Sony X90K vs X90L – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Sony X90L & Sony X90K share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Sony X90L rather than the Sony X90K

Why Do I Recommend The Sony X90L

  • The Sony X90L has enhanced local dimming zones for improved contrast precision and deeper blacks in both dark and mixed scenes, compared to the Sony X90K’s limited zone control.
  • Sony X90L features higher peak brightness for delivering punchier HDR highlights and better visibility in bright viewing environments, compared to the Sony X90K’s dimmer panel.
  • It includes the Game Menu with Black Equalizer, Crosshair, and Screen Size tools for real-time visual customization and faster access to gaming functions, which the Sony X90K lacks entirely.
  • The Sony X90L has a refined XR Contrast Booster 10 for more dynamic contrast mapping and accurate brightness adjustments compared to the Sony X90K’s XR Contrast Booster 5.
  • Sony X90L supports XR Clear Image processing for reducing noise and enhancing clarity during fast-moving scenes, while the Sony X90K lacks this feature.
  • It features a 3-way multi-position stand for better compatibility with soundbars and flexible furniture setups, compared to the Sony X90K’s limited 2-way stand.
  • The Sony X90L comes with a premium metal bezel design on larger models for a more luxurious appearance and improved durability, compared to the Sony X90K’s plastic-bezeled.
  • Sony X90L includes a newer version of Acoustic Center Sync for delivering more precisely aligned audio when paired with compatible Sony sound systems, compared to the Sony X90K’s basic integration.

Maybe the Sony X90K price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Sony X90L. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureSony X90LSony X90K
Panel TypeFull Array LED with enhanced dimmingFull Array LED
Dimming ZonesIncreased number of zonesFewer zones
HDR Peak BrightnessHigherLower
XR Clear ImageYesNo
Design MaterialMetal bezel (75″+), premium finishPlastic bezel
Bezel ThicknessThinnerSlightly thicker
Stand Design3-way2-way
Game MenuYesNo
Game EnhancementsBlack Equalizer, Crosshair, Screen SizeNot available
Input Lag (4K 120Hz)~8.5 ms~11 ms
XR Motion ClarityUpdated versionStandard version
XR Contrast BoosterXR Contrast Booster 10XR Contrast Booster 5
Calman ReadyAdvanced versionStandard version
Bravia Cam FeaturesAmbient Optimization Pro, gesture controlLimited integration
Audio FeaturesXR Surround, Acoustic Center SyncXR Sound Position
HDMI 2.1 Ports2 ports (same), enhanced gaming features2 ports (same), fewer gaming enhancements
Voice ZoomVoice Zoom 2Voice Zoom 1
Netflix Adaptive CalibratedYesYes
Size Variants55″, 65″, 75″, 85″, 98″55″, 65″, 75″, 85″
WeightSlightly lighter per modelSlightly heavier per model
Power ConsumptionSlightly more efficientSlightly higher
Price at LaunchHigher MSRPLower MSRP
Remote ControlPremium remote with backlight (75″+)Standard remote
PriceCheck Sony X90L PriceCheck Sony X90K Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Full Array LED with Cognitive Processor XR: Both models use Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR, which mimics human vision by cross-analyzing contrast, color, and detail across the screen for lifelike picture quality. Combined with full array local dimming, both deliver improved black levels and brightness uniformity.
  • 4K HDR Display with Triluminos Pro: Each model features 4K Ultra HD resolution with support for HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, delivering a vibrant high dynamic range experience. XR Triluminos Pro further expands the color palette to display rich and natural hues.
  • Motion and Upscaling Technologies: XR 4K Upscaling uses AI-based learning to enhance lower-resolution content. XR Motion Clarity ensures fast-paced scenes remain sharp and blur-free, ideal for sports and action movies.
  • Gaming Features and HDMI 2.1 Support: Both include 2 HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K at 120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and eARC—ensuring low input lag and optimal gaming performance on next-gen consoles.
  • Smart TV Platform: Running Google TV, both support a wide range of apps, voice control (Google Assistant and Alexa), Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, and HomeKit—making them highly versatile smart TVs.
  • Audio Enhancements: Both support Dolby Atmos and DTS Digital Surround, along with Acoustic Auto Calibration for tailoring sound output based on room acoustics. This ensures immersive and balanced audio regardless of placement.
  • Streaming & Calibration Support: Netflix Calibrated Mode is present on both models to replicate studio-quality visuals during Netflix playback. They are also Calman Ready, allowing professional-grade color calibration for precise accuracy.
  • Design and Connectivity: Both models are wall-mountable, compatible with Bravia Sync (HDMI-CEC), and work with Sony’s Bravia Cam for future-facing features like gesture control and video calls (sold separately). They also include voice-enabled remote controls.

Common Features

FeatureSony X90LSony X90K
Display TypeFull Array LEDFull Array LED
Resolution4K UHD4K UHD
HDR SupportHDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionHDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision
Picture ProcessorCognitive Processor XRCognitive Processor XR
XR Triluminos ProYesYes
XR 4K UpscalingYesYes
XR Motion ClarityYesYes
XR ContrastYesYes
HDMI 2.1 PortsYesYes
VRR / ALLM / eARCYesYes
Google TV OSYesYes
Chromecast Built-inYesYes
Apple AirPlay 2YesYes
Apple HomeKitYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportGoogle Assistant, AlexaGoogle Assistant, Alexa
Netflix Calibrated ModeYesYes
Dolby AtmosYesYes
DTS Digital SurroundYesYes
Acoustic Auto CalibrationYesYes
Ambient OptimizationYesYes
Bravia Cam CompatibleYesYes
Game Mode (Auto Low Latency)YesYes
Calman ReadyYesYes
Works with Bravia SyncYesYes
Voice Remote IncludedYesYes
Wall MountableYesYes
Price Check Sony X90L Price Check Sony X90K Price

FAQ

Does the Sony X90L have better brightness than the X90K?
Yes, the Sony X90L has noticeably higher brightness levels in both HDR and SDR content, which leads to more vibrant highlights and better daylight viewing.

Are both the Sony X90L and X90K equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports?
Yes, both models include two HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K at 120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and eARC, making them suitable for next-gen gaming consoles.

Do the Sony X90L and X90K have the same resolution?
Yes, both models have a native 4K UHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels.

Is the Game Menu available on both models?
No, the Game Menu is a new feature exclusive to the Sony X90L, providing quick access to gaming settings such as Black Equalizer and Crosshair overlays.

Can both the X90L and X90K use the Bravia Cam?
Yes, both models are compatible with the Bravia Cam accessory, but the X90L has deeper integration with features like Ambient Optimization Pro and gesture controls.

Do both models run on the same smart TV platform?
Yes, both the Sony X90L and X90K run on Google TV, which supports apps, voice assistants, Chromecast built-in, and Apple AirPlay 2.

Is there a difference in audio technology between the two?
Yes, the X90L includes improved XR Surround and better support for Acoustic Center Sync, while the X90K relies on standard XR Sound Position.

Which model has lower input lag for gaming?
The Sony X90L has slightly lower input lag, around 8.5 ms at 4K 120Hz, compared to the X90K’s approximate 11 ms.

Do both support Dolby Vision and HDR10?
Yes, both TVs support HDR formats including Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, enabling a wide dynamic range experience.

Are there differences in design between the X90L and X90K?
Yes, the X90L features a slimmer profile with metal bezels on larger sizes and a 3-way stand, while the X90K uses plastic bezels with a 2-way stand.

Can both models be wall-mounted?
Yes, both the X90L and X90K are VESA-compatible and can be wall-mounted using appropriate brackets.

Do the Sony X90L and X90K support voice control?
Yes, both models support Google Assistant and Alexa for voice commands via the remote or paired smart devices.

Is Netflix Calibrated Mode available on both models?
Yes, both the X90L and X90K include Netflix Calibrated Mode to optimize picture settings specifically for Netflix content.

What sizes are available for the X90L and X90K?
The Sony X90L is available in 55″, 65″, 75″, 85″, and 98″ sizes, while the X90K comes in 55″, 65″, 75″, and 85″, lacking the 98″ variant.

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