Sony TV 2022 Line-Up: QD OLED, OLED, Mini LED – All you need to know

The Bravia XR leading (and LED-ing) the way…

by Ian Collen
MSRP: £3,499.00

As Sony prepares to begin rolling out its brand new 2022 collection of Bravia XR TVs, we take a look at the main models and key technologies looking to put on a show in the months ahead.


Update 11-May-2022: Prices confirmed on selected screen sizes for A95K, A84K, X95K, X90K, X94K, X89K, X81K, X72K
Update 24-May-2022:
Prices confirmed for A90K and A75K.


Although there seems to be a degree of jostling for position in the TV market as new display technologies come to the fore, Sony rarely seems to be too far from the front of things. Arguably topping the bill is the world's first QD-OLED TV in the A95K with others seemingly reluctant to dive into this market, although Samsung isn't too far behind with its own QD OLED model, the S95B.

Elsewhere there’s bound to be plenty of interest in Sony’s move up to Mini LED, with the likes of the 8K Z9K and 4K X95K models. If you look even further down the list you’ll find more firsts, such as the company's first 42-inch OLED, courtesy of the A90K, which drops the screen size down from the 48-inch A9 model that was first introduced in 2020's line-up.

There’s a lot more that's new as well, most of which we’ll touch upon below, while you’ll also find the likes of Google TV as standard across the range, with some 700,000 films and shows at your disposal, plus live TV and the usual subscription/streaming services. In short, there’s just about something for everyone in Sony’s 2022 TV portfolio, so the question is, which one will be right for you?

Sony XR-65A95K

What’s the big deal with QD-OLED?

The big new arrival in Sony’s line-up, and arguably in 2022 as a whole, is QD-OLED. As those common with the initialisms/acronyms would safely assume, it combines Quantum Dot technology with the Organic Light-Emitting Diodes to effectively deliver the best of both.

The general benefit of OLEDs is that they don’t need to use a backlight, with each pixel capable of emitting light on its own – meaning you can have one turned off (or pure black) and the one next to it shining brightly, without the same kind of ’bleed’ effects that you might find on backlit TVs. This leads to deep blacks and incredibly rich contrasts, as well as holding strong at wider viewing angles. The downside can be that pixels are limited in size, and so the brightness can be impeded to stop them burning too hot and limiting the display’s lifespan.

Conversely, a QLED uses an LED backlight but with an extra layer of quantum dots (tiny semiconductor particles that convert white light into colours) that can produce brighter and bolder images and stronger colours, but at the cost of those ‘true’ blacks you can find on an OLED.

The QD-OLED looks to combine the two, with a layer of blue quantum dots to help illuminate its pixels with minimal energy loss. The result is a display that should be able to keep the brightness levels optimised – so as good as, if not better than, an OLED – while retaining the ability to hit those perfect blacks and near-flawless contrasts.

Gavin McCarron, Technical Marketing Manager TV for Sony Europe, takes us through the new A95K QD-OLED and the rest of the range below.

As with the many different panel types, there are pros and cons to all of Sony’s TVs. While price is generally a good indicator, it doesn’t always reflect the picture quality, as restrictions in terms of audio or design can also drive a price down without impacting as much on the actual display, so be sure to check that the features and specifications are best aligned with how you plan to use it!

What else is new for 2022?

Although it’s not new itself, there are some notable improvements to the core Cognitive Processor XR at the heart of most of these new TVs. One of the new additions is a ‘Depth Map’ which analyses images to identify and enhance the primary foreground objects in the picture, while softening the background detail to give a greater depth to the image. There’s also an improved Flexible Colour Contrast Control to assist with saturation as well as luminance.

The Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode adds an auto-adjustment feature to fine-tune an image based on the ambient light, “so users’ favourite shows and films look like the creator intended, under any conditions” – working in familiar way to Sony’s own Bravia Core Calibrated Mode for optimising the picture based on the content.

The processor also powers Sony’s XR Backlight Master Drive, further improving control over the brightness of its LEDs where and when it’s needed in the Z9K and X95K. According to Sony, you can “enjoy an unprecedented dynamic range with incredibly dazzling lights and deep blacks, as well as beautifully natural mid tones with almost no flare or halos around highlights.” This is supported by XR Triluminous Max increasing the colour palette to deliver more colours to the likes of the A95K.

Sony XR-65A95K

In terms of audio, there are enhanced versions of Acoustic Surface Audio+ (on the OLED models) and Acoustic Multi-Audio (on its LEDs) to help precisely match the audio placement with the on-screen action. All models also offer Acoustic Center Sync, that provides easy integration with a Sony soundbar or speaker system, the latter effectively turning your TV into the centre channel as part of wider surround performance. There’s also a 360 Spatial Sound Personaliser for those preferring to use neckband speakers (such as the Sony SRS-NS7) or headphones.

2022 also ushers in a redesigned remote, offering a smaller solution with only 25 buttons (down from the 49-button aircraft carrier from last year). The main change is the physical alpha-numerical keypad being replaced by an on-screen keyboard, but with some shortcut buttons to speed up access to your favourite selections. There’s also a Premium version for the Z9K, A95K, A90K and X95K models that comes with a sleek aluminium finish, backlit buttons and a handy Finder function so you can ask Alexa (via your TV) to send out an identifying ‘beep’ if it goes missing.

Sony XR-65A95K

Sony Bravia Cam

A new arrival, the Bravia Cam comes bundled in as part of the Z9K and A95K, while being available as an optional extra across the rest of the range. It’s basically an external camera that can be clipped onto the top of your TV, offering up some very obvious use cases with the likes of Google Duo and other video chat functionality. It may well be limited at launch, but Sony has some nice ideas in play to upgrade it over time.

Using the Bravia Cam is Ambient Optimisation Pro which adjusts the picture and sound based on where you’re sitting in the room – even dimming the screen to save energy using its Auto Power Saving Mode if it detects you've you popped out (so you might want to avoid clothes that look like your wallpaper!). Gesture controls are an obvious addition, though Xbox users who never really reaped the potential of Kinect may have question marks over its merit, while the likes of a Proximity Alert will save you from having to tell the kids that they’re sitting too close to the screen.

Sony XR-65A95K

Good for Gamers

‘Perfect for PlayStation 5’ is how Sony describes many of its gamer-friendly features, with the obvious synchronicity with the PS5 offering some console-exclusive features, with Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode living up to their name (the latter being basically a PS5-friendly ALLM). However, there’s still plenty to keep fans of all things Xbox, PC, Nintendo and more happy enough.

Speaking of ALLM, Auto Low Latency Mode is common across the range, with Variable Refresh Rates (VRR) also looking good for launch, unlike last year. Most models will support 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 ports, though it’s worth noting that only the Z9K has more than two of them, so if you need to use the eARC for your sound set-up then it might limit your options. Also fairly standard is 4K at 120fps, so your games should always look at their best, and there are a few obvious contenders offering smaller panel sizes for those who might be looking for a second screen to host their virtual worlds.

Sony XR-65A95K

What’s in a Name?

As with most manufacturers, Sony uses an ‘easy when you know how’ approach to naming its various models, that breaks down into several key identifying components. So, while we may shorten a TV to the likes of the A95K, you may well find it listed elsewhere as the XR-85A95K – so what does that all mean?

To start at the beginning, a lot of the TVs listed here come under Sony’s Bravia XR range (using the Cognitive Processor XR), and so an XR prefix will be common. Those not in the XR range will start with KD (or sometimes KE) instead. Next up is the screen size, so in this example it’s the 85-inch version (to be replaced with 65 and 75 for those respective models). The ‘A’ in A95K relates to the panel type, with A being Sony’s code for OLED, and now clearly for QD-OLEDs as well, while Z and X are used for LED and Mini LEDs, with Z typically relating to the 8K models.

Though not always an exact science, the number (or numbers) after the panel identifier places the model within that tier of TVs. Sony uses single digits for standout high-end products such as the Z9K, while for the double-digit models, the higher the number generally puts it higher up the ladder in terms of specs and pricing (hence the A95K being top of the list). The final letter identifies the year of release, with all 2022 models ending in K – with last year’s TVs all being of the ‘J’ variety, so you should be able to spot the pattern there.

There's also the not-insignificant matter of the 'MASTER Series' branding that appears with some of the Bravia XR TVs and not others. Although the exact criteria about what warrants this illustrious caps-locked tag are largely kept under wraps, Sony does state that: "MASTER Series TVs meet the strict criteria of our top engineers and makes beautiful images a reality. For the first time, creators can explore their imagination and see their vision reproduced in the home." The 2022 models to earn this title are the Z9K, A95K and A90K. In short, these models are considered to be among the best of the best, and that badge of honour may well come with a similarly premium price tag.

As mentioned, it’s easy when you know how, but always double-check to make sure you’re getting the right version of the right model that you want before clicking any ‘buy now’ buttons!

Sony XR-65A95K

NOTE: The following listings contain information that is subject to change. The current dates and pricing are based on European launch info, but we’ll update it with the official UK data just as soon as it’s announced! This mean that UK prices marked with a * are simply rough conversions of the European price and are still to have a UK RRP confirmed.



Sony Bravia XR QD-OLED TVs for 2022

A95K (MASTER Series)

Sony XR-65A95K
Sony A95K QD-OLED TV

Arguably the most anticipated among Sony’s 2022 line-up, the A95K introduces its QD-OLED displays in 55- and 65-inch displays, which it claims can boost colour brightness by 200%, although that’s over “conventional OLED TVs” so the comparison is a little vague. However, the XR Triluminous Max tech should certainly boost its range of colours, while XR OLED Contrast Pro (first seen on the A90J last year) will adjust the brightness to enable higher peaks and deeper blacks.

The A95K also comes with 2.2-channel Acoustic Surface Audio+, with two large actuators and two subwoofers built-in. It packs in pretty much the full list of headline features, including the Netflix and Bravia Core calibrated modes, has Bravia Cam in the box and also comes with the Premium remote. It also has a Dual Style design, with a ‘front’ position bringing the screen to the fore, while the ‘Back’ option can be placed almost flush against a wall. All of which makes the price tag perhaps a little lower than most might have expected…

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
55-inch / XR-55A95K£2,699 / €3,04920 June
65-inch / XR-65A95K£3,499 / €4,04913 June


Sony Bravia XR OLED TVs for 2022

A90K (MASTER Series)

Sony XR-65A95K

It doesn’t have the same QD-OLED display as its slightly more illustrious sibling, but the A90K still justifies its MASTER Series status with most of the same core features – but in notably smaller packages, including the first 42-inch display in Sony’s OLED catalogue. It drops to a 2.1-channel Acoustic Surface Audio+ system, and the Bravia Cam is purely an optional extra but it otherwise ticks many of the same boxes. With these screen sizes and the full set of ‘Perfect for PlayStation 5’ features, the A90K could be a great fit for gamers, or those looking for a second screen elsewhere in the home or office.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
42-inch / XR-42A90K£1,699Now
48-inch / XR-48A90K£1,799 Now


A80K

Sony XR-65A95K

It might not get the MASTER Series seal of approval, but the A80K still boasts a healthy features list including XR OLED Contrast Pro and XR Triluminous Pro. It also comes with a 3.2-channel Acoustic Surface Audio+ sound system, with L/C/R screen actuators delivering up to 20W output on the 77-inch model – the largest OLED TV in the range. The likes of the Bravia Cam remains an optional extra and you’ll have to make do with the standard remote, but this should still be a very impressive all-round package.

The A84K iterations are identical to the A80K models but with the addition of the (always on) Rich Colour Enhancer and an on-board TV microphone.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
55-inch / XR-55A80K£1,899 / €2,29920 June
55-inch / XR-55A84K£1899 / €2,29920 June
65-inch /XR-65A80K£2,699 / €3,19920 June
65-inch /XR-65A84K£2,699 / €3,19920 June
77-inch / XR-77A80K£3,899 / €4,49904 July
77-inch / XR-77A84K£3,899 / €4,49904 July


A75K

Sony XR-65A95K

Getting a slightly delayed announcement to those unveiled at CES in January, the A75K should offer a more affordable 4K OLED option but without too much compromise on quality. You still get the likes of XR OLED Contrast Pro and all the benefits of the Cognitive Processor XR (such as HDR Remaster, 4K Upscaling, OLED Motion and more), making this a tempting option at a pocket-friendlier price.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
55-inch /XR-55A75K£1,999Now
65-inch /XR-65A75K£2,799Now



Sony Bravia XR Mini LED TVs for 2022

Z9K (8K MASTER Series)

Sony XR-65A95K

Taking things up a notch from the Full Array LEDs of years gone by, the 8K Z9K Mini LED flagship is powered by the XR Backlight Master Drive, designed to intelligently, accurately and optimally control the thousands of LEDs in place. The result is a stronger dynamic range with little, if any, flare or blooming effects. It also boasts XR Triluminous Pro and XR Contrast Booster 20, ready to “express billions of colours with exceptional black contrast”.

The Z9K uses XR 8K upscaling to make the very best of all 4K and HD inputs, and also comes with X-Anti Reflection and X-Wide Angle tech, and a 2.2-channel Acoustic Multi-Audio system that uses four frame tweeters to heighten directional sound sources in sync with the on-screen action for a more cinematic experience. It also comes bundled with the Bravia Cam and Premium remote, plus a three-way stand to give you plenty of display options (including a soundbar-friendly set-up). With the MASTER Series seal stamp of quality, the Z9K could yet trump the A95K as Sony’s star turn in 2022.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
75-inch /XR-75Z9K£6,799Now
85-inch / XR-85Z9K£8,499Now


X95K

Sony XR-65A95K

Although lacking the MASTER Series status, the 4K X95K could well push its 8K sibling close, boasting the same headline technologies – with a few differences including the likes of XR Contrast Pro 15 and Bravia Cam support left out as an optional extra. It has a similar 2.2-channel Acoustic Multi-Audio set-up, using sound positioning tweeters and twin front-facing mid-range drivers for a realistic audio performance, boosted by dual subwoofers. Plus, you get the Netflix and Bravia Core calibrated modes, the same three-way stand and a Premium remote so, as an equally premium 4K alternative to the Z9K, the X95K is looking very much the part.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
65-inch / XR-65X95K£2,999 / €3,49904 July
75-inch / XR-75X95K£3,999 / €4,49904 July
85-inch / XR-85X95K£5,499 / €6,49904 July



Sony Bravia XR LED TVs for 2022

X90K

Sony XR-65A95K

As reflected in the pricing, the X90K marks a step towards more of the mid-range in the 2022 LED line-up, using a Full Array LED backlit panel along with XR Triluminous Pro and XR Contrast Booster 10. It has a similar Acoustic Multi-Audio system with two sound positioning tweeters to help follow the on-screen action and twin subwoofers (on the 55- and 65-inch models this is replaced with dual bass reflex arrangement). As a more affordable or second screen option, the X90K could be a tempting solution.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
55-inch / XR-55X90K£1,499 / €1,59920 June
55-inch / XR-55X94K£1,499 / €1,59920 June
65-inch /XR-65X90K£1,799 / €1,99920 June
65-inch /XR-65X94K£1,799 / €1,99920 June
75-inch / XR-75X90K£2,399 / €2,69920 June
75-inch / XR-75X94K£2,399 / €2,69920 June
85-inch / XR-85X90K£3,399 / €3,99920 June



Sony Bravia LED TVs for 2022

X85K

Sony XR-65A95K

Continuing the slight downward trend in terms of features and price tags, the X85K is the highest-ranked model not to have the Cognitive Processor XR (and subsequently those enhanced ‘XR’ features), instead using the X1 4K HDR processor. It does boast Triluminous Pro to reproduce a broad range of natural colours and shades, along with all of the gamer-friendly features including a 120Hz refresh rates, ALLM and VRR. Throw in the likes of Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos and the X85K could prove a popular choice for gamers, with screen sizes down to 43-inches coming in under the £1,000 barrier.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
43-inch / KD-43X85K£949 / €1,04920 June
43-inch / KD-43X89K£949 / €1,04920 June
50-inch / KD-50X85K£999 / €1,19920 June
50-inch / KD-50X89K£999 / €1,19920 June
55-inch / KD-55X85K£1,199 / €1,29918 July
55-inch / KD-55X89K£1,199 / €1,29918 July
65-inch / KD-65X85K£1,499 / €1,59918 July
65-inch / KD-65X89K£1,499 / €1,59918 July
75-inch / KD-75X85K£1,999 / €2,19927 June
75-inch / KD-75X89K£1,999 / €2,19927 June
85-inch / KD-85X85K£2,799 / €2,99906 June


X80K

Sony XR-65A95K

Powered by the same X1 Processor as the X85K, the X80K uses a Direct LED backlight but still offers the same 4K X-Reality Pro picture processing technology and X-Balanced speakers. Perhaps the biggest difference is the absence of HDMI 2.1, effectively dropping most of those gamer-friendly features down to just ALLM, but with support for Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, the X80K could be a good option for those who prefer to focus on movies and TV looking for an affordable solution.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
43-inch / KD-43X80K£849 / €89906 June
43-inch / KD-43X81K£849 / €89906 June
50-inch / KD-50X80K£899 / €99906 June
50-inch / KD-50X81K£899 / €99906 June
55-inch / KD-55X80K£999 / €1,09906 June
55-inch / KD-55X81K£999 / €1,09906 June
65-inch / KD-65X80K£1,299 / €1,39906 June
65-inch / KD-65X81K£1,299 / €1,39906 June
75-inch / KD-75X81K£1,699 / €1,99906 June

X75K / X73K / X72K

These 4K UHD LCD models use the Bravia Engine with digital processing, which unsurprisingly means that you won’t find them sporting a lot of the high-profile features of the other models. While still Google-compatible (with voice search and Chromecast etc), these are also Android TVs, offering up access to more than 400,000 movies and show on the platform. There’s no HDMI 2.1 which can limit your options, but for budget or second-screen options, these are welcome additions to the 2022 range.

Display Size / ModelPriceAvailability
43-inch / KD-43X72K£649 / €79904 July
50-inch / KD-50X72K£749 / €89904 July

That just about covers all of the headline acts from Sony's 2022 Bravia TV line-up, boasting a rich mix of models that seems to cater for a variety of potential use cases and budgets. All of which begs the question: Which one of these TVs seems like the perfect choice for you?

Of course, before you rush to the checkout, you might want to compare these options against the likes of our recent LG round-up, with detailed insights into Samsung and Panasonic to follow. Plus there are several other prominent manufacturers making notable steps forward in 2022 and with differing feature sets and price points across the market, there could be some tough choices ahead!

SOURCE: Sony (via website and press releases/newsroom)
IMAGES:
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