Looking for a budget-friendly 4K TV that delivers a great viewing experience without breaking the bank? Then the Sony X77L series might be the perfect fit for you. This series offers stunning visuals, decent audio quality, and smart features powered by Google TV, making it a compelling option for casual viewers and everyday entertainment. But is it the best TV for everyone? This review will delve into the specifics of the X77L, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Display Technology
The X77L boasts a 4K LED panel, offering sharp visuals with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This translates to four times the detail of Full HD, resulting in a crisper and more immersive viewing experience. However, it’s important to note that the X77L utilizes an LED backlight, which means it doesn’t offer the same level of deep blacks and high contrast ratios as higher-end TVs with OLED panels.
HDR (High Dynamic Range)
The X77L supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), which expands the range of colors and contrast for a more lifelike picture. While it won’t deliver the same level of HDR performance as some premium TVs, it still offers a noticeable improvement over standard dynamic range (SDR) content.
Color Science
Sony has a reputation for excellent color science, and the X77L is no exception. The TV reproduces colors accurately and delivers a vibrant picture. The 4K X-Reality PRO engine helps upscale lower-resolution content to near-4K quality, further enhancing the viewing experience.
Contrast
As mentioned earlier, the X77L’s LED backlight limits its contrast capabilities compared to OLED alternatives. Blacks may appear greyish in dark scenes, which can affect the overall picture depth. However, Sony’s Dynamic Backlight Control helps improve contrast to some extent by adjusting the brightness based on the content.
Viewing Angles
The viewing angles on the X77L are decent for everyday use. You’ll get a good picture quality when viewing straight on, but the colors may shift slightly when watching from off-center angles. This shouldn’t be a major concern for most users, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you plan on having a wider seating arrangement.
Audio Quality
The X77L comes with built-in speakers that deliver decent audio quality for casual viewing. However, the sound can be a bit thin and lack bass. If you’re a movie buff or audiophile, you’ll likely want to invest in a soundbar or external speaker system for a more immersive listening experience.
Smart Features
The X77L runs on Google TV, providing a user-friendly platform with a wide range of streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and many more. Google Assistant is also integrated, allowing you to control the TV with your voice for added convenience.
Design
The X77L has a simple yet stylish design with a thin bezel and two sturdy feet for placement on a table. The overall build quality feels good, and the TV is relatively lightweight for easy wall mounting (mounting bracket sold separately).
User Experience
The Google TV platform is intuitive and easy to navigate. Setting up the TV is a breeze, and the remote control is well-designed with dedicated buttons for popular streaming services.
Energy Efficiency
The X77L features several energy-saving modes, including Dynamic Backlight Control and Power Saving Mode. This makes it a good choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Connectivity Options
The X77L offers a good selection of connectivity options, including multiple HDMI ports for connecting streaming devices, gaming consoles, and other external devices. It also features USB ports for playing media from flash drives or external hard drives.
Available Inches
The Sony X77L series comes in various screen sizes, ranging from 43 inches to 85 inches. The ideal size for you will depend on your viewing distance and room size.
Competing Brands
When considering the X77L, you might also want to look at similar offerings from brands like Samsung, TCL, and Hisense. These brands offer comparable features and specifications at similar price points.
Best TV for Whom?
The Sony X77L is a solid choice for casual viewers looking for a good quality 4K TV with smart features at an affordable price. It’s perfect for everyday entertainment like watching movies, TV shows, and sports. However, if you’re a gamer seeking the fastest response times or a cinephile desiring the deepest blacks and highest contrast ratios, you might want to consider higher-end models with OLED panels or advanced gaming features.
Overall
The Sony X77L Series 4K TV offers a compelling package for budget-conscious viewers seeking a step up to a 4K experience.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable 4K TV for everyday entertainment without breaking the bank, the Sony X77L is a worthy contender. It delivers a great picture with vibrant colors, user-friendly smart features, and a sleek design. While it might not have the top-tier specs of premium models, it offers excellent value for its price point. However, if you prioritize deep blacks, the widest viewing angles, or a booming audio experience, you might want to explore higher-end options.
