The letter B matters when shopping for this Sony. The XR8B is a 2025 version of the BRAVIA 8 family, distinct from the QD-OLED BRAVIA 8 II. The XR8B offers a 77-inch option that the 8 II doesn't.
In depth
Sony BRAVIA XR8B review
Published
Best forBuyers who want Sony OLED, Dolby Vision and Google TV in up to 77 inches.
At a glance
- Display technology
- OLED
- Available sizes
- 55 inches65 inches77 inches
- Native resolution
- 3840 × 2160
- Native refresh rate
- 120 Hz
- HDR formats
- Dolby VisionHDR10HLG
Pros
- Individual OLED pixels allow bright subtitles against an unlit background.
- Dolby Vision, Google TV and a 77-inch option in one family.
Cons
- Only two inputs accept the highest supported gaming modes.
- A soundbar on the return-audio connection takes one of those inputs.
Display
- 4K OLED
- Dolby Vision / HDR10 / HLG
Per-pixel light control is particularly useful for a film with black bars and bright subtitles. There is no array of backlight zones to illuminate the space on either side of a letter. The XR8B uses Sony's XR processor. Measurements for the different BRAVIA 8 II panel don't establish the brightness or color of this screen.
Gaming
- 4K at 120 Hz
- VRR
- ALLM
A recent console can request the low-latency mode automatically and use variable refresh with compatible games. Connect it to HDMI 3 or 4 for the highest-bandwidth modes. HDMI 3 also serves eARC, so two fast consoles and a separate audio system need a passthrough input or another switching arrangement.
Smart TV
- Google TV
- Google Cast
- Apple AirPlay
Built-in apps and casting let occasional visitors put a clip on the screen without occupying a socket. That leaves the physical connections free for discs and gaming. If you already use the same streaming box throughout the house, it can stay in that familiar role.
Alternatives
For someone with a BRAVIA 8 already, moving to the XR8B at the same size largely repeats the proposition. The 8 II is the one to consider for a change to QD-OLED, provided 55 or 65 inches suits the wall. A 77-inch buyer has a concrete reason to keep the XR8B on the list.
Verdict
Choose the XR8B for the combination of OLED, size and Sony's software. Check the model code when comparing prices so that an 8 II demonstration doesn't set the expectation for an XR8B purchase.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
Manufacturer documentation
The specifications and features discussed in this review come from manufacturer documentation.
Sony US — Sony BRAVIA XR8B specifications / family documentation