Sony 65″ KDL-65W850C 120Hz 3D Smart LED TV
Although 4K Ultra HD TVs are getting most of the spotlight in the television industry, 1080p Full HD models remain very popular among consumers, especially for those who aren’t ready or simply not interested in 4K technology.
For 2015, Sony has a full lineup of 1080p displays with no fewer than six models which include the R510C Series available in 40″ and 48″ screen sizes, the W800C Series, (50″ and 55″ screen sizes) and the top tier W850C Series (65″ and 75″ screen sizes).
Design/Features
The W850C offers a sleek design with a very thin matte black bezel that surrounds a glossy display screen that is illuminated with Sony’s Dynamic Edge-lit LED Backlighting. The Silver Mirror Shaft stand that supports the TV adds an attractive design element, but in my opinion, it is a bit on the small side for such a large display panel. I’d also like to note that the TV’s depth at its thinnest point is somewhat thick measuring 2.68 inches.
KDL65W850C Side View
Sony’s current 1080p models in the W850C Series have plenty to offer in the way of features and include:
Sony’s X-Reality Pro video processing engine analyzes and refines color, clarity and contrast in real-time for optimal image reproduction. This processor also upscales all non-1080p video sources to near 1080p quality.
Android TV with Google Cast – Sony has implemented Google’s Android operating system into this television. This OS lets you do a lot of things you’re used to doing on your tablet or smartphone, by simply logging in with your Google ID to access a huge collection of apps, games and content from Google Play. This operating system will also make it easy to stream video content, function as a gaming device and provide enhanced features like voice-enabled searching which you can access with any compatible Android device.
The W850C features PlayStation Now game streaming, which enables you to stream PS3 games directly to this TV without the use of a gaming console. The only additional equipment required is a DUALSHOCK 4 controller (sold separately) which connects to one of the TV’s USB ports.
Netflix Recommended TV – This certification makes it easier for consumers to know which manufacturers HDTVs work best with its streaming video service by establishing performance criteria that can be identified on select TVs by a Netflix Recommended TV logo.
Direct TV Ready – DIRECTV subscribers with the Genie Whole-Home HD DVR can enjoy service and full DVR features without an additional receiver.
To assist with motion blur reduction, the W850C incorporates Sony’s Motionflow XR 960 technology.
This TV is 3D-ready and requires active 3D glasses which are sold separately.
Performance/Features Summary
I did a fair amount of research regarding this TV, including reading several customer reviews* and forum posts*. The following info is a performance/features assessment of that research, along with specs for the Sony KDL-65W850C:
Performance Rating & Specs
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Sony KDL-65W850C
Summary
Price: $1,499.99
Check current price at Amazon.com
Pros:
• Overall very good picture quality.
• Excellent contrast and black level reproduction
• Android TV/Android OS
• Direct TV RVU compatible
• Netflix Certified
• Built-in Wi-Fi/Wi-Fi Direct
Cons:
• Typical picture dimming and color saturation loss when viewed off-axis
• Reports of video gaming motion lag from some consumers/while others report no issues with motion lag
Specs:
Screen size reviewed: 65″
Dimensions: (WXHXD): 57-3/8″ x 33-1/4″ x 3-1/8″ (without stand); 57-3/8″ x 35-1/8″ x 10-1/2″ (with stand)
Weight: 51.6 lbs. (without stand); 54.0 lbs. (with stand)
Connection Ports:
Video Inputs: HDMI (4), HDCP 1.4/MHL (1), component (1, shared), composite (1, shared), antenna/cable/satellite (1)
Audio Inputs (1)
USB (2)
Ethernet (1)
Audio Outputs: Optical digital (1), stereo minijack (1)
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor
Conclusion
The KDL-65W850C offers very good performance (minus a couple of negatives mentioned above) and is Sony’s best offering in a 1080p display. And for those not ready to make the jump to 4K, this TV is a good overall choice and will deliver pleasing results for movies and TV shows as well as other video content rendered in the 1080p format.
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*Sources: Amazon, AVS Forums, Sony