Sony BRAVIA KDL-55HX853 Pro Reviews


In some respects, this next-gen Sony is not significantly different from the models launched during 2011. It offers from the same mediocre multimedia file support and suffers from crosstalk-addled 3D. But the brand has made a big step forward when it comes to 2D imaging performance, particularly motion resolution. In this respect, I’d say this set currently leads the field. If you want a great looking TV, optimised for sport in particular, look no further.

It appears that Sony is on the road to recovery. The KDL-55HX853 still has some rough edges that we’d like to see ironed out on future Sony LCD televisions, but that doesn’t stop it being the overall best LCD-based HDTV we’ve seen lately – much of the LED LCD competition has more severe kinks. Not only that, but it appears that the Japanese firm has finally woken up and realised how good its competition has gotten in the post-Trinitron days, and the KDL55HX853, for once, is not grossly overpriced. Deciding on a final rating was difficult. Our favourite similarly-priced display is still the Panasonic ST50 plasma series, which delivers exceptional value for money and picture quality, with truly inky blacks and outstandingly accurate colour. However, some people don’t like the light flicker that it features, preferring the more stable image of the LCD, and some people will also prefer an LCD-based TV for use in very bright rooms. (The fact that the Sony HX853 produces a full vertical resolution 3D image without the sometimes-half-resolution subfield drive mode used on our closest comparison display doesn’t hurt, either).

The KDL-55HX853 is a thoroughly welcome return to form from Sony and, what’s more, the once all-conquering giants of the TV world have managed to achieve a display of all round excellence at a price that should have their competitors seriously concerned. No longer are customers forced to pay premium prices just for the privilege of having the Sony logo adorning their TV. The Sony HX853 manages to pack in high quality pictures with convincing contrast performance, natural colour tones and top-notch picture processing for a sum that won’t break the bank. Perhaps the best thing of all is that Sony seem to have devoted plenty of resource in to producing a panel that doesn’t often offend with picture spoiling uniformity issues so common in LED TVs. It’s not perfect but the HX853 is certainly on the right path and at a level we would consider comfortably tolerable for most. The Badge award represents a bit of a conundrum, we'll admit it. Having scored the mid-range Panasonic Plasmas at Highly Recommended, it would be logical to score the HX853 at Recommended as we feel both the ST50 and GT50 have the edge over the Sony but we would certainly rate the HX853 over the Panasonic LED TVs that mostly scored a solid Recommended. We also realise that plasma technology isn't for everyone and has its own set of shortcomings and picture traits that some find intolerable. With all that in mind we think the Sony KDL-55HX853 is deserving of our Highly Recommended Award and it’s good to have you back Sony!

Sony's new HX850 has good picture quality for its price, performing better than similarly-priced LG and Samsung models in its default and calibrated settings. Apart from some minor issues with detail in dark areas, the HX850 handles both standard and HD video with aplomb. Sony's online features have not evolved in line with competitors, and its interface is beginning to look dated.

The Sony KDL-55HX853 is a really positive start for the company’s new range of TVs – we like this a lot