After 18 years of evaluating televisions, my favorite current OLED model has received a significant price reduction.
The Sony Bravia 8 II QD-OLED TV is making waves in the world of televisions, offering a significant upgrade from its predecessor and competing with other premium OLED TVs. This review will delve into the key features and improvements that make the Bravia 8 II stand out.
Display Technology
The Bravia 8 II employs third-generation QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) technology, offering greater brightness (peaking over 1800 nits, about 50% brighter than the first generation Bravia 8), superior colour accuracy and volume, and infinite blacks with amazing viewing angles. This QD-OLED panel also reduces reflections and glare without needing a matted screen, enhancing the viewing experience [2][1].
Brightness and Contrast
Sony claims a 25% brightness increase over its A95L QD-OLED predecessor and a 50% brightness improvement compared to the original Bravia 8. The TV features an XR Contrast Booster 25, further improving dark shading and contrast performance [1][4].
Processor and AI Enhancements
Powered by Sony’s proprietary XR Processor, the Bravia 8 II boasts a new AI scene recognition system that optimizes picture quality for realism and smoothens lower-resolution or noisy content with impressive upscaling. This results in excellent cinema-accurate colours and natural image reproduction [1][2].
Gaming Features
The Bravia 8 II supports 4K at 120Hz refresh rates, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), and Dolby Vision game mode, making it well-suited for gaming, especially with PlayStation 5 integration including Auto HDR Tuning [1][3].
Sound Technology
The TV incorporates Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, turning the screen itself into a speaker for immersive, well-integrated sound without the need for separate speakers behind the panel [3][4].
Smart TV Platform and Connectivity
Running on the Google TV platform, the Bravia 8 II offers an intuitive interface, broad app support, voice control, and smart home integration. It also features HDMI 2.1 ports (2 supporting 48Gbps), Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 for modern connectivity [2][4].
Other Highlights
Includes XR Triluminos MAX for enhanced colour performance and an ultra-slim design [4].
Why it's Considered Exceptional Compared to Previous Models
- The significant brightness boost and improved colour volume elevate it beyond earlier OLEDs by enhancing HDR and overall picture quality.
- Sony’s refined QD-OLED implementation combined with the XR Processor’s AI capabilities offer superior upscaling and natural cinematic reproduction unmatched by some competitors.
- The inclusion of advanced gaming and audio technologies tailored for immersive experiences and next-gen consoles.
- The Google TV integration provides a better smart TV experience versus older Android TV or other OS setups.
- The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology differentiates it for audio performance without extra hardware.
In conclusion, the Bravia 8 II stands out for its brightness, colour accuracy, processing power, gaming optimization, and immersive sound, marking it as a significant upgrade over the original Bravia 8 and a competitor to other premium OLED TVs [1][2][3][4].
It's also worth noting that the Bravia 8 II's Acoustic Surface Audio+ system offers excellent detail, directness, spaciousness, and atmosphere. The TV combines stunning brightness, colour vibrancy, and sharpness with balance and naturalism.
Currently, the price of the Bravia 8 II is very good considering its newness. However, it may decrease in a few months. For those seeking to further enhance the sound quality, the Sonos Arc Ultra could be a good addition. Lastly, the Bravia 8 II has an app-packed operating system.
This article does not provide information about the best TV deals for 2025, the best 55-inch TVs, or the best gaming TVs available right now.
- The Bravia 8 II's Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology offers a remarkable audio performance, turning the screen itself into a speaker without relying on additional hardware.
- If you're looking to enhance the sound quality of your Bravia 8 II, the Sonos Arc Ultra could be a valuable addition.
- The Bravia 8 II is compatible with various smart-home devices, running on the Google TV platform, offering an intuitive interface, broad app support, voice control, and smart home integration.
- To make a deal, you might consider buying the Bravia 8 II, which currently offers great value considering its newness, but the price may decrease in a few months.
