Review: Hisense U8N with Google TV Makes a Strong Argument to Avoid OLED

OLED TVs are expensive, and getting one that has the features to match the price tag can be a costly endeavor. Hisense’s new U8N mini-LED TV is a solid example of the less expensive technology, while still achieving some serious quality goals.

Mini-LED TVs have come a long way in the last couple of years. The technology allows TV panels to deliver vibrant, bright colors through dimming zones without the price tag of an OLED panel. As for price, OLED TVs almost always cost more per square inch of panel.

Hisense has played a major role in this sector and the U8N TV launched this year represents a big step forward. The U8N It is a smart mini-LED TV that brings some improvements over the previous generation. One of the most important is the number of local dimming zones, which means better and more accurate contrast in the displayed content.

Another big upgrade is the maximum brightness the U8N is capable of. It’s easily one of the brightest TVs I’ve ever tested, hitting 3,000 nits. During testing, I let the panel automatically adjust the brightness because the brightest setting is far too bright for indoor use at night. Of course, on a sunny day with the windows open, that’s a game changer.

The U8N is a 4K QLED TV, which helps keep the unit competitively priced. The picture in every single show and movie I watched was absolutely crystal clear with superb color and detail. Of course, the U8N packs in a ton of little AI features like Intelligent Scene and Auto Picture Mode. Personally, I like to adjust the unit to my liking once. The U8N makes it easy, and I applaud Hisense for partnering with Google to develop an easy-to-use UI.

Indeed, Google TV is an important part of the unit, especially if you don’t plan on connecting any dedicated streaming boxes. I’ve been perfectly happy with the way Google TV has been implemented, and it makes it easy to watch anything the way I want with the picture settings I want. That said, Google TV works very well on U8Nand I can’t think of any substantial downsides to the software experience.

Hisense has also equipped the U8N with AirPlay functionality built-in, meaning users can easily cast from their iPad or iPhone, even if the TV itself is running Google TV. Hisense does this across its modern range, and it’s a great touch.

The TV also comes with Dolby Vision and Atmos certification, which many TVs add with little follow-through. However, I have to say that with Dolby Atmos, Hisense has packed in some serious built-in sound. I mean it when I say that I could probably never set up a soundbar or surround sound setup and be completely happy with the audio I had on hand. The only reason I hooked one up was because I had an extra on hand, and even then, I’m not sure I like the soundbar’s output any better than the U8N’s.

Another important point to mention is the gaming capabilities of the U8N. The TV can reach 144Hz and offers low latency mode, making it a great option for those who want to connect a console or stream. The TV offers a built-in gaming hub so users can tune the experience to their liking. While mini-LED panels are probably not as good as OLED ones, this addition from Hisense offers a nice touch for users who want to take advantage of it.

I used the 65-inch U8N model, which retails for $1,499. At that price, I think the quality and features are well represented, and I wouldn’t be upset about paying that amount. However, the U8N and the cheaper U7N are generally discounted. The 65-inch U8N is currently available at Best Buy for $1,149, which is a steal.

The U8N is undoubtedly one of the best TVs I’ve ever used. It’s a testament to mini LED TVs as a whole, as they don’t cost a fortune and offer virtually the same quality as an OLED panel.