I purchased the Sony XBR-49X800E (49" version) for my kids' playroom and thus far have been more than pleased with the TV. Sony builds great sets, and while not always the cheapest my recent experience with the brand justifies the entry cost, I think.
So big-ticket items upfront and why you should consider this TV or another Sony instead of Samsung and others. My recent experience with a Samsung 4K TV purchased for my living room has left me wanting and I really wish I'd gone with a Sony. The 'why' will be more evident below but to summarize:
>> Integration of Android TV as opposed to whatever Samsung smart TV features that they'll stop supporting in 2-years.
>> Better remote
>> Equitable picture performance
>> More responsive and better-built UI (again, Android TV) likely due to better processor
► Picture quality:
The XBR-49X800E features a 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution with High Dynamic Range 10 (HDR) support. If none of that makes sense then that's okay, but basically where any mid-level to high-end TV wants to be. The picture quality is exceptionally good, especially considering this our set is playing kids show most of the time.
I suspect most folks will be satisfied with what the 800E offers, however, if I had to pick one area to point out as lacking it would be the black levels. That's not especially surprising considering that's the most difficult color for sets to product accurately and a big part of what separates big-ticket TVs from their cheaper cousins. This TV uses edge lit LED technology and accurate black levels are one of the limitations. Still, I'll underscore that the picture is really good!
The refresh rate is 60Hz, again, more expensive TVs will double or further exceed that rate.
► Audio:
The audio quality isn't theater-level nor should it be. The speakers are just okay and definitely will do if that's all you have. A good soundbar would go a long way here.
► Smart TV - Android TV (Google Chromcast):
By far, one of my favorite features in this set (and any Sony TV) is the fact that Android TV is baked into the set and remote. If you're already a Google ecosystem user, then you're set and ready to go in a matter of moments with a world of video and audio services easily accessible. If you're new to Goole Chromecast or Android TV getting setup is super easy and takes a few minutes.
This TV fully supports features like voice controls and Google's AI assistant. That makes things incredibly easy to find even for my kids and wife! The remote features shortcut buttons to Google Play and Netflix services. Other apps are super easy to find via the onscreen UI.
As a Samsung TV owner who previously recommended Samsung to friends and family, I'm a complete Sony convert. Samsung repeatedly makes its SmartTV features obsolete and unsupported in short order. I've just taken to recommending folks who have Samsung TVs (and others) just get a Chromecast to bypass the Samsung SmartTV features entirely.
Another huge bonus - Sony TVs do not feature advertisements as Samsung sets do. Ads on my TV are unwelcome in whatever format and especially baked into the UI like with Samsung.
► Inputs/Outputs:
>> 4 x HDMI
>> 1 x Component
>> 1 x Composite
>> 1 x RF (antenna/cable)
>> 1 x Toslink digital audio output
>> 1 x 3.5mm audio output
>> 1 x Ethernet
>> 3 x USB
► Closing:
I really can't stress how much I like this set. It works great and the picture quality is superb. The 2017 model was a steal when I purchased it. Most definitely recommended!
| Brand Name | Sony |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 30 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 41.5 x 25.98 x 5.98 inches |
| Item model number | XBR43X800E |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries required. (included) |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color Name | Black |
| Special Features | Flat |
