Sony BRAVIA 8 II 65 Inch QD OLED 4K Smart Google TV Review

With the 2025 BRAVIA 8 II, Sony positions a bold statement in its OLED lineup. While it carries the “8” branding, this model is more than a mid-tier update — it effectively replaces the prior A95L flagship in many markets and brings new QD-OLED panel improvements, AI processing, and tighter integration for console gamers.

For those who want the ideal balance of cinematic image quality, smart features, and seamless console integration — especially for PlayStation 5 — the BRAVIA 8 II is among the most compelling 65″ premium TVs of 2025.

In this review, we look at how it performs in picture, sound, gaming, smart functions, design, and value.

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Sony BRAVIA 8 II 65 Inch TV, QD OLED, 4K Smart Google TV, XR Processor…

PURE BLACK AND OUR HIGHEST OLED BRIGHTNESS: Over 8 million self-lit pixels are precisely controlled to produce pure black with our highest OLED brightness.
BILLIONS OF REAL-WORLD COLORS: See billions of accurate real-world colors with a Quantum Dot panel and XR Triluminos Max.

Key Specifications & Features

Here are the major specs and feature highlights for the Sony BRAVIA 8 II 65″ QD-OLED (K-65XR80M2 / XR80M2):

Feature	Detail
Display Type	QD-OLED (quantum dot OLED) — self-lit pixels enhanced with quantum dot color
Screen Size / Viewable	65 inches diagonal
Resolution	4K UHD (3840 × 2160)
Refresh Rate	120 Hz native
Processor / AI	Sony XR Cognitive Processor (latest generation)
HDR Formats Supported	Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
Gaming Features	HDMI 2.1 ports, VRR, ALLM, PS5 Auto HDR Tone Mapping, Auto Genre Picture Mode
Smart Platform	Google TV / BRAVIA XR smart system
Audio / Sound Technology	Acoustic Surface Audio+ (panel acts as speaker) with Dolby Atmos support
Design	Ultra slim bezels, minimal profile, high-end finish
Connectivity	Multiple HDMI ports (2 of which are full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1), eARC, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Brightness & Panel Enhancements	New generation QD-OLED panel with claims of higher brightness over A95L ● Over 8 million self-lit pixels ● Better highlight performance & color fidelity
Size Options	Available in 55″ and 65″ at launch

What’s New & Improved vs Previous Models

The BRAVIA 8 II uses a refined QD-OLED panel to deliver brighter highlights, more color volume, and better HDR impact than Sony’s older OLEDs. Indeed, press reviews note it is “25% brighter than A95L” under certain conditions.
Improved processing through the XR engine ensures smarter, more natural image adjustments, scene-based optimizations, and better upscaling.
Sony retains its strong support for Dolby Vision, a feature many OLED sets omit.
Integration with PlayStation 5 is emphasized: automatic HDR tone mapping, auto mode switching, and better synergy between console and display.
Design refinement: ultra-thin bezels, improved build, and premium aesthetics.

Image and Picture Quality

OLED Clarity & Contrast

As with any OLED, the strongest advantage is perfect blacks and infinite contrast, because each pixel can turn off entirely. The BRAVIA 8 II continues that tradition — dark scenes appear “ink black,” with no backlight bleed or gray haze.

On top of that, the QD-OLED implementation adds richer color depth and stronger brightness for highlights, allowing HDR scenes to “pop” more convincingly.

HDR Performance

HDR is a major battleground in modern TVs. The BRAVIA 8 II supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, giving you broad compatibility across streaming services, UHD Blu-rays, and broadcast content. The improved panel helps it deliver highlight brightness that feels more impactful than older OLEDs, although it still doesn’t match the absolute peak brightness of some Mini LED sets.

Upscaling & AI Enhancement

One of Sony’s strengths is how well it makes non-4K content look good. With the latest processing, the 8 II upscales lower resolution video using scene recognition, noise suppression, and edge sharpening. This makes streaming content, HD broadcasts, and older Blu-rays look surprisingly clean and detailed.

Motion & Sports

At 120 Hz, the panel handles motion well. Fast camera pans, sports, and action sequences maintain clarity. Sony’s motion interpolation and compensation help smooth judder in some cases. For sports fans, this means better viewing with fewer artifacts.

In extremely fast action, you may notice slight artifacts, but overall it competes well in its class.

Gaming & Console Integration

HDMI 2.1, VRR, ALLM

The BRAVIA 8 II includes at least two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K/120Hz input, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

These features make it ideal for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and high-end gaming PCs. The panel and processing combine to reduce input lag and deliver smooth, tear-free gameplay when properly configured.

PS5 Exclusive Features

Sony highlights some console-specific advantages:

Auto HDR Tone Mapping: The TV and PS5 coordinate to optimize HDR output when connected.
Auto Genre Picture Mode: The TV can switch between “Game” and “Cinema / Movie” based on the content type automatically, so you don’t have to manually change settings each time.

These features make the user experience more seamless for console gamers.

Competitive Gaming Performance

For esports and fast shooters, the 120 Hz refresh rate is solid, though not as extreme as 240+ Hz gaming displays. The 8 II is more designed as a hybrid TV/gaming display rather than an ultra-competitive monitor. That said, its image fidelity often gives it an edge in immersion for cinematic single-player and console gaming.

Sound & Audio Experience

Acoustic Surface Audio+

Sony retains its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, which uses actuators behind the screen to vibrate the panel and produce sound. This means dialog and sound effects appear to emanate directly from the image, creating a more immersive relationship between picture and audio.

Dolby Atmos Support

The TV supports Dolby Atmos, enabling more spatial, height-aware audio when supplied from compatible sources or external sound systems.

Recommendations for Audio Setup

While the built-in audio is impressive for a thin display, for full home theater experience, pairing with a high-quality soundbar or AV system is ideal. Sony’s own soundbars often integrate well with its TVs (e.g. S-Center Speaker mode) to let the TV act as the center channel.

Design, Build & Usability

Slim Bezels & Modern Aesthetics

The BRAVIA 8 II features ultra-slim bezels and a minimalist profile, designed to blend in when wall-mounted or placed on a stand. Its aesthetic aligns with premium living room expectations.

Connectivity & Ports

You’ll find:

Multiple HDMI ports, with two being full HDMI 2.1 capable
eARC support for high-end audio passthrough
USB ports, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Cable routing and mounting options to maintain a clean look

One common criticism: the number of full 2.1 ports is limited (only two), which might require strategic planning if you have multiple consoles and a PC.

Operating System & Smart Platform

Sony uses Google TV / BRAVIA XR smart interface, offering:

Wide app support (Netflix, Prime, Disney+, etc.)
Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay capabilities
Voice assistant support (Google Assistant, Alexa)
Smart suggestions and scene-based enhancements
Calibration and picture menu options for enthusiasts

The interface is polished, responsive, and rich in features.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the strengths and limitations of the Sony BRAVIA 8 II:

✅ Pros

Stunning image quality with QD-OLED brightness + perfect blacks
Dolby Vision + HDR10 + HLG support for broad HDR usage
Seamless integration with PS5 (tone mapping, auto modes)
Great upscaling and processing for mixed content
Acoustic Surface Audio+ with immersive pairing
Premium design, build, and smart features
Strong performance in darker viewing conditions

❌ Cons

Bright-room performance is good but not at top-tier Mini LED levels
Only two HDMI 2.1 ports — may limit flexibility for power users
As an OLED, some risk of burn-in for static UI elements over very long term
Built-in audio is good but not substitute for dedicated audio in serious setups

Who Should Buy the Sony BRAVIA 8 II 65″?

This TV is ideal for:

Movie lovers and cinephiles who prioritize color accuracy and subtle HDR over pure brightness numbers
PS5 owners and console gamers who want plug-and-play HDR + optimized features
Mixed households, combining streaming, gaming, sports, and cable content
Design- and brand-conscious buyers who want a premium look and experience

It’s less ideal for:

Rooms with intense ambient sunlight, where ultra-bright LED panels may edge ahead
Users needing many high-bandwidth HDMI devices simultaneously
Environments with static UI content over very long usage (though burn-in mitigations exist)

Final Verdict

The Sony BRAVIA 8 II 65″ QD-OLED is one of the most polished, purposeful premium TVs in 2025. It builds on Sony’s reputation for processing, cinema fidelity, and smart console synergy — especially for PlayStation 5. It doesn’t forego style either, with its sleek build and thoughtfully integrated features.

While not perfect for every lighting scenario, for those looking for a flagship-class OLED that can handle movies, gaming, and everyday use with elegance and intelligence — the BRAVIA 8 II is a top-tier choice.

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