TV Comparisons
Sony S30 series vs Sony X77L series: Which One Should You Buy?
The Sony BRAVIA 3 and X77L are closely related entry-level 4K Google TVs with direct LED backlights, native 60 Hz panels and Sony's strong upscaling. The BRAVIA 3 is the more complete television, delivering richer color in the side-by-side comparison, better shadow detail, Dolby Vision, fuller built-in sound and an extra HDMI input. The X77L remains a sensible value when it is substantially less expensive, especially for everyday streaming and cable viewing.
Sony BRAVIA 3 vs X77L: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
The Sony BRAVIA 3 and X77L are closely related entry-level 4K Google TVs with direct LED backlights, native 60 Hz panels and Sony's strong upscaling. The BRAVIA 3 is the more complete television, delivering richer color in the side-by-side comparison, better shadow detail, Dolby Vision, fuller built-in sound and an extra HDMI input. The X77L remains a sensible value when it is substantially less expensive, especially for everyday streaming and cable viewing.
| Feature | S30 series | X77L series | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall picture presentation | BRAVIA 3: Warmer image with richer color and better shadow detail | X77L: Cooler, whiter image with stronger-looking contrast in some scenes | Its richer colors and improved shadow detail produced the more natural movie presentation. |
| Viewing angles | BRAVIA 3: Appeared similar in the 55-inch comparison | X77L: Appeared similar in the 55-inch comparison | No meaningful viewing-angle advantage was observed. |
| Screen uniformity | BRAVIA 3: Consistent image without distracting blotchiness in the test sample | X77L: Consistent image without distracting blotchiness in the test sample | Both review units appeared uniform across the screen. |
| Upscaling | BRAVIA 3: 4K X-Reality PRO; strong low-resolution processing | X77L: 4K X-Reality PRO; strong low-resolution processing | Tech Steve found both televisions highly effective at improving lower-resolution content. |
| HDR formats | BRAVIA 3: HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision | X77L: HDR10 and HLG | Dolby Vision provides broader compatibility with HDR movies and streaming content. |
| Native refresh rate | BRAVIA 3: 60 Hz at 3840 x 2160 | X77L: 60 Hz at 3840 x 2160 | Both use native 60 Hz panels and accept a maximum of 4K at 60 Hz. |
| Gaming capabilities | BRAVIA 3: ALLM, no VRR and no 4K120 | X77L: ALLM on HDMI 3, no VRR and no 4K120 | Core performance is similar, but the BRAVIA 3 offers ALLM across all four HDMI inputs and supports Dolby Vision Game. |
| HDMI connectivity | BRAVIA 3: Four HDMI inputs with eARC | X77L: Three HDMI inputs with eARC | The additional HDMI input makes it easier to connect multiple consoles and media devices. |
| Built-in sound | BRAVIA 3: 20 watts, Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos | X77L: 20 watts and Dolby Audio | It sounded fuller in the audio comparison and adds Dolby Atmos compatibility. |
| Smart platform | BRAVIA 3: Google TV, Chromecast, AirPlay and built-in microphone | X77L: Google TV, Chromecast, AirPlay and voice remote | Both have the same core streaming platform, but the BRAVIA 3 adds hands-free voice hardware and newer wireless connectivity. |
| Value | BRAVIA 3: More features and stronger movie presentation at a higher price | X77L: Fewer features but a potentially lower purchase price | The better value depends on the current price difference and whether Dolby Vision, fuller sound and the fourth HDMI input matter to the buyer. |
BRAVIA 3
Sony's BRAVIA 3 adds richer color processing, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, four HDMI inputs and broader ALLM availability to an entry-level 4K Google TV platform.
Key technology
4K HDR Processor X1Sony picture processor used to adjust color, contrast, clarity and HDR presentation.
TRILUMINOS PROSony color-processing technology intended to reproduce a wider and more finely differentiated range of colors.
4K X-Reality PROProcesses and upscales lower-resolution video toward the television's 4K output resolution.
Motionflow XR 240Sony motion-processing system used with the native 60 Hz panel; the XR 240 label does not indicate a 240 Hz native panel.
Auto HDR Tone Mapping for PlayStation 5Allows a compatible PlayStation 5 to tailor its initial HDR tone-mapping setup to the television.
Auto Genre Picture Mode for PlayStation 5Automatically changes between game-oriented and cinema-oriented picture behavior with compatible PlayStation 5 content.
Buyer advantages
- BRAVIA 3 produced richer color and better shadow detail in the side-by-side comparison
- Both televisions delivered strong upscaling for lower-resolution sources
- BRAVIA 3 supports Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and four HDMI inputs
- Both include Google TV, Chromecast, AirPlay, ALLM and PS5 Auto HDR Tone Mapping
- X77L preserves the core Sony viewing experience at a potentially lower price
Things to consider
- Both televisions are limited to 60 Hz at 4K
- Neither model supports VRR or 4K at 120 Hz
- Both use Frame Dimming rather than independently controlled local-dimming zones
- X77L lacks Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
- Fixed outside-position feet require relatively wide furniture on larger sizes
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43"K-43S30 | — | 200 x 200 | 28.25 in | 4.9–6.7 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 50"K-50S30 | — | 200 x 200 | 28.25 in | 5.7–7.8 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 55"K-55S30 | — | 300 x 300 | 40.5 in | 6.3–8.6 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 65"K-65S30 | — | 300 x 300 | 46.38 in | 7.4–10.1 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 75"K-75S30 | — | 300 x 300 | 52.76 in | 8.6–11.7 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 85"K-85S30 | — | 400 x 400 | 60.38 in | 9.7–13.2 ft | Check price ↗ |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker System2-channel bass-reflex speaker system with X-Balanced full-range speakers
Speaker Count2
Woofer Count0
Included SubwooferNo
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts20 W
Dolby AtmosYes
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Audio, Dolby Atmos
DTS SupportNo
Voice AssistantsGoogle Assistant
Optional AccessoriesCompatible Sony wall-mount bracket; exact bracket depends on size and region
Connectivity
HDMI Ports4
HDMI Inputs4
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs1
AirPlayYes
ChromecastYes
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
VRRNo
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyLCD with direct LED backlight
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingNo
HDR FormatsHDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches37.95 x 22.17 x 2.72 in
Weight Without Stand lb21.9 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches44.06 x 25.55 x 2.76 in
Weight Without Stand lb26.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.54 x 28.07 x 2.83 in
Weight Without Stand lb35.3 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches57.17 x 32.91 x 2.83 in
Weight Without Stand lb47.2 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches66 x 37.88 x 2.88 in
Weight Without Stand lb69 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.88 x 43 x 2.88 in
Weight Without Stand lb96.1 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemGoogle TV on the Android TV platform
Processor4K HDR Processor X1
Specifications
Screen Sizes43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 85
VESA By Size43": 200 x 200 mm, 50": 200 x 200 mm, 55": 300 x 300 mm, 65": 300 x 300 mm, 75": 300 x 300 mm, 85": 400 x 400 mm
Stand Width By Size43": 28.25, 50": 28.25, 55": 40.5, 65": 46.38, 75": 52.76, 85": 60.38
Stand Depth By Size43": 10.5, 50": 10.63, 55": 13.25, 65": 13.25, 75": 16.25, 85": 18
Picture Modes SDRVivid, Standard, Movie Theater, Game, Graphics, Photo, Professional
Picture Modes Dolby VisionDolby Vision Vivid, Dolby Vision Bright, Dolby Vision Dark, Dolby Vision Game
X77L
The X77L provides Sony's 4K processing, Google TV and basic PS5 integration at a value-oriented price, but it lacks Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and 4K120.
Key technology
4K Processor X1Sony picture processor used for image clarity, color and contrast processing.
4K X-Reality PROProcesses and upscales lower-resolution video toward the television's 4K output resolution.
Live Color TechnologySony color-enhancement processing used to increase color vividness.
Motionflow XR 240Sony motion-processing system used with the native 60 Hz panel; the XR 240 label does not represent a 240 Hz native refresh rate.
Auto HDR Tone Mapping for PlayStation 5Allows a compatible PlayStation 5 to tailor its initial HDR tone-mapping setup to the television.
Auto Genre Picture Mode for PlayStation 5Automatically changes between game-oriented and cinema-oriented picture behavior with compatible PlayStation 5 content.
Buyer advantages
- Sony's 4K X-Reality PRO processing delivered impressive upscaling from low-resolution material, helping cable and older video look cleaner on the 4K screen.
- Uniformity and viewing-angle performance appeared closely matched with the BRAVIA 3 in the 55-inch comparison.
- The cooler, whiter presentation may appeal to shoppers who prefer a brighter-looking image over the BRAVIA 3's warmer tone.
- Google TV, Chromecast and AirPlay provide broad access to streaming and mobile-device casting.
- ALLM, eARC and PlayStation 5 Auto HDR Tone Mapping provide useful basic gaming and home-theater integration.
- It is a practical value option when discounted substantially below the BRAVIA 3.
Things to consider
- Dolby Vision is not supported, reducing HDR format compatibility for movies and streaming.
- Only three HDMI inputs are provided, and ALLM is associated with HDMI 3 rather than every input.
- Dolby Atmos and DTS are not supported, giving it fewer audio-format options than the BRAVIA 3.
- The native panel and maximum verified refresh rate at 4K are limited to 60 Hz, with no 4K120 support.
- VRR is not supported, so the television cannot synchronize its refresh rate with fluctuating game frame rates.
- Frame Dimming does not provide independently controlled local-dimming zones.
- The fixed outside-position feet cannot be moved inward, which can complicate placement on narrow furniture.
Sizes, mounting and buying details
| Size / model | Peak HDR | VESA | Feet width | Viewing distance | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43"KD-43X77L | — | 200 x 200 | 28.25 in | 4.9–6.7 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 50"KD-50X77L | — | 200 x 200 | 28.25 in | 5.7–7.8 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 55"KD-55X77L | — | 300 x 300 | 40.5 in | 6.3–8.6 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 65"KD-65X77L | — | 300 x 300 | 46.38 in | 7.4–10.1 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 75"KD-75X77L | — | 300 x 300 | 52.88 in | 8.6–11.7 ft | Check price ↗ |
| 85"KD-85X77L | — | 400 x 400 | 60.75 in | 9.7–13.2 ft | Check price ↗ |
Complete specifications
Audio
Speaker System2-channel bass-reflex speaker system with X-Balanced full-range speakers
Speaker Count2
Woofer Count0
Included SubwooferNo
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts20 W
Dolby AtmosNo
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Audio
DTS SupportNo
Voice AssistantsGoogle Assistant via voice remote
Optional AccessoriesCompatible Sony wall-mount bracket; exact bracket depends on size and region
Connectivity
HDMI Ports3
HDMI Inputs3
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs1
AirPlayYes
ChromecastYes
Design & Installation
Wall Mount IncludedNo
Gaming
Native Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
VRRNo
ALLMYes
Picture
Display TechnologyLCD with direct LED backlight
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingNo
HDR FormatsHDR10, HLG
Size Details
Dimensions Without Stand Inches38.27 x 22.32 x 2.76 in
Weight Without Stand lb20.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches44.33 x 25.71 x 2.76 in
Weight Without Stand lb26.7 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches49 x 28.5 x 2.88 in
Weight Without Stand lb33.8 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches57.63 x 33.25 x 2.88 in
Weight Without Stand lb45 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches66.5 x 38.25 x 2.88 in
Weight Without Stand lb67 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.88 x 43 x 2.88 in
Weight Without Stand lb100.9 lb
Smart Features
Operating SystemGoogle TV on the Android TV platform
Processor4K Processor X1
Specifications
Screen Sizes43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 85
VESA By Size43": 200 x 200 mm, 50": 200 x 200 mm, 55": 300 x 300 mm, 65": 300 x 300 mm, 75": 300 x 300 mm, 85": 400 x 400 mm
Stand Width By Size43": 28.25, 50": 28.25, 55": 40.5, 65": 46.38, 75": 52.88, 85": 60.75
Stand Depth By Size43": 10.5, 50": 10.63, 55": 13.25, 65": 13.25, 75": 16.38, 85": 17.88
Picture Modes SDRVivid, Standard, Theater, Game, Graphics, Photo, Custom
Which one should you buy?
The BRAVIA 3 is the stronger all-around choice for movie fans and shoppers with several HDMI devices. Its richer color, improved shadow detail, Dolby Vision support, Dolby Atmos compatibility, four HDMI inputs and fuller speakers provide practical upgrades over the X77L. Its tradeoffs are the same core limitations found on the less expensive model: a native 60 Hz panel, no VRR, no 4K120 and no zone-based local dimming. The X77L is the better budget buy when discounted significantly. It retains Sony's effective upscaling, Google TV, AirPlay, Chromecast and basic PS5 integration, but gives up Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and one HDMI input. Buy the BRAVIA 3 for the more complete movie and everyday entertainment package; buy the X77L when price matters more than expanded HDR, connectivity and audio features.
Last 24 hours
Most viewed today
See what Tech Steve viewers are researching right now.
Hisense U8K Calibrated HDR and SDR Picture Settings
Hisense · Television Reviews
7 views today
TCL QM7K vs TCL QM7L: Which One Should You Buy?
TCL · TV Comparisons
5 views today
Samsung U8000F Review Draft: Affordable 4K TV With Solid 60Hz Gaming
Samsung · Television Reviews
5 views today
Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Review Draft: Picture Modes, Blooming and 144Hz Gaming Features
Amazon · Television Reviews
4 views today
Sony BRAVIA 9 II XR90M2 Deep Dive: Premium RGB LED Performance
Sony · Television Reviews
4 views today
Hisense U8QG USB-C DisplayPort Explained: Cables, Direction and Gaming Limits
Hisense · Television Reviews
4 views today
Hisense U7SG Review: Bright Mini-LED Performance and Serious 165Hz Gaming
Hisense · Television Reviews
3 views today
Samsung QN80H Neo QLED Review: A Strong Mid-Range Mini LED TV
Samsung · Television Reviews
3 views today
Samsung QNxxQ60DAFXZA vs Samsung QNxxQ60CAFXZA: Which One Should You Buy?
Samsung · TV Comparisons
3 views today
Sony BRAVIA 3 Review: Strong Sony Color With Entry-Level Limitations
Sony · Television Reviews
3 views today
Join the discussion
Express your opinion
Share your experience, questions or buying advice with the Tech Steve community.
Log in or create a free account to share your opinion and star rating.
See something incorrect? Email Tech Steve ↗
Be the first to rate this product.