In Sony’s 2022 portfolio, the X80K is an entry-level TV. It lies underneath the Sony Bravia X80K Smart TV and replaces the Sony X80J. It lacks variable refresh rate (VRR) capability and HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. It’s confined to a 60Hz display, therefore it’s lacking in features when compared to higher-end versions. Still has the same Google TV interface. Which offers a tonne of applications to download, and it’s compatible with Sony’s own TV webcam. Which can be used for video chats or motions without using your hands. It also has a new Sony remote with a built-in microphone for voice control. Allowing you to utilise various voice commands.
Price
The Sony Bravia X80K smart TV costs Rs. 94,990 in India for the 55-inch variant (KD-55X80K). The prices for the 43-inch (KD-43X80K), 50-inch (KD-550X80K), 65-inch (KD-65X80K), as well as 75-inch (KD-75X80K) versions have yet to be announced. The 55-inch model is presently available in India, and the rest models in the new series will be available shortly across all Sony Centers, major electronic retailers, and e-commerce platforms in the nation.
Specifications
The newly released Sony Bravia X80K smart TV series comes in five screen sizes, each with a 4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixel) LCD panel and support for HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG codecs. The manufacturer claims that their Triluminos Pro display improves the colours on the screen. The bezel is black, and the refresh rate of the display is 50Hz.
The Sony 4K HDR processor X1 powers the smart TV models. The processor is supposed to optimise the viewing experience by adapting the image to the surroundings. The Sony Bravia X80K Smart TV models include 16GB of internal storage and are powered by Google TV (based on Android TV). Users may use a variety of supported applications to access the Google Play store.
Two 10W speakers handle audio on the Sony Bravia X80K smart TV models, which enable Dolby Audio, Dolby Atmos, DTS Digital Surround, and acoustic auto-calibration. In HDMI 2.1, the television models include a specialised low-latency option for gaming.
The new series’ connectivity choices include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth v4.2, four HDMI connections, a built-in Chromecast, an audio jack, and two USB ports. Voice instructions are supported with the provided remote. Built-in microphones on smart TV models allow users to manage content hands-free via voice commands. The smart TV models also support Apple AirPlay and HomeKit, allowing content to be streamed from Apple devices such as iPads and iPhones.
Detailed Specifications
Style and Stand
The Sony X80K has a somewhat different design from the Sony X80J, and it resembles the Sony X85J. Although the design is simple, it looks well overall.
The stand is characteristic of Sony, with wide-set metal feet and a massive footprint, necessitating the use of a large table. It provides good support for the TV and lifts the screen 3.3 inches above the table, so most soundbars will not obstruct it.
The 65-inch TV’s dimensions are 47.6″ W x 13.3″ D x 2.60″ H. (to the bottom bezel).
Back and Build Quality
The back has a checkerboard design that adds some personality. The inputs are on the side, however they’re hidden in the rear, making them difficult to reach when the TV is installed on a permanent bracket. For cable management, there are clips on the back of each foot.
The Sony X80K boasts good build quality, which is to be expected from an entry-level television. The strong metal feet keep it firmly on the stand and prevent it from wobbling. The TV is built completely of plastic that is well-assembled and functional, but the material isn’t very sturdy. The back panel bends readily, particularly in the middle.
Contrast and SDR Brightness
As the Sony X80K has a low native contrast ratio, blacks seem grey in the dark, and it isn’t suitable for watching movies. Unfortunately, there is no local dimming function to improve it.
The peak brightness of the Sony X80K is enough for SDR. It’s good for rooms with a few lights, but it doesn’t become bright enough to combat glare when placed opposite a window. Fortunately, it retains its brightness extremely consistently across various scenarios. These are the results of calibration in the ‘Custom’ Picture Mode with the Colour Temperature set to ‘Expert 1’ and the Brightness at its highest setting.
In the ‘Vivid’ Picture Mode, with the Brightness and Contrast at their maximum, the Contrast Enhancer deactivated, and the Colour Temperature set to ‘Cold,’ the TV achieves a maximum of 388 cd/m2. This change, though, isn’t particularly visible, and it results in a less accurate image.
Local Dimming and HDR Brightness
The Sony X80K lacks a local dimming capability. We continue to record these movies on the TV so that you can see how the backlight works and compare it to a TV with local dimming.
The peak brightness of HDR is subpar. Although it becomes somewhat brighter than in SDR, it is insufficient to make highlights jump and provide a satisfactory HDR experience. Following the target EOTF is OK, however certain brighter situations are too dark. Furthermore, there is a strong roll-off at the peak brightness, resulting in a loss of small details with dazzling highlights.
The results were obtained using the ‘Cinema’ HDR Picture Mode, with the Brightness set to its maximum and the Colour Temperature set to ‘Expert 2’. If the image is too dark, try using the ‘Vivid’ HDR Picture Mode with the Contrast and Brightness at their highest settings and the Colour Temperature set to ‘Cool.’ This produces a brighter picture, as shown in this EOTF, but it has no effect on the total peak brightness.
There is no discernible variation in HDR brightness between Game Mode and outside of it. These results were obtained using the ‘Game’ Picture Mode. With the Brightness set to its maximum and the Colour Temperature set to ‘Expert 2’.
Verdict
Overall, the Sony X80K is adequate. Because it has a broad viewing angle and the image seems the same from all sides. It’s a wonderful TV for watching sports or TV shows in large sitting areas. It also has good reflection management and SDR peak brightness, making it suitable for settings with a few lights. However, owing to its poor contrast ratio and absence of a local dimming option. It is not suitable for watching movies or games in gloomy surroundings. Its HDR capability is likewise lacking, as seen by its low HDR peak brightness.
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