Sony XBR49X830C Review
Reading Time: 5 minutes Design
Sony has stick to keeping a simple and minimal design for the XBR49X830C. The frame around the screen is very thin, while the depth is also very constrained. The frame has been given a black matte finish. The frame is supported in the center by a single platform, right under the Sony logo on the frame. Overall, the TV has an uber clean look, which will definitely impress you.
UI And Display
The Sony XBR49X830C Ultra HD TV has a minimal menu design. However, it is not the most convenient one. There are quite a few options which are misleading such as Brightness option which actually controls the Backlight. Moreover, the menu interface is slow if you try to go through it quickly.
In contrast, the company has done a fabulous job on the matte black remote. It is a complete touch pad, with on screen keys and voice recognition service. The remote is very responsive and can go through a search very quickly, with even the voice recognition being on point nine out of ten times.
The display of this LED cannot be compared with other more premium offering by the company. However, despite the fact that it is a starter 4K television, Sony has filled it up with several trademark attributes. These include the Frame Dimming, Advanced Enhancer, Cine-Motion Reverse Pulldown, Live Color and Motion Flow technologies.
The frame rate is a standard 120 hertz, like for most 4K models around. The LED is also fit with Triluminous Display which enhances color vibrancy and accuracy. Of course the biggest highlight of the XBR49X830C is its ability to upscale content to 4K. This is due to the X-Reality PRO tech installed in the system. Via it, you can watch all the movies, shows, sports and any other content on digital 4K.
Moreover, Sony has integrated 3D technology in this 4K LED. While the 3D display is not the best, you may find it pleasing to watch a popular movie in your lounge than to queue up at cinemas.
Picture quality is amazing when you are playing games and the lag is kept to bare minimum.
Audio
The XBR49X830C has a decent sound system. The sound is well defined and can easily match any TV for loudness. Sony has installed its patented Clear Audio technology in this UHD, however there have been complains about loss in sound quality and echo effect from some users, which may deter you. Either way, by turning off the Clear Audio option, you can enjoy listening to your TV.
Smart TV
Perhaps this is a place where the TV is an out and out winner against any competitor for the price bracket. Sony has really put in a well-engineered smart system in the XBR49X830C. You get a fully featured Android TV inside the TV, equipped with apps like Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon, Pandora and many more. There are about 30+ apps which come preinstalled. You should also find games preinstalled in the section. However, if you are already overwhelmed with the options you have to play with hold on tight.
Since it is a Google Play approved TV, you can access unlimited number of music, games and movies from the play store. Of course, you can also connect your Google Cast and mirror content right off your smart phone.
As you use more of the Android TV function, you can really personalize the television with your favorite apps and recommendations right at the home screen.
Lastly, since the TV is voice supported as mentioned above, anything you want is just one command away.
There is even an option of streaming your PlayStation right to your TV! There is no other TV which can do so, for this price. You are however required to purchase a Dualshock 4 controller, which does not come with the set.
The experience is so good that you may think you are using one huge smart phone.
The Wifi is inbuilt in the XBR49X830C and has a good range. You are recommended to update the software once you are connected to the internet, to get the best experience.
Connectivity
The XBR49X830C Smart LED TV features a solid line up of ports. There are 4 HDMI 2.0 latest generation ports which can display 4K content from an outside source. Moreover, there are 3 USB 2.0 ports, an Ethernet jack and even an MHL port. The TV is also compatible with most media boxes, including all from Sony.
Positives
Negatives
Final Thoughts
The XBR49X830C is a great budget 4K Smart TV. You are not going to get a better television with the brand name of Sony and loaded with tons of exclusive content, with a better-than-many display and solid quality. If you desire anything more than what is already in this television, you may have to break the bank and get one of the more premium Smart LED’s offered by Sony.
Brand Name: SONY
Model Number: XBR49X830C
Display Size: 123 centimeters
Display Technology: LED
Resolution: 4K Ultra HD
Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
Image Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Dimensions: 43.1″ W x 26.8″ H x 8″ D
Weight: 34 pounds
92/100
OUR SCORE
The XBR49X830C is the company’s answer to budget 4K LED TV. The smart TV has really impressed customers and reviewers alike, since its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2015. Sony states that this is a TV in which all content up scaled to superior 4K , giving you a super clear and high definition picture. There are also several other features which are loaded in this product, to make it stand out among the several budget 4K products from competitors.
