In the ever-evolving landscape of high-end televisions, finding a model that seamlessly combines exceptional display quality, robust software, and affordability can be a daunting task. The Hisense U8QG series, however, rises to this challenge, offering a compelling package that caters to both tech enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Display Excellence
At the heart of the Hisense U8QG is its impressive 4K Mini-LED panel, boasting a native 165Hz refresh rate and full-array local dimming. This advanced technology delivers deep, inky blacks and vibrant colors, with peak brightness reaching an astounding 5,000 nits. Such brightness levels ensure that both dark and bright scenes are rendered with remarkable clarity and detail. The display supports a comprehensive range of HDR standards, including Dolby Vision, Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10, HDR10+, HDR10+ Adaptive, and HLG, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of content.
While Hisense promotes an anti-reflective design for the U8QG, real-world usage indicates that reflections can still be noticeable, particularly during darker scenes. However, the panel’s exceptional brightness often compensates for this, maintaining a high-quality viewing experience even in well-lit environments.
Hardware and Connectivity
The U8QG’s hardware is thoughtfully designed to enhance user convenience and connectivity. The television is equipped with three HDMI 2.1 ports, all supporting eARC, facilitating high-quality audio and video transmission. Additional ports include two USB connections, Ethernet, optical audio, and AUX inputs. Built-in Wi-Fi 6E ensures fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
A standout feature is the strategically placed USB-C port on the side of the TV. This design choice simplifies the process of connecting devices such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops for screen mirroring, especially when the TV is wall-mounted. The back panel’s flat design, adorned with a subtle grid pattern, not only contributes to the TV’s sleek aesthetic but also provides an ideal surface for attaching ambient light strips, enhancing the overall viewing ambiance.
One minor drawback is the placement of the VESA mounting hardware, which is positioned higher than in previous Hisense models and other brands. This may necessitate adjustments to existing wall mounts, potentially causing inconvenience during installation.
Software Experience with Google TV
Hisense has integrated Google TV into the U8QG, offering a user-friendly and feature-rich interface. The platform operates smoothly, providing access to a vast array of streaming services and applications. Performance is comparable to dedicated streaming devices, with minimal bugs or glitches reported during usage. The inclusion of always-listening Hey Google support adds a layer of convenience, allowing users to control the TV and compatible smart home devices using voice commands.
The accompanying remote control is ergonomically designed, ensuring comfortable use. While Hisense includes a dedicated tab on the Google TV home screen for recommended apps, this addition is unobtrusive and does not detract from the overall user experience. Notably, the U8QG comes with minimal pre-installed bloatware, allowing users to customize their app selection according to personal preferences.
Performance and User Experience
The Hisense U8QG delivers an exceptional viewing experience, characterized by vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp details. The high refresh rate and low input lag make it an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts, providing smooth and responsive gameplay. The TV’s robust audio capabilities, including support for Dolby Atmos, contribute to an immersive sound experience, reducing the need for external sound systems.
Value Proposition
One of the most compelling aspects of the U8QG is its value for money. The 65-inch model, which has been the focus of this review, carries a retail price of $2,199.99. However, it is frequently available at significant discounts, with recent sales pricing it around $1,100. At this price point, the U8QG offers features and performance that are typically found in more expensive models, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking high-end specifications without the premium price tag.
Conclusion
The Hisense U8QG stands out as a top contender in the current television market, successfully blending high-quality display technology, comprehensive features, and affordability. Its impressive performance across various metrics makes it a suitable choice for a wide range of users, from movie buffs to gamers. While minor issues such as the VESA mount placement and reflections in dark scenes exist, they are overshadowed by the TV’s overall excellence. For those in search of a high-performance Google TV that offers exceptional value, the Hisense U8QG is a compelling option.
