Hisense U8 vs Sony X90L: The Ultimate 4K TV Showdown

Hisense U8 vs Sony X90L: Which One is the Better 4K TV?

Choosing the right 4K TV can be challenging, especially when comparing two high-performing models like the Hisense U8 and the Sony X90L. Both TVs offer excellent picture quality, advanced features, and great gaming performance, but they cater to different types of users. Whether you prioritize brightness, gaming, movie-watching, or overall smart features, this comparison will help you decide which TV suits your needs best.

1. Display Technology & Picture Quality

Hisense U8: Quantum ULED with Mini-LED Advantage

Panel Type: ULED (Quantum Dot LCD)
Mini-LED Backlighting: Yes, with local dimming zones
Peak Brightness: 1500-2000 nits (excellent for HDR content)
Contrast Ratio: High contrast with deep blacks and vivid colors
HDR Support: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG, HDR10

The Hisense U8 delivers exceptional brightness and superior HDR performance thanks to its Mini-LED technology. This results in deeper blacks, better contrast, and enhanced color vibrancy, making it a top pick for bright rooms and HDR enthusiasts.

Sony X90L: Full-Array LED with Sony’s Signature Processing

Panel Type: VA LCD with Full-Array Local Dimming
Mini-LED Backlighting: No, but advanced Sony local dimming technology
Peak Brightness: Around 1000 nits (good for HDR, but lower than Hisense U8)
Contrast Ratio: Strong Choosing the right 4K TV can be challenging, especially when comparing two high-performing models like the Hisense U8 and the Sony X90L, Performance but lacks the depth of Mini-LED panels
HDR Support: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG

Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR enhances color accuracy, contrast, and upscaling, ensuring a cinematic viewing experience. While it doesn’t use Mini-LED, it still delivers great picture quality, natural color reproduction, and excellent motion handling.

Winner: Hisense U8 – The Mini-LED advantage, higher brightness, and stronger HDR capabilities make the U8 the better choice for stunning visuals.

2. Gaming Performance: Which TV is Best for Gamers?

Hisense U8: Next-Level Gaming Features

Refresh Rate: 144Hz (native), VRR, ALLM
HDMI 2.1 Ports: Yes (2x HDMI 2.1, 2x HDMI 2.0)
Input Lag: Extremely low (~6ms in 4K 120Hz mode)
Gaming Features: FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync Compatibility, Game Mode Pro

The Hisense U8 is a gaming powerhouse, supporting 144Hz refresh rate, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and FreeSync/G-Sync compatibility. If you’re a competitive gamer, this TV offers buttery-smooth performance and ultra-low input lag.

Sony X90L: Optimized for PlayStation 5

Refresh Rate: 120Hz (native), VRR, ALLM
HDMI 2.1 Ports: Yes (2x HDMI 2.1, 2x HDMI 2.0)
Input Lag: Low (~10ms in 4K 120Hz mode)
Gaming Features: Auto HDR Tone Mapping, VRR, ALLM, Sony Game Mode

Sony X90L is designed with PlayStation 5 optimizations, such as Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Game Mode Enhancements. While it performs well for gaming, the 120Hz refresh rate is lower than the 144Hz on the Hisense U8.

Winner: Hisense U8 – Higher refresh rate (144Hz), FreeSync/G-Sync support, and ultra-low input lag make it the superior choice for gamers.

3. Smart Features & User Experience

Hisense U8: Google TV with Extensive Customization

Operating System: Google TV
Voice Control: Google Assistant & Alexa support
App Availability: Google Play Store (huge app selection)
Smart Features: Built-in Chromecast, Google Home integration

Sony X90L: Premium Google TV with Exclusive Features

Operating System: Google TV
Voice Control: Google Assistant & Alexa support
App Availability: Google Play Store (huge selection)
Smart Features: Bravia Core, IMAX-enhanced content, Apple AirPlay support

Both TVs use Google TV, offering seamless app integration and voice control. However, Sony’s Bravia Core gives access to exclusive high-bitrate 4K streaming content, making it ideal for movie lovers.

Winner: Sony X90L – While both TVs have Google TV, Bravia Core and exclusive content give Sony a slight edge for movie lovers.

4. Build Quality & Design

Hisense U8: Premium metallic finish, ultra-slim bezels, and solid build.
Sony X90L: Classic Sony design, slightly bulkier but refined with premium materials.

Winner: Tie – Both TVs look and feel premium, but Hisense U8’s design is a bit more modern and sleek.

5. Price & Value for Money

Hisense U8: More affordable, offering Mini-LED, higher brightness, and gaming features at a lower price.
Sony X90L: Priced higher due to Sony’s brand reputation, premium processing, and exclusive streaming content.

Winner: Hisense U8 – If you want better performance for your money, the U8 is the clear winner.

Final Verdict: Which TV Should You Buy?

Choose Hisense U8 if: ✅ You want Mini-LED for better brightness, HDR, and contrast. ✅ You’re a serious gamer needing 144Hz, VRR, and FreeSync/G-Sync. ✅ You want top-tier performance at a lower price.

Choose Sony X90L if: ✅ You love cinematic content and premium processing. ✅ You own a PlayStation 5 and want optimized HDR gaming. ✅ You trust Sony’s brand and processing expertise.

Overall Winner: Hisense U8 – Better HDR, Mini-LED advantage, superior gaming performance, and better value make it the best choice for most users. However, Sony X90L remains an excellent option for movie lovers and PlayStation gamers.