Sony X90K: Still a King in the LED Realm? A Deep Dive
The Sony X90K. Even a year after its initial release, that name still carries weight in the mid-range LED TV market. But in the ever-evolving landscape of display technology, does it still hold up against newer contenders? We’ve put the X90K through its paces to see if it remains a worthy option for discerning viewers.
Performance is where the X90K truly shines. Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR delivers a remarkably natural and vibrant picture. Colors are rich and accurate, without appearing overly saturated. Contrast is excellent, thanks to the full-array local dimming (FALD) backlight, offering deep blacks and bright highlights. Blooming is present, as it is with most FALD displays, but Sony has done an admirable job of minimizing it. Upscaling of lower-resolution content is also top-notch, rendering even older shows watchable without excessive artifacts.
The X90K also excels in motion handling. Sony’s XR Motion Clarity technology keeps fast-paced action sequences smooth and clear, without introducing the dreaded soap opera effect. This makes it a great choice for sports enthusiasts and gamers alike. Speaking of gaming, the X90K boasts HDMI 2.1 ports, supporting 4K/120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). Input lag is impressively low, making it a responsive and enjoyable gaming display.
Design-wise, the X90K is understated and elegant. The slim bezels and clean lines give it a modern look that blends seamlessly into most living room setups. Build quality feels premium, with sturdy materials and a well-constructed stand. However, the stand itself is rather wide, which may be a concern for those with limited space.
The X90K runs Google TV, which provides a smooth and intuitive user experience. The interface is well-organized, and the app selection is vast. Voice control via Google Assistant is also integrated, allowing you to control the TV and other smart home devices with ease. However, the sheer number of options and settings can be overwhelming for some users. Sony’s remote is also a bit cluttered, with too many buttons for our liking. A streamlined design would be a welcome improvement.
The X90K’s value proposition is a bit complex. While its picture quality and gaming features are excellent, the price is still relatively high compared to some of its competitors. Newer models from other brands offer similar performance at a slightly lower cost. However, Sony’s renowned picture processing and motion handling give it a distinct edge that some viewers may find worth the premium.
Ultimately, the Sony X90K is a fantastic LED TV that delivers exceptional picture quality, excellent gaming features, and a smooth smart TV experience. It’s best suited for viewers who prioritize picture accuracy, motion handling, and a premium brand experience. While the price may be a barrier for some, the X90K remains a strong contender in the mid-range LED market.
Where to Buy:
Sony X90K LED (various sizes) Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 90%
- Design: 94%
- Performance: 91%
- Quality: 90%
- Popularity: 89%
Top Pros
- ✅ The Cognitive Processor XR delivers exceptional picture quality with vibrant, accurate colors.
- ✅ Full-array local dimming provides deep blacks and bright highlights with minimal blooming.
- ✅ HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM for a great gaming experience.
Key Cons
- ❌ The price is relatively high compared to some competing models.
- ❌ The included remote control feels cluttered and overly complex.
- ❌ The stand is quite wide, which might present spatial challenges.
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