Sony has long been at the forefront of television innovation, from pioneering the Trinitron, WEGA, and Bravia models to unveiling the world's first OLED TV in 2007, and not stopping there but introducing the first Google-powered TV in 2010. They've continually set the bar high with their latest TV tech innovations.

In recent times, Sony's TVs have captured our attention and admiration, showcasing excellence across the board. Their lineup includes the highly acclaimed step-down OLED, cutting-edge Mini LED-powered models, and the groundbreaking QD-OLED. Each of these offerings has not only impressed but also earned its rightful place in the spotlight.

Historically, Sony's TVs came with a premium price tag, often higher than the competition. However, it's refreshing to note that recent pricing strategies have become more competitive. While still on the pricier side compared to counterparts like LG, notable discounts have become increasingly prevalent, especially for top-tier models such as the A80L, currently leading the pack.

Our curated selection highlights the best TVs from Sony's latest range. Regardless of your space or budget constraints, there's a Sony TV ready to enhance your viewing experience.

Fast and easy checklist for Canadians

Top pick for a Sony TV in Canada

1. Sony XR-55A80L

Discover the A80L Sony TV: Your choice for outstanding picture quality and user-friendly experience, perfect for every Canadian home.

specification

• Screen size: 55in (also available in 65in, 77in, 83in)
• Type: OLED
• Backlight: not applicable
• Resolution: 4K
• HDR formats supported: HLG, HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Operating system: Google TV
• HDMI inputs: 4
• ARC/eARC: eARC
• Optical output: Yes
• Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 71 x 123 x 5.3cm

reasons to buy

• + Stunning visuals
• + Natural and authentic
• + Immersive sound

reasons to avoid

• - Needs more bass
• - Dim shadow detail in SDR

Discover the Sony A80L: A Standout in the OLED TV Market

When it comes to finding a TV that delivers an immersive viewing experience, the Sony A80L stands out, defying its traditional OLED TV classification with WOLED technology. At first glance, it might not seem as flashy as the newer QD-OLED or MLA OLED TVs, but once you witness its performance, it's clear this TV has something special.

At the heart of the A80L's unparalleled performance is its advanced processing technology. This technology works wonders by enhancing the visuals in a way that's subtle yet impactful, allowing the TV to produce images that are dynamic, detailed, and incredibly lifelike. The result? A viewing experience that features smooth motion, natural colors, and subtle shades without compromising on sharpness or solidity.

But the A80L doesn't stop at just delivering mesmerizing visuals. It also sets a high standard for audio quality with its innovative Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology. This system uses a series of actuators to turn the screen itself into a speaker, complemented by traditional woofers that enrich the sound with depth. The outcome is a soundstage that not only matches the directness and dynamism of the on-screen action but also extends it beyond the screen, creating an enveloping and atmospheric listening experience.

While perfection is hard to achieve, the A80L comes close, with only minor points like the slight reduction in shadow detail in SDR content and a bit less bass depth compared to competitors. Additionally, those with a keen interest in gaming might find the limited number of HDMI 2.1 inputs a drawback. Despite these few limitations, the Sony A80L remains a top recommendation for anyone seeking exceptional quality in both picture and sound.

If you're in the market for a Sony TV, the A80L is the model that truly embodies what viewers love about modern OLED technology, making it our top pick for most viewers.

Top Sony television for premium viewing experience

2. Sony A95L

Discover Sony's revolutionary second-generation QD-OLED TV, enhancing your viewing experience with unparalleled colour precision and clarity, tailored for the discerning Canadian audience.

specification

• Screen size: 55 inches (also available in 65in, 77in)
• Type: QD-OLED
• Backlight: N/a
• Resolution : 4K
• HDR formats: HLG, HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Operating system: Google TV
• HDMI inputs: 4 (2 x 48Gbps HDMI 2.1)
• Gaming features: 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM
• ARC/eARC: eARC
• Optical output? : Yes
• Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 71 x 122 x 3.4cm (55-inch model)

reasons to buy

• + Vivid, clear visuals
• + Genuine and balanced
• + Clear, room-filling sound

reasons to avoid

• - Limited HDMI connectivity
• - Gaming upgrades pending
• - Missing popular apps

Immerse yourself in an unparalleled viewing experience with the Sony A95L, a stunning exemplar of visual and auditory innovation. Following the footsteps of its 2022 predecessor, the A95K, this second-generation QD-OLED marvel elevates screen brightness and color vibrancy to new heights, while optimizing efficiency.

The A95L stands out by presenting an exceptionally detailed picture. Bright areas reveal subtle shades of color that usually go unnoticed, and the richness of textures, particularly in shadowed sections, enhances the realism of skin tones. This meticulous attention to detail contributes to a picture that's not only vivid but incredibly authentic, showcasing a rare blend of contrast and nuance that adds a tangible depth to the imagery.

Its audio performance is equally remarkable. The innovative actuator-based audio system, refined from the A95K, turns the screen itself into a speaker, enabling sound effects and dialogue to emanate directly from their corresponding locations on screen. This technique not only ensures precision but also broadens the auditory landscape, enveloping viewers in a spatially expansive sound environment. The sound is rich and detailed, albeit with a desire for more robust bass.

However, the A95L isn't without its limitations. With just two HDMI 2.1 ports, avid gamers might find themselves frequently swapping cables. Additionally, initial releases lacked certain features such as UK terrestrial catch-up apps and Dolby Vision gaming, though these have since been addressed with updates.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sony A95L asserts itself not just as the pinnacle of Sony's TV offerings but as one of the premier choices available on the market today, delivering an immersive experience unmatched in depth and vibrancy.

Top small-screen Sony TV for Canadian homes

3. Sony XR-42A90K

Discover the unmatched clarity and colour of our compact OLED TV - your smart choice for vibrant, immersive viewing experiences in any space.

specification

• Screen size: 42 inches (also available in 48in)
• Type: OLED
• Backlight: n/a
• Resolution: 4K
• HDR formats supported: HLG, HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Operating system: Google TV
• HDMI inputs: 4 (2 x 48Gbps HDMI 2.1)
• Gaming features: 4K/120, VRR, ALLM
• ARC/eARC: eARC
• Optical output: Yes
• Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 55 x 93 x 5.7cm

reasons to buy

• + Ultra-clear, detailed visuals
• + Smooth motion
• + Great for gamers

reasons to avoid

• - Less vivid color display
• - Some darker detail loss
• - Not optimal for gaming

Looking for a compact TV that doesn't skimp on premium features? The 42-inch A90K by Sony is a game-changer in the world of sub-50-inch TVs. Unlike the older models, this powerhouse ensures you don't miss out on the cutting-edge technology found in its larger counterparts. Sony, along with LG and Samsung, has successfully brought flagship features to the smaller screen, and the A90K is a shining example.

Despite its modest size, the A90K comes fully equipped with four HDMI ports, with two supporting 4K/120Hz signals. This makes it a perfect match for next-gen gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Imagine playing your favorite games with stunning visuals and smoothness on this compact marvel. Additionally, the A90K features innovative screen actuators, transforming the entire screen into a speaker. This technology provides superior sound quality compared to other TVs of similar size, though pairing it with a soundbar via the eARC socket could enhance your audio experience further. And yes, Dolby Atmos is part of the package, elevating your viewing experience with breathtaking sound.

When it comes to picture quality, the A90K doesn't disappoint. It supports standard HDR formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, ensuring vibrant and lifelike images. Although it lacks HDR10+ support, Sony's Cognitive Processor XR compensates with its ability to produce deep and solid visuals that will make your content pop. While it might not be as bright as LG's C3 and comes at a higher price, its stylish design and compact size make it an unbeatable choice for those who value quality and have limited space. The Sony XR-42A90K is your ticket to a premium viewing experience without the need for a large living space.

Top mid-size Sony TV for Canadian viewers

4. Sony XR-48A90K

Discover unparalleled clarity with Sony's 2022 OLED TV: Your guide to making an informed decision on top-tier entertainment.

specification

• Screen size: 48in (also available in 42in)
• Type: OLED
• Backlight: not applicable
• Resolution: 4K
• HDR formats supported: HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision
• Operating system: Google TV
• HDMI inputs: 4
• ARC/eARC: eARC
• Optical output: Yes
• Dimensions (hwd, without stand): 62 x 107 x 5.9cm

reasons to buy

• + Incredibly sharp and clear visuals
• + Seamlessly natural experience
• + Enhanced HDMI support

reasons to avoid

• - Not the brightest option
• - LG C2 offers superior gaming
• - Costly in the UK

Design-wise, Sony has masterfully crafted the 48-inch A90K to be as sleek and compact as possible. The display is elegantly framed by a slender black bezel, measuring a mere 8mm thick at the top and about 12mm on the sides and bottom. Thanks to a discreet, low-profile stand that spans just 50cm in width and 23cm in depth, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot for this TV on any piece of furniture.

When it comes to picture quality, the A90K delivers an almost unparalleled viewing experience. This model stands out as one of the top 48-inch TVs available, thanks to its near-flawless visual performance. Featuring Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, the A90K offers impressive sound quality for a TV of its size. Nonetheless, for those seeking an even more immersive audio experience, adding a soundbar into the mix comes highly recommended.

While hardcore gamers might miss the HGiG mode, the inclusion of PS5-specific Auto HDR Tone Mapping ensures that Sony console gamers will enjoy accurately vibrant picture performance without any extra effort.

Summing up, the Sony XR-48A90K presents an exceptional option for anyone in the market for a new TV, providing a stellar combination of design, picture quality, and audio performance.

Top mid-range Sony TVs for Canadian viewers

5. Sony XR-55X90L

Discover unparalleled clarity and performance with Sony's X90 LCD TV: Your guide to the pinnacle of mid-range viewing experience.

specification

• Screen size: 55 inches (also available in 65in, 75in, 85in, 98in)
• Type: LCD
• Backlight: Full-Array LED
• Resolution: 4K
• HDR formats: HLG, HDR10, Dolby Vision
• Operating system: Google TV
• HDMI inputs: x 4 (2 x 48Gbps HDMI 2.1)
• Gaming features: 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM
• ARC/eARC: eARC
• Optical output?: Yes
• Dimensions: (hwd, without stand) 71 x 123 x 5.6cm

reasons to buy

• + Stunning visuals every time
• + True-to-life colours
• + Consistent brightness control

reasons to avoid

• - Outperformed in gaming performance
• - Viewing angles could be better

TV technology is evolving at a breathtaking pace, with QD-OLED and MLA models stealing the spotlight. However, let's not write off the underdogs just yet. Beside their flashier counterparts, standard LCD TVs might seem a bit old school, but guess what? They're certainly not out of the race.

Take Sony's X90L, for example. This marvel of engineering proves that when Sony puts its mind to it, even the so-called 'standard' LCD technology can shine. The X90L, part of Sony's beloved X90 series, showcases that you don't need the fanciest tech to enjoy a top-notch viewing experience.

It might not have the bells and whistles of OLED or QLED TVs, but the X90L dazzles with its performance. If you're eyeing an OLED quality experience without the OLED price tag, the X90L is your perfect match. It delivers a slice of cinematic brilliance right into your living room, making every viewing a genuine pleasure. Definitely, a smart choice for those looking to get great value without compromising on quality.

Choosing the right Sony TV for your needs in Canada

Exploring Sony's line of LCD TVs, you find surprisingly affordable gems nestled alongside the ultra-thin, premium OLED models renowned for their deep blacks and exceptional viewing angles. The highlight? Sony's innovative journey into QD-OLED technology with the standout A95L model, marking a significant leap forward.

For those seeking the crispest images, 4K (Ultra HD) and HDR (High Dynamic Range) are non-negotiable. Sony impresses with HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision support, though HDR10+ remains elusive. And for the visionaries, Sony's 8K TVs represent the pinnacle of visual excellence.

Dive into endless entertainment with Sony's smart use of the Android TV and Google TV platforms, ensuring you're never more than a click away from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Apple TV+, enhanced further with intuitive voice controls.

For the audiophiles, a soundbar might be tempting, but Sony's commitment to superior audio quality, especially in models featuring Acoustic Surface Audio, promises a truly immersive listening experience directly from your Sony TV.

Take a closer look at Sony's impressive TV offerings in 2022 and what's on the horizon for 2023. While the future beyond remains shrouded in mystery, Sony is poised to continue its tradition of innovation and excellence in the year ahead.

Our approach to testing TVs

Delving into the vast world of TVs requires a nuanced and detailed approach, given their multifunctional roles today. Modern TVs do more than ever before – they bring a spectrum of resolutions to life, from the standard-definition days of yore up through the crystal-clear realms of 4K and even 8K. They tackle ranges in brightness and color that push the boundaries of what we thought possible, and they're expected to reproduce sound with clarity and precision that matches their visual prowess. This isn't just a device; it's the heart of a multimedia experience, blending various technologies into one captivating package.

In our thorough testing strategy, we closely examine every major app like Netflix and Prime Video, ensuring they not only exist but deliver in both video and audio quality as promised. It's surprising how often apps like Disney+ can be present without providing the full experience expected, such as missing out on Dolby Vision or Dolby Atmos formats.

Our connectivity tests include powerful gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. We look for support of cutting-edge gaming features across HDMI ports, scrutinizing capabilities such as 4K 120Hz, VRR, and special gaming modes designed to enhance overall visual fidelity and responsiveness. Accuracy in HDR tone mapping and input lag, measured with precision, are also crucial to our assessments.

Picture quality is put to the test with an expansive roster of content, from vintage DVDs to the latest in 4K Blu-ray technology, interspersed with an array of streamed content. TVs are compared against the top performers in their category, ensuring that only the best make the cut. And while we steer clear of professional calibration, our expertise allows us to fine-tune settings to perfection, ensuring each TV displays its full potential.

Despite our belief in the transformative power of additional sound equipment, such as soundbars or AV amplifiers, the reality is many stick with their TV's built-in speakers. Thus, our audio tests are rigorous, analyzing performance across a variety of content and settings to ensure a solid auditory experience.

Our bespoke testing facilities house a team of experts who bring a collective wealth of knowledge and insight to the process, maintaining the highest standards of consistency and accuracy in our reviews. This collaborative effort ensures that our recommendations are reliable, reflecting the combined expertise of our team rather than the preference of any single reviewer.

We're committed to guiding you towards the best multimedia experiences through our carefully curated selections. Choosing a product we recommend means bringing home a piece of tech that stands tall among the rest, promising an unparalleled viewing and listening experience.