This tidy Panasonic 48-inch OLED TV certainly doesn’t downsize performance. It’s a premium 4K HDR screen certain to impress the most demanding of movie lovers. Auto AI image processing ensures excellent picture quality from all programme types, while top notch HDMI connectivity makes the most of next-gen games consoles. Time to dig a little deeper into this bijou belter… Jump to: Panasonic JZ980 summary What is the Panasonic JZ980? How much is the Panasonic JZ980? Panasonic JZ980 features Panasonic JZ980 design Panasonic JZ980 picture quality Panasonic JZ980 sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Panasonic 48-inch JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B) review: summary While we tend to like our OLED screens larger than life, we can make an exception for this diminutive diva. It’s compact enough to fit most any viewing space, but offers outstanding OLED image quality with beautiful contrast and rich colours. It also has a well-stocked smart TV hub, plus high-end connectivity options for demanding gamers. Price: £1,099 Key features: HCX Pro AI Processor My Home Screen smart platform Dolby Vision IQ Freeview Play Pros Auto AI picture mode Universal HDR format support Good streaming and Catch-Up TV options Cons A bit pricey for the screen size Only two HDMI inputs support High Frame Rate gaming You can buy the 48-inch Panasonic JZ980 from Argos for £1,099 What is the Panasonic JZ980? The Panasonic JZ980 is a 4k OLED HDR TV It uses Panasonic’s own My Home Screen smart TV platform In addition to regular HDR10 and HLG, it supports Dolby Vision IQ HDR and HDR10+ Adaptive formats Two of its four HDMI inputs can display high frame rate (HFR) games at 4k 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console It works with Amazon Alexa and Google smart assistants Intelligent Sensing technology automatically adjusts picture quality to match available light in the room. A Freeview Play tuner ensures all main channel Catch-Up TV services are on board How much is the 48-inch JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B)? This 48-incher is widely available for £1,099. Additional screen sizes in the JZ980 range are 55 and 65 inches (TX-55JZ980B and TX-65JZ980B respectively), and these typically sell for £1,299 and £1,799. Although a bit on the pricey side, features and connectivity options can be considered suitably high-end. You can buy the 48-inch Panasonic JZ980 from Argos for £1,099 You can buy the 55-inch Panasonic JZ980 from Argos for £1,299 You can buy the 65-inch Panasonic JZ980 from AO for £1,799 Is the Panasonic TX-48JZ980B OLED TV good value for money? Considering all the leading edge technology is on board, we think the JZ980 can be considered a solid value buy. There are rival OLED flat-screens from the likes of LG and Philips which sell for less, but they can’t match this Panasonic offering when it comes to HDR format support, which is class leading. Panasonic JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B) features The set’s feature spec is comprehensive. The JZ980 is built around Panasonic’s own smart hub. My Home Screen, which appears here in its sixth iteration. Much refined as a result, it’s an easy to use but powerful smart platform that’s big on customisation. Streaming options are plentiful. Freeview Play ensures the main channel Catch-Up players are built in, including BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5 and UKTVPlay. Key premium streaming apps are present too, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Rakuten TV, BritBox and Disney+. The set also works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa smart assistants, with smartphone mirroring courtesy of Chromecast. Panasonic TX-48JZ980B design and set-up As we’ve come to expect from Panasonic, the JZ980 is well made and boasts classic, classy lines. A dark grey micro bezel sits above two slot-in feet. With a less visible OLED panel than larger screen sizes (but the same electronics, speakers and inputs), it does seem a little chunky (at 67mm), but viewed square-on you’ll not notice. Connectivity is leading edge, with two of its four HDMI inputs supporting top end features like High Frame Rate 4k 120HZ video playback, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and eARC (for use with a soundbar). Computer gamers will appreciate that the TV is also AMD Freesync Premium certified, for smoother gameplay. There’s also ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) game mode support, so the set always jumps to the right setting when you power up your console. Gaming credentials extend to the set’s input lag performance, which is reassuringly low at 14.6ms (1080/60). Additional connectivity includes a trio of USB ports, a digital optical audio output and Ethernet to complement Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Setup is straightforward, with helpful on screen prompts. The slim remote control comes with dedicated buttons for Netflix, Rakuten TV, YouTube, Prime Video and Freeview Play. Panasonic JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B) picture quality Image quality, even on this relatively small OLED screen, is massively impressive. Its pictures are deliciously filmic, with deep blacks, superb contrast and rich, vibrant colours. Panasonic is one of the few TV brands to offer comprehensive HDR format support. The JZ980 covers all the standards in use today - regular HDR, HDR10+ Adaptive, Dolby Vision IQ and HLG. Not that you need to understand this jargon. This automatically makes the most of any 4k HDR picture it receives. Both Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ Adaptive cleverly use the set’s on board sensor to adjust picture parameters to match the ambient lighting in your viewing room. Without such clever trickery, some HDR shows can just look a tad too dark when viewed in bright room conditions. The TV is able to maintain layers of detail and texture, no matter if you watch with all the lights off and a bucket of popcorn on your lap, or midway through a bright afternoon with tea and cake. Even industry standard Filmmaker Mode, included amongst the viewing presets, similarly boasts Intelligent Sensing, to give the picture more punch when required. The set also boasts a Netflix Calibrated mode, designed to present Netflix shows as their director intended. Key to the JZ980’s excellent detail and colour is Panasonic’s all-new HCX Pro AI Processor. It presents colours that are deep and striking, without being oversaturated. Disney+ animations, in particular, look superb. The set’s HDR performance can be considered better than average, with plenty of sparkle and believable picture depth. While there are a wide variety of image modes, you don’t actually need to worry too much about choosing the right one. The set’s Auto AI mode, powered by that HCX image engine, is smart enough to recognise content styles and adjust accordingly. Just select that as your default and you’re sorted. Panasonic JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B) sound quality While the JZ980 has innovations aplenty on the picture side, its audio performance is a little more prosaic. Performance is constrained by the set’s two channel speaker arrangement, and 15W amplification. The good news is that it’s compatible with Dolby Atmos cinema-style audio, which can route that out of the TV using HDMI eARC from the likes of Netflix and Disney+, to a waiting compatible soundbar or sound system. Our verdict: should you buy the Panasonic JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B)? While you’ll pay a price premium for its 48-inch screen size compared to a larger 55-inch model, if the form factor fits, the JZ980 can be considered a superb buy. Picture quality is outstanding, with beautifully judged colour reproduction, deep blacks with nuanced shadow detail, and punchy contrast. The fact that the JZ980 supports all flavours of HDR is a bonus. Its up-to-date HDMI connectivity also makes this a cracking display partner for any next-gen games console. Overall we rate this is a fab performer that’s as future-proof as you can buy right now. Design 5/5 Picture quality 5/5 Sound quality 3/5 Value for money 4/5 Where to buy the Panasonic JZ980 (TX-48JZ980B) You can buy the 48-inch Panasonic JZ980 from Argos for £1,099 You can buy the 55-inch Panasonic JZ980 from Argos for £1,299 You can buy the 65-inch Panasonic JZ980 from AO for £1,799 For more product guides and reviews, head to the Technology section. Or, take a look at our best smart TV guide for help choosing a new TV.
Find out if this Sony X90J TV is really "perfect for PlayStation" like the brand claims.
The Sony Bravia X90J claims to be smarter than any other 4K LED TV out there, but that’s not a reference to its smart TV platform. Its new Cognitive Processor XR processor apparently uses novel AI techniques to replicate the way we all see and hear. This is also one of the TVs that Sony deems ‘Perfect for PlayStation.’ So what does this all mean for you, dear reader? Let’s investigate. Jump to: Sony X90J review: summary How much is the Sony X90J? Sony X90J features Sony X90J design Sony X90J picture quality Sony X90J sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Sony 55-inch X90J (XR-65X90J) review: summary We’re sold on the X90J. It’s one of the most impressive new Sony LED TVs we’ve seen in some time, offering impressive 4K picture quality, good sound, and some welcome next-gen games console support. Overall, we rate it a great buy because there’s not much that it doesn’t do well – movies, gaming and sports. It won’t break the bank either. Price: The TV typically costs £1199, but you can currently buy the 55-inch Sony Bravia X90J for £899 at Currys. Key features: Cognitive Processor XR processor HDMI v2.1 connectivity Google TV Works with Alexa and Google Assistant Pros: Outstanding picture performance Dolby Vision HDR Dolby Atmos sound Cons: Poor Catch-up TV support No HDR10+ Not all HDMI inputs cope with 4K 120fps gaming What does the Sony X90J do? The Sony X90J is a 4K LED HDR TV It uses the Google TV smart platform In addition to regular HDR10 and HLG, it supports Dolby Vision HDR It features Auto HDR tone mapping from PlayStation games consoles Two of the four HDMI inputs can display high frame rate games at 4K 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console It works with Amazon Alexa and Google smart assistants An Ambient Optimization light sensor automatically adjusts picture and sound in response to the available light in the room It lacks Freeview Play and doesn’t offer BBC iPlayer or ITV Hub catch-up services How much is the 55-inch SonyX90J (XR-65X90J)? The 55-inch Sony 55-inch X90J is listed at £1199/$1199. It’s also available in 50-, 65- and 75-inch screen sizes (XR-50X90J, XR-65X90J and XR-75X90J), priced at £1099/$1099, £1599/$1499 and £2299/$2099 respectively. The 55-inch model is the sweet spot in terms of screen size and price. The X90J is the more affordable stablemate to the Sony X95J. The two models share the same feature set and connectivity options, although the more expensive X95J comes with additional cosmetic flourishes, enhanced picture contrast and a slightly more powerful audio system. You can buy the XR-50X90J from Currys for £879. You can buy the XR-55X90J from Currys for £899. You can buy the XR-65X90J from Currys for £1399. You can buy the XR-75X90J from Currys for £1699. Is the Sony 55-inch X90J (XR-65X90J) TV good value for money? We rate the X90J a high-value TV option from Sony. There are caveats, including HDMI connectivity for gamers and the lack of Freeview Play, but they’re not deal-breakers. When it comes to picture performance, this is a premium screen at a mid-range price. SonyX90J (XR-65X90J) features The X90J is one of the first screens we’ve built around the Google TV smart platform. A variation of the more commonly used Android platform, it places emphasis on content curation and recommendations. The interface is easy to use and includes Android niceties like Chromecast and Google Assistant support and a decent selection of streaming services (Netflix, Apple TV+, Disney+, Prime Video, etc.) Unfortunately, it lacks Freeview Play and has limited catch-up TV services (just All4 at the time of writing). You’ll definitely want to use the set with a set-top box or streaming media stick, something like a Fire TV player or Roku streamer. Sony 55-inch X90J (XR-65X90J) design and set-up The screen looks neat, with a very thin bezel. It utilises a full-array backlight, which aids picture quality, but this means it’s a little deeper (70mm) than edge-lit rivals. The model has adjustable feet, which can be placed either towards the edge of the set or more towards the centre - Sony calls this a 2-way Slim Blade stand. The good thing is it allows some freedom when it comes to AV furniture choice, and it can also help create space for a soundbar. It’s worth noting that the adjustable feet are not available on the 50-inch model. Connectivity comprises four HDMI inputs. Only two HDMIs are 4K 120fps ready for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, and one of these is also used as an eARC connection to a soundbar. There’s support promised or Variable Refresh Rate (we’re waiting on a firmware update due before the end of the year). Other connections include two USBs, a digital optical output, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and Ethernet for wired networking. The screen is reasonably straightforward to set up, although you’ll need to log in with your Google account as part of the process. Sony X90J (XR-65X90J) picture quality We’re increasingly seeing Artificial Intelligence used to enhance image TV picture quality, but here Sony has taken a slightly different approach to its rivals, creating an all-new Cognitive Processor XR processor able to process picture information in a way that mimics the human eye. When we look at objects, we focus on a given point, rather than the entire scene. Cognitive Processor XR tries to do the same, focussing its processing power where it’s most beneficial. The system effectively divides the screen into zones in order to detect the ‘focal point’ of the picture (whereas regular AI will detect specific picture elements). The set has a full-array backlight, which combines good overall picture brightness with more control over peak HDR highlights. Also in play is XR Contrast Booster technology and XR HDR Remaster technology to give an HDR look to regular HD TV programmes. You’ll want to take some care where you position the screen, though, as it tends to lose contrast and colour intensity when viewed off-axis. The set transpires to be a great HDR performer; we noted bright highlights and a strong contrast range. It comes with Dolby Vision support, in addition to HLG and HDR10. The TV doesn’t acknowledge HDR10+ dynamic metadata, as favoured by Prime Video, though. As you would hope from TV pitched as ‘perfect for PlayStation’, input lag is low. We measured latency at 17.2ms (1080/60) with Game mode engaged. Uniquely, the set also has two dedicated modes for use with a PlayStation 5, namely Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode. With the former, it’ll handshake with the PS5 and then self-optimise for the best possible picture, ensuring you’ll see fine detail and rich colour even in high contrast scenes. With Auto Genre Picture Mode, the set automatically switches into Game Mode when gaming, minimising input lag, or Standard Mode when watching movies from a streaming service or an Ultra HD Blu-ray. The set also boasts Ambient Optimization technology; a sensor monitors the ambient light in your viewing room and tweaks the picture automatically. Sony X90J (XR-65X90J) sound quality The X90J uses a simplified version of Sony’s Acoustic Multi Audio system. Two downward-facing speakers are supported by two sound positioning tweeters high on the rear of the set. This allows it to present a soundstage that’s more expansive – wider – than lesser models. It doesn’t have any deep bass capability, though, but with 2x10W on tap, it does go reasonably loud. Our verdict: should you buy the Sony X90J (XR-65X90J)? We reckon the X90J sets a high benchmark for a mid-range 55-inch UHD LED TV. Its Cognitive Intelligence enhanced picture quality is first-rate, with superb detail and colour depth. It’s really contrasty, too, doing a great job with HDR movies and TV shows. It would have been nice to have a couple more full spec HDMI inputs, and the lack of Catch-up TV support is annoying, but motion handling (always a Sony strength) is excellent. Overall, a fine 4K TV and a must-audition for PlayStation gamers. Our rating: Design: 4/5 Picture quality: 4.5/5 Sound quality: 4/5 Value for money: 5/5 Overall: 5/5 Where to buy the Sony X90J (XR-65X90J) You can buy the 55-inch Sony X90J from Currys for £899. For more product guides and reviews, head over to the Technology section. Need some more advice before buying a TV? Take a look at our best TV to buy guide.
Is the Philips Ambilight OLED805 TV worth its premium price tag? We put it to the test to find out.
Philips OLED805 is a high-end 4K OLED TV with advanced picture processing, an Android smart platform and the brand’s signature Ambilight lounge lighting system. With a price tag of over £2,000, you’re right to expect a lot. With its modern styling and a high level of finish, it’s a dream of a screen - but it won’t suit everyone. Read on, and we’ll explain why. Want to know how it compares to other TV models? Try our Samsung Q70A TV review and LG C1 TV review. Jump to: Philips 65OLED805 review: summary How much is the Philips 65OLED805? Philips 65OLED805 features Philips 65OLED805 design Philips 65OLED805 picture quality Philips 65OLED805 sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Philips OLED805 (65OLED936) review: summary The OLED805 has plenty of wow factor. Philips P5 picture processing engine pushes OLED panel technology to dizzying heights, with supreme detail and colour depth. This TV doesn’t just look good with 4K HDR TV programmes, and it benefits from excellent upscaling that makes regular HD fare look almost as good. It also has a smart platform that’s well stocked with streaming and catch-up services. Ambilight seals the deal, providing an atmospheric light show to accompany whatever’s on the box. Its only Achilles heel is gaming. None of the HDMI inputs on this screen support 4K 120fps high frame rate gameplay. If you’re a Playstation 5 or Xbox Series X owner, this could be a deal-breaker. Price: You can buy the 65-inch Philips OLED805 for £2,199 at Amazon. Key features: Three sided Ambilight Dolby Vision, HDR10+ support Android TV smart platform Freeview Play Works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa Pros: Excellent picture performance Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support Ambilight lounge lighting Cons: No 4K 120fps HDMI support Poor input lag What does the Philips OLED805 do? The Philips OLED805 is a premium performing 4K OLED HDR flatscreen It uses the Android smart TV platform and has a Freeview Play terrestrial tuner Universal HDR support means it’s compatible with HDR10, HLG, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for the best possible HDR performance The OLED805 works with Google and Amazon Alexa smart assistants The TV is compatible with DTS Play-Fi multiroom audio systems The screen features three-sided Ambilight mood lighting How much is the 65-inch Philips OLED805? The 65-inch OLED805 sells for £2,199. It’s also available in 55-inch guise (55OLED805), which sells for £960. The smaller screen size is particularly competitive, while the larger model is priced to match comparable OLED models. You can buy the 65-inch OLED 805 for £2,199 at Amazon You can buy the 55-inch OLED805 for £960 at Amazon Is the Philips 65-inch OLED805 TV good value for money? The 65-inch iteration of the Philips OLED805 can be considered reasonable value for money. It shares a similar price ticket to high-end OLED models from LG and Sony. The 55-inch version is more competitive, particularly if you can pick one up for less than £1000. What sets this apart from all its competitors is the provision of Ambilight, which remains a unique Philips selling point. Philips OLED805 (65OLED805) features The OLED805 doesn’t skimp on life’s luxuries. The Android TV smart platform is powerful and easy to use, with no shortage of top-line service apps on board (Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, etc.). It also comes with Freeview Play, which means easy access to catch-up TV from BBC iPlayer, ITVHub, All4, My5 and UKTV Play, as well as loads of free to view box sets to binge. There’s also Chromecast Built-in, so you can cast from your smartphone to the TV with compatible apps and voice control via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. The Philips Ambilight system used here is three-sided (it illuminates from the sides and the top of the set). This doesn’t just wash your walls with LED light, there’s also a timed Sunrise mode which offers a faux sunrise lighting effect - although to be honest, this is only likely to be useful if you use the set in your bedroom. The 805 also boasts DTS Play-Fi compatibility. This means it will work with other Play-Fi certified wireless speaker systems from other brands for whole-home music streaming. It’s early days for the Play-Fi standard, but if you haven’t yet signed up to Sonos or Heos (from Denon), then it’s quite an appealing system. Philips OLED805 (65OLED805) design and setup This big Philips favours a minimalist look and boasts a high level of finish. The screen has a thin, dark bezel supported by two widely spaced chromed feet. It looks fancy, but you’ll need wide AV furniture to accommodate it. The OLED805 comes with a rather nice backlit remote control, lightly finished in Muirhead leather. Connections comprise four HDMIs, two USBs, an AV analogue input and an optical digital audio output. In addition to dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, wireless connectivity is wired Ethernet. Significantly, none of the HDMIs is 4K 120fps enabled, which will be a point of contention if you own a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X console. The screen is fine for regular 4K 60fps gaming, but if you want to push the output of those consoles to the max, this Philips isn’t suitable. Emphasising this lack of gaming connectivity is its input lag performance. We measured latency at 33.2ms (1080/60) with Game mode engaged. This won’t impress Mario and his mates. Setup and installation are routine, with clear, concise user prompts to get the TV online and tuned in. Philips OLED805 (65OLED805) picture quality This big Philips impresses with a picture that’s vibrant without being over-saturated, sharp, but free of unwanted edge emphasis. Much can be attributed to the brilliance of Philips P5 picture processor, here in its fourth generation guise and now bolstered by clever AI image enhancement. Auto AI with dynamic image optimisation automatically adjusts picture processing based on what you’re watching. 4k programmes look hyper-textured and naturalistic, while the upscaling of lower resolution HD material borders on breath-taking. The screen’s HDR performance can be considered extremely good. Contrast is super punchy, with excellent black level and near-black shadow detail. The 805 has no trouble delivering bright specular highlights, like glinting lamps, headlights and fireworks, all of which really help make the image seem more believable. The TV also has universal HDR support. There’s Dolby Vision and HDR10+compatibility, along with HDR10 and HLG. Motion handling is above average (in fact, much better than this set’s predecessor, the OLED804). For movies, we get a new Pure Cinema mode that maintains clarity but still keeps the picture looking cinematic. That’s quite a trick. Philips OLED805 (65OLED805) sound quality It may be super thin, but the 805 still manages to offer surprisingly decent audio. Philips has upgraded the drivers in this model to give a wider, cleaner sonic spread. Dialogue clarity is high while its bass drivers add welcome ‘umph’. The set is Dolby Atmos compatible and can send cinematic audio out over ARC to a Dolby Atmos soundbar or home cinema system. Our verdict: should you buy the Philips OLED805 (65OLED805)? This slick-looking thin screen has just about everything going for it. The design is stylish, it boasts sensational picture quality, and Ambilight lounge lighting is thrown in. It’s a difficult package to resist. That is unless you’re a gamer. The TV simply isn’t a good buy if you’re a serious gamer with a next-gen games console. The lack of High Frame Rate support on its HDMI inputs is a serious shortcoming, and even if you’re happy playing games at 4K 60fps, input lag is poor. Still, this remains an easy recommendation for everyday TV watching, home cinema, and box set binging. Features: 4/5 Design: 5/5 Picture quality: 5/5 Sound quality: 4/5 Value for money: 4/5 Overall rating: 4.5/5 Where to buy the Philips OLED805 You can buy the 65-inch OLED805 for £2,199 at Amazon. For more product guides and reviews, head to the Technology section. Or, take a look at our best TV to buy guide for help choosing a new TV.
Is this TV worth splashing the cash on? Find out in this Philips OLED +936 TV review.
The OLED+936 is a top of the range OLED 4K TV with a Dolby Atmos sound system devised and tuned by renowned Hi-Fi brand Bowers & Wilkins. When it comes to picture and sound, it’s one of the best 4K TVs currently available. Key attractions include a new generation of AI-enhanced picture processing and Philips proprietary Ambilight systems - which, if you haven’t seen it before, is a ring of LEDs on the back of the screen that project coloured light onto the wall behind. Ambilight is a great way to add atmosphere and pizzazz to even the most mundane of TV shows. For more TV recommendations, head over to our best smart TV guide. Jump to: Philips OLED+936 review: summary How much is the Philips OLED+936? Philips OLED+936 features Philips OLED+936 design Philips OLED+936 picture quality Philips OLED+936 sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Philips OLED+936 (65OLED936) review: summary The OLED+936 is a superb 4K OLED screen that pushes the picture envelope. It reveals detail, nuance and colour richness in all sources, and elevates TV audio to something that sounds convincingly like Hi-Fi. Throw in the Philips Ambilight room lighting system, and you have a spectacular telly package. But all this comes with an appropriately hefty price tag. Price: You can buy the 65-inch OLED+936 at Currys for £2299. Key features: Four-sided Ambilight Bowers & Wilkins Dolby Atmos sound system Advanced AI picture processing HDMI v2.1 connectivity Pros: Superb 4K picture performance Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support Dolby Atmos sound Cons: Imposing design Not all HDMI inputs support 4K 120fps gaming Expensive What does the Philips OLED+936 do? The Philips OLED+936 is a 4K OLED HDR TV with an integrated Bowers & Wilkins sound system It uses the Android smart TV platform and has a Freeview Play terrestrial tuner In addition to regular HDR10 and HLG, it supports HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for the best possible HDR performance The screen is compatible with DTS Play-Fi multiroom speakers from different brands Two of the four HDMI inputs can display high frame rate games at 4K 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console The OLED+936 works with Google and Amazon Alexa smart assistants The screen features four-sided Ambilight mood lighting How much is the 65-inch Philips OLED+936? The 65-inch OLED+936 sells for £2299. It’s also available in 48- and 55-inch screen sizes (48OLED+936, 55OLED+936), priced around £1499 and £1799, respectively. The OLED+936 can be considered one of the more expensive OLED TVs available right now. The price tag on the 48-inch model is particularly onerous. On test here is the 65-inch model. You can buy the 65-inch OLED+936 from Currys for £2299 You can buy the 48-inch OLED+936 from Currys for £1499 You can buy the 55-inch OLED+936 from Currys for £1799 Is the Philips 65-inch OLED+936 TV good value for money? There’s no doubt that you’re paying a price premium for this fancy flagship but break the package down. It’s actually good value: the OLED screen and associated picture technologies are leading-edge, the integrated Bowers & Wilkins Dolby Atmos sound system is equal to many standalone soundbars that cost upwards of £500, and the Ambilight smart lighting system is a unique attraction. So, overall, we reckon this big 65-incher is competitively priced! The 48-inch model is less attractive, not least because the separated audio system makes it difficult to recommend for close quarter viewing. OLED+936 (65OLED936) features This screen uses the Android smart platform, here in its v.10 iteration. It packs in a huge array of streaming services, including Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+ and Rakuten TV. There’s also Freeview Play onboard, so that’s all catch-up TV services covered, plus access to hundreds of free-to-view box sets guaranteed. The OLED+936 is DTS Play-Fi enabled. This means you can use it as part of a wider Play-Fi whole home audio system. Play-Fi may not be as popular as Sonus, but it does much the same thing and works across a variety of compatible brands. One novel feature that will interest gamers is Philips latest anti-screen burn technology. It uses AI to constantly monitor for static images, then selectively dimming any offending objects to make image burn virtually impossible. OLED+936 (65OLED936) design and set-up With its stylish steel frame and micro bezel, the OLED+936 looks on-trend. Its Bowers soundbar is definitely on the right side of swish, with an aluminium micro-mesh grille facing forward and grey Kvadrat cloth rooftop disguising upfiring speaker drivers. The audio system may look like a soundbar, but it’s very much integrated into the overall design. You can’t separate it from the panel; it’s linked by a dedicated lead. Rear connections comprise four HDMIs, two of which are able to accept 4K at 120Hz from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X games console. The screen also offers VRR (Variable Refresh rate) for NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync, making it suitable for use as a PC games monitor. HDMI 2 is eARC enabled, but we can’t think why you would want to route audio away from that Bowers and Wilkins speaker system to another sound solution. Setting the screen off is four-sided Ambilight, which surrounds the screen with LED light. This can be either a static colour or a wash of colours that reflect what’s happening on screen. Ambilight can also be synchronised with a Hue smart lighting system. Straight from the box, the system holds your hand during set-up, so you’ll soon be up and running. OLED+936 (65OLED936) picture quality Long story short: image quality is terrific. The OLED+936 uses the latest (fifth) iteration of Philips well-reviewed P5 picture engine, here in a new AI Intelligent Dual Picture Engine guise, which we’ll assume offers double the goodness. Ambient Intelligence automatically manages brightness and contrast based on the ambient light in your room, and it’s compatible with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ sources. Peak HDR brightness is high, making this one of the best HDR performers we’ve seen this year. This Philips also handles colour really well. Images are vivid without looking over-stretched. If you love movies, watch the screen on its Home Cinema setting; you’ll enjoy cinematic imagery with deep blacks, great shadow detail and lush hues. Serious gamers should note that this is not one of the best TVs for competitive gaming. We measured input lag at 21.6ms in Game mode (1080/60), which is average at best. Fast motion handling is above average, courtesy of a new Fast Motion Clarity setting. This makes the set a good option for F1 and footy fans. OLED+936 (65OLED936) sound quality We’ve seen a number of Philips/Bowers & Wilkins TV collaborations over the past couple of years, but this is unquestionably the best sounding. Under the hood, there has been all manner of component changes, including the use of new, stiffer speaker cones, which seems to have added greater sonic precision. The soundbar has both volume (70W) and musicality. Bowers’ familiar Tweeter-on-Top ensures excellent dialogue clarity and helps anchor centre channel action to the screen. The left and right drivers cast the stereo image wide, while those up-firing cones give soundtracks big-screen height. Unusually for a TV, the sound system also has quite profound bass. Good for when you’re watching blockbusters. Our verdict: should you buy the Philips OLED+936 (65OLED936)? If you’re hankering for a top-flight OLED TV with a kick-ass sound system, this Philips warrants a very close look. Picture quality is outstanding, particularly with 4k HDR sources, and the Bowers and Wilkins sound system is excellent. The only model that comes close on both fronts is Panasonic’s rival JZ2000 model. File under ‘Fabulous’. Our rating: Features: 5/5 Design: 4/5 Picture quality: 5/5 Sound quality: 5/5 Value for money: 5/5 Overall rating: 5/5 Where to buy the Philips OLED+936 You can buy the 65-inch OLED+936 from Currys for £2299. For more product guides and reviews, head to our Technology section. Or, read our Samsung QN95A TV review to see how it compares.
Find out how we got on with the affordable 32-inch Toshiba 32WK3C63DB smart TV as we put its picture quality, sound and design to the test.
Premium TVs may top money-no-object lust lists, but it’s workhorse tellies like this Toshiba 32-incher that sell in volume and attract bargain hunters looking for brilliant deals. This small screen is best thought of as a TV for the bedroom, kitchen or kids den, but it’ll also serve muster in bijou living rooms. It’s HD Ready, which is to say it offers 720p resolution, rather than 1080p HD, but it supports HDR, and it offers a good number of streaming apps. Let’s dig a little deeper. Find out how this affordable Toshiba TV performs and why we awarded it a solid 3.5 out of five stars. Jump to: Toshiba 32WK3C63DB review: summary How much is the Toshiba 32WK3C63DB? Toshiba 32WK3C63DB features Toshiba 32WK3C63DB design Toshiba 32WK3C63DB picture quality Toshiba 32WK3C63DB sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB) review: summary The Toshiba WK3 is just the ticket if you want a sensibly priced, internet-connected small screen smart TV. Its picture is perfectly acceptable for the price, and if you want to watch Corrie on catch-up from Freeview Play or binge a box set in bed, it’s difficult to fault. Price: You can buy the 32-inch Toshiba 32WK3C63DB for £189 at Amazon. Key features: Freeview Play Amazon Alexa compatible Bluetooth built-in Pros: Great value for money Freeview Play catch-up Toshiba Smart Centre Bluetooth music streaming Cons: Only 720p resolution No Disney+ app What does the Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB) do? The Toshiba WK3 is an HD-ready smart TV with Freeview Play It has a smart platform with a good number of streaming TV apps The WK3 may only be 720p HDR Ready, but it is HDR (High Dynamic Range) compatible The 12W audio system comes with DTS: Virtual X processing Connectivity includes three HDMI inputs, suitable for games consoles, TV boxes and DVD/Blu-ray players The Toshiba WK3 work with the Amazon Alexa smart assistant How much is the 32-inch Toshiba WK3? You certainly won’t break the bank buying a Toshiba WK3. The 32-inch model reviewed here is widely available for £189. It has a sister screen, the 24-inch 24WK3C63DB, which shares the same smart TV platform and is available for £169. You can buy the 32-inch Toshiba WK3 from Amazon for £189 You can buy the 24-inch Toshiba WK3 from AO for £169 Is the Toshiba 32WK3C63DB TV good value for money? We rate this 32-incher a top buy right now. It offers a strong selection of streaming apps, including Netflix, Prime Video and Britbox, on top of a full complement of mainstream catch-up TV. What’s more, it doesn’t look like it’s been beaten with an ugly stick. Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB) features The WK3 runs Toshiba’s Smart Centre portal, which offers a rich selection of streaming services, including Netflix, Prime Video, Britbox, YouTube, Twitch, Rakuten TV, Chili, Mubi and Amazon Music - although disappointingly, there’s no Disney+ app. The set also has a Freeview Play tuner, which guarantees catch-up from BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5, CBS Catch-up, Horror Bites and UKTVPlay. If you’re an Amazon Alexa addict, you can also use voice control for simple functions. Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB) design and set-up The WK3 may not be a catwalk star but looks smart enough. As it uses a standard LED backlight, it’s 78mm deep, but the gloss black bezel isn’t too large, and the central stand is easy to accommodate. If we were to have a design moan, it would be about the overly bright green LED which glowers from the front of the set when it’s on. The stereo speakers are downward-firing. Around the back, you’ll find three HDMIs, one with ARC (Audio Return Channel) for use with a soundbar. There’s also legacy phono AV and VGA inputs, plus a USB port and an optical digital audio output with headphone jack. There’s an Ethernet network port if you’d prefer to cable this TV to your network rather than use Wi-Fi. While you can certainly hook up a games console, don’t think about using the WK3 as a gaming monitor. We measured input lag at 33.4ms in Game mode. While that’s OK for casual play, it won’t impress seasoned fraggers. The TV ships with a full-size IR remote, with dedicated buttons for Prime Video, Netflix and Freeview Play. Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB) picture quality The WK3C puts in a decent picture performance for its class. The panel may be HD Ready, aka 720p, rather than 108op HD, but you’ll not really notice the pixel shortfall from a typical viewing distance. Interestingly, it’s also HDR-ready. We usually only talk about HDR in relation to 4k screens, so it’s noteworthy to find it here. View Netflix and programmes are indeed flagged as HDR. Of course, the humble WK3 really can’t do much with this info, and it’s simply not bright enough. But we appreciate the effort. Similarly, picture presets comprise Natural, Cinema, Sports and Dynamic, but there’s not a great deal of difference between them. For everyday viewing, though, it does the job. Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB) sound quality There’s quite a lot of volume on tap for such a small screen, and you can run it with either regular Dolby or DTS Virtual X processing. Dolby Audio options include Dolby Audio Smart, Movie, Music and News. The Dolby Audio Smart Mode actually limits the volume between 10pm and 7am, which seems a little harsh, and generally is not recommended. The DTS Virtual X option brings you Music, Cinema and Sports modes, all differentiated by EQ. You can also pair the TV to your smartphone using Bluetooth, making it a wireless speaker. When engaged, the screen mutes broadcast audio and plays your Bluetooth tunes. Our verdict: should you buy the Toshiba WK3 (32WK3C63DB)? There’s no shortage of cheap TVs in the bargain aisle, but this Toshiba stands out from the crowd. It’s a solid performer for the price and comes with a good selection of streaming apps, both subscription and free catch-up TV. We rate the Toshiba WK3 a great value small screen option. Our rating: Features: 3/5 Design: 3/5 Picture quality: 3/5 Sound quality: 3/5 Value for money: 5/5 Overall rating: 3.5/5 Where to buy the Toshiba WK3? You can buy the 32-inch Toshiba WK3 smart TV at Amazon for £189. For more product guides and reviews, head to our best streaming device and best smart TV guides. Or, read our TCL Roku TV review to see how it compares.
TCL RP620K (55RP620K) 4K HDR Roku TV review
Find out how our TV expert got on with the wallet-friendly TCL Roku TV.
The TCL RP620K is a budget-priced mid-range 4K HDR TV with the Roku streaming service built-in. Roku is best known for its HDMI media streamers. The company is the main rival to Amazon Fire TV, distinguished by a calmer, some might say more intuitive, user interface. The Roku app choice is class-leading. If you want a streaming service, you’ll find it here. The RP620K is also a well-specified Freeview Play TV, with Dolby Vision HDR to keep movie fans happy. So is this the best value smart TV out there right now? We put the 55-inch version of the TV on our test bench to find out. To find out more about the Roku devices on offer, take a look at our best streaming device guide or read our Roku Express 4K review and Roku Streambar review. Jump to: TCL RP620K review: summary How much is the TCL RP620K? TCL RP620K features TCL RP620K design TCL RP620K picture quality TCL RP620K sound quality Our verdict Where to buy TCL 55-inch RP620K (55RP620K) review: summary This first collaboration between TCL and Roku is a huge success. Offering every streaming service you might reasonably expect, coupled with a high level of performance for what is essentially a budget-priced telly, the RP620K is difficult to resist. There are caveats, but not enough to dampen our enthusiasm. Price: £449 Key features: Built-in Roku smart platform Freeview Play Dolby Vision Pros: Excellent Roku smart platform Freeview Play Stonking value Low input lag Cons: HDR not the brightest 1080p upscaling could be better Audio performance is average You can buy the 55-inch Roku RP620K from Currys for £349. What does the TCL RP620K do? The TCL RP620K is a 4K HDR LED LCD smart TV It’s built around the Roku streaming platform and has a Freeview Play TV tuner In addition to HDR10 and HLG, the RP620K supports Dolby Vision, as used by Netflix and Disney+ The TCL RP620K works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa smart assistants, as well as Apple Airplay 2 How much is the 55-inch TCL RP620K? The 55-inch TCL RP620K (55RP620K) sells for £449. The model is also available in 43-, 50- and 65-inch screen sizes (43RP620K, 50RP620K and 65RP620K), priced at £349, £399 and £549, respectively. This puts it in the same ballpark as other entry-level smart screens of comparable size. Bag one with a discount, and you’re really winning. There’s not a direct equivalent to this model in the US, although the TCL 5-Series comes close. You can buy the 43-inch TCL RP620K from Currys for £269 You can buy the 50-inch TCL RP620K from Currys for £299 You can buy the 55-inch TCL RP620K from Currys for £349 You can buy the 65-inch TCL RP620K from Currys for £469 Is the TCL 55-inch RP620K TV good value for money? We rate this TCL 4K cheapie extremely good value for money. The Roku smart platform is easy to use and has a great selection of streaming apps. With a current user base of around 53 million Roku devices worldwide, that’s likely to remain the case. TCL actually offers two Roku ranges in the UK, the RP620K featured here and the cheaper RP520K series. This step-up model is differentiated by the provision of Dolby Vision HDR and a better video processor. We think this makes the RP620K worth the price premium. TCL 55-inch RP620K (55RP620K) features The RP620K is all about the Roku operating system. It’s the first thing you see when you switch it on, and it’s the launch pad for all your streaming apps. Thankfully, it’s rather good. We like the fact that it’s really easy to navigate and customise. You certainly won’t feel the need to add a separate streaming media player to your equipment stack. Services include Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, AppleTV+, NOW, and BT Sport. It’s also a Freeview Play TV, which ensures you get all the mainstream catch-up players (BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5, UKTVPlay), plus a large selection of gratis box sets. As a bonus, you also get the Roku Channel, which is exclusive to Roku devices. It’s a mix of old library content and all-new Roku TV shows. The set works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice assistants, plus Apple Airplay and Apple Homekit. That’s a lot of smart home bases covered. Not only is the screen perfect for binge-watchers, but it also caters for gamers. We measured input lag in Game mode at 12.1ms (1080/60), which is outstanding for a display in this price category. When you hook up your games console, you can be confident you’ll not be disadvantaged by slow response times. TCL 55-inch RP620K (55RP620K) design and set-up The RP620K is fairly generic when it comes to design. It’s distinguished mainly by a glossy black bezel and two widely spaced feet, so make sure you have AV furniture wide enough to accompany it. The screen uses a direct LED backlight, so it isn’t pencil-thin, but for the price paid, it’s tidy enough. Around the back, you’ll find four HDMI inputs (all v2.0), one of which has ARC (Audio Return Channel) for connecting a soundbar. There’s also a digital optical audio output and AV mini Jack. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are standard, but if you want to hardwire the set to your home network, there’s an Ethernet port. The remote control is a standard zapper, with dedicated buttons for Freeview Play, Netflix, Spotify, Apple TV and Rakuten TV. You can also control the TV via a dedicated app on your smartphone. As we’ve come to expect from Roku, setup and tuning are straightforward. TCL 55-inch RP620K (55RP620K) picture quality Overall, we were impressed with the picture from this budget screen. Treat this TCL to 4K content, and you’ll be rewarded with crisp, textured images and ribald colours. It was easy to appreciate the fine architectural detail and texture in Bridgerton’s (Netflix) period costumes. The TV looks less impressive with regular SD content and HD. When it comes to upscaling technology, the set could probably do better. HDR performance is a tad dimmer than we hoped, but Dolby Vision compatibility really helps maximise its HDR talents with Dolby Vision content. Gradations are smooth and images cinematic. TCL 55-inch RP620K (55RP620K) sound quality The RJ620 is a reasonable audio performer. Its 2x8W stereo speaker system isn’t short of welly, and you’ll not struggle to hear dialogue in the average-sized living room. There’s a selection of sound presets to explore – Normal, Speech, Theatre – but we found Normal to be the best default. While fine for everyday listening, it’s worth taking advantage of the ARC HDMI connection to add a soundbar for greater clarity and slam. Our verdict: should you buy the TCL RP620K (55RP620K)? If you’re after a modestly priced large screen smart TV, this Roku-centric offering is well worth shortlisting. Picture performance is impressive with 4K Dolby Vision content, images are pin-sharp and vibrant, and the Roku smart platform is brilliantly simple to use. Overall, we rate this TCL a brilliant buy for streaming telly addicts. Our rating: Features: 4/5 Design: 3/5 Picture quality: 3.5/5 Sound quality: 3/5 Value for money: 5/5 Overall rating: 4/5 Where to buy the TCL 55-inch RP620K You can buy the 55-inch TCL 55-inch RP620K from Currys for £349. For more product guides and reviews, head to the Technology section. Or, take a look at our best TV to buy guide for help choosing a new TV.
Samsung QN95A (QE55QN95) 4K HDR TV review
Find out how our TV expert got on with Samsung QN95A TV, the brand's top-of-the-line Neo QLED TV model.
The QN95A sits at the top of Samsung’s Neo QLED TV range. We’ve seen QLED screens from Samsung (and other brands for that matter) for a while now, but this Neo QLED model is different in that it introduces a whole new backlighting technology to Samsung’s flatscreen fleet. Quantum Mini LED technology is able to handle HDR picture quality better and brings the range much closer in subjective terms to rival OLED TVs. Blacks are deep, and bright highlights are much more precise. But that’s only part of the appeal of this formidable 4k telly. The QN95A also uses advanced Neo Quantum 4K picture processing and boasts a multi-channel OTS+ sound system. To learn more, we hauled a 55-inch model onto our test bench. Jump links to the following headings: Samsung QN95A review: summary How much is the Samsung QN95A? Samsung QN95A features Samsung QN95A design Samsung QN95A picture quality Samsung QN95A sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Samsung QN95A (QE55QN95) review: summary If you’re looking for a spectacular 4K LED TV with a no-compromise performance, then Samsung’s QN95A should be near the top of your list. The introduction of Mini LED technology sets a new standard for QLED, offering dynamic, colour-rich imagery that’s ideal for bright room viewing, movies and gaming. The set is particularly well suited to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles, as it has four 4K 120fps inputs, plus Samsung’s new Game Bar interface. What sets this model apart from other brands and most of Samsung’s own models is the One Connect Box. Rather than connect your TV aerial, telly box or games console to the screen, everything connects to a separate One Connect Box, which in turn is linked by a single fibre optic cable to a screen. This makes the screen easier to wall mount. Price: £1,499 Key features: Mini LED Neo QLED screen One Connect Box Tizen smart platform Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support HDMI v2.1 connectivity Pros: Mini LED backlight for better HDR Stylish super slim design Advanced OTS+ sound system 4K 120fps High Frame Rate support Cons: One Connect Box won’t suit everyone No Dolby Vision support Premium price point You can buy the 55-inch Samsung QN95A Neo QLED at Currys for £1499 What does the Samsung QN95A do? The Samsung QN95A is a Neo QLED LED TV with an advanced Samsung Tizen smart platform. It lacks a Freeview Play terrestrial tuner but still offers all mainstream catch-up TV players Thanks to its all-new Mini LED backlight, the QN95A can deliver brighter peak highlights than OLED TVs In addition to regular HDR, it supports HDR10+ as used by Amazon Prime Video, for a more consistent, cinematic viewing experience with that service It has Object Tracking Sound Plus technology with eight speakers. It’s also compatible with Dolby Atmos Samsung’s new Game Bar interface allows next-gen console owners to optimise the TV for the best aspect ratio and lowest input lag All four HDMI inputs can display high frame rate games at 4K 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console The QN95A works with Google and Amazon Alexa, in addition to Samsung’s own Bixby smart assistant How much is the 55-inch Samsung QN95A? The 55-inch QN95A sells for £1499. Other screen sizes available are 65, 75 and 85-inches (QE65QN95A, QE75QN95A, QE85QN95A), priced at £1999, £2699, and £3999, respectively. You can buy the 65-inch QN95A from Currys for £1899 You can buy the 75-inch QN95A from Currys for £2699 You can buy the 85-inch QN95A from Currys for £3999 Is the Samsung 55-inch QN95A TV good value for money? You can expect to pay a price premium for the QN95A, thanks largely to its adoption of new Mini LED technology. Those looking for a similar spread of features and functionality, without the toppy ticket price, should take a look at Samsung’s Q80 QLED models, which use a conventional backlight. That said, we still consider the QN95A good value, as it’s priced more or less in line with rival OLED screens. Samsung QN95A (QE55QN95) features Samsung’s Tizen smart platform is one of the best-specified premium connected portals available right now - and as presented on the QN95A, it’s nippy to navigate and intuitive to use. Everything you need is accessed via a launcher bar that runs across the bottom of the screen. It’s a polished interface that’s easy to live with. Streaming services are comprehensive and include Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, YouTube, Disney+ along with all the key catch-up TV players: BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5 and UKTV Play. There’s also the Game Bar, Samsung’s novel new control panel. From here, you can select a custom aspect ratio, including 21:9 or a more extreme 32:9, adjust input lag and so on. We rate this Neo QLED TV an excellent choice for video game fans. Input lag was measured at just 10.1ms (1080/60) in standard Game mode, which is a terrific performance. Samsung QN95A (QE55QN95) design and set-up The QN95A is a handsome flatscreen with a high-quality finish. The chassis is just 25.9mm deep, with the screen framed by a tiny bezel. It’s mounted on a central pedestal. The set comes with two remote controls, a standard pointer with plenty of buttons, and a simpler alternative that rather unusually has a solar cell panel able to charge using indoor lighting. Alternatively, you might want to charge via the USB C port. Connectivity is restricted to the supplied One Connect Box, which is comparable to a TV box in size. This means you’ll have another gadget to accommodate in your AV rack. However, it’s worth noting that along with sound and vision, the single One Connect fibre optic cable to the screen also supplies power, so you won’t have to find an additional power point. All four HDMI inputs are v2.1 and can handle 4K 120fps video from PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles. There’s also ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support, plus eARC on HDMI 3. Other connections include an optical digital audio output, three USB connectors and Ethernet. Wireless support covers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and there’s Apple Airplay 2 compatibility too. Samsung QN95A (QE55QN95) picture quality The QN95A warrants two enthusiastic thumbs up when it comes to image clarity. The implementation of that Mini LED backlight makes for a consistent filmic picture. The set also has a new and improved Quantum 4K processor with multi-intelligence deep learning, which gives superior picture nuance and image texture. While a host of processing modes are available, we would advise sticking with the set’s Intelligent Mode, which handles all content types well. We found the QN95A delivers a solid HDR performance with Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+, but there is a caveat. While the set supports HDR10, HLG and HDR10+ Adaptive, the latter uses the set’s light sensor to manage HDR better, and it doesn’t offer Dolby Vision compatibility. Given that this is the standard dynamic metadata system used by Netflix and Disney+, as well as most 4k Blu-rays, this could be a deal-breaker for home cinema fans. That said, we were never disappointed by its HDR performance. All QLED TVs look good used in brightly lit rooms, but the QN95A may be the best we’ve seen to date. Samsung QN95A (QE55QN95) sound quality The QN95A is no shrinking violet when it comes to audio. The TV features an advanced implementation of Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound Plus (OTS+) system, and with no fewer than eight speakers in play, including two high up on the rear, you’re guaranteed a big noise, with a lot of on-screen movement. Imagine stereo on steroids. The set also boasts Q Symphony technology. When used with a compatible 2021 Samsung soundbar, both the speakers in the TV and those in the soundbar play together in harmony for maximum sonic impact. The screen is Dolby Atmos capable. You can route Atmos audio out of the TV to a waiting Dolby Atmos soundbar or home cinema system for full immersive audio. The QN95A’s aforementioned Intelligent Mode isn’t just beneficial when it comes to video either. It also helps with the set’s audio performance, automatically employing a host of clever technologies, including Adaptive Sound+ and Active Voice Amplifier dialogue enhancement, to improve dialogue when required. Our verdict: should you buy the Samsung QN95A? If you want a no-compromise 4K HDR TV with jaw-dropping picture and sound, the QN95A has to be high on your shopping list. We were bowled over by the clarity and zest of its images and the sheer presence of its sound system. The One Connect Bar could prove divisive, though. It’s certainly useful if you intend to wall mount the set, but if you’re pedestal mounting, you will need to find room for it in your rack. The lack of Dolby Vision support is also a consideration for home cinema fans. On the plus side, this is a fabulous bright room performer and extremely well suited to gaming. Those with next-gen consoles will see their games machines at their best. If you can rise to the price point, we think the QN95A is an easy recommendation: this is Samsung TV at its very best. Our rating: Features: 4/5 Design: 5/5 Picture quality: 5/5 Sound quality: 4/5 Value for money: 3.5/5 Overall rating: 5/5 Where to buy the Samsung QN95A The 55-inch Samsung QN95A is available at Currys and AO. For more product guides and reviews, head to the Technology section. Or, take a look at our best smart TV guide for help choosing a new TV.
Find out how our TV expert got on with the Samsung Q70A, one of the brand's more affordable 2021 4K TV models.
The Samsung Q70A is the affordable star performer in Samsung’s 2021 QLED 4K TV line-up. It boasts many of the features found in the brand’s more expensive QLED 4K models but comes with an altogether more tempting price tag. It features an advanced image processor, Samsung’s terrific Tizen smart TV platform, and has the right connectivity to appeal to owners of a PS5 or Xbox Series X. The Q70A also comes in a wide variety of screen sizes, specifically 55-, 65-, 75- and 85-inch screens sizes (QE55Q70A, QE65Q70A, QE75Q70A and QE85Q70A, respectively). In this review, we’re concentrating on the 55-inch model. Jump to the following headings: Samsung Q70A review: summary How much is the Samsung Q70A? Samsung Q70A features Samsung Q70A design Samsung Q70A picture quality Samsung Q70A sound quality Our verdict Where to buy Samsung Q70A (QE55Q70A) review: summary The Q70A is an ultra-slim QLED LED TV that combines Samsung’s polished, smart TV platform with an AI-enhanced picture performance. The Q70A boasts better connectivity than the slightly cheaper Q60A and, more importantly, makes extensive use of AI technologies to enhance sound and vision. The Q70A is one of the most affordable 4K TVs to 4K high frame rate HDMI support, which is good news for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X gamers. Price: £999 Key features: QLED Edge-lit panel Tizen smart platform HDMI v2.1 connectivity Pros: AirSlim design Object Tracking Sound LITE Cons: Only one HDMI supports High Frame rate 4K 120fps No Dolby Vision support You can buy the 55-inch Samsung Q70A at Currys for £849 What does the Samsung Q70A do? The Samsung Q70A is a QLED Quantum Dot LED TV that uses the Samsung Tizen smart TV platform It lacks a Freeview Play terrestrial tuner but offers all mainstream catch-up TV players In addition to standard HDR, it supports HDR10+ as used by Amazon Prime Video, for a more consistent, cinematic viewing experience with that service It has Object Tracking Sound Lite technology which uses signal processing to create the illusion of extra height for cinema-style sound One HDMI input can display high frame rate games at 4K 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console The Q70A works with Google and Amazon Alexa, as well as Samsung’s own Bixby smart assistant How much is the 55-inch Samsung Q70A? The 55-inch Q70A sells for £999, making it one of the more affordable screens in Samsung’s QLED range. Other screen sizes available are 65-, 75- and 85-inches (QE65Q70A, QE75Q70A, QE85Q70A), priced at £1299, £1999, and £2799, respectively. You can buy the 65-inch Q70A from Currys for £1099 You can buy the 75-inch Q70A from Currys for £1999 You can buy the 85-inch Q70A from Currys for £2499 Is the Samsung 55-inch Q70A TV good value for money? The 55-inch Q70A can be considered excellent value. It’s one of Samsung’s cheapest Quantum Dot TVs and benefits from the same advanced AI image processing found higher-up the QLED range. Smart connectivity is top-notch, and its super-slim design is a winner too. Samsung Q70A (QE55Q70A) features The Q70A shares much in common with its fellow QLED TVs. It operates Samsung’s Tizen smart interface, which is easy to use and comes with a comprehensive selection of streaming apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Rakuten TV, Apple TV+, YouTube and Disney+. It also has Samsung’s new Game View and Game bar user interface. Samsung TVs (inexplicably) don’t have Freeview Play tuners, but at least all the catch-up TV services are available, including BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5 and UKTV Play. Samsung Q70A (QE55Q70A) design and set-up The Q70A boasts an AirSlim cabinet design and sports a minimal picture bezel. It’s quite a head-turner. The screen has four HDMI inputs, but only one is 4K 120fps ready. We probably shouldn’t moan too loudly, as any High Frame Rate support at this price point is welcome. All remaining HDMIs are all 4K 60fps enabled, and there’s eARC compatibility too. There’s also Ethernet, USB and an optical digital audio output, plus Bluetooth and dual-band Wi-Fi wireless support. Samsung’s new slimline One Remote control is powered by indoor lighting, so that should save on batteries. Overall setup is pretty straightforward. The set should take no more than about 15 minutes to get up and running. Samsung Q70A (QE55Q70A) picture quality The Q70A is powered by the latest Samsung Quantum Processor 4K, with AI machine learning. Picture characteristics include high average picture brightness, vibrant colour and strong contrast. There’s the usual range of picture modes, including Standard, Dynamic, Natural and Movie. We recommend Standard and Natural for most content. The screen is at its best with native 4K, as you’ll find on the top streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, and its Quantum Processor 4K will upscale lesser sources to make them look better. AI technology compares content with an on-chip database and then tweaks the image to improve detail and texture. To improve contrast, two different colour temperature LED light modules are used. HDR support includes regular HLG and HDR10+, but not Dolby Vision. Samsung’s motion handling is very good these days, making this a good choice for sports fans. Leave motion handling on Auto, as it works well with most fast-moving content. Samsung Q70A (QE55Q70A) sound quality Perhaps inevitably, where the Q70A falls short is sound performance. Like all thinner, edge-lit LED TVs, there are not many options when it comes to placing physical speakers. The TV has a simplified OTS (Object Tracking Sound) system that relies on DSP signal processing to enlarge the soundstage. The Q70A also uses SpaceFit, a clever room calibration system designed to tune the set’s audio output to your living room, and AVA (Active Voice Amplifier) technology, which adjusts the dialogue level to counter any ambient noise in your living room. As the set is Dolby Atmos compatible, we would suggest partnering with a Dolby Atmos soundbar at some point. Our verdict: should you buy the Samsung Q70A? We rate the Q70A as a fine bright-room 4K TV, ideal for everyday use. It occupies a sweet spot in Samsung’s 2021 QLED roster and looks sharp from a design point of view. It’s not a screen for hardcore gamers, although that solitary 4K 120 fps HDMI input will work well with either a Playstation 5 or next-gen Xbox, and home cinema fans will probably be unhappy at the lack of Dolby Vision support. These caveats can be balanced against Tizen, which is a solid, smart platform with generous streaming options. Our rating: Features: 4/5 Design: 4/5 Picture quality: 4/5 Sound quality: 3/5 Value for money: 4/5 Overall: 4/5 Where to buy the Samsung Q70A The 55-inch Samsung Q70A is available at Currys and John Lewis. The 65-inch Samsung Q70A is available at Currys and John Lewis. The 75-inch Samsung Q70A is available at Currys. The 85-inch Samsung Q70A is available at Currys. For more product guides and reviews, head to the Technology section. Or, take a look at our best TV to buy guide for help choosing a new TV.
Find out how our expert got on with the top-of-the-range LG G1 (OLED65G1) TV.
The LG G1 is the flagship of LG’s 2021 TV range. The ‘G’ stands for Gallery because this is a TV that’s designed first and foremost for wall mounting, gallery-style. You can put it on regular AV furniture if you insist, but that’ll involve buying an additional pedestal. The G1 boasts all the advanced picture processing and smart TV doodahs that you’ll find elsewhere in the LG range, but significantly it’s the first TV we’ve seen to sport the brand’s advanced, high brightness EVO panel. Will that make a big difference when you kick back with Corrie or Succession? Read on and find out. For more TV recommendations, head to our best smart TV guide. Jump to: LG G1 review: summary What is the LG OLED65G1? How much is the LG OLED65G1? LG OLED65G1 features LG OLED65G1 design LG OLED65G1 picture quality LG OLED65G1 sound quality Our verdict Where to buy LG G1 (OLED65G1) review: summary The LG G1 has a style all its own, and we think it’s a great looking 4K HDR flatscreen. If you can rise to the wall-mounting challenge, hide away all the wires, and afford the spenny price tag, you’ll get to enjoy top-notch picture quality and excellent connectivity. But if you want a screen you can pull from a box and quickly plug in, then it’s probably not the TV for you. The G1 is a bit more demanding than that. Price: The 65-inch LG G1 TV has an RRP of £2,799, but typically can be found for less (£2,199) at Currys. undefined Key features: High brightness EVO panel Gallery design 4K HDR with Dolby Vision IQ Web OS smart platform Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support HDMI v2.1 connectivity Pros: Top-notch 4K picture quality Interiors friendly design Cutting-edge panel 4K 120fps High Frame Rate support Cons: You’ll probably need to wall-mount a soundbar A bit on the pricey side What is the LG G1? The LG G1 is a no-compromise 4K OLED TV with a home decor bent, available in 55-, 65- and 77-inch screen sizes (OLED55G1, OLED65G1, and OLED77G1, respectively). Our test sample is the 65-inch model. What does the LG G1 do? The LG G1 is a Freeview Play OLED TV with an advanced webOS 6.0 smart platform. Its Freeview Play tuner offers all mainstream catch-up TV players LG’s all-new EVO OLED panel offers higher average picture brightness than the rest of LG’s OLED range, so images really pop It features Dolby Vision IQ, which will automatically adjust picture parameters to make 4K HDR programmes look better when viewed in rooms with bright light It can send Dolby Atmos cinematic audio to a Dolby Atmos soundbar or home cinema system It has a Game Optimizer mode that allows console gamers to optimise the screen to best suit the games they play It can display high frame rate games at 4K 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console It works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa How much is the LG OLED65G1? The 65-inch G1 is listed at around £2,799 but can be found for less. The 55- and 77- models are listed at £1799 and £4799 respectively. It’s priced at the higher-end of the posh TV market. Buy the 55-inch LG G1 for £1499 at Currys Buy the 77-inch LG G1 for £3999 at Currys undefined Is the LG OLED65C1 TV good value for money? It’s probably a stretch to describe this Gallery series screen as ‘good value.’ It’s premium-priced for a reason: this is currently the only LG model in the world to offer an EVO screen ( you can expect the technology to trickle down to other models during 2022), and it adopts a premium design and finish. ‘Reassuringly expensive’ is a better description - and remember, if you don’t want to wall-mount, you’ll need to budget for a different stand option. That said, the set has been subject to some heavy price-cutting, which does make it more attractive. LG OLED65G1 features Smart functionality, aided by more than a little AI (artificial intelligence), heads up what is an impressive feature set. The G1 works with Google Assistant and Alexa, while LG’s own ThinQ AI technology powers voice control and content search. The TV has a Freeview Play tuner, which means there’s a full set of catch-up TV players built-in, along with copious free to watch box sets. LG’s webOS smart platform, v6.0, comes with a huge variety of streaming apps, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All4, My5, Apple TV+, Now, Sky store and YouTube. You’ll not be short of shows to binge on. The set also boasts LG’s new Game Optimizer interface, which offers gamers specific presets to make the most of their preferred games - there are dedicated modes for FPS shooters, RPG role-playing or RTS strategy games. The screen is a good choice for gamers. We measured image lag at 12.7ms (1080/60) in Game optimizer mode, which can be considered very good. LG OLED65G1 design and set-up That Gallery tag means the set has a uniformly flat back, ideal for flush wall mounting. It’s 2cm deep and has a really thin black bezel. Minimal sums it up. In addition to a regular stand mount, available separately, LG also offers a cool, retro-style tripod stand. The G1 comes with the latest version of LG’s Magic cursor remote control. This sports dedicated buttons for Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and Rakuten TV, as well as Google Assistant and Alexa shortcuts. Connectivity is leading edge. All four HDMI inputs are the latest v2.1 spec and support 4k 120fps sources (that’s games consoles, to you and me). They’re also blessed with eARC, ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), VRR G-Sync, and VRR AMD Freesync. That’s a lot of acronyms. Set up is straightforward, aided by simple onscreen prompts. Once online and terrestrial channels are tuned, it’s all plain sailing. LG OLED65G1 picture quality We had high hopes coming to the G1, and we’re pleased to report that it doesn’t disappoint. Images are sharp and colour-rich, with superb levels of contrast. Handling the heavy lifting is LG’s processor du jour, the brilliant 4th gen Alpha 9. LG’s new AI Picture Pro picture system, which is able to analyse picture content in real-time, also does a remarkably good job. It uses Auto Genre selection, trained by clever deep learning, to distinguish what is displayed and optimise the picture accordingly. The set offers a variety of picture presets. Straight from the box, it comes with the Eco mode as the default. We would suggest you swap this to Standard, as it gives slightly punchier images. Other options include Sports, Cinema, Filmmaker Mode. ISF Expert bright/Dark and Vivid. Select Dolby Vision content on Netflix, and you’ll unlock Cinema and Cinema Home options; the latter is a really satisfying option for movie watching. That EVO panel gives a slightly brighter overall picture. The benefit isn’t quite as pronounced as we might first have imagined, at least when compared to the brand’s C1 model, but we’ll take it. LG OLED65G1 sound quality By design, the G1’s sound system is meant to be ‘invisible’, and it largely succeeds - but you’ll certainly know it’s there. Overall power output is rated at a fierce 60W, and for casual viewing, most users will find it acceptable. The G1 has a Dolby Atmos decoder onboard, but it doesn’t really have the speakers to deliver cinema style sound (it uses a simple down-firing driver array), but it does pass Dolby Atmos over eARC HDMI out to a Dolby Atmos soundbar or AV system. Our verdict: should you buy the LG OLED65G1? If you’re happy to wall-mount your TV and are prepared to pay a tad extra for a premium viewing experience, the LG G1 is a mouth-watering prospect. If you’d prefer a more conventional stand mount set-up, you’ll need to budget extra for a pedestal. Our first taste of LG’s EVO OLED panel has left us suitably impressed. Picture quality is vibrant yet cinematic, with superb detail and OLED’s characteristically perfect black level performance. Contrast is excellent. The set’s webOS smart platform also offers a healthy selection of top drawer streaming apps, while Freeview Play means you’ll not be short of catch-up. The G1 also has excellent connectivity, perfect if you want to hook up a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X games console. The G1 isn’t going to be for everyone, but it’s pretty special nonetheless. Our rating: Features: 4/5 Design: 4/5 Picture quality: 5/5 Sound quality: 3.5/5 Value for money: 4/5 Overall rating: 4/5 Where to buy the LG OLED65G1 The LG OLED65C1 is available at Currys and John Lewis. undefined For more reviews and product guides, head to our Technology section. Want to see how this smart TV model compares to the brand’s others? Try our LG C1 review.
Looking for a new TV? Find out if LG's 65-inch C1 4K TV is worth splashing the cash on.
The LG C1 is a premium 4K OLED TV that combines cutting-edge picture processing with an advanced feature set that makes it particularly appealing to serious console gamers. It’s smarter than the average flatscreen, thanks to features like ThinQ AI and Deep Learning, which are both trained to enhance its AV performance and usability. Long story short, if you’re looking for a new telly with all the toys, this model is one to shortlist. Jump to: LG C1 review: summary What is the LG OLED65C1? How much is the LG OLED65C1? LG OLED65C1 features LG OLED65C1 design LG OLED65C1 picture quality LG OLED65C1 sound quality Our verdict Where to buy LG C1 (OLED65C1) review: summary The LG C1 is an outstanding 4K OLED flatscreen, offering an excellent picture performance, advanced smart platform and best-in-class connectivity for next-gen gamers. But plan to add a soundbar, as its audio is unremarkable. Price: The RRP of the 65-inch C1 is £1,899, but you can buy the TV from Currys for £1799. Key features: 4K HDR with Dolby Vision IQ Web OS smart platform Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support HDMI v2.1 connectivity Pros: Excellent 4K picture quality Plenty of streaming app options Game Optimizer mode 4K 120fps High Frame Rate support Cons: Average onboard audio No HDR10+ support Smart Platform could do with customisation options What is the LG C1? The LG C1 is a well-equipped 4k OLED TV, available in 48-, 55-, 65,- 77- and 83-inch screen sizes (OLED485C1, OLED55C1, OLED65C1, OLED77C1 and OILED83C1, respectively). The sample on our test bench is the 65-inch model. What does the LG C1 TV do? The LG C1 is a Freeview Play OLED TV with a sophisticated webOS 6.0 smart platform. Its Freeview Play tuner offers all mainstream catch-up TV players The OLED screen offers perfect black and excellent shadow detail in dark room viewing conditions It boasts Dolby Vision IQ, designed to make HDR programmes look better when viewed in rooms with bright light It will output Dolby Atmos cinematic audio to a Dolby Atmos soundbar or home cinema system It has a Game Optimiser mode to tweak the set for a better console experience It can display high frame rate games at 4k 120fps from a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X console It works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa How much is the LG OLED65C1 TV? The 65-inch C1 sells for around £1,899. The 48-, 55-, 77- and 83inch models are listed at £1,299, £1,399, £3,499 and £5,499 respectively. Buy the 83-inch LG C1 from John Lewis for £5499 Buy the 77-inch LG C1 from Currys for £3499 Buy the 65-inch LG C1 from Currys for £1799 Buy the 55-inch LG C1 from Currys for £1299 Buy the 48-inch LG C1 from Currys for £1099 Is the LG OLED65C1 TV good value for money? The LG C1 isn’t cheap, but it’s competitively priced when it comes to premium OLED screens. It may not be the sort of set you’ll pick up for a song in the bargain aisles, but in the more rarefied air of large screen 4k HDR OLEDs, it can be considered good value. To put its price tag in context, rival models like the Sony XR65A8 and Panasonic TX-55JZ1500, sell for around £2,199 and £1,999, respectively. LG OLED65C1 TV features The C1 bristles with smart functionality. It works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, uses its own ThinQ AI smart engine for voice control and search and has a streaming platform, web OS, with exhaustive app support. If you want loads of catch-up TV on tap, you’ve come to the right place. Handheld control is via the latest version of LG’s Magic Remote. This zapper differs from rival pointers in that it presents a cursor on the screen to click and drag stuff. The remote also has dedicated buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and Rakuten TV, along with Google Assistant and Alexa. LG has made some big changes to its webOS smart platform this year. The all-new webOS v6.0 offers a fullscreen menu of streaming shows and curated content, replacing last year’s launcher bar. One irritation with the new look is a lack of customisation. The TV pushes services and programmes that you are not subscribed to, which quickly becomes wearisome. That said, streaming app support is comprehensive. Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, NOW, and AppleTV+, join all the usual Freeview Play UK catch-up TV apps (BBC iPlayer, ITVHub, All4, UKTV Play and My5). And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. New for 2021 is a Game Optimizer. This pulls gaming parameters together in one place for quick adjustment: you can optimise the screen for the game genre you’re playing, select various types of VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and monitor input lag. We measured screen latency at 12.6ms (with a 1080/60 source), with Game mode on, which can be considered very good. Of course, if you’re just amusing yourself with Animal Crossing, you don’t need to worry about any of this. LG OLED65C1 TV design and set-up The LG C1 is a super slim OLED display, with electronics and inputs filling out its lower third. Build quality, and overall finish is high. A centre-weighted stand features an almost full-width fascia lip, so the screen is virtually flush with your furniture. There’s no room to place a soundbar beneath. Connectivity is excellent. There are four HDMI inputs, all of which are the latest v2.1 specification. They support 4k@120Hz sources, good news for demanding gamers. There’s also a digital optical audio output, three USBs and Ethernet. Wireless connectivity comes via Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 and Wi-Fi. Initial setup and tuning are straightforward, guided by onscreen prompts. Make sure you have your Wi-Fi network password nearby. LG OLED65C1 TV picture quality Straight from the box, the LG C1 offers fabulous image quality. Pictures are gloriously sharp, with vibrant colour fidelity and excellent contrast. Like all OLED screens, the set’s self-lit pixels deliver deep black with plenty of subtle shadow detail. When it comes to HDR performance, the set shines. We measured peak HDR brightness at around 750 nits. This is enough for bright specular highlights with HDR content, which add extra depth and texture to images and make sporting events look more three dimensional. The C1’s Alpha 9 picture engine uses AI techniques, including Deep Learning, to optimise images in real-time. An AI Picture Pro mode applies noise reduction and sharpness, while AI Brightness gives an HDR-style boost to regular SDR programmes. The set looks its best with native 4k programmes from Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+, but it upscales HD material a treat too. HDR support covers regular HDR, HLG and Dolby Vision IQ, but not HDR10+. Prime Video favours the latter standard, and it’s a shame LG isn’t offering compatibility. LG OLED65C1 TV sound quality When it comes to audio, the C1 is largely unremarkable. It has a 40W sound system, so it will certainly play loud and has Dolby Atmos compatibility, but its downward-firing speaker array isn’t good enough to do cinema soundtracks real justice. You’ll get by, and it’s fine for uncritical listening, but it’s best to budget for a soundbar or home cinema system if you plan to make the most of your movie nights. Our verdict: should you buy the LG OLED65C1 TV? If you’re shopping for a premium 4K TV with top-notch picture quality and advanced connectivity, the LG C1 should be near the top of your list. In terms of performance and value, it’s a winner. But there are (minor) caveats. We like the latest webOS smart platform, but it could stand to be a little more user friendly and offer greater customisation. At least there’s no shortage of streaming services and catch-up TV apps. For next-gen gamers, we rate it a terrific model to partner with a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. It also makes a superb home cinema display, thanks to the power of LG’s new Alpha 9 picture processor. Couple it with an external Dolby Atmos sound system for a really immersive viewing experience. Our rating: Features: 4/5 Design: 3.5/5 Picture quality: 5/5 Sound quality: 3.5/5 Value for money: 4/5 Overall rating: 4/5 Where to buy the LG OLED65C1 TV The LG OLED65C1 is available at Currys and John Lewis. For more product guides and reviews, head to the Technology section. Looking for more advice on how to choose a new TV? Head to our guide on the best TV to buy or head straight to our smart TV deals.