Sony 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV XR65X90K review Full Array LED brilliance

Description

Outstanding Picture Quality with XR Cognitive Processor

Using the Sony 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X90K Series (model XR65X90K) has been a visual treat. The Cognitive Processor XR truly elevates the overall viewing experience. It doesn’t just display images; it interprets them in a way that mimics how the human eye perceives depth and color. Watching movies, especially those with vivid landscapes or intricate details, felt like stepping into another dimension. The XR Contrast Booster 10 ensures deep blacks and vibrant highlights, making every scene pop with realism. I tested this feature during a dark action movie, and the contrast was impeccable—no murky grays or washed-out tones.

The XR Triluminos Pro technology adds a wide spectrum of colors, displaying billions of accurate shades. From fiery sunsets to subtle skin tones, the colors felt natural and immersive. I’ve owned TVs that struggled with color accuracy, but this one nails it perfectly. It’s a delight for anyone who values stunning visuals.

Perfect for Gaming Enthusiasts

If you’re into gaming, especially with a PlayStation 5, this TV feels like it was designed with you in mind. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Switch features optimize the visuals for gaming. I noticed minimal input lag—as low as 8.5ms—which is a huge win for competitive gaming. The Game Menu, which consolidates all gaming-related settings into a single interface, is incredibly convenient. It allowed me to tweak settings on the fly without pausing my game or fiddling with endless menu options.

Moreover, the inclusion of HDMI 2.1 features like 4K/120Hz, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) ensures silky-smooth gameplay. Testing it with a high-paced racing game, I was impressed by how fluid and responsive everything felt. No screen tearing, no stutter—just a seamless experience.

Smart Features and Streaming Options

The Google TV integration is another highlight of this TV. It organizes content intuitively, pulling shows and movies from platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and more. I particularly appreciated the voice control with Google Assistant, which allowed me to search for content or adjust settings hands-free. The addition of AirPlay 2 support means you can easily stream directly from Apple devices, which I found helpful when sharing photos or videos with family.

The BRAVIA CORE app is an intriguing bonus, offering exclusive access to high-quality 4K UHD movies. It’s like having a mini theater in your living room. Dolby Vision and IMAX Enhanced support amplify the cinematic experience, making blockbuster movies feel even more grandiose.

Advantages

• Incredible picture clarity with the Cognitive Processor XR and XR Contrast Booster.
• Gaming optimization features like low input lag and HDMI 2.1 support.
• Wide color spectrum for lifelike visuals.
• Comprehensive smart features, including Google TV and AirPlay 2.
• Immersive cinematic experience with Dolby Vision and IMAX Enhanced.

Areas for Improvement

• The audio quality, while decent, could be more robust. I ended up pairing it with an external soundbar for a fuller audio experience.
• Remote control design felt a bit basic for such a high-end TV. I wish it had a sleeker, more premium feel.
• Stand installation was a bit tricky—it took me longer than expected to figure out the proper alignment.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to its competitors, I found some interesting differences. Against the Samsung QN90B, the Sony model excels in color accuracy and natural visuals, while Samsung’s Neo QLED panels might appeal more to those who prefer exaggerated brightness levels. The LG C2 OLED is another strong contender, offering perfect blacks thanks to its OLED technology, but it lacks the XR Contrast Booster that gives Sony’s TV an edge in well-lit environments.

Where Sony truly shines is in its gaming-centric features. The BRAVIA XR exclusive PlayStation 5 enhancements make it stand out in a market flooded with generic gaming TVs. However, the audio capabilities don’t quite match what LG and Samsung deliver with their built-in Dolby Atmos systems.

True Value

When considering the features versus the price, this TV hits the sweet spot for a premium viewing experience. It’s not the most affordable option, but the performance justifies the cost. For gamers, movie buffs, and anyone who values high-quality visuals, this is a solid investment. While the sound and remote could use minor tweaks, the overall package offers excellent value for money. If you’re looking for a TV that bridges the gap between entertainment and cutting-edge technology, this model deserves serious consideration.

Additional information