The Hisense UR9 presents itself as a premium TV with numerous desirable features on paper. However, initial assessments suggest that in reality, it is a surprisingly lackluster RGB Mini LED performer, making it a notable miss if Hisense aims to make a strong impression in the RGB TV market.
**Design and Connectivity:**
The TV boasts an anti-reflection and anti-glare panel along with a hefty and heavy design. It offers three size options and connectivity includes three HDMI 2.1 inputs, a DisplayPort for PC gamers, and AirPlay streaming.
**Gaming Capabilities:**
For PC users, the UR9 is highly focused on gaming, featuring up to 180Hz refresh rates and a dedicated DisplayPort connection. Furthermore, it supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.
**Multimedia Features:**
The TV includes a solid sound system—a 4.1.2 setup tuned by Devialet—and incorporates full HDR support along with built-in Alexa. Connectivity also lists Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. Additionally, the User Experience differs by region, receiving VIDAA in the UK and Google TV in the US, with the Xbox app scheduled for later this year.
**Picture and Sound Performance:**
While listing an RGB panel and anti-reflection screen as key features, reviews indicate that the actual picture performance is underwhelming. Specifically, reports state it is not as bright as its specifications suggest, lacks sharpness and detail, and has colors that are not quite right. Upscaling also produces a slightly soft image, and SDR colors appear somewhat flat.
In terms of audio, the sound quality is described as having spacious performance and includes a built-in subwoofer.
**Analysis:**
The review highlights that while the focus on high refresh rates and the DisplayPort makes it an interesting choice for living room gaming, the overall image performance fails to match its potential. Critics note that the measurements suggest a capability the Hisense unit does not deliver in practice. Consequently, it is described as not being the best RGB TV or even considered an ‘OLED beater.’
The smart interface’s VIDAA system was specifically criticized for feeling bloated with components offering little utility. Ultimately, despite promising specs and advanced features like the Devialet sound system, reviewers conclude that at its listed price of £2999, the UR9’s performance does not compete effectively against high-quality OLED or RGB Mini LED rivals, making it a considerable stumble for Hisense.
Source: Trusted Reviews