TCL P89K / TCL P8K vs SONY BRAVIA 3

Direct comparison

P8K / P89K

Info

BRAVIA 3 / K-(XX)S3

Info

Available screen sizes: 55”65”75”85”98”

Available screen sizes: 43”55”65”75”85”

Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2025

Complete the survey to find out the result

Panel type: LCD IPS

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2025

Complete the survey to find out the result

Overall rating

6.6

6.0

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    6.1

    5.4

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    6.0

    5.3

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    6.1

    5.7

  • Gaming on console

    8.1

    6.4

  • TV as a computer monitor

    8.6

    6.0

  • Watching in bright light

    4.6

    4.9

  • Utility functions

    7.4

    6.6

  • Apps

    9.6

    9.6

  • Sound quality

    6.7

    6.5

Advantages

  • Good contrast thanks to the VA panel

  • Google TV system with a large number of applications

  • Good motion fluidity. 144Hz panel

  • Excellent features for gamers: HDMI 2.1, VRR, 4K@120Hz, HGiG, Dolby Vision in games

  • Very good colour gamut coverage thanks to the PFS filter (QLED)

  • Very good compatibility with PC. 240Hz mode

  • Low input lag – gaming is smooth and responsive

  • Well-implemented HDR dynamic tone mapping feature. Despite low brightness: HDR content looks surprisingly good.

  • 2.1 sound from Onkyo with a subwoofer – surprisingly good bass

  • Very attractive price

  • Google TV system – a vast library of apps and services

  • IPS panel with good viewing angles

  • Enhanced colours – (91% DCI-P3 colour gamut)

  • Supports Dolby Vision

  • Good upscaling – lower quality materials look surprisingly good

  • Excellent input lag and ALLM mode

  • Very good PC compatibility – supports 4:4:4 chroma, excellent font readability

  • Two remote controls included – modern minimalist and classic with a numeric keypad

  • Very good built-in media player – supports a wide range of files, even less common ones like HEIC

  • Thin bezels and modern design – a significant step forward compared to X75WL

  • Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X

Disadvantages

No like
  • Low brightness – around 250–300 nits

  • Very poor viewing angles

  • Average digital image processing

  • Incorrectly implemented Dolby Vision mode

  • System errors and glitches occur

  • Not very loud sound, volume limiter in operation

  • Tragic black - IPS matrix without local dimming

  • Limited brightness (approx. 350 nits), the image in HDR mode is not very appealing

  • Issues with backlight uniformity

  • The Google TV system can stutter

  • Lack of recording function from built-in tuners to USB memory

Our verdict

The TCL P8K is a television that immediately endears itself. It may seem cheap and from a lower range, yet it can surprise. This device demonstrates that you can also get equipment with character at this price – and it's specifically targeted towards a particular group of users. Because let's not kid ourselves, the P8K is a television designed with gamers in mind. With two HDMI 2.1 ports, VRR support, 4K at 120 Hz, HGiG, and even Dolby Vision in games – it sounds like something that was only recently found in much more expensive models. Additionally, it has a 144 Hz panel and the capability to achieve even 240 Hz on PC. At this price? It’s really hard not to smile. Moreover, it comes with Google TV, which has breathed life into this screen. Everything operates intuitively, with access to a vast library of applications and an efficient Google Assistant that actually understands what you say – even when you phrase it in your own way. Of course, this is not a perfect television. A brightness of 250–300 nits isn't overwhelming and probably won't impress in a sunny living room. But just an evening, a film, and a slightly darker environment reveal that this screen can do quite a lot. Thanks to dynamic tone mapping, the P8K performs surprisingly well in HDR, and the colours can look natural. In cinematic scenes, there's no question of a plastic, overexposed image – it's simply pleasant. Let’s not pretend that it competes with Mini LEDs or OLEDs – that’s not the point here. The P8K/P89K is meant to be a television that is simply enjoyable to use. And that is where its strength lies. For someone who wants to play games, watch Netflix, launch YouTube, and have it all in one simple device – it’s a home run. The TCL P8K shows that "cheap" does not have to mean "poor quality". It is a television with character that doesn’t pretend to be premium equipment, yet delivers a lot. And perhaps that's why it’s so easy to like.

Sony Bravia 3 is a television that brings several important improvements over its predecessor, while remaining true to its core. The biggest change is the design – slim bezels and sturdy metal legs give it a modern appearance that fits much better in a living room than the X75WL. Improved colours thanks to the PFS filter and really good upscaling should also be noted. It is particularly in lower quality content, especially in classic SDR, that the Bravia 3 shows its best side – colours look pleasing, the image is clear, and thanks to the IPS panel, viewing angles are at a very good level. It is perfectly suited for the role of a “classic” television receiver, where the convenience of watching from different spots in the room and decent quality of everyday content matter. A huge advantage remains the Google TV system. During our tests, there were times when the interface did not always work as smoothly as we would have liked, and some features could freeze. However, despite these imperfections, the presence of Google TV is a significant plus – access to thousands of applications and a full streaming library compensates for minor shortcomings. Unfortunately, what was weak in the X75WL remains weak here as well. The IPS panel has very low contrast and does not offer local dimming, making watching films in a dark room quickly lose its appeal – black resembles grey and effectively detracts from the enjoyment of the viewing experience. Additionally, the option to record content to USB, which was available in its predecessor, has been dropped. It is hard not to notice this and not add it to the list of downsides.

So who is the Bravia 3 for? Primarily for those looking to enter the world of Sony televisions at a potentially low price and who also appreciate the Google TV system. However, it is not the most attractive option in its class – competitors in this budget can offer models with Mini-LED backlighting, whose images perform several times better in terms of contrast and HDR. Therefore, the Bravia 3 is worth keeping in mind, but mainly when a solid discount is available. At regular price, it will be very difficult to stand out against its more cost-effective rivals.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
4 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
Other inputs
Outputs
Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
Network Interfaces
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps, Ethernet (LAN) 1Gbit
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
Build quality
Average
BuildQuality-Good
Stand type
Legs
Legs
Bezel color
Graphite
Graphite
Stand
Fixed
Base adjustment
Accessories
Stand
Two remote controls, Stand

Contrast and black detail

5.5/10

2.2/10

Local dimming function: No

Local dimming function: No

Contrast:

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Contrast and black detail

Result

5,650:1

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Contrast and black detail

Result

3,950:1

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Contrast and black detail

Result

5,700:1

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Contrast and black detail

Result

5,450:1

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Contrast and black detail

Result

2,600:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,150:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,150:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,050:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

1,050:1

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

Result

900:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Contrast and black detail
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Contrast and black detail

TCL P8K is an example of a television that shows that even in the lower tier, one can still encounter solid contrast. The VA panel does a really good job here – a measurement around 6000:1 may not sound spectacular, but in actual scenes it produces an effect that simply delights the eye. In the darkness of the forest in "The Revenant" or in the futuristic shots of "Oblivion", depth and light separation are visible, which is difficult to expect from equipment at this price. The P8K can render darkness without the feeling that everything is drowning in grey. The Direct LED backlighting also works in its favour. Of course, we do not have any local dimming here, but the system can dim the entire screen when the scene requires it or slightly brighten it to bring out details in bright areas. This is somewhat of an analogue approach to contrast – simple but effective. On the test pattern from the legendary Pioneer Kuro, it was well evident: the television prioritised bright points while the background lost some depth; however, it still maintained a decent appearance. Of course, there is no perfectly inky black here. In a dark room, it is noticeable that the black leans towards blue, but despite this, the overall presentation is simply good. Under normal home conditions, the contrast is entirely sufficient to feel the cinematic atmosphere.

The Bravia 3 in most variants, including the 65-inch model we tested, uses an IPS panel and unfortunately, this is not the best news for those who value depth of image and true velvety blacks. This technology has its advantages, as it offers decent viewing angles, but these come at the cost of very low contrast, which is particularly noticeable during evening viewings when we expect the screen to go dark where it should. However, this is not the end of the list of problems. Our unit also exhibited noticeable unevenness in blacks, which exacerbates the effect of their shallowness. For example, in a scene with a helicopter, the blooming in the corners of the screen and pronounced vignetting are clearly visible.

It's hard not to think that even a simple local dimming system could have salvaged the situation and added a touch of drama to the image, which is lacking here. Unfortunately, Sony has decided against such a solution, and as a result, we have a repeat of last year's issues. The Bravia 3 is therefore not a television that will charm you with cinema-like black depth. At night, instead of intense blacks, we are likely to see a grey pretending to be darkness, which may disappoint more demanding viewers.

HDR effect quality

4.5/10

4.6/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG
HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 93.6%, Bt.2020: 70.4%
DCI P3: 91.3%, Bt.2020: 69.0%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Brightness measurement

Result

207 nit

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Brightness measurement

Result

238 nit

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Brightness measurement

Result

313 nit

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Brightness measurement

Result

251 nit

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Brightness measurement

Result

299 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

316 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

327 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

369 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

236 nit

Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Brightness measurement

Result

379 nit

Scene from the movie “Pan” (about 2800 nits)

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K HDR effect quality
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 HDR effect quality

Scene from the movie “Billy Lynn” (about 1100 nits)

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K HDR effect quality
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 HDR effect quality

Static HDR10

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K HDR effect quality
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 HDR effect quality

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K HDR effect quality
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 HDR effect quality

HDR luminance chart:

SONY BRAVIA 3

HDR luminance

TCL P89K / TCL P8K

HDR luminance

The maximum brightness of the TCL P8K is around 300 nits, although in real film scenes, the television maintains more of a level of about 250 nits. These values cannot be considered sufficient to achieve a full HDR effect – they are closer to a solid base for SDR content. Therefore, we will not see spectacular flashes, bursts of light, or moments in which the screen actually "blinds," as is the case with more expensive models. This makes the image somewhat flat, and the differences between light and shadow are more symbolic than realistic. Fortunately, TCL has a few aces up its sleeve that save the overall reception. One of these is the coverage of the DCI-P3 colour palette at around 93–94%. Thanks to an additional QLED layer (PFS LED), the colours gain depth and intensity, clearly surpassing standard LCD panels. As a result, although there is a lack of the typical "wow effect" associated with HDR brightness, the image itself can impress with its saturation and vibrant tones, making film scenes pulse with colours and not appear strongly washed out.

Bravia 3 does not hide the fact that it belongs to the group of televisions that are rather modest in terms of brightness. Our measurements showed around 370 nits, which is a value teetering on the edge of where one can still speak of any HDR effect. For some, this is an acceptable level, while for others it is rather typical for SDR content, where spectacular highlights or vivid contrasts are not expected. The impression is that this is not a television for those focused on the highest image quality in demanding cinematic content. However, this does not mean that we cannot find any advantages here. Compared to its predecessor, the X75WL, Bravia 3 has gained an additional PFS filter, which works similarly to solutions known from QLED technology. Thanks to this, the DCI-P3 colour palette has been significantly widened and reaches over 91 percent, which in practice results in more saturated colours and a more pleasing image texture. As a result, even everyday content looks somewhat livelier, and films and series can surprise with vibrant visuals, despite limitations in brightness itself.

Factory color reproduction

5.4/10

5.8/10

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Factory color reproduction
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Factory color reproduction

Factory Mode

After calibration

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Factory color reproduction
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Factory color reproduction

Factory Mode

After calibration

In Filmmaker mode, the TCL P8K revealed certain imperfections in image reproduction from the outset. We noticed that the television had a tendency to slightly brighten scenes – its gamma was somewhat low, causing the image to appear slightly "washed out", lacking depth, as if the contrast had slipped out of control. This was most evident in HDR content, where the EOTF brightness graph clearly deviated from reference values. As a result, darker areas of the image appeared too gloomy, while brighter areas did not always reach the correct level of luminance. Another noticeable issue was a slight overemphasis on blue – the television stubbornly boosted this colour, causing certain parts of the image, especially skin tones and reds, to have a subtle purple tint. This is not a major flaw, but it is noticeable to a trained eye. Fortunately, most of these errors could be corrected during calibration. You can see the results of this adjustment in the graphs and photos below.

Sony Bravia 3 was primarily tested in film mode, which immediately proved to be the best choice among the factory settings. It is not a perfect picture, but compared to the eco mode that the television offers right out of the box, the difference is clear and positive. In film mode, one can notice a certain problem: the image appears too warm, which results from a lack of blue colour in the white balance. Despite this, in SDR content, the final effect can still be considered quite decent and satisfactory for everyday viewing. Much more serious errors occur in HDR materials. The Color Checker analysis showed considerable deviations, and poor brightness management, combined with limited colour gamut coverage, further exposes the shortcomings of the image in this mode. All of this makes HDR on the Bravia 3 appear unconvincing and can spoil the impression left by the quite decent SDR content setting. Fortunately, this is not an insurmountable situation. Various errors can be somewhat mitigated, and some can even be fully corrected through professional calibration. Therefore, we decided to check how the television would perform after such adjustments.

Color reproduction after calibration

7.5/10

7.5/10

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Color reproduction after calibration
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Color reproduction after calibration
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Color reproduction after calibration
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Color reproduction after calibration

After calibration, the TCL P8K showed a completely different face. It managed to achieve nearly perfect, even reference-level color reproduction in both SDR and HDR content. The screen no longer had a tendency towards a cool tint, and the white balance was perfectly balanced. The gamma values for SDR material also finally look as they should – the image has the proper depth and no longer appears washed out. The only remark that can still be made about the P8K concerns its "Chinese" traits, known from most TCL models. The TV still likes to manipulate saturation in HDR content in its own way – sometimes slightly boosting it, sometimes smoothing it out, which means the effect is not always fully predictable. Nevertheless, after calibration, the colors look stunning, and their accuracy is truly surprising. In most cases, measurement errors dropped below values of 1-2, which is a result that significantly more expensive models would not be ashamed of.

The calibration allowed us to extract significantly more from the Bravia 3 than we could have expected at the beginning. Firstly, it managed to compensate for the deficiency of blue, which had previously caused a noticeable warming of the image. After a slight adjustment to the white balance, most of the errors in the Color Checker measurements for SDR content virtually disappeared. The white tones became more natural, and the brightness management in gamma stabilised to an almost ideal level, not exceeding the threshold of human perception. Thus, it can be confidently stated that in SDR content, after a few adjustments to the settings, the Bravia 3 performs remarkably well. Significantly worse, although still definitely better than before calibration, are HDR contents. The white balance was brought into order, however, the limitations of the IPS panel are insurmountable. The lack of local dimming means that even the smallest elements can be overexposed, which immediately stands out. Colour-wise, the effect is also improved, though far from perfect – many errors still exceed the threshold of four or even five delta E units, meaning they remain visible to the human eye. It was already clear earlier that the Bravia 3 is not a television designed to impress with HDR quality. Nevertheless, it is gratifying that in SDR content, after calibration, the image can look truly excellent, and in this category, the television pleasantly surprised us.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

9.1/10

8/10

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Smoothness of tonal transitions

The television performs excellently in colour blending – the gradients are smooth, free from visible bands or unpleasant jumps. This is best seen in classic test scenes, such as shots from the film Kingsman or The Martian, where most televisions reveal their weaknesses. The P8K maintains the consistency and subtlety of colours, creating an image that is pleasing and natural to observe.

Minor imperfections only appear with extremely dark shades or on grey palettes – this is the moment when even significantly more expensive models start to struggle. However, this does not matter in everyday viewing. Overall, the TCL P8K excels in colour blending, offering a smooth, harmonious image free from artifacts.

In terms of the fluidity of tonal transitions, the Bravia 3 performs really well. In brighter scenes, we did not notice any significant errors – the screen handles the blending of colours almost flawlessly and does not create artificial contours that can spoil the viewing experience. Similarly, in darker segments, there are no major issues with colour gradation, although another problem arises here. Strong brightening and uneven backlighting of the panel in dark scenes make it difficult to assess the gradation itself clearly, as the effect is spoiled by the unevenness of the image. However, when we focus solely on the blending of colours, the result should be considered very good.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

6/10

7/10

Image without overscan on the SD signal
OK
OK
Smooth transition function
OK
OK

Smooth transition function

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

The TCL P8K performs somewhat worse when it comes to the fluidity of tonal transitions in lower-quality materials. The television does offer a function to smooth out unwanted bands; however, its effectiveness leaves much to be desired. Even at the highest setting, it's hard to talk about any real improvement – at times the effect is almost the opposite of what is intended, as the function can introduce small artifacts and unnatural blurring on the screen.

On the other hand, upscaling – that is, scaling the image to 4K resolution – looks significantly better. The P8K handles this task surprisingly well – HD content, and even SD, is enhanced in an aesthetically pleasing manner without excessive loss of sharpness. While there are slight "hard" edges typical of this class of equipment, this can be easily adjusted with the sharpness slider to suit personal preferences. The final effect is more than satisfactory, especially considering the price range in which this model is situated.

Bravia 3 brings something more to the Sony TV family than just a shared name. It stands out primarily for its ability to enhance the quality of weaker materials thanks to the processor used. Of course, we won’t find the advanced XR chip known from more expensive models here, but even so, it must be admitted that the image in lower resolutions looked surprisingly good. The scaling worked effectively, and most parts of the screen were free from the typical excessive edge tearing found in budget constructions.

Attention should also be paid to the function that improves the smoothness of tonal transitions. In the high setting, it works really well, effectively masking gradation imperfections without significant detail loss. It does happen, however, that the algorithm overly smooths elements that should remain sharp – for example, faces – but overall, the effect is beneficial. The best results were achieved precisely at the highest setting, and this option could be recommended to those watching lower quality content.

Blur and motion smoothness

7.1/10

5/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
144Hz
60Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
OK
OK
BFI function 60Hz
No
Yes, 120Hz (double contours)
BFI function 120Hz
No
No
Brightness drop with BFI
-%
22%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Blur (BFI function enabled):

Blur (4K@144Hz):

Blur ():

TCL P8K is one of the cheapest televisions offering a refresh rate of 144 Hz, which in itself is quite an advantage in this price segment. Thanks to the fast panel, this model can confidently be recommended to both sports fans and video gamers – the image is smooth, and the movement of the ball or dynamic actions look natural. However, this does not mean that the P8K is suitable solely for sports. On the contrary – it can also maintain appropriate dynamics in films without introducing the artificial effect of "theatricality", as long as we set the parameters wisely. The television is equipped with a motion smoother called "Motion Clarity", which features two sliders: blur reduction and judder reduction. The first is responsible for smoothing the image by generating additional frames, which increases fluidity, but may cause a slight soap opera effect. The latter, on the other hand, reduces judder and improves sharpness during movement, although it can slightly darken the screen. Properly adjusting these two parameters allows for a really good balance between natural motion and fluidity. It has a 60 Hz refresh rate, but it is hard to say that it is a top-tier panel in terms of response speed. It will perform well for dynamic content, although more demanding users will notice that it is not a screen from the highest class in terms of motion clarity.

The fluidity of motion has never been a strong point of televisions equipped with 60 Hz panels, and the Bravia 3 is no exception. Nevertheless, Sony has added something that may appeal to those more sensitive to the way images are displayed. We are talking about the proprietary motion smoother, Motion Flow, which offers users a considerable range of adjustment options. Thanks to it, one can make the image smoother, even theatrical, or stick to a more cinematic style with the characteristic judder that many simply associate with the filmic atmosphere. These functions work with content at lower frame rates, such as films and series recorded at 24 or 30 frames per second, which are the materials we encounter on a daily basis. It is here that the motion smoother proves to be one of the most important features in everyday use of the television, and this is where the Bravia 3 performs quite well.

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.8/10

4/10

  • ALLM
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR
    Yes
    No
  • VRR range
    48 - 240Hz
    No
  • Dolby Vision Game Mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • Correct implementation of HGIG
    Yes
    No
  • 1080p@120Hz
    Yes
    No
  • 1440p@120Hz
    Yes
    No
  • 4K@120Hz
    Yes
    No
  • Game bar
    Yes
    Yes

Although the TCL P8K is a budget television, it cannot be said that it is unsuitable for gaming. On the contrary – it is a screen that can pleasantly surprise any gamer. It features two HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing for 4K output at 120 Hz without any issues. For those gaming on a PC, they will also be pleased to know that the television can operate with a refresh rate of up to 240 Hz at a lower resolution – a small thing, but it delights. Additionally, it comes with a full set of gaming features: automatic game mode, Game Bar with quick parameter previews, VRR, HGiG, and support for Dolby Vision in games. All of this makes gaming on the P8K a truly enjoyable experience – the picture is smooth, the response is quick, and the television communicates well with next-generation consoles. The TCL P8K shows that a cheap screen doesn't have to mean giving up on fun. Certainly not in terms of gaming.

Bravia 3 is not equipment for e-sports enthusiasts or fans of night marathons with a controller in hand. The lack of 120 Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 ports closes the topic before it even has a chance to develop. This is a television for casual gamers who will play FIFA or racing games after work, not for someone who measures every frame in a spreadsheet. Nevertheless, Sony has added a few nice extras to ensure it’s not too sparse. ALLM works as it should, automatically switching the television to game mode (low latency). There’s even a simple Game Bar, which is clear. However, the biggest novelty here is the PlayStation Portal app. Thanks to it, you can launch PS5 games wirelessly and view them immediately on the television screen. It sounds great, but just a few minutes is enough to feel significant lag. In our opinion, it’s more of a showcase of capabilities than something that can be used every day. If someone really wants to play, it’s better to connect the console via HDMI cable and forget about wireless issues.

Input lag

9.5/10

10/10

SDR

1080p60
22 ms
12 ms
1080p120
13 ms
2160p60
22 ms
12 ms
2160p120
13 ms

HDR

2160p60
19 ms
11 ms
2160p120
10 ms
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
20 ms
11 ms
2160p120 DV

In terms of latency, the TCL P8K performs really well. In game mode at 4K and 60 Hz, the input lag is around 22 ms, and at 4K and 120 Hz it drops to 13 ms. These figures ensure that the television responds quickly and there is no noticeable 'lag' between the controller and the screen.

Here, the Bravia 3 shows its best side. Latencies drop below 12 milliseconds in almost every resolution and mode, so the response to controller movements is instantaneous and there is no feeling of delay. It feels as though the console and the television are speaking the same language, without unnecessary pauses or hesitations. The Dolby Vision Gaming mode is particularly noteworthy. In its predecessor, the X75WL model, using this feature was simply a pain – input lag could exceed 100 milliseconds, which effectively spoiled the enjoyment of gaming. In the Bravia 3, this issue has been completely eliminated.

Compatibility with PC

8.6/10

6/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
Yes
Font clarity
Very Good
Very Good
Readability of dark text and shapes
Good
Very Good
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
13ms
12ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
BGR
RGB
Max refresh rate
144Hz
60Hz
G-Sync
Yes
No
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Compatibility with PC
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Compatibility with PC

The TCL P8K also works excellently as a computer monitor. The readability of fonts is at a very good level, making work with documents and browsing the web simply comfortable. The only slight downside occurs when refreshing at 144 Hz in 4K – dark text on a light background can slightly lose sharpness. The problem disappears when switching to 120 Hz, so it's worth keeping this in mind for everyday use. Besides, it is not only a screen for work but also a great monitor for gamers. The 144 Hz refresh rate (and even 280 Hz at a lower resolution) combined with G-Sync synchronisation guarantees very smooth gameplay. Of course, we will fully appreciate its capabilities only with a suitably powerful computer, but the potential of the P8K in this role is truly significant.

The applied IPS matrix, combined with properly functioning support for chroma 4:4:4, ensures that the readability of fonts is at an excellent level. Letters appear sharp, regardless of the background colour or the content itself, so working with documents or browsing websites does not strain the eyes. In this role, the television easily deserves a very good, if not outstanding, rating, as there are not many models in this budget that perform as well. Of course, if we look at the Bravia 3 from a PC gamer’s perspective, the picture is not quite so rosy. We won't find G-SYNC or Free Sync frame synchronization with graphics cards, nor high refresh rates, so the television is not the best choice for fast-paced computer games. However, it performs excellently as a monitor for work, whether in a home office or a student room, and in this respect, it is truly hard to criticise.

Viewing angles

2.8/10

6.6/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
86%
75%

The Achilles' heel of the TCL P8K is undoubtedly its viewing angles. The VA panel used has its advantages in terms of solid contrast, but unfortunately, it suffers significantly when viewed from the side. Colours noticeably fade, saturation drops, and the overall image takes on a cooler, washed-out hue. In practice, this means that the best picture is achieved when sitting directly in front – any significant deviation results in a noticeable loss of quality.

Thanks to the use of an IPS matrix, colours do not lose intensity as quickly as in the case of screens based on VA panels. Even when watching television with a larger group, when some people sit at an angle, the image remains clear and does not appear washed out. Of course, it is not at the level offered by organic OLED matrices, where the image looks identical from almost any position, but for an LCD television, the viewing angles in the Bravia 3 are among the better ones. This provides a sense of comfort and freedom, especially in larger living rooms or during family viewings, where it is difficult for everyone to find a spot directly in front of the screen.

Daytime performance

4.6/10

4.9/10

Panel finish
Satin
Satin
Reflection suppression
Decent
Good
Black levels during daytime
Good
Good
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Daytime performance
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Daytime performance
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K Daytime performance
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 Daytime performance

Panel brightness

Average luminance SDR

SONY BRAVIA 3: 337 cd/m2

TCL P89K / TCL P8K: 299 cd/m2

TCL P8K does not cope well with strong sunlight. With brightness at around 300 cd/m², it is hard to expect it to perform well in a living room with large windows and no blinds. In such conditions, the image loses some sharpness, and darker scenes can disappear in light reflections. Fortunately, the screen has a satin coating that handles reflections well and saves the situation in typical home conditions. In the evening or in a slightly dimmed room, the television looks very good. It is simply not a device that prefers to be placed opposite a south-facing window.

Bravia 3 performs quite decently in the face of daylight. The satin coating on the panel effectively reduces reflections, and the colours do not lose their intensity when stronger external light hits the screen. As a result, in typical home conditions, with blinds open or in a living room with a larger window, the image maintains its clarity. However, it must be remembered that this is not a high-brightness television. Bravia 3 has no chance of competing with brighter models, so in very sunny rooms, there are moments when the screen simply does not stand out against intense light. In normal conditions, it will cope without problems, but in more challenging scenarios, one should not expect miracles.

Panel details

Backlight Type
PFS LED
PFS LED
Software version during testing
V8-0012T01-LF1V538.002459
6120600301
Image processor
MT5896 2,5GB RAM
MT5896 2,5 GB RAM

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity and thermal imaging:

Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV Panel details
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV Panel details

TCL P89K / TCL P8K

SONY BRAVIA 3

TV features

7.4/10

6.6/10

  • HDMI inputs
    2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 48Gbps
    4 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
  • Outputs
    Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
    Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
  • Network Interfaces
    Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps, Ethernet (LAN) 1Gbit
    Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
  • TV reception
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C

Classic features:

  • Recording to USB (terrestrial TV)
    No
    No
  • Recording programming
    No
    No
  • Picture in Picture (PiP)
    No
    No
  • RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    No
  • Teletext
    No
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • Bluetooth headphones support
    Yes
    Yes
  • Simultaneous Bluetooth headphones & TV audio
    Yes
    No

Smart features:

  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    No
  • Voice search
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    Yes
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review TCL P89K / TCL P8K TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features
Review SONY BRAVIA 3 TV features

SmartTV: Google TV

TCL P8K operates based on the Google TV system, which is the heart of the entire device. This is where the biggest advantage of this model over many competitors in a similar price range is visible. The system is clear and easy to use, and very well optimised. We can easily make use of the screen mirroring feature or the built-in Chromecast, which allows us to quickly transfer images from our phone to the large screen. The greatest asset, however, is the Google Assistant, which responds promptly and really understands commands well – even those expressed imprecisely. Moreover, the application library in Google TV is a real treasure – you can install practically anything, from major VOD platforms to lesser-known music or sports applications.

Classic features

As for classic television functions, the P8K doesn't have much to boast about. The remote is simple and convenient, with a large number of buttons, and the presence of Bluetooth allows you to connect wireless headphones or a speaker. And really, that’s where the list of conveniences ends. You won’t find USB recording, PiP functionality, or even working teletext here. TCL has clearly focused on modern content and internet features, rather than classic solutions known from older receivers. This television is meant to shine in the world of applications and streaming – and that’s exactly what it does.

Smart TV Features

The biggest advantage of the Bravia 3 in everyday use is the presence of the Google TV system. Thanks to it, we have access to one of the largest libraries of apps and streaming services, so regardless of whether someone mainly uses Netflix, Disney+ or smaller platforms, everything is within reach. The Google voice assistant also worked very well, managing to respond to our commands quite "cleverly". In theory, the Google TV system should operate very smoothly, as Sony has been implementing it better than many cheaper competitors for years. Unfortunately, in the case of the Bravia 3, it is not as great as we might have hoped. During testing, we noticed slight stutters in the interface, and some functions, such as screen mirroring, simply refused to work. One might get the impression that the processor in this model sometimes struggles to handle the demanding system, and not everything works as smoothly as we would expect.

Classic Features

Even in the cheapest series, Sony can remind us of its experience with various users. The set includes two remote controls. The first is modern and minimalist, with a small number of buttons, which works excellently for using apps and Google TV functions. The second is a classic remote with a richer set of keys and a numeric keypad, which will be especially appreciated by older people accustomed to traditional solutions. This is a nice nod towards different user groups, and it must be acknowledged that Sony has solved this very practically. It's a pity, however, that the ability to record content from TV tuners to USB memory has disappeared compared to the X75WL model. The manufacturer has completely eliminated this function, so if someone was attached to it, they will unfortunately not find it in the Bravia 3.

Playing files from USB

8.9/10

9.6/10

Supported photo formats:

JPEG
Yes
Yes
HEIC
No
Yes
PNG
Yes
Yes
GIF
Yes
Yes
WebP
Yes
Yes
TIFF
No
No
BMP
Yes
Yes
SVG
No
No

Maximum photo resolution:

4 Mpix
Yes
Yes
6 Mpix
Yes
Yes
8 Mpix
Yes
Yes
10 Mpix
Yes
Yes
12 Mpix
Yes
Yes
16 Mpix
Yes
Yes
20 Mpix
Yes
Yes
24 Mpix
Yes
Yes
28 Mpix
Yes
Yes
32 Mpix
Yes
Yes

Playing files from USB on the TCL P8K is quite decent. The television handles most popular video formats, as well as subtitles and audio files, without any issues. Problems may only arise with less common codecs or unusual file containers that the built-in player simply does not recognise. Fortunately, with Google TV, this is not a problem at all - in just a few moments, you can download an external player, such as VLC, MX Player or Kodi, and the issue disappears.

Here Sony has really done a great job. The built-in player works quickly and doesn’t “complain” when launching various formats. We didn’t have to reach for external applications like VLC, as the television handled even files that can cause quite a few problems on other models – such as HEIC photos from Apple devices. It's a small detail, but one that shows the manufacturer wanted the user to have a complete sense of convenience. By plugging a film onto a USB drive or holiday photos onto an external hard drive, you can simply connect them and start watching on the big screen right away. No fuss, no installing additional software, no searching for workarounds. This is truly a rarity in televisions, and it must be admitted that in this aspect, the Bravia 3 really pleasantly surprised us.

Apps

9.6/10

9.6/10

OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
OK
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
HBO_MAX
OK
Kodi
No
Apple_music
OK
Eleven_sports
No
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
No
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
OK
Steam Link
OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
OK
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
HBO_MAX
OK
Kodi
No
Apple_music
OK
Eleven_sports
No
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
No
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
OK
Steam Link

Sound

6.7/10

6.5/10

  • Maximum volume
    80dB
    88dB
  • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby True HD 7.1
    No
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus (JOC)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby True HD
    No
    No
  • DTS:X in DTS-HD MA
    Yes
    Yes
  • DTS-HD Master Audio
    Yes
    Yes

For a television in this price range, the TCL P8K really manages to surprise with its sound. The 2.1 system used here, branded by Onkyo, along with the subwoofer placed at the back of the casing, offers surprisingly enjoyable, full bass and quite a wide soundstage. The sound is warm, and with the right material, one can even get the impression that the audio gains depth and character – something you rarely expect from a television at this price. It performs quite well for music. However, it is not perfect. The P8K is not one of the particularly loud televisions – during tests, we noticed a strange tendency to automatically lower the volume, even with the volume slider set to maximum. It seems to be the effect of some internal limiter designed to protect the speakers (or our ears). It’s a shame, as the potential in this setup is considerable, and without this limitation, the sound could have been even fuller.

Bravia 3 plays in a rather flat manner, but makes up for it with loudness. It is perfectly suited for watching classic television, as the dialogues are clear and the mid tones are easily heard. This type of characteristic will be particularly appreciated by older users who primarily value speech intelligibility. However, if someone expects something more from the sound, like stronger bass or a wider soundstage, it is still worth reaching for a soundbar. The television supports modern codecs, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, so an external sound system can easily take advantage of their potential. This assures that with a relatively modest expense, one can achieve a much fuller and more engaging sound.

Sound Quality Test

No sound test video

Acoustic Measurements

80dBC (Max)

75dBC

88dBC (Max)

75dBC