The Sony X800H is a 4K smart TV that straddles the line between affordability and quality. It offers a vibrant picture, a user-friendly smart platform, and excellent viewing angles, making it a compelling option for casual viewers and bright living rooms. While it may not boast the deepest blacks or the most advanced motion handling of higher-end models, the X800H delivers a solid 4K experience at a competitive price point.
Product Details
| Brand | Sony |
| Display Technology | LED |
| Resolution | 4K |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
| Special Feature | TRILUMINOS Technology Powered by the X1 Processor; 4K X-Reality PRO Engine; Object-Based HDR Remaster, Voice Search; Google Assistant Control; Chromecast Streaming; Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos |
| Included Components | Remote Control |
| Supported Internet Services | Alexa |
Today’s Sony X800H TV 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV Deals
Sony X800H 43 Inch TV
Sony X800H 49 Inch TV
Sony X800H 55-inch TV
Sony X800H 65 Inch TV
Sony X800H 75 Inch TV
Sony X800H 85 Inch TV
Picture Quality
The X800H’s picture quality is its biggest strength. The 4K HDR processor X1 does a commendable job of upscaling content, resulting in sharp and detailed images. Thanks to Sony’s TRILUMINOS Display technology, colors appear rich and lifelike, with a wider range of hues than standard TVs. This is particularly noticeable in scenes bursting with nature or vibrant cityscapes.
However, the X800H’s panel utilizes IPS technology, which trades off deep blacks for wider viewing angles. This means that dark scenes might not appear as inky or immersive as those on VA panel TVs. Additionally, the local dimming feature is basic, so blooming (areas around bright objects appearing brighter than they should) can be noticeable in certain situations.
Design
The X800H boasts a minimalist design that complements any living space. The bezels are slim, allowing the picture to take center stage. The sleek stand offers sturdy support and keeps the TV stable. Overall, the X800H exudes a clean and sophisticated aesthetic that feels appropriately modern.
How Does it Compare? Stacking Up Against the Competition
The X800H faces stiff competition in the budget 4K TV market. Here’s a quick comparison against two of its key rivals:
- Samsung Q60A: The Q60A offers similar picture quality with good upscaling and decent HDR performance. However, the viewing angles aren’t as wide as the X800H, and the Samsung uses a less user-friendly Tizen smart platform.
- TCL 5 Series (S546): The TCL 5 Series boasts a lower price tag and impressive contrast thanks to its VA panel. However, the color accuracy isn’t quite as good as the X800H, and the motion handling can be choppier in fast-paced scenes.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities. If you crave wider viewing angles and a user-friendly smart platform, the X800H is a strong contender. If deeper blacks and a lower price are your main concerns, the TCL 5 Series might be a better fit.
Brightness and Contrast
The X800H excels in brightness, making it ideal for well-lit rooms or even semi-outdoor settings like a covered patio. This is a major advantage, especially for viewers who enjoy watching TV during the day with plenty of natural light streaming in. The IPS panel also ensures consistent brightness across the entire screen, regardless of your viewing position.
However, the contrast ratio isn’t the best. As mentioned earlier, the blacks aren’t as deep as some competitors, leading to a slightly washed-out look in dark scenes. This might be a dealbreaker for movie buffs who prioritize an immersive cinematic experience.
Sound Quality
The X800H’s sound system is decent but unspectacular. The built-in speakers deliver clear dialogue and basic sound effects. However, bass is lacking, and the overall audio experience can feel thin and underpowered, particularly for action movies or music-heavy content.
To truly elevate your viewing experience, investing in a soundbar or a surround sound system is highly recommended. This will provide a more robust and immersive soundscape, especially for movie nights and big sporting events.
Smart Features
The X800H runs on the Android TV platform, offering a familiar and user-friendly experience for Android users. You’ll have access to a vast library of apps, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and YouTube. The Google Assistant integration allows for voice control, letting you search for content, adjust settings, and even control smart home devices with your voice.
However, compared to some newer TV platforms, Android TV can feel a tad sluggish at times. Additionally, app updates might not be as frequent as on competitor platforms like LG webOS or Samsung Tizen.
Motion
The X800H’s motion handling is decent for casual viewing. The Motionflow XR technology helps reduce blur in fast-paced scenes like sports or action movies. However, it’s not perfect, and judder (a stuttery effect) might be noticeable in very rapid movements. Hardcore gamers or cinephiles seeking the smoothest motion for competitive gaming or fast-paced movies might want to consider a TV with a higher native refresh rate or more advanced motion processing.
Gaming Features
The X800H offers basic gaming features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) that reduces input lag for a more responsive gaming experience. However, features like HDMI 2.1 with high refresh rates (VRR) are absent. This might be a drawback for serious gamers seeking the most cutting-edge gaming capabilities on their TV.
Durability and Build Quality
Sony is known for its reliable TVs, and the X800H is no exception. The build quality feels sturdy, with a sleek plastic back panel and a metal stand that provides good stability. While not the most luxurious materials, they feel well-constructed and should last for years with proper care.
Viewing Angles and Screen Uniformity
The X800H’s IPS panel shines in terms of viewing angles. You can watch comfortably from almost any position in the room without significant picture degradation. This is a major advantage for households where multiple viewers might be watching at different angles. Screen uniformity is generally good, with minimal dirty screen effect (DSE) noticeable on most units.
Inputs
The X800H offers a good selection of inputs, including:
- 3x HDMI ports (one with ARC for connecting a soundbar)
- 2x USB ports for media playback or connecting external devices
- Digital optical audio output
- Ethernet port for wired internet connection
- Composite and component video inputs (legacy connections for older devices)
This selection caters to most viewers’ needs, allowing you to connect various devices like streaming sticks, gaming consoles, and Blu-ray players.
Overall Value
The Sony X800H strikes a good balance between affordability and features. It delivers a vibrant and clear 4K picture with excellent viewing angles, making it a great choice for well-lit rooms or casual viewers. The user-friendly Android TV platform and decent built quality add to the value proposition.
However, keep in mind its limitations. The contrast ratio isn’t the best, sound quality is average, and motion handling might not be ideal for fast-paced content or serious gamers.
Conclusion
The Sony X800H is a compelling option for budget-conscious viewers who prioritize a bright and colorful picture with wide viewing angles and a familiar smart platform. If you can live with slightly less deep blacks, average sound, and basic motion handling, the X800H offers excellent value for the price.
