The extensive Hisense stand at ul CES 2023 was full of TVs – unlike some other brands, it displayed the full lineup for 2023, with detailed specifications for each series. All sets should be available in the spring, which is the time when manufacturers usually introduce new TVs.
Last year, Hisense introduced its first mini-LED models, U8H serieswhich is on our list best 4K TVs thanks to great performance in relation to the price. In 2023, the company will use mini-LED backlighting across its range of premium ULED (quantum dot) TVs, with prices starting at under $500 / £410 for the 50-inch model. Along with mini-LED backlighting, each series will take advantage of Google TV’s smart interface and offer gaming-focused features, including refresh rates up to 144Hz, VRR, ALLM, and FreeSync Premium Pro on all but the entry-level U6K. All sets will additionally support Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed streaming, as well as Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats.
Something interesting for American viewers is built in ATSC 3.0 tuners found throughout the Hisense line. Expect to see more TVs in 2023 that support this next-generation broadcasting standard, which includes support for 4K video with HDR audio and Dolby Atmos, among other features. But of the new TVs announced at CES 2023, so far only LG has confirmed that their flagship G3 4K and Z3 8K models will have built-in ATSC 3.0 tuning.
ULED X
The ULED X (shown above) is Hisense’s 2023 flagship TV. Available only with an 85-inch screen, it is backlit with more than 20,000 mini-LED modules. Over 5,000 local dimming zones and a 16-bit lighting control algorithm improve contrast and shadow detail, with a maximum brightness of 2,500 nits. The ULED X also has an ultra-low reflective screen and a 30% wider viewing angle than standard LED-backlit TVs – a first for Hisense and something I was able to appreciate when I saw it in person at CES.
The limited edition ULED X has the most advanced built-in audio system to come on a Hisense TV: 4.1.2 channels, with over 80 watts used to power the set’s seven speakers.
U8K series
Last year’s U8H series paved the way for Hisense’s expansion to mini-LED, and the new U8K models for 2023 double that technology with over 1,000 local dimming zones. Peak brightness is listed as 1,500 nits, but if the super bright U8H model we tested in 2022 is any indication, it will prove to be a conservative specification.
Available in screen sizes from 55 to 85 inches (last year’s U8H series peaked at 75 inches), the U8K series TVs will feature a low-reflection anti-glare screen. The built-in 2.1.2 audio system with up-firing speakers is another new addition that allows you to listen to Dolby Atmos soundtracks without a separate soundbar. The U8H series also offers IMAX Enhanced and Filmmaker picture modes – two other features available across Hisense’s entire 2023 line of mini-LED TVs.
U7K series
Last year’s U7H series featured standard LED backlighting, but this has been fixed this year with the U7K series featuring mini-LED backlighting across all screen sizes and up to 500 local dimming zones with a specified peak brightness of 1,100 nits. The U7H series will be available in screen sizes from 55 to 85 inches.
U6K series
Available in sizes from 50 to 85 inches, the U6K series will be Hisense’s high-performance quantum dot models. They will also be affordable for mini-LED-backlit TVs, with the 50-inch version retailing for less than $500. The U6K series will offer many of the same features found higher up in the Hisense TV lineup, with the main difference being that the display panel is limited to over 200 local dimming zones and a 60Hz refresh rate.