and practically inaudible from even just a couple of feet away.
Around back, the projector features a small handful of ports. For many, the two HDMI ports, one of which supports eARC, and the S/PDIF audio output will be doing most of the work. Two USB-A ports can power streaming devices, and there are LAN and RS-232 ports for more specialized setups. The projector’s 3D Sync Out port may come in handy, too, as it supports a variety of 3D formats.
For many, the W5800’s HDR support will be most crucial. You get the basic HDR10 and HLG, but BenQ also steps up with HDR10+ support. Dolby Vision isn’t supported, unfortunately.
The projector has some handy hardware for setup, with motorized control over zoom, focus, and horizontal and vertical offset. This allows you to shift the projection to perfectly fit your space, which is incredibly convenient. Keystone adjustments are digital, but they are thankfully less necessary because of the adjustable offset. All adjustments can be made with the included remote, which has a backlit keypad and convenient shortcuts to many settings in the projector’s menus. Several controls are also available directly on the projector.
Even with its conveniences, the BenQ W5800 lacks many that other popular projectors offer. There’s no smart TV operating system, so you’ll have to source media from a separate device, and there are no built-in speakers. The W5800 is not the complete solution that something like the BenQ X3100i is, and that can make it a tricky proposition for many more casual users.
Design and features score: 3.5/5
With 100% DCI-P3 coverage, images on the W5800 have rich, detailed color (Image credit: Future)
The BenQ W5800 is an excellent projector for home theater. It shines big and bright and readily adapts to a great many installation situations. It provides impressive color, though the occasional rainbow effect – a common artifact of the projector’s DLP imaging tech – can mar the viewing experience for those sensitive to it.
At the heart of the BenQ W5800 is a laser light source shining through a 0.47-inch DLP micromirror array, and this is responsible for the sharp, 4K visuals and 2600 ANSI lumens brightness. BenQ rates the projector for a full 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space, and I’ve seen little lack of color to make me doubt the rating. Animated programs like X-Men ‘97 benefit greatly from the wide color gamut, appearing thoroughly vibrant, but the same applies to just about any content.
Between its color and sharp 4K picture, the BenQ W5800 has a lot to work with, and it’s bright enough to look good in well-lit rooms and excel in dark ones. Shadows sink to a satisfyingly deep level, and they can maintain that depth alongside bright visuals elsewhere on the screen.
Thanks to the W5800’s hardware controls, it is exceedingly easy to get an image squared up perfectly onscreen with sharp detail from edge to edge. A long-throw projector like the W5800 is less sensitive to small surface imperfections and misalignment than short-throw and ultra-short-throw projectors. I noted a similar level of flexibility with the Epson LS12000, which is a long-throw projector the BenW W5800 competes with.
The BenQ W5800’s full DCI-P3 color space coverage gives it one critical edge over the Epson LS12000, which is rated only for 100% sRGB coverage. Of course, this still leaves room for improvement next to triple-laser projectors like the Hisense PX2-Pro, which is rated for 100% coverage of the even wider BT.2020 color space.
Nevertheless, the BenQ W5800 is a brilliant performer. It handles fast-motion content with aplomb and presents a colorful image that looks plenty vibrant. There are a few ways it could be even better, but it is nonetheless excellent.
Picture quality score: 4.5/5
The BenQ W5800's fully backlit remote control features shortcut buttons for key picture adjustments (Image credit: Future)
BenQ W5800 projector review: value
Expensive for a projector that does one thing
Performance and installation features help justify price
At $5,999 (£4,599 / AU$8999), the BenQ W5800 is expensive for a consumer-grade projector, though it’s less than half the price of the JVC DLA-NZ800, the premium pick in our best 4K projectors guide. Even so, that’s a lot of money to ask for a projector that only provides a display and nothing else.
The W5800 makes sense for the right audience. Its visuals are brilliant, and its flexible installation features provide a great picture with minimal fuss. Also, with many projectors that do feature built-in speakers and streaming platforms, those features often are just enough to make do, but not equal to their picture.
BenQ’s W5800 sits alongside the exceptional Epson LS12000, which is $1,000 cheaper while offering similar brightness and capabilities, including a 120Hz refresh rate option. If a long-throw projector isn’t a must, the Hisense PX2-Pro ultra short throw model is also a stunning system with admirable speakers and even more brilliant color at half the price. And if you aren’t too picky, you might find something like the $2,399 (around £1,900 / AU$3,690) BenQ X3100i to be more than good enough.
Value score: 3/5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the BenQ W5800 projector?
Buy it if...
Don’t buy it if…
Also consider...
BenQ X3100i The BenQ X3100i is a gaming projector that also does an excellent job displaying movies. It lacks the long-throw capability of the W5800 and isn't as adept with handling HDR, but it's a significantly less expensive and more flexible projector option.
Hisense PX2-Pro The Hisense PX2-Pro is an ultra short throw projector designed to beam a big image from close up to a wall as opposed to from the longer distance the W5800 is capable of. It's less expensive and nearly as bright, and features both built-in speakers and the Android TV platform for streaming.
Tested at home in multiple, real-world viewing conditions
Presented with a variety of media and formats
I have tested numerous projectors and displays over the last half-decade
I tested the BenQ W5800 at home, in real-world conditions. This saw it faced with ambient light coming in from numerous windows and in-room lighting as well as darkened conditions. The projector was tested both against a bare, white wall and an Akia Screens CineWhite screen. It was presented with both HDR and non-HDR streamed content.
My testing evaluates the projector’s performance with respect to its price and competition from other models that I and my colleagues at TechRadar have tested.
I have been testing projectors since 2021 and displays for even longer.
The Hisense U6N is an affordable mini-LED TV, and though its budget price means there are limitations, there is still plenty to like here thanks to its solid overall picture quality and gaming performance.
Picture quality is generally good across the board for the Hisense U6N, with its detail and vibrant, punchy colors being the strongest highlights. Black levels and contrast are solid, although blacks can sometimes look more of a gray-ish tone. Motion is one area where the U6N struggles, requiring some settings adjustment to accurately display action movies and sports. (Viewers may generally find they need to tweak picture settings to get satisfactory performance from the U6N.)
Sound quality is one of the U6N’s low points. Its limited speaker array delivers clear dialogue and a generally meaty bass, but its soundstage is limited, feeling contained to the screen itself. Some may find the built-in sound fine, but I’d recommend adding one of the best soundbars to this TV.
Although the U6N lacks 4K 120Hz support, a key feature of the best gaming TVs, gaming on the Hisense is still an enjoyable experience overall. Dolby Vision gaming, VRR and ALLM are on offer and there’s a Game Bar menu for those looking to quickly adjust settings.
The U6N uses the VIDAA smart TV platform in the UK and Australia and Google TV in the US. VIDAA is easy enough to navigate, although the home menu can be cluttered with too many recommendations (some unnecessary) and this can affect performance. Menus, however, are well organised and there are a good number of picture settings. US readers can check out our recent TCL QM851G review for an idea of how Google TV works.
Value is a highlight for the U6N – although this is less so in the UK. Mini-LED TVs come at a premium, but with the U6N you can get a 65-inch set for as low as $599, a price that rivals budget options such as the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED. It’s bested by the Hisense U7N, one of the best TVs of 2024, in terms of value, but the U6N stands out as a cheap option in a crowded and competitive mini-LED TV market.
The Hisense U6N has better-than-expected detail (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Prices & release date
Release date: 2023
50-inch Hisense U6N: N/A/ £899 / N/A
55-inch Hisense U6N: $599 / £999 / AU$995
65-inch Hisense U6N: $799 / £1,299 / AU$1,295
75-inch Hisense U6N: $1,199 / £1,699 / AU$1,495
85-inch Hisense U6N: $1,799 / N/A / AU$2,995
Serving as the entry-level model in Hisense’s ‘ULED’ range, which uses mini-LED backlight tech, the U6N sits below the Hisense U7N and Hisense U8N. It’s available in a wide range of sizes from 50 to 85 inches, but some model availability depends on region. The smaller 50-inch model is available in the UK only, but the UK misses out on the larger 85-inch model, available in both the US and Australia.
Already competitively priced in a crowded mini-LED TV market, particularly in the US, the U6N’s price has dropped since its release, with the 65-inch model I tested available for as low as $599. There have even been discount codes in the UK, where prices for Hisense TVs usually take longer to reduce.
Hisense U6N review: Benchmark results
Contrast fades on the Hisense U6N when viewed from an angle (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Features
QLED panel with mini-LED backlight
Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
VIDAA / Google TV Smart TV platform
The U6N uses a QLED panel and a mini-LED backlight with full-array local dimming to provide improved contrast over standard LED TVs. It has complete HDR support, with the ability to display both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats.
For gaming, the U6N’s features are limited compared to its more premium U7N and U8N counterparts, with no HDMI 2.1 ports included, though the U6N still features VRR and ALLM support and a Game Bar menu for settings adjustments. Support for 120Hz is available at 1080p resolution (without VRR) but those looking for 4K 120Hz will miss out.
The U6N has a 2 x 10W built-in speaker array with Dolby Atmos and DTS: Virtual X support. There are preset sound modes for different categories – Movie, Standard, Sport and more – plus an Enhanced ACR mode that creates a sound profile based on content.
Hisense’s smart TV platform varies depending on your region – in the US it’s Google TV, and in the UK and Australia it’s Hisense’s own VIDAA platform (the 65-inch U6N I tested used VIDAA). You'll have access to major apps such as Netflix, Disney Plus and Prime Video regardless, but in the UK, VIDAA hosts Freely, a live TV streaming platform that requires no satellite or antenna for live viewing. It’s backed by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Five and plays host to their catch-up services – BBC iPlayer, ITVX and more. In the US, the U6N features an ATSC 1.0 digital TV tuner, a step-down compared to the U7N’s next-gen ATSC 3.0 tuner.
The U6N’s design is pretty basic overall, favoring simplicity. It has solid build quality and uses two support feet as opposed to the pedestal stand used for the U7N. It also has a mixed metal and plastic frame compared to the U7N’s metallic frame. The included remote is a cheaper-feeling, button-heavy design, whereas the U7N has a smaller, rechargeable remote.
Features score: 4 / 5
The Hisense U6N has good contrast and strong overall picture quality when viewed front-on (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Picture quality
Refined detail
HDR sources look great
Inconsistent motion handling
As the U6N is an entry-level mini-LED model, I didn’t expect high levels of brightness overall but was still surprised by the results it yielded, which were low for a mini-LED TV. Measuring peak HDR brightness on a 10% window, it gave a result of 651 and 612 nits in Filmmaker and Standard picture modes respectively. That puts it around the level of the LG B3, LG’s 2023 entry-level OLED TV. It’s also significantly dimmer than its more premium sibling, the Hisense U7N, which yielded results of 1074 and 809 nits in Filmmaker and Standard picture mode respectively.
Full-screen brightness results were much better. The U6N yielded HDR brightness results of 580 and 572 on a 100% window, making it a good budget choice for daytime viewing. During testing, the U6N did suffer from mirror-like screen reflections from our testing room’s overhead lighting, but very few TVs have successfully nullified these – the Samsung S95D being the best example.
Starting with lower-resolution sources, the U6N’s upscaling struggled to improve the fuzzy textures and dull colors of standard-definition broadcast TV compared with more premium sets. However, it did a good job with HD broadcast TV, maintaining clear textures across its 65-inch screen.
I next moved on to 4K and HDR sources. Starting with the demo footage section of the Spears & Munsil UHD Benchmark 4K Blu-ray, the U6N demonstrated good detail. Textures gave animals and nature shots good depth, and although they didn’t rival that of a premium mini-LED TV such as the Sony X95L, they were better than anticipated. Colors were also bright and punchy, as shown by images of butterflies and exotic birds.
Contrast overall was good l and although some backlight blooming was present, black levels were deep enough for an entry-level mini-LED – even during night sequences with dark skies, and in studio shots with black backgrounds.
Switching to reference movie scenes I use for testing, the U6N performed solidly when displaying The Batman’s gritty, dim tones. Since The Batman is a Dolby Vision disc, there were several Dolby Vision picture modes to choose from, and I switched between Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Vision Dark.
Black levels weren’t naturally as good as you’d find on the best OLED TVs, but they were decent overall, only taking on a slightly gray hue when in Filmmaker Mode. Contrast was surprisingly good, with the U6N demonstrating a solid balance between light and dark tones in The Batman’s opening crime scene.
Another pleasant surprise was the U6N’s ability to show details in these dark scenes, such as in Batman’s armor and Jim Gordon’s clothing. I found Dolby Vision Dark to have a more accurate picture here, but for those looking for a brightness boost, Dolby Vision IQ will do the job.
The Hisense U6N's colors are punchy and vivid (Image credit: Future)
Moving onto Ready Player One, the U6N demonstrated dynamic colors throughout, handling the shimmering blues of the OASIS and Parzival well and giving the fireworks and gold coins during the opening race a glistening punch. Watching a stream of Star Wars: The Last Jedi on Disney Plus, the throne room fight scene showcased the U6N’s control of bright colors, with the vibrant reds within the scene maintaining a natural look while still appearing vivid.
Motion handling is where things get complicated for the U6N. As it's a 60Hz panel, it benefits from motion settings including blur and judder reduction, but I found that these had to be experimented with heavily. I generally found placing both blur and judder at the lower-end to mid-way settings to be best. Watching the Batmobile chase from The Batman, the U6N initially struggled on long, panning shots and swerving vehicles, but the above settings helped with this.
The same motion settings were very much necessary when watching a stream of a soccer game on Prime Video. Of the motion presets, I generally found Smooth to be the best for handling the quick motion of the camera trying to keep up with the ball, while Film or Standard were the best for movies. There is an AI Sports mode to aid with clarity, but while it helped with motion, it oversaturated the greens of the field and bright colors of the uniforms. The Standard picture setting with the above motion clarity settings seemed to suit sports viewing the best.
Like other mini-LED TVs, the U6N is subject to backlight blooming. Viewed off-angle, this became more noticeable, and contrast and black levels also faded when viewed from off-center seats.
While the U6N doesn’t wow in any area, it has a good overall picture for a budget TV.
Picture quality score: 4/5
The Hisense U6N has a modest 2.0 speaker array (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Sound quality
Good dialogue clarity
Average directional sound
Limited soundstage
With a 2 x 10W speaker array, the U6N isn’t going to sit amongst the best TVs for sound. Dolby Atmos and DTS: Virtual X processing is a welcome feature here, but the U6N’s speakers limit the impact of both.
Of available sound presets, I generally found Theater to be the most consistent across all sources and suited movies best. Viewing both the Batmobile chase in The Batman and the opening race in Ready Player One, the U6N demonstrated solid, punchy bass and good dialogue clarity even throughout these intense sequences.
Unfortunately, the U6N’s speakers struggled in other areas. There was a decent sense of directional sound, but Atmos effects like the pounding rain in The Batman were inaudible. The soundstage was also very limited, with sound never extending beyond the confines of the screen. I’d strongly recommend using a soundbar with the U6N.
Sound quality: 3 / 5
The 65-inch Hisense U6N's uses support feet (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Design
Solid build quality
Mix of plastic and metal materials
Basic, safe design
The U6N’s design is safe – in both good and bad ways. Its build quality is solid enough and the mix of plastic and metal materials on the rear means it feels slightly more premium. However, there is no denying that the plastic elements of the screen are on the cheaper side.
Hisense uses support feet for the U6N as opposed to the pedestal stand found on the step-up U7N. These are sturdy enough when placed on furniture, although once again the feet feel a little on the cheap side.
The U6N has a trim enough bezel and frame, but is undoubtedly thicker than other sets in its price range. I’d have expected a slimmer design given its modest speaker array. Finally, the U6N’s supplied remote is basic and feels on the cheap side compared to the slim, streamlined remote supplied with the U7N.
Design score: 3.5 / 5
The Hisense U6N uses VIDAA (pictured) as its smart TV platform in the UK and Australia, but Google TV in the US (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Smart TV & menus
Google TV (US), VIDAA (UK & Australia)
Numerous picture settings
Basic and sometimes cluttered layout
The U6N comes with Google TV in the US and VIDAA in the UK and Australia. As I’m based in the UK, I will be focusing on the VIDAA smart TV platform, but if you're based in the US and want an idea of how Google TV works, check out our recent TCL QM851G review (although some settings and options will differ).
VIDAA has access to all major apps such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus, as well as Freely, a relatively new service that enables live TV streaming without the need for a physical antenna or satellite connection for both HD and SD channels. It also hosts the UK-based streaming apps BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4 and Five and even bases recommendations on viewing history.
The VIDAA home menu looks cluttered, with a large banner ad at the top of the screen and a long list of recommendations underneath that can affect scrolling speed and navigation, giving it a clunky feel. It is packed with settings for tweaking the TV's picture, however, and the menus are well laid out and user-friendly, with settings neatly organized.
Smart TV & Menus score: 3.5 / 5
Although it has only a 60Hz refresh rate, gaming on the U6N is still an enjoyable experience, and VRR is supported (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Gaming
Dolby Vision Gaming, VRR, and ALLM
No HDMI 2.1 ports
13.2ms input lag
The U6N has limited gaming features compared to more premium sets. There are no HDMI 2.1 features (except for eARC) such as 4K 120Hz support, though it does support Dolby Vision gaming, VRR and ALLM. There is an option to play at 120Hz with a lower resolution, although VRR is unavailable with this setting. It also features a Game Bar menu where settings such as Dark Detail and FPS Viewing can be adjusted.
Despite having fewer features, gaming on the U6N is still a fun experience. Playing Battlefield V, intense combat sequences felt smooth. From scanning the environment to sprinting to avoid incoming enemy fire, everything was seamless and felt suitably fast-paced despite being locked at 4K 60Hz.
The U6N also delivered strong picture quality while gaming, with the desert sections in Battlefield looking sufficiently bright. The U6N’s picture in darker sections demonstrated solid black levels overall, but a gray wash sometimes appeared. Textures and details were also refined, although they looked a little softer than on the Hisense U7N and Samsung QN85D.
The U6N’s input lag was average compared to other TVs in this range, yielding a result of 13.2ms. However, this is still below the 15ms threshold that most gamers look for.
Gaming score: 4/5
The Hisense U6N's supplied remote feels on the cheap side (Image credit: Future)
Hisense U6N review: Value
Brilliant value in the US and Australia
Competitive mini-LED market
Significantly cheaper than some rivals
The U6N’s value is affected by region. In the US, the 65-inch model I tested has fallen as low as $599 and the 55-inch model has dropped to a staggeringly low $449. That’s very affordable for a mini-LED TV and even cheaper than some regular LED sets. It may not come with all the gaming features we look for, but you’re unlikely to find those elsewhere at this price.
In the UK, the U6N doesn’t demonstrate the same value. For example, the 65-inch model is priced at £1,299, which puts it only slightly below the Samsung Q80D, a TV that delivers impressive QLED performance and a wider range of gaming features.
It’s worth remembering that the step-up Hisense U7N is also excellent value, offering more local dimming zones, better contrast, and superior gaming features for $200 more in the 65-inch size ($799).
Still, the U6N mini-LED TV delivers good performance at a price you'd usually expect to pay for a standard LED model.
Value score: 4/5
Should I buy the Hisense U6N?
Buy it if
You want mini-LED for cheap Good mini-LED pictures are on offer here for the same as you'd expect to pay for a basic LED TV.
You want a good picture for less Crisp textures, rich detail and punchy colors are just some of the U6N's picture quality highlights.
You want a good budget gaming TV VRR and ALLM are on offer here, as well as decent performance and a solid picture, all at a budget price.
Don't buy it if
You're looking for good built-in sound The U6N's speakers sound thin, with a limited soundstage and lacking bass. A soundbar is recommended for this TV.
You need a complete gaming TV With no HDMI 2.1 ports for gaming, 4K 120Hz isn't an option here, though you'll find it on the step-up Hisense U7N.
You'll be watching off-center The U6N's picture falters when viewed from an angle, losing contrast and displaying obvious backlight blooming.
How I tested the Hisense U6N
Hisense U7N The U7N is the step-up model from the U6N and offers better picture quality, more gaming features and is overall better value for money. If you can stretch your budget that little bit further, it's worth opting for the U7N over the U6N. Check out our Hisense U7N review to see what the step-up gets you.
Samsung QN85D The Samsung QN85D delivers more than the U6N in every area – picture, sound, design, gaming – but comes at a significantly higher price. Opt for this if you're a Samsung fan and can spend the extra money. Check out our full Samsung QN85D review for more info.
Samsung QN90D The Samsung QN90D is a more premium option than the U6N, U7N and QN85D and from what we've seen so far is set to have the strongest picture of the group, while also offering a full list of gaming features. But the QN90D's high price tag is hard to justify against more budget options, so this really comes down to how much more you're willing to spend for a better picture.
I started the testing process of the U6N with some casual viewing to determine the most accurate picture mode, in this case, Filmmaker, which would be used during both subjective testing and objective testing for measurements.
Starting with subjective testing, I viewed standard-definition broadcast TV and DVDs, and 4K HDR ones, such as Blu-ray and streaming, to test picture quality, judging based on contrast, color, black levels, shadow detail, motion processing and more.
I played reference scenes from 4K Blu-rays (using the Panasonic DP-UB820, the best 4K Blu-ray player available) I am familiar with to determine how accurately the U6N displayed them.
After subjective testing, I moved on to objective testing, taking measurements using specialized equipment – a test pattern generator and colorimeter – and recorded the results using Portrait Displays' Calman calibration software.
I also used an Xbox Series X to test the U6N's gaming performance and a Leo Bodnar 4K HDMI input lag tester to test its input lag.
