Hisense has become popular for making inexpensive smart TVs. Hisense utilizes a variety of display panel technologies in their televisions. Hisense has become one of the most recognizable budget TV brands in the United States over the past few years, but are their televisions actually worth buying?
As a company, Hisense has been manufacturing electronics since 1969, making products like refrigerators and air conditioners before expanding into the competitive TV space. While Hisense’s low prices are appealing to those wanting large screen sizes for less, their picture quality, sound, smart features and build quality varies greatly across models. This in-depth review covers everything you need to know when evaluating if Hisense makes a good TV for your needs and budget in 2024.
Hisense’s Varied Smart TV Operating Systems Appeals to Different Users
One of Hisense’s biggest strengths across their television lineup is offering affordable large screens with the smart TV platform that best fits your preferences. From Roku TV to Google TV and beyond, you have choices that change the streaming content and ease of use.
Roku TV
Over 40 million Hisense TVs now come built with the user-friendly Roku TV platform. Roku TV offers:
- Simple home screen with seamless access to thousands of streaming apps
- Roku Channel for free TV and movies
- Universal search across top channels
- Voice control compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa
- Easy casting from mobile devices
- Headphone connectivity for private listening
Ideal for those wanting an intuitive streaming-focused interface, a Roku TV powered Hisense provides new cord cutters a friendly starting point.
Google TV
In 2022, Hisense launched their first Google TV, providing:
- Content-first homepage with smart recommendations
- Integrated hands-free Google Assistant for voice commands
- Casting capabilities and works with Nest speakers/displays for whole-home control
- Easy smart home device integration
- Robust app selection including streaming giants like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ and HBO Max
Avid Android users or those invested into the Google smart home ecosystem will benefit most from a Hisense Google TV model.
Proprietary Vidaa U
Many mid-range and higher-end Hisense televisions run the proprietary Vidaa U smart interface. Key features include:
- Customizable homepage design
- Voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant integration
- Free TV offering live channels and on-demand content
- App store with 100+ streaming providers and counting
- Support for Alexa and Google Assistant smart devices
For those wanting flexibility to curate their platform layout while still having access to leading apps, Vidaa U provides a solid smart TV solution.
No matter if your priority is simplicity, smart home connectivity or customization, Hisense caters to every major smart TV need at an affordable price point.
Picture Quality Drivers Differ Among Hisense Lineup
Two people shopping Hisense TVs side-by-side can have vastly different viewing experiences depending on the display panel and technologies leveraged. Understanding what impacts visual performance can set realistic expectations before purchase.
Display Panel Types
Hisense incorporates various display panel types ranging from entry to high-end:
- LED – Base models use basic LED-backlit LCD panels to save costs
- ULED – Select models display wider color and boosted brightness via specialized LEDs
- OLED – Their premium line uses self-lit OLED pixels for superior contrast and true blacks
Panel types directly impact picture quality ceiling expectations. While you can enjoy good 4K resolution across any modern Hisense panel, contrast, color and brightness performance potential significantly differs among the technology used.
Picture Quality Factors
Beyond panel types, additional factors shape real-world performance:
HDR Support – Higher-end models include HDR (high dynamic range), boosting contrast for truer whites and blacks. Mid-range options may only read HDR signals as opposed to fully leveraging advanced encoding.
Peak Brightness – Needed for well-lit rooms, higher cd/m2 ratings allow visibly brighter pictures especially in HDR. Top-end models approach or exceed 1,000 nits while cheaper ones hover 600-700.
Backlighting and Dimming Zones – More local dimming zones increase contrast precision on LED TVs. High-end options also use direct backlighting whereas edge lighting on lower models can’t achieve deep black levels.
While Hisense generally competes well on paper specs against major brands, expert reviews note inconsistencies meeting claims depending on model tier. Considering where capabilities land within a distinct product line is important vs judging purely on promoted numbers.
Model Line Performance Expectations
With panels and features varying so significantly, we can break down tiers to expect in the evolving U.S. Hisense lineup:
| Tier | Model Series Examples | Picture Quality Expectations |
| Entry | A4, A5, A6, H4, H5 | Decent overall but weaker on contrast, motion, off-angle and uniformity |
| Mid | U6, U7, U8 | Brighter images, better color and black levels |
| High End | U9, U800GR | Brightest displays with deep contrast though lag top brands OLED performance |
Entry series compete well on screen size at a low price but force visual compromises on discerning viewers. Stepping up to mid-range boosts display prowess while their premium line sees improvements that can justify 4-figure costs for some. OLED models fail to measure up to the stunning depth LG, Sony and others now achieve however.
Audio Capabilities Improving But External Sound Ideal
With televisions becoming ever slimmer aesthetic marvels in our living rooms, integrated sound system performance often gets sacrificed. Hisense is no exception. Boosting audio to acceptable levels thus adds to the true cost of ownership.
Hisense TV Speaker Sound Expectations
Most budget to mid-tier Hisense TVs use bottom or rear-firing speakers without room-filling projection capabilities. While convenient needing no separate audio gear, clarity and power significantly lack what full surround systems output. Higher frequency sounds also distort at elevated volumes.
- Entry models offer basic 10 to 15 watt stereo with acceptable but unexceptional results for causual TV watching
- Mid-range boosts audio potential while still lacking bass punch
- Flagship series integrate sophisticated drivers and amplification for clearer sound with added low-end boosting
Those opting for standout contrast via OLED displays often make the biggest visual sound tradeoff. With the latest premium releases though like the U800GR 8K TV, Hisense proves they can deliver potent sound for built-in speakers if the budget allows.
Enhancing TV Audio Through Soundbars
The easiest way to bolster a Hisense television’s sound is buying a standalone soundbar. Models with built-in subwoofers add essential bass missing from the main display components. Dolby Atmos support through upward-firing speakers also enables more encapsulating, theater-like audio for movies and shows.
Many soundbar options from brands like Sonos, Yamaha and more now feature dedicated voice assistant support as well. This allows unified voice control of your TV viewing experience. Depending on clearance depths, soundbars can either mount below the display or sit right in front of a TV stand.
To enjoy true surround sound though, equipping speakers throughout a room synchronized through an AV receiver system remains the gold standard. For under $1,000 now, full wireless 5.1.2 or greater Dolby Atmos home theaters provide incredible, flowing 360-degree audio. This transforms movies, gaming and streaming though necessitating more intensive installation.
Simplified Smart Home Control from Entry to Flagship Models
Even affordable smart TVs today like those Hisense sells integrate some degree of voice assistant support alongside smart home device control. Choosing an interface aligned with your existing ecosystem makes integrating into at-home systems easier.
Voice Assistant Compatibility
Every major Hisense television operating platform openly works with either Alexa, Google Assistant or both today. This allows hands-free navigation by assigned wake words. Through compatible devices, users can launch apps, search for content, control playback, adjust settings, command smart devices and more.
Google Assistant via Android TV or Google TV offers the most feature-rich experience complete with personalized profiles and recommendations. But Alexa through Amazon Echo devices still handles fundamentals like launching apps, controlling smart devices, asking questions and managing playback.
Expanding Smart Home Control
Modern Hisense TV platforms also all support setup of third-party smart home devices. This enables powering down lights, adjusting the thermostat, arming security systems and more through the television’s interface and accompanying apps.
For example, Roku TV models allow linking IoT devices like smart bulbs and cameras that are listed under the Roku mobile app. Any adjustments made likewise reflect on both the handheld Roku smartphone software and living room television screen.
Casting screens from phones or tablets to display Hisense models is additionally supported to easily share personal media or remotely control experiences.
The Bottom Line on Hisense TV Quality
Considering Hisense’s product portfolio as a whole, are their televisions ultimately worth buying for most consumers? Given the extreme affordability for ample screen real estate leveraging leading display panel technologies, Hisense TVs undoubtedly tempt budget-focused shoppers. Reviewing their strengths and weaknesses helps set proper expectations.
Key Reasons to Consider Hisense
- Unbeatable screen size-to-price ratios – Cost conscience consumers prioritizing screen real estate get far more inches per dollar from Hisense than any major brand
- Annual improvements across models – Hisense aggressively targets adding specs and technology missing from past lineups
- Smart TV flexibility – Catering to every major streaming platform means finding one tailored to your preferences
- Gaming-ready features – Low latency modes, 120Hz refresh rates on select models and forthcoming Xbox integrations
Potential Shortcomings to Note
- Inconsistent performance – Peak capabilities don’t always align with real-world picture quality depending on tier selected
- Mediocre out-of-box accuracy – Colors, skin tones and contrast precision often needs professional adjustment
- No burn-in protection – Buying extended protection plans are strongly advised with higher-end OLED models
For the everyday viewer wanting an affordable living room TV solution, Hisense models matching needs and budget very much warrant consideration. Their expansive lineup means shoppers should still carefully compare specifications, reviews and retailers’ return policies when buying.
Savvier home theater enthusiasts and gamers seeking premium performance can certainly find better options that justify added costs. But those on strict budgets can enjoy entirely reasonable visuals and smart connectivity buying Hisense TVs after setting realistic expectations. Their rise from obscurity to major market challenger looks poised to continue.
Hisense Roku TVs Deliver Excellent Streaming Value
One of Hisense’s most popular smart TV offerings comes through their partnership with Roku to power affordable 4K models. Roku TVs integrate America’s #1 streaming platform directly into the television without needing an external device. For cord-cutters looking for a simplified out-of-box streaming solution, Hisense’s Roku TVs should top shopping lists.
Notable Hisense Roku TV Model Series
- H4
- H55
- H8G
- U6H
- U7H
- U8H
With screen sizes ranging from 40 inches up to 75 inches under $1,000, budget-focused shoppers find incredible size-to-value ratios from Hisense Roku alternatives.
Why Choose a Hisense Roku TV
Easy Streaming Ecosystem
Roku’s acclaimed software makes navigating top apps like Netflix and Disney+ simple through their customizable home screen. Universal search, automatic updates and smooth streaming across thousands of channels leave no hassle configuring elaborate home theater setups.
Picture Quality Capabilities
Select models like the U7H leverage quantum dot technology in their premium ULED panels. This achieves purer, more vivid colors that compete with major brands. Contrast lacks compared to OLED, but brightness and black levels still impress. Enthusiasts can enjoy up to 120Hz gaming complete with variable refresh rates on some 2023 models.
Sound & Smart Integrations
While lacking the amplification of the flagship U800GR with over 100 watts, mid-range Hisense Roku TVs can output enhanced audio via Dolby technologies. Support for Alexa + Google Assistant provides hands-free control over channels and smart devices.
For stream-focused households wanting the Roku smart ecosystem with solid 4K picture quality, Hisense models offer best-in-class value. Avoid entry models but mid-tier ones deliver performance rivaling more expensive Samsung or LG alternatives.
Hisense Vidaa TV refers to the proprietary smart TV operating system and interface developed by Hisense that powers many of their 4K and 8K ULED televisions. First introduced in 2014, Vidaa TV aims to give users more customization options and flexibility managing content compared to more rigid alternatives like Android TV or Roku TV.
Key features of Hisense’s Vidaa TV platform include:
- Customizable homepage – Users can customize their Vidaa U homepage with preferred apps, inputs and quick settings based on personal preferences for fast access to favorite entertainment options.
- Voice control – All Vidaa TVs integrate hands-free access to Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant to change channels, launch apps, search for content and control smart devices through voice commands.
- Connected content – In addition to providing thousands of popular streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu, Vidaa TV offers over 100 free live streaming television channels spanning movies, news, sports and more through their own ad-supported connected content.
- Smart home control – Vidaa U enables consumers to connect and control smart home devices like lighting, thermostats and security cameras right through their Hisense television and accompanying apps.
For those wanting a fast, customizable smart TV interface with expansive voice control and content options, Hisense Vidaa TVs provide a compelling proprietary alternative to Android TV or Roku’s operating systems.
Hisense XClass TVs Aim at High-End Home Theater
At the apex of Hisense’s expanding television portfolio sits their XClass TV series. These premium displays pack bleeding-edge display advancements into elegantly modern designs perfect for dedicated home theaters.
Key XClass Series and Models
- L9H TriChroma Laser TV
- L5H TriChroma Laser TV
- U800GR 8K ULED TV
Ranging from 75 to 100+ inches and costing $3,500 to $15,000+, the XClass line clearly targets high-end luxury buyers. But the technology packed into these giant screens aims at delivering truly next-level performance to justify costs.
Standout XClass TV Technologies
- Laser TV – Using lasers rather than LED backlights, Hisense’s TriChroma displays output incredibly bright, vivacious pictures unmatched by standard televisions. Vibrant colors, inky blacks and breathtaking peak brightness make the image practically jump off the screen.
- 8K Resolution – Their U800GR marks Hisense’s first consumer 8K television, quadrupling the pixels of 4K for life-like clarity and immersive depth aided by AI upscaling of lower resolution content.
- Dolby Vision IQ – Powerful image processing aligns picture settings to ambient room conditions for optimally bright, vivid and sharp visuals regardless of viewing environment.
- Integrated Soundbar – Built-in 120W soundbars designed by Harman Kardon elevate audio to theater levels without requiring additional components.
Clearly Hisense continues pushing what television technology can deliver to the most demanding of entertainment enthusiasts through their statement-making XClass TVs. They combine multiple viewing refinements from high-end brands costing two to three times as much into sleek, integrated packages. Home cinema lovers that can afford the price tags will appreciate the engineering prowess within.
Pros and Cons of Hisense Televisions
Pros
- Budget-friendly pricing, routinely available for under $500 in larger sizes
- Smooth streaming and responsive smart platforms powered by Android or Roku
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free voice control
Cons
- Durability issues more likely to develop after 1-2 years
- Limited app selection and infrequency of updates
- Narrow viewing angles with color shifting on cheaper IPS/VA panel models
FAQ’s
Is Hisense TV better than Samsung?
Is Hisense better than LG?
What is the most common problem with Hisense TV?
Conclusion
Hisense smart televisions undoubtedly provide pleasing 4K picture quality and a robust feature set considering amazingly low retail price points. But the brand has not quite matched top manufacturers in consistency and longevity. Going with a Hisense does mean accepting more risk of issues developing after just a couple years.
We can comfortably recommend their TVs for budget-focused buyers wanting good specs now and willing to upgrade again in 2-3 years. More quality-conscious consumers may want to choose options from TCL or name brands like Samsung and LG to prioritize long-term reliability.
Hopefully this comprehensive review helps provide the details needed to determine if a Hisense television will make sense for your viewing needs and budget! Let us know in the comments about your own experiences with the Hisense TV brand. If you’re wondering how to connect Hisense TV to Bluetooth speaker, let us know in the comments and we can provide a guide. Let us also know about your own experiences with the Hisense TV brand in general.
Rockies Ripple is the founder and lead writer behind the independent blog tvplutos.com