Sony TV Buying Guide 2022: Which TV is Right For You?

Sony TV 2022 Lineup: What's the difference?

On the hunt for a new TV? Let’s work out which model in Sony’s 2022 TV lineup is right for you! 

With another expansive lineup this year, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to cut out the jargon and help you find the best Sony TV option for your home and budget. From Sony’s smallest OLED yet to their first ever QD-OLED and MiniLED models, plus upgrades on Sony’s Cognitive XR processor. This year's lineup is nothing short of exciting and offers plenty of options for everybody. Alongside highlighting the key differences between models and TV types. We will share the key gains and losses you can be set to experience when you step up or down throughout Sony’s TV 2022 range.

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Watch our Sony TV 2022 Buying Guide here

Sony's 2022 Lineup

We will be focusing the majority of our attention on the premium models of the range. However, we will give you some basic info on the lower models too if you’re on a tighter budget or looking for a secondary space. 

Know which model/s you're interested in? Skip ahead to a specific model.

Sony X72K Sony X80K / X81K / X85K / X89K Sony X90K Sony X95K Sony A75K

Sony A80K Sony A90K Sony A90J Sony A95K Sony Z9K

TV Names Explained

TV manufacturers have a habit of making it difficult with long TV names which can make it hard to know which model is which.  Sony are no exception, so we've created a simple graphic to break down the method in their madness. If you're ever stuck, simply refer back to the image above and hopefully things will seem a lot clearer.

Sony Bravia X72K

Panel Type: LED

Available Sizes: 43” 50” 

Sony’s entry-level TV is limited to 43” or 50” size options. It is the only TV in the range that offers an Android TV interface as opposed to the alternative Google TV system present in all other models. The X72K does boast 4K HDR capabilities. However, HDR support is limited to HDR10 and HLG, and there's no Dolby Vision either. Ideally, this TV would be bought for a secondary space rather than the main lounge. Our recommendation would be to push up to one of the X80 models in the Sony range (budget-providing) to see some real improvements. 

View Sony X72K

Sony Bravia X80K / X81K / X85K / X89K

Panel Type: LED

Available Sizes: (X80K & X81K) - 43” 50” 55” 65” 75” (X85K & X89K)  43” 50” 55” 65” 75” 85”

Sony’s X80 range includes 80, 81, 85 and 89 and it can be challenging to work out the differences between them.

When it comes to similarities, all of these models offer the same 4K HDR LED panel as on the X72K. However, they provide a step up to Sony’s X1 processor, which is responsible for lots of the TV’s visual enhancements, including the richness of the colour, noise reduction and detail reproduction. These models also introduce a Google TV interface which offers an improvement on the Android version. All four of these models are what we would define as entry-level. However, the visual enhancements and size variety makes them our preferred choice over the X72K. 

In terms of sound performance, all support Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. So, when a compatible system and content are applied, you can expect a step up in audio performance. All have 2 x 10W X-balanced speakers which offer a clear sound quality but nothing that’s going to blow you away. 

With regards to differences, the X80K and X81K both have a 50Hz panel. Whilst the X85K and X89K offer a 100Hz panel. The X85K and X95K’s higher refresh rate means you can expect a smoother performance that is better for sports, action sequences and other fast-paced content. Sony also provides innovative Motionflow technology, which smoothens motion even further by adding extra frames between existing ones. These enhancements inevitably get better as you go up the X80 series. 

If you’re a gamer then it’s also worth noting that all of these TVs offer ALLM in HDMI 2.1 and Auto HDR Tone Mapping but the X85K or above would be the better gaming option because of its 100Hz panel and variable refresh rate. Overall for what we would still consider entry-level for Sony, those looking for a 4K LED would get a decent performance from any of these TVs. 

View Sony X80K

Sony Bravia XR X90K

Panel Type: Full Array LED

Available Sizes: 55” 65” 75” 85”

The X90K is where we step out of entry-level and into higher performance. One of the key differences between the X90K and previous models is that this TV now benefits from Full Array. This is where the pixels are no longer lit around the edge of the TV but behind the screen. Ultimately, this layout means you can get a much cleaner, higher-quality image with an overall brighter picture. The X90K also uses targeted local dimming to ensure images are darker, deeper and richer than the previous models in this guide. 

The X90K is also the start of Sony’s ‘Bravia’ range, which highlights the introduction of Sony’s cognitive Bravia XR processor. A clear step up from the X1 Processor, the Bravia XR version adds enhanced colour reproduction and depth mapping to your Television. Ensuring that your TV can produce a better depth of field for a more lifelike image. It's also improved its analysis of where your eyes should be focussed whilst watching, giving these areas more emphasis and attention. Alongside the XR processor, the X90K and above, also grant access to Sony’s Bravia Core streaming service. Which allows you to stream Sony content for free in up to 80mps depending on your internet connection. Sony has also provided us with some specific performance enhancements on the X90K such as; XR Colour, XR Contrast Booster and XR Clarity. In essence, these features all work to offer a great Full Array LED performance that is particularly impressive in brighter spaces. 

This is also the first model in the range that introduces Sony’s new premium backlit aluminium remote. The design is simplified from previous versions to allow for a smaller size that does away with the numbers. The handy backlight also makes this remote a welcome addition during evening viewing too. However, if it just isn't your cup of tea, you do still get a basic numbered remote included in the box.

In terms of audio performance, the TV has 2 full-range 10w bass reflex speakers and 2 x 5w tweeters. It uses Acoustic Multi-Audio which means that the sound emanates from behind the screen itself. This TV and all the models above also benefit from Sony’s 3D surround upscaling to virtually enhance performance to offer more of a surround sound experience and while the sound is pretty immersive from a TV alone, it’s not comparable with dedicated speakers. The TV also has Acoustic centre sync so the TV will work alongside a connected soundbar to better match the audio with what you’re watching on screen. It must be noted that this only works with Sony soundbars though. So if you use an alternative product like a Sonos Beam you won’t notice this benefit.

View Sony X90K

Sony Bravia XR X95K

Panel Type: Mini LED

Available Sizes: 75” 85” 

Making its debut within the Sony lineup, the X95K is Sony’s first-ever 4K Mini LED. Working similarly to Full Array, LEDs sit behind the screen. However this time, they are smaller and packed tighter together. This provides a considerable step up in performance as the TV has much smaller dimming zones, meaning we get an overall brighter backlight and a more vivid picture. Due to the vast amount of LEDs, Sony has introduced a backlight master drive which uses a unique local dimming algorithm to ensure more precise control over the TV’s picture. 

In terms of sound performance, the X95K also has Acoustic Multi-Audio but this model has two 10w mid-range speakers, two 10w tweeters and two 10w subwoofers so is an improvement on the aforementioned X90K.

As Mini LED is an innovative technology and this is Sony’s flagship LED TV, the X95K does come with a step up in price and is only available in the larger screen sizes of 75 and 85”. In our opinion, this TV is a versatile option that is great for dark rooms or bright spaces. However, we think you should only be considering this TV if you’ve got an adequately sized space and budget to match. We think it’s great technology to be seen on the market but we believe that Mini LED has another couple of years before becoming a sensible option for the majority of people. While Mini LED is a leap forward for LED TVs, if you want pixel-perfect performance, then you’re still going to want to look towards OLED models.

View Sony X95K

Sony's OLED OPtions

When it comes to OLED options, Sony has shaken things up this year. Going from 3 options in 2021, Sony has now produced 5 different OLED models in 2022. We’ve now got a new entry-level OLED, the A75K, as well as an A80K and A90K. The A90J is also returning and finally, there is a new QD-OLED option, the A95K. So, lots of choices, but which should you go for?

Unlike LED screens, OLEDs don’t require a backlight as the individual diodes emit their own light. One huge benefit of this is that each diode can be turned completely on and off, giving you more control over the picture, pure blacks and almost perfect contrast ratios and colour accuracy. 

Traditionally OLEDs have struggled to reach the same peak brightness as their LED counterparts, so general advice has suggested going for LEDs in brighter rooms and OLEDs in darker rooms or for evening viewing. However, Sony has taken this onboard and worked on the brightness of their 2022 OLED panels to ensure their TVs produce a brighter picture than their 2021 predecessors. 

Sony Bravia XR A75K

Panel Type: OLED

Available Sizes: 55” 65” 

As Sony’s entry-level OLED option it wouldn’t be out of the ordinary to assume that this model would be a drop-down in technology or performance when compared to their other OLED models. However, this year Sony has decided not to go down that route as the A75K and A80K offer similar visual performance. Instead, Sony has sacrificed the build quality of the A75K by using more plastic and feet that are fixed in position. This means that you won’t have the option to raise the TV or move the feet inwards.   

They have also dropped down on the sound performance slightly from the A80K. Both offer acoustic surface audio+, meaning the screen itself becomes the speaker with actuators. Both have 3 x 10w actuators but the A80K has an additional 2 x 10w subwoofers too. Finally, you shouldn't expect the new simple, backlit Sony remote with this TV. We’re only provided with the standard brushed silver version. 

View Sony A75K

Sony Bravia XR A80K

Panel Type: OLED

Available Sizes: 55” 65” 77”

Available in 3 different size options, the A80K is built with the classic One Slate design to ensure it has a slim and sleek appearance. Visually, it provides a much more premium finish and build quality than the A75K. Comparatively, the A80K has a 3-way stand design and the premium backlit remote so the overall user experience feels more premium. It also has additional subwoofers, meaning it improves on the A75K’s sound performance. 

When it comes to decision-making, it can be difficult to pick either the A75K or A80K. Our advice would be that if you want a premium finish, an adjustable stand to accommodate a soundbar or narrow TV unit or want an impressive sound performance from the TV speakers, go for the A80K. If you’re not bothered about the finish, will be wall-mounting the TV or have a standard-sized unit and aren’t fussed about sound performance, save some money and go for the A75K.

View Sony A80K

Sony Bravia XR A90K

Panel Type: OLED

Available Sizes: 42” 48” 

Sony’s smallest ever OLED option, the exciting launch of the A90K makes it the ideal option for those looking to fill a smaller space with a TV that benefits from OLED performance. Because of its screen size, the diodes in this TV are much more tightly squeezed together so aren’t quite as bright as the larger OLED models in the range. However, after testing we were left impressed by the performance for a TV of its size and it’s certainly a step up from the 2020 A9 version.   

As a master series TV from Sony, this means the A90K has been calibrated for enhanced performance straight out of the box. In terms of spec differences from the A80K, the A90K has a built-in mic, more Bravia Core credits and a more aesthetic stand. However, in terms of visuals, A80K and A90K offer a pretty comparable performance. The only exception is that the A90K offers a higher motionflow frequency which provides a slightly smoother performance.

This TV is also Sony’s recommendation for Gaming with its smaller screen size alongside support for 120fps with HDMI 2.1, VRR and ALLM. In terms of sound performance, the A90K has Acoustic Surface Audio+, but due to its smaller screen size, it only has two 10w actuators and one 5w subwoofer. One design feature worth highlighting is that this TV can sit flush with the unit or you can raise it to accommodate a soundbar, the decision is completely up to you. 

View Sony A90K

Sony Bravia XR A90J

Panel Type: OLED

Available Sizes: 55” 65” 83” 

Now interestingly, Sony has decided to keep the 2021 A90J on into 2022 and it’s available at a heavily reduced price. So, if you’re on the lookout for a bargain this may be the option for you. As Sony’s flagship OLED last year, it still is an exceptional TV. However, It won’t benefit from the upgrades to the cognitive processor XR but is still a flagship Sony TV nonetheless. This TV does provide us Acoustic Surface Audio+ with two 20w actuators and two 10w subwoofers (on the 55" and 65” models) and then an additional two subs on the 83”. The A90J also offers centre speaker mode so it can be used in a home theatre setup as the centre channel.

View Sony A90J

Sony Bravia XR A95K

Panel Type: QD-OLED

Available Sizes: 55” 65”

As one of the most talked about models in the 2022 lineup, the A95K is Sony’s flagship model this year and makes the most of innovative QD-OLED technology. So, what is QD-OLED? 

Traditionally, OLED TVs have a colour filter which sits behind the screen and requires a white light to be pushed through. Now the OLED panel is blue at the back. Therefore you must add extra layers to make it white, and it's these layers that suppress the TV’s brightness (which is a common downside to OLEDs) QD-OLED takes away the need for filters and the need for white light and instead keeps the Blue OLED panel and simply adds in green and red quantum dots (QD) to provide the colour spectrum. This means that you’re going to get an overall brighter picture, better availability of colours and luminant whites. To put it simply, this is the best Sony OLED panel you can buy right now. 

The A95K also includes a heat diffusion sheet and this ensures that there is uniformity in the heat across the screen to protect from image retention. Sony also has used revolutionary technology to combat image retention. Temperature Distribution Mapping protects the screen from getting too hot and it has some clever tech which moves the whole image by 1 pixel to help reduce the risk of the dreaded OLED burn-in. 

In terms of sound quality on the A95K, we’ve still got Acoustic Surface Audio+ but there are only two actuators in this screen as opposed to the three in the A80K. However, these are 20w, not 10w so you can expect better performance there too. You also still get two 10w subwoofers which also improve performance. 

One thing to highlight with this model is the stand design as it is a step away from their usual multi-option stands. Instead, the A95K sits flush on your unit, so you can choose to have the stand behind or in front of your TV depending on your room.

Introduced this year, you will also receive a free Bravia Cam with this model. Despite seeming gimmicky, there is some clever functionality which may optimise the user experience. The camera sits above your TV (don’t worry it’s not filming you - we checked) and can be used for gesture control, as a webcam or chat device. However, most importantly it can also optimise your TV for the space it occupies. It will automatically adjust the brightness depending on your distance from the screen, adjust the audio to suit where you’re sitting and even uses self-dimming technology to save energy when it detects you’ve left the room. 

View Sony A95K

Sony Bravia XR Z9K

Panel Type: Mini LED

Available Sizes: 75” 85”

Congratulations if you’ve made it this far! The final model in the Sony lineup is the 8K Mini LED TV, the Z9K. Based on the sheer lack of 8K content in the mainstream we can’t see this TV being a hugely popular model for most. However, if you want to see the future then this is likely where it’s at. Despite being similar to the 4K mini LED X95K, this is a Master Series model and supports 8K content. Meaning that there is four times the number of pixels as 4K (roughly 33 million compared with 8 million) So expect a big step up in the details and colour accuracy. It will also upscale 4K content to be as close to 8K as possible. 

Of course, the Z9K is limited to larger screen sizes and has a pretty large price tag, so unless you’re looking for the latest and greatest in TV tech, you’ll likely be looking at one of the other models we’ve covered throughout this guide.

View Sony Z9K

Summary

So lots of options, lots of tech and lots more reviews to come, so let us know what you’d like to see next! We'd love to know if we’ve helped you decide on your next TV. But, if you're still unsure, or you want a more personal recommendation, then don't hesitate to reach out to our expert team who are always happy to help. Sony isn't your thing? We'll also be providing you with plenty of content on other TV brands, so keep your eyes peeled for that. 

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