Hisense 100U8K 100-Inch QLED TV review Mini-LED brilliance and advanced gaming features

Description

Merits of the Hisense Mini-LED ULED 4K TV

Testing the Hisense 100-Inch Class U8 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV (100U8K) was, in one word, immersive. This 100-inch behemoth brings a cinematic experience to the living room. With its ULED technology, it’s not just another TV; it’s an upgrade in how you view content. The Quantum Dot technology creates a visual palette that’s unlike anything I’ve seen on traditional LED TVs. Colors appear more vibrant, and every shade seems to pop on the screen.

One of its standout features is the Mini-LED with Full Array Local Dimming, which takes contrast to another level. Watching movies with deep blacks and bright highlights, I couldn’t help but notice how it brought out details I’d missed with my older TV. The 480 Motion Rate combined with the 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth motion, especially during fast-paced action scenes or gaming. The TV doesn’t just show you content; it makes you feel like you’re part of it.

Design and Build Quality

This TV is a statement piece. Its sleek black finish and minimalist design seamlessly blend into any modern living space. At 162 pounds, it’s a hefty device, but it’s built solidly. I found the thin bezel design particularly appealing—it maximizes screen real estate while giving the unit a premium look.

The rear panel is well-structured, providing easy access to the HDMI 2.1 ports, USB inputs, and other connections. Setting it up wasn’t a hassle, though I’d recommend having a second person for installation due to its size and weight. Once mounted, it feels stable and secure, which is critical for such a massive screen.

Performance and Display

The performance is where this TV truly shines. The 4K Ultra HD resolution paired with Dolby Vision IQ delivers imagery that’s sharp and detailed. Watching a nature documentary on this screen is like peering through a window into the actual scene. The Quantum Dot Wide Color Gamut creates a billion shades of color, making each viewing experience dynamic.

Gaming on this TV was another level entirely. The 144Hz Game Mode Pro and FreeSync Premium Pro drastically reduce input lag and screen tearing. Even in graphically demanding games, the performance was buttery smooth. The automatic low-latency mode was another standout feature, as it automatically adjusted settings for an optimized gaming experience.

Sound Quality

Audio is often overlooked in TVs of this size, but this is not the case here. With a 2.1.2 multi-channel audio system and a total output of 50W, sound quality is immersive and rich. The built-in subwoofer delivers deep bass, while the rear speakers add a layer of dimension. Whether watching an action movie or a quiet drama, the Dolby Atmos technology ensures that audio matches the visual intensity.

I found myself turning off my external soundbar most of the time because the TV’s integrated speakers were more than adequate. The clear dialogue and powerful sound effects make it ideal for all types of content.

Pluses

• Exceptional picture quality with ULED and Quantum Dot technologies.
• Smooth motion handling, perfect for sports, action movies, and gaming.
• Future-proof features like Wi-Fi 6E and ATSC 3.0 tuner.
• Hands-free control with Google Assistant for easy navigation.
• Robust audio performance, eliminating the need for external speakers in most cases.

Caveats

• The sheer size makes it unsuitable for smaller spaces.
• At 162 pounds, moving and installing the TV requires effort.
• Some users might find the reflections on the screen noticeable in brighter rooms.
• Limited availability of native 144Hz gaming content to fully utilize its capabilities.

Competing Products

Televisions like the Samsung QN90C Neo QLED or LG C3 OLED are the closest competitors to this model. The Samsung QN90C boasts similar Mini-LED technology and excellent HDR performance, but I found the Hisense U8 Series to edge it out in terms of gaming features like FreeSync Pro. On the other hand, the LG C3 OLED offers better black levels and slim design but doesn’t match the brightness and vivid colors of the Quantum Dot panel on this TV.

Where this TV excels is in its combination of display size, features, and gaming capabilities. Few TVs in this price range offer such a comprehensive package.

Value Proposition

For the features it offers, this TV delivers great value for its price point. It’s not cheap, but considering the 100-inch screen, Mini-LED technology, and gaming enhancements, it feels like a worthy investment for home theater enthusiasts or avid gamers. While some of its competitors might offer niche advantages, this TV strikes an impressive balance between performance and affordability. If you’re looking for cost-efficiency with premium specs, this TV is hard to beat.

Despite some minor limitations, I can confidently say it’s one of the most feature-packed TVs I’ve had the pleasure of using. It has redefined how I experience home entertainment.

Additional information