Hisense’s extensive stand at CES 2023 it was packed with televisions; Unlike other brands, it had its entire 2023 lineup on display, with detailed specs listed for each series. All games should be available in the spring, which is the time when manufacturers usually start releasing new TVs.
Last year, Hisense introduced its first mini-LED models, the U8H serieswhich ended up on our list of best 4K TVs due to its great performance for the price. By 2023, the company will incorporate mini-LED backlighting across its entire premium line of ULED (quantum dot) TVs, with prices starting at less than $500 / £410 for a 50-inch model. Along with mini-LED backlighting, each series will use Google TV’s smart interface and offer gaming-focused features, including up to 144Hz refresh rate, VRR, ALLM, and FreeSync Premium Pro on all but U6K. Entry-level. All devices will also support the Wi-Fi 6E standard for fast streaming, along with Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ high dynamic range formats.
Something of interest to US viewers is incorporated ATSC 3.0 tuners found across the entire Hisense lineup. We expect to see more TVs in 2023 capable of handling this next-generation TV broadcast standard, which provides support for 4K video with HDR and Dolby Atmos audio, among other features. But of the new TVs announced at CES 2023, so far only LG has confirmed that its flagship G3 4K and Z3 8K models will have built-in ATSC 3.0 tuning capability.
ULED EX
The ULED EX (shown above) is Hisense’s flagship TV for 2023. Available only in an 85-inch screen size, its backlight comprises more than 20,000 mini-LED modules. Over 5,000 local dimming zones and a 16-bit light control algorithm are used to enhance contrast and shadow detail, and maximum brightness is specified at 2,500 nits. The ULED EX also has an ultra-low reflection screen and a 30% wider viewing angle than standard LED-backlit TVs, a first for a Hisense TV and something I was able to appreciate seeing it in person at CES.
The limited edition ULED EX has the most advanced built-in audio system to appear in 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 into mini-LED, and the new U8K models for 2023 double down on that technology with more than 1,000 local dimming zones. Peak brightness is listed at 1500 nits, but if the super-bright U8H model we tested in 2022 is any indication, it’ll turn out to be a conservative spec.
Available in screen sizes ranging from 55 to 85 inches (last year’s U8H series exceeded 75 inches), the U8K series TVs will feature an anti-glare, low reflection screen. A built-in 2.1.2 audio system with upward-firing speakers is another new addition, making it possible to listen to Dolby Atmos soundtracks without a separate soundbar. The U8H series also boasts IMAX Enhanced and Filmmaker picture modes, two other features found across the entire lineup of Hisense 2023 mini-LED TVs.
U7K series
Last year’s U7H series featured standard LED backlighting, but this year it’s fixed in the U7K series with mini-LED backlighting on all screen sizes and up to 500 local dimming zones with a specified maximum brightness of 1100 nits. The U7H series TVs will be available in screen sizes from 55 to 85 inches.
U6K series
Available in screen sizes from 50 to 85 inches, the U6K series will be Hisense’s high-value quantum dot model. They’ll also be priced affordably for mini-LED-backlit TVs, with the 50-inch version selling for less than $500. The U6K series will offer many of the same features found further up the line of Hisense TVs, with the main difference being that the display panel is limited to over 200 local dimming zones and a 60Hz refresh rate.
