The industry was debating whether we really need 4K back in 2013 and look how far we have evolved since. The 8K is in nearly the same place today, and for now, it’s more about future-proofing. Besides, if you are in for a high-end TV, most upcoming options this year will be 8K. Technically 8K refers to 8192 x 4320 resolution, but for the consumer electronics industry, 7680 x 4320 is referred to as 8K and that’s what we will mean by 8k in this article.
Advantages and disadvantages: Should you buy an 8K TV?
More pixels mean sharper images but expect diminishing returns as you move up the ladder. Studies show that consumers can’t tell 4k and 8K apart as clearly as they can discern the differences between full HD and 4K content. Since 8K is still very new, there is an extreme shortage of content available. Film studios don’t seem very enthusiastic about adopting 8K and nor do streaming services. We do have a couple of movies like Captain Marvel and Guardians of Galaxy 2.0 that were partially shot in 8K, though. It must also be noted that 4K content will look better on a native 4K screen as against when upscaled to 8K resolution on an 8K TV. As for gaming, it’s relatively easier to attain higher resolutions but VRR and high refresh rates remain far more meaningful attributes. The new generation PS5 and Xbox Series X support 8K, but 8K games are nonexistent. 8K also takes 4 times the storage space as compared to 4K and increases processing load at every stage of content creation and distribution process. Even over full bandwidth HDMI 2.1, you can only transmit 8K content at 30fps. For the next 5 to 8 years, you might opt for 4K TV and not be missing out on much. At the same time, average consumers hold on to their TVs for longer than just 5 to 8 years.
Best 8K TVs to buy in 2021
Now that we have discussed the pros and cons of 8K, let’s detail some of the best 8K TVs that you can buy. We have also added a couple of exorbitantly priced options at the end. Also Check: Best Mini LED TVs to buy in 2021
1. Samsung Neo QN900 8K QLED TV (2021)
Samsung Neo QN900 8K QLED TV is the flagship for 2021 and it will be available in three sizes – 65-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch sizes – where the base 65-inch model starts at $4,999 ( ~ INR 3.65 lakh). It’s also less expensive as compared to last year’s Q950T. The New QLED TVs have a mini LED backlight with more dimming zones and higher contrast. The right and left edges of the QN900 are perforated mesh and integrate side-firing speakers. Samsung advertises 64x HDR as compared to 32x on Q900 and Q800 series. Supported HDR formats include HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG. You may also consider: 65″ QN800A Samsung Neo QLED mini LED TV (2021) – $3,499 (~ 2.5 Lakh)
2. Samsung Q950T QLED TV (2020)
Samsung Q950T is Samsung’s top of the line 8K QLED TV, at least till the Neo QLED mini LED TVs arrive later this year. The Q950T comes in two sizes – 75-inch and 85-inch – starting at INR 10,97,200. It’s steered by Samsung’s Quantum Chipset, has Direct Full Array 32X dimming, and has OTS+ speakers for powerful audio. More importantly, Samsung’s 8K AI upscaling is quite impressive. The TV integrates the latest connectivity options including 4 HDMI 2.1 ports. Samsung advertises 32x HDR and the TV supports HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG (No Dolby Vision). Samsung uses premium materials for construction and the TV expectedly looks remarkable. Also consider: Samsung Q900R QLED TV
3. Samsung Q800T QLED TV (2020)
Samsung Q800T QLED TVs are relatively affordable 8K TVs that retail in 65-inch, 75-inch, and 82-inch display sizes, and the price starts at INR 4,38,900 in India. Compared to the flagship 950 and 900 series, there are lesser dimming zones and Samsung rates the HDR at Quantum 16X. The Q800T has 60W audio and similar connectivity options as compared to the flagship Q950T which perhaps makes it a better value proposition. The bezels are relatively thicker.
4. LG Nano99 8K (2020)
LG has some outrageously priced 8K TVs like OLED LG ZX 88 Signature OLED that starts at INR 20 Lakhs. The LG Nano99 8K, which should soon be replaced by LG QNED (2020) mini LED range, is a bit more viable option starting at INR 5.5 Lakhs for the 65-inch model. A pricier 75-inch variant is also available for purchase in India. LG Nano99 8k is powered by α9 Gen 3 AI Processor, has a 100Hz IPS LCD panel with full-array local dimming, has 60W 4.2ch audio, and supports all popular HDR standards including Dolby Vision IQ. There are 4 HDMI 2.1 with eARC, VRR, and ALLM included. Also Check: LG QNED VS Samsung QLED: What’s the difference?
5. TCL 75X915 8K QLED TV
TCL 75X915 was one of the first 8K QLED TVs in India and it costs INR 3,99,999. It supports IMAX enhanced, has a pop-up camera, and ships with an external onkyo soundbar. The TV supports all popular HDR standards including Dolby Vision. TCL has opted for a combination of HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.0 ports. Another problem is that the TCL 75X915 8K is often out of stock, so it’s better you don’t pin too many hopes on buying this one.
6. Sony Z8H
Sony Z8H 8K LED TV 75-inch costs a reasonable $4999 in US, but in India the Z8H is available only in 85-inch size and is prohibitively expensive at INR 15 lakh. The Z8H is at the very top of the company’s India lineup. It’s powered by X1 Ultimate processor, has X and has full array local dimming. The panel supports HDR10/10+, HLG and Dolby Vision. The TV runs Android 9.0 interface, has immersive Accoustic audio, and the latest set of connectivity options. Long story short, this is one of the best LED TVs you can currently buy.
7. LG ZX 88
LG is the only manufacturer who delivers both OLED and 8K in a TV. The combination however is going to cost you dearly. The LG ZX 88 retails in 77-inch and 88-inch sizes that cost INR 20 lakhs and INR 25 lakhs, respectively. For that exorbitant price, you are definitely getting cutting edge connectivity options, support for all popular HDR standards, and 60W down firing speakers.
7 Best 8K TVs to buy in India in 2021
8K TVs are still quiet expensive, but the cost is expected to come down in the next couple of years. This year, Samsung’s Neo QLED and LG’s QNED TVs shall remain the most viable 8K options. Unless, of course, if you are willing to splurge on 8K OLED. Best 8K TVs to buy in 2021
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