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The Sony Bravia 8 II is a new flagship OLED device.
With all the TVs available today, and all the technical jargon and jargon associated with TV technology, it can be difficult to know what’s important. Here’s a quick guide to help get through the confusion.
Image quality: In general, the type of display technology helps determine how good a TV’s picture quality is, but OLED is usually the best display technology, followed by LCDs (including QLED and Mini LED). OLED technology tends to have the best image quality because it doesn’t need a backlight and each pixel can be turned on or off, resulting in great black levels. In comparison, each LED in the backlight takes care of multiple pixels at a time, so it’s not precise — it’s not quite 1:1 yet. Among mid-range models, look for a feature that includes full local dimming, mini LEDs, and a 120Hz refresh rate, which (unlike some other extras) helps improve the image in my experience. Additionally, if a TV uses Quantum Dots technology, it will often result in better color performance, whether it’s OLED or LCD.
Screen Size: Bigger is better in my book. I recommend a size of at least 43 inches for a bedroom TV, and at least 55 inches for a living room or main TV — ideally 65 inches or larger. More than any ‘feature’, increasing your TV’s screen size is the best use of your money. One of the most common complaints I hear after purchasing a TV is from people that it wasn’t a big enough hit. I rarely hear people complain that their TV is too big. It is worth adding that while TVs can get really big4K resolution is sufficient for even the largest models, and CNET does not recommend any 8K TVs Because it represents a weak comparative value.
price: TVs range in price from $100 to more than $2,000. Smaller screens are cheaper, established brands are more expensive, and spending more money can get you better image quality. Most entry-level TVs have a good enough picture for most people, but TVs last a long time, so it may be worth spending a little more to get a better picture. It’s also best to buy a TV in the fall when prices are lower.
Sound quality: Every TV has a built-in speaker, but in twenty years of reviewing AV equipment, modern TVs have routinely sounded bad. While I sound test each model, if you’re serious about sound quality, buy Separate speakers (from $100) or home theater system will instantly improve vital aspects like speech reproduction and bass.
Smart TV: Among entry-level TVs, the most important feature is the type of smart TV system the TV uses, and while some are proprietary to each brand (Samsung, LG), some models offer Roku and Google TV.
For more advice on buying a TV, see How to buy a TV.