All you need to know 4K TV in 2015

If you are not an electronics fanatic or tech blog writer, chances are you might not be very sure whether you are making the best decision when it comes to getting the most value out of your TV purchasing budget. And here comes the 4K TV, boasting ultra high visual display, next generation viewing experience, and “clearer than real life” graphics for TV, movies, and video games. We all know the tech sector roll out “groundbreaking” product that can “revolutionize” your life about every two weekends, how do we know for sure 4K is not another Google Glass (which is dying), and is worth your investment? In this short diagnostic I will give a dummy-proof evaluation of the current 4K TV scene, and help you decide whether 4K is suitable for your needs.

What Is 4K TV? What about UHD?

4K TV is the next step-up in resolution of flat-screen displays with 4 times the pixels count than the current mainstream, 1080p TV. Ultra High Definition (UHD) TV is yet another branding alias for 4K TV.

Technically, 4K stands for the 4096*2160 resolution that are currently featured on digital cinema, the 4K TV are really 3840*2160  in resolution, which is exactly double the pixels count of 1080p TV (1920*1080). 4K just sounds way more bossier than 2160p.

Why do I want one?

Although commercial 4K TV has been around since 2013, at 2015 we are perhaps at a sweet spot to go 4K. Industry giants like Samsung, Sony, LG and Vizio are fighting over the market with stunning models at a fraction of the 2013 price. Back then UHD was almost a content-less gimmick, more suitable for showroom than living room, as more and more UHD movies and TV shows on offer from all over, it is getting harder to justify purchasing an 1080HD TV.

Clarity took a leap from HD to 4K. 4K offers sharper, detailed pictures making them even better for sport, natural documentaries and blockbuster movies. The true growth in 4K content comes from the rapidly developing content selection online, with Netflix and Amazon Instant Video leading the charge. Screens with varies size will also attract apex gamers on PC and consoles alike.

Besides from unparalleled clarity and performance, 4K sets that has a curved screen can be quite an impressive living room centre-piece.

What features should I look for in 4K? 

Better than real life - HDR

High dynamic range is frequently utilized by high end camera and recent smartphone apps for higher quality photography. HDR video though, captures darker shadwos and brighter whites during production.

HDR actually changes the picture. The enhanced colors become more vibrant, hues are exaggerated, contrast become stronger, creating the "sharp and crisp" sensation. In terms of brightness, HDR TVs are 2.5 times more luminous than normal model, making outdoor scenes more realistic. 4K increases the resolution quality of the picture being shown, HDR increases the colors, contrast and all around realism.

Up to speed - HDMI 2.0

HDMI 2.0 allowed for 4K resolution at higher frame rates at the 50p and 60p range. This is particularly useful for fast-paced, action-packed programs such as live sports broadcasts.

4K Video viewing - HEVC Decoding

The file sizes of 4K videos are understandably larger, making them difficult to transmit and store. High Efficiency Video Codec (HEVC) has been developed to make file sizes smaller, delivering similar image quality with a compression thats almost twice as efficient.

What to watch - Netflix 4K, Sony Video Unlimited 4K, BT Sport Ultra HD

Native 4K content are on the rise, the volume certainly hasn't reach the level of 1080 content yet, but the growth trend has been set. Netflix is expanding their 4K content, offering more TV series and movies in the new resolution. The Sony Video Unlimited 4K downloading service has first launched in US, promises to be the world's first network service to give access to a constantly updated library of 4K media contents. Sports fans will tune into BT Sport Ultra HD, an European based UHD sport channel for 4K sport live board cast.

Best Value Picks 

If you previously doubted whether 4K is coming to stay, it does now look like the "next generation" resolution had made the breakthrough and is gaining momentum. It has become a real consideration for when you buy your next TV. 4K screens are cheaper than ever in all kind of sizes, and most importantly, 4K content is a burgeoning category that major content producers are fighting to push out more materials.

It is our understanding that for a developing product line, high end, top notch product will meet the heaviest price depreciation once production cost decrease, driving the new technology product line's price down. We recommend to you 4 mid-range, industry acclaimed TVs (three UHD/4K, one OLED/1080p) that are known to packed with most features and quality for the sweetest price tag. All of which deliver the necessary picture performance for UHD and 4K content without breaking the bank.

1.Vizio M series

"All aboard to the value town"

source: CNET

Screen size: 43-inch (M43C1) to 80-inch(M80C3) | Resolution: UHD 4K | Panel technology: LCD | Smart TV: VIA Plus | Curved: No | Refresh rate: 120 Hz or 60 Hz

Pros The Vizio M series is one of the least-expensive 4K TVs current on the market. It is capable to deliver true, rich black levels and outstanding contrast for an LCD TV. Solid color accuracy, solid video processing ability, extremely low video game processing lag compare to other models. The TV feature set is not bloated with dozens of miscellaneous features you will never use. 5 4K compatible HDMI (one 2.0 inputs) provides excellent connectivity. 

Cons Compare to other more costly models, Vizio is a little behind in terms of video processing and accuraate color. Without picture setting calibration display experience could be subprime. Only one HDMI input is compatible both HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2.

Summary The Vizio M series is really at a sweet spot for price and perks, unmistakably, a leader in high value 4K TVs.

2. Samsung UNJU7100 series

"User Experience is king"

source: CNET

Screen size: 40-inch (UN40JU7100) to 80-inch (UN80JU7100) |  Resolution: UHD 4K | Display technology: LCD | Smart TV: Tizen | Refresh rate: 120 Hz | 3D technology: Active

Pros One of the least-expensive model from the industry leader's 4K lines. True local dimming which is a feature that has great effect on picture quality. Deep black levels, high color accuracy, top notch video processing capability. User-friendly smart TV system and remote. Cutting-edge connectivity. Strikingly design. 

Cons Still not entirely budget friendly. Some cheaper competitions can provide better overall picture quality.

Summary This model operates on the same level of picture quality as models in next price level. Stellar user experience and exterior design justify its value.

3.Sony XBR-X900B series

"Come for the 4K, stay for the speaker"

source: CNET

Screen size: 55-inch and 65 inch |  Resolution: UHD 4K |Display technology: LCD | Smart TV:Sony 4K Unlimited | Curved: No | 3D tech: Active | Glass: Included (2) | Refresh Rate: 120 Hz |

Pros Superb 4K picture quality, capable of beating many more pricy models. Luxurious built-in sound system that can excuse you from budgeting for an external sound system. Optional subwoofer greatly enhance the already great audio experience. Optional Sony's video player offers significantly more 4K content than other brands of TV.

Cons Because of the speakers, this 65-inch is more expensive than most 65-inch 4K. 3D image is borderline unworthy.

Summary If you are not crazy over 3D experience at home, Sony's XBR-X900B will reward you with the best combination of audio and video quality you've ever experience. 

4. LG 55EC9300

"Future Tech"

source: CNET