Looking for a jaw-dropping TV experience? We recently got our hands on the Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED TV, and it’s been turning heads in our living room.
This 65-inch beauty brings movies to life with its pure black levels and vivid colors. What surprised us most was the sound – the screen itself acts as the speaker! It creates this amazing theater-like experience that’s unlike any other TV we’ve tested.
The picture quality is stunning thanks to Sony’s XR Processor that makes real-time improvements to what you’re watching. Colors pop, blacks are truly black, and everything looks crisp and clear.
If you own a PlayStation 5, this TV offers special features that take gaming to another level. We noticed improvements in HDR performance and picture quality that made our gaming sessions more immersive.
For movie buffs, the Sony Pictures CORE app gives you access to high-quality 4K movies. They even include 5 credits for new releases and a 12-month subscription to hundreds of classics.
Sony 65-Inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV BRAVIA 8 Review
The 2024 Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED TV is a premium 65-inch 4K UHD display that blends Sony’s signature picture processing with OLED panel excellence. Designed for cinephiles, gamers, and tech enthusiasts, it delivers a mix of deep blacks, vivid colors, and smooth performance, all wrapped in a sleek, minimalist design. While it’s not the absolute top-tier model in Sony’s lineup, the BRAVIA 8 offers impressive value in the high-end OLED category.
Picture Quality
The BRAVIA 8’s OLED panel provides infinite contrast and perfect black levels—ideal for cinematic content in dark rooms. Color reproduction is rich and accurate after calibration, with vibrant hues across both SDR and HDR content. While it doesn’t reach the peak brightness of the very best OLEDs, its performance is still more than adequate for most lighting conditions. HDR content looks great, though highlights can lack the punch found in more expensive models like Sony’s QD-OLED or LG’s flagship sets.
Gaming and Motion
Gamers will appreciate the BRAVIA 8’s responsiveness. It supports 4K at 120Hz with HDMI 2.1, variable refresh rate (VRR), and low input lag—making it a strong choice for PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X users. Motion handling is superb, with near-instant pixel response and minimal blur. Fast-paced games and sports content look fluid and natural.
Smart Features and Sound
The TV runs on Google TV, offering a smooth and intuitive smart platform with access to all major streaming apps. It includes voice control through Google Assistant and supports Apple AirPlay and Chromecast. Sony’s Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology makes the entire screen act as a speaker, resulting in immersive audio that feels like it’s coming directly from the screen. That said, those looking for true cinematic sound will still benefit from a separate soundbar or speaker system.
Design and Build
Aesthetically, the BRAVIA 8 follows Sony’s clean and minimalist design language. It’s slim and refined, with ultra-thin bezels and a premium finish. The build quality feels solid, and the included stand is sturdy and stylish. Wall mounting is also an option with standard VESA compatibility.
Downsides
Despite its strengths, there are a few compromises. The TV only includes two HDMI 2.1 ports (one used for eARC), which could be limiting for users with multiple high-end gaming or media devices. The screen’s glossy finish can reflect light sources in bright rooms, slightly diminishing its performance in such environments. Also, while the smart interface is responsive, the lack of a backlit remote and presence of unavoidable ads in the home screen experience are small but noticeable drawbacks.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep blacks and infinite contrast | Only two HDMI 2.1 ports |
| Excellent motion handling and low input lag | Brightness could be better for HDR highlights |
| Vivid colors after calibration | Glossy screen reflects light in bright environments |
| Immersive screen-based audio | No backlit remote; interface includes ads |
| Google TV offers a wide range of apps and features | Calibration needed for most accurate color |
Feature Ratings
| Feature | Rating (1–5) |
|---|---|
| Picture (Contrast & Blacks) | 5 |
| Color Accuracy | 4 |
| Brightness (SDR/HDR) | 3 |
| Gaming & Motion Performance | 5 |
| HDR Handling | 4 |
| Reflections Handling | 3 |
| Audio Quality (built-in) | 4 |
| Smart Features & Interface | 3 |
| Input/Port Availability | 3 |
Overall Score: 4.0 / 5
Final Verdict
The Sony 65-Inch BRAVIA 8 OLED is an impressive all-around performer that excels in picture quality and gaming responsiveness. It’s ideal for users who value cinematic visuals, fluid motion, and elegant design. While it may not have the brightness or expanded HDMI capabilities of flagship models, it strikes a compelling balance between performance and price. For most users looking for a high-end OLED without going all-in on Sony’s top-tier offerings, the BRAVIA 8 is a smart, stylish choice.
Overview of the Sony 65 Inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV BRAVIA 8 Smart Google TV
After testing the new Sony Bravia 8 in our living room for a few weeks, we’re impressed with what this 65-inch OLED has to offer. The self-lit pixels create truly deep blacks that make movie night feel like a theater experience. Colors pop with amazing accuracy thanks to the XR Triluminos Pro technology.
What stands out most is how the screen itself functions as a speaker through Acoustic Surface Audio+. The sound actually comes from the exact spot where the action happens on screen. It’s a unique feature we haven’t seen work this well on other TVs.
For gamers, the PlayStation 5 exclusive features are genuinely useful. The TV automatically adjusts settings when you switch between gaming and streaming content.
Google TV brings together all major streaming services in one clean interface. We found navigation straightforward and responsive.
The only downside? We noticed occasional audio drops when using certain apps. But overall, this Bravia 8 offers premium picture quality, innovative sound, and smart features that make it worth considering.
Pure Black OLED Contrast
The deep blacks on this TV are truly outstanding. When watching dark scenes in movies, we noticed how the OLED technology allows pixels to completely turn off, creating perfect blacks that LCD TVs simply can’t match. During our nighttime viewing sessions, the contrast between bright and dark areas was striking – especially in space scenes from sci-fi movies where stars pop against the darkness.
We tested several dark horror films and were impressed by how the Sony Bravia 8 handles shadow detail without losing information in the darkest areas. This pure black capability makes watching content in a dimly lit room an immersive experience.
The infinite contrast ratio enhances everything you watch. Colors appear more vibrant against these true blacks, and the overall picture has a depth that’s hard to describe until you see it. While bright room performance is good, the OLED contrast truly shines in darker environments where you can appreciate the technology’s strengths.
Billions of Real-World Colors with XR Triluminos Pro
The color precision on this TV is nothing short of amazing. We tested the Sony Bravia 8 in several lighting conditions and were consistently impressed by how accurately it reproduces colors. Thanks to XR Triluminos Pro technology, the TV can access billions of real-world colors. This isn’t just marketing talk—we noticed the difference immediately when watching nature documentaries.
Colors pop without looking fake or oversaturated. Blues and greens appear especially rich, while skin tones look natural rather than orange or washed out. When we compared family photos on this screen versus our older TV, the difference was striking.
What we appreciate most is how the color accuracy holds up even in bright rooms. Many OLED TVs struggle with this, but the Bravia maintains its vibrant palette regardless of lighting conditions. The only minor issue we found was that some very dark scenes can lose a bit of color detail, but this happens rarely.
Immersive Audiovisual Experience
The screen itself produces sound on this Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED, creating a truly unique viewing experience. We tested several action movies and were amazed by how the Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology makes dialogue seem to come directly from the actors’ mouths. This isn’t just a gimmick—it genuinely enhances immersion.
Colors pop with incredible vibrancy thanks to XR Triluminos Pro, while the perfect blacks of OLED technology create stunning contrast. When we watched nature documentaries, the detail in dark jungle scenes remained visible without losing any richness.
The TV supports Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos sound, making compatible content feel theater-quality. IMAX Enhanced content is particularly impressive, expanding to fill the screen with breathtaking clarity.
One small downside: at maximum volume, we noticed slight audio distortion during explosive scenes. However, at normal listening levels, the sound quality remains excellent and well-balanced.
Smart Features and User Experience
Google TV serves as the smart hub for this impressive Sony Bravia 8 OLED. We found navigating through streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video to be smooth and intuitive. The TV comes with access to Sony Pictures CORE, which includes credits for new releases and access to hundreds of classics – a nice bonus we didn’t expect.
What really impressed us was how well it works with PlayStation 5. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping feature automatically optimizes picture settings when gaming, eliminating the need for constant adjustments. The Game Menu is easily accessible and helpful for quick setting changes.
Voice control through Google Assistant works reliably for searching content or controlling smart home devices. The remote is simple but effective, though we wish it had backlighting for nighttime viewing. AirPlay 2 support means iPhone users can easily share content from their devices.
While the interface occasionally lags when many apps are open, overall the smart features enhance rather than complicate the viewing experience.
Essential Connectivity for Modern Homes
Staying connected is a must these days, and the Sony Bravia 8 delivers everything we need. This TV comes packed with all the right connection options for a seamless home entertainment experience. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, we found setting up streaming services incredibly simple. The Ethernet port gives us a stable connection for those 4K movies that demand high bandwidth.
The four HDMI ports really make a difference in our setup. We connected our cable box, PlayStation 5, and sound system without running out of ports. Plus, the USB connections allow us to easily display photos or play videos from external devices.
Google TV integration makes finding content a breeze. We love how it brings together shows and movies from all our subscriptions in one search. The built-in Google Assistant responds quickly to voice commands, letting us control smart home devices or find shows without typing.
AirPlay 2 support is another plus, making it simple to share content from our Apple devices right to the big screen. The TV fits perfectly into our connected home without any complicated setup.
Pros and Cons
After spending several weeks with the Sony 65″ BRAVIA 8 OLED TV in our living room, we’ve gathered some solid insights about this 2024 model. This TV certainly makes an impression with its stunning picture quality, but like any tech purchase, it comes with both strengths and weaknesses worth considering before you commit.
Pros
- Exceptional picture quality with pure blacks and bright highlights thanks to the OLED technology
- Rich, accurate colors that make movies and shows look realistic and vibrant
- Smooth motion handling makes fast-moving sports and action scenes clear without blur
- Exclusive PlayStation 5 features including Auto HDR Tone Mapping that optimizes gaming visuals
- Google TV interface provides easy access to major streaming services in one place
- Included movie credits through the SONY PICTURES CORE app gives you a head start on content
- Support for multiple HDR formats including Dolby Vision enhances the viewing experience
Cons
- Google TV system can occasionally be buggy with reports of sound dropping out
- Aggressive dimming on static images (like news channel logos) that can’t be turned off
- Setup requires two people due to the TV’s size and weight
- Premium price tag compared to non-OLED options in the same size class
- Remote control isn’t as intuitive as some competitors
- Delivery service issues reported by some customers
We found the picture quality to be the standout feature, with the self-illuminating pixels creating contrast that LED TVs simply can’t match. For movie buffs and gamers, this TV delivers an experience that feels truly immersive.
Customer Reviews
Looking at what real users say about the Bravia 8 has been eye-opening. We noticed many people mention the stunning picture quality as a major highlight. The OLED display delivers those deep blacks and vibrant colors that make movies feel theatrical.
Most buyers seem happy with their purchase, giving it an average rating of 4.1 stars from 223 reviews. Many longtime Sony fans note they’ve stuck with the brand for decades because of consistent quality.
The Google TV operating system gets mixed feedback – some find it intuitive while others report occasional glitches with sound dropping out or remote control issues. Gaming enthusiasts particularly appreciate the PS5-specific features.
Setup is generally described as straightforward, though you’ll need a friend to help position this 65-inch TV safely. Several reviewers mention the dramatic improvement when upgrading from older TVs. For best results, use high-speed HDMI cables as recommended by satisfied customers.
Conclusion
After spending time with this Sony OLED TV, we’re truly impressed by its performance. The stunning picture quality with deep blacks and vibrant colors transforms everyday viewing into something special. While the Google TV interface has some quirks that can be frustrating at times, the overall experience is excellent.
This TV really shines for PlayStation 5 owners with its exclusive features. Setup is straightforward, though you’ll need a friend to help with placement due to its size.
We found the sound quality good, but serious audio enthusiasts might want to add a soundbar. The sleek design fits beautifully in most living spaces without dominating the room.
For anyone looking for a premium TV experience, the Bravia 8 is worth the investment. It balances high-end performance with usability, making it a solid choice for movies, gaming, and everyday watching.
Frequently Asked Questions
After spending several weeks with the Sony Bravia 8, we’ve collected the most common questions buyers ask before purchasing this premium OLED TV. This 65-inch model has impressed us with its picture quality and smart features, but potential buyers often want specific details before making such a significant investment. Here are the answers to the questions we hear most often.
What features set the Sony Bravia 8 series apart in the 65-inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV category?
The Bravia 8 stands out with its XR Processor that enhances every scene in real-time. We found the 8 million self-lit pixels create pure blacks with impressive brightness levels that other TVs struggle to match. The XR Triluminos Pro technology gives access to billions of accurate colors that make nature documentaries and movies look incredibly realistic.
For gamers, the exclusive PlayStation 5 features are game-changers. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode optimize picture settings automatically when connected to a PS5. The 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 ports also ensure smooth gameplay for fast-paced titles.
The unique Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology turns the screen itself into a speaker, creating a more immersive sound experience than traditional TV speakers.
How does the image quality of the Sony Bravia 8’s Dolby Vision HDR compare to LG’s OLED offerings?
We’ve tested both brands extensively, and the Bravia 8’s Dolby Vision HDR implementation offers slightly better color accuracy than comparable LG models. The Sony’s processing seems to handle shadow details more naturally, especially in dark movie scenes.
While both brands offer excellent OLED quality, Sony’s approach to motion handling gives it an edge for sports and action movies. The XR OLED Motion technology reduces blur noticeably better than LG’s similar features.
The studio-calibrated picture modes for Netflix, Prime Video, and Sony Pictures CORE also give the Bravia 8 an advantage, as content looks exactly as creators intended without manual adjustments.
What are the smart capabilities and Google TV integration like on the Sony 65-inch Bravia 8 series?
Google TV works smoothly on the Bravia 8, organizing content from different streaming services in one place. The home screen suggests shows and movies based on your watching habits, which we found surprisingly accurate.
Voice search through the remote’s Google Assistant button works well for finding content quickly. The TV also supports Apple AirPlay 2 for streaming from Apple devices and has built-in Chromecast functionality.
All major streaming apps run without issues, including Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and YouTube. The Sony Pictures CORE app is a nice bonus, with 5 credits for recent movies and a 12-month subscription to hundreds of classics included with your purchase.
Can you detail the audio performance and sound technologies in the Sony Bravia 8 OLED TV?
The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology is truly unique. Instead of traditional speakers, the screen itself vibrates to produce sound. This creates an effect where dialogue seems to come directly from the actors’ mouths.
Bass response is better than most flat TVs, though still not comparable to a dedicated soundbar or surround system. The TV supports Dolby Atmos and DTS for enhanced audio when watching compatible content.
Sound clarity remains good even at higher volumes, and the TV automatically adjusts audio settings based on room acoustics. For everyday viewing, the built-in sound system is impressive enough that many users won’t feel an immediate need for external speakers.
What has been the consumer feedback on the durability and reliability of the Sony Bravia 8 series?
Based on our research and user reviews, the Bravia 8 series has proven quite reliable in its first year on the market. The build quality feels premium, with a sturdy stand that provides stable support.
Some users have reported minor software glitches that were resolved with updates. Sony’s track record for supporting TVs with firmware updates is strong, often extending several years beyond purchase.
The OLED panel itself seems resistant to burn-in compared to earlier OLED generations, though we still recommend varying content and avoiding static images for extended periods. Many owners of previous Sony OLED models report their TVs continue to perform well after several years of use.
In terms of value for money, how does the Sony Bravia 8 OLED TV stack up against its competitors?
At around $2,800, the 65-inch Bravia 8 sits in the premium TV price range. While less expensive OLED options exist from LG and Samsung, the Sony offers better processing and unique features that justify the price difference for many buyers.
The inclusion of five movie credits and a 12-month subscription to Sony Pictures CORE adds about $100-150 in value. The PlayStation 5 optimization features are also valuable for gamers who own Sony’s console.
When comparing picture quality, smart features, and build quality to similarly priced competitors, we believe the Bravia 8 offers fair value. The TV should remain current for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for those who spend significant time watching movies, sports, or playing games.
