Most consumers prioritize image quality when purchasing a TV. A popular belief in the industry is that "buying a TV starts with looking at the screen." Many people assume that a better screen means better picture quality, and this is often used as a key factor in their buying decisions. Retailers frequently highlight that their TVs use "original imported panels," such as LG or Samsung screens, which can be very appealing to buyers. However, once the TV is set up at home, many users don’t notice any significant difference.
The question arises: does a good screen guarantee excellent image quality?
**Quality isn't just about the screen**
Xiaomi TV 4 has seen impressive sales since its launch, becoming one of the most popular internet TVs. Known for being cost-effective, Xiaomi's TVs are no exception. Alongside high hardware specs, they also emphasize the use of original imported panels—like LG Display and Samsung screens—which resonates with many consumers.
Sony, on the other hand, is known for its commitment to picture quality. Despite producing its own screens, these are typically used in prototypes, military, or commercial applications, not in mass-produced TVs. Sony LCD TVs often use panels from Chinese manufacturers like Chi Mei, AUO, and China Star Optoelectronics. This shows that even top brands may not always use their own screens.
While Xiaomi and Sony both have strong market positions, Sony’s use of domestic panels doesn’t necessarily mean inferior image quality. The real secret lies in the TV’s image processing chip. Whether it uses domestic or imported panels, a powerful image processing chip is essential for achieving true color, clarity, and sharpness.
**What makes a TV’s image processing chip so important?**
Compared to the focus on LCD panels, TV image processing chips are less well-known. Not all manufacturers have the capability to develop their own high-quality chips, so they tend to focus on the screen itself. However, the role of the image processing chip in determining picture quality is just as critical—if not more—than the panel itself.
Think of the TV’s image processing chip as similar to a graphics card in a computer. It processes incoming video signals, enhancing clarity, reducing noise, improving color accuracy, boosting contrast, and handling motion compensation. Without a good chip, even the best panel might not deliver optimal performance.
**Don’t confuse ARM chips with image quality chips**
Some manufacturers use ARM chips instead of dedicated image processing chips. While ARM chips are designed for Android systems and basic video decoding, they lack the advanced processing power needed for high-quality image enhancement. Some ARM chips integrate basic image engines, but they are far from matching the performance of specialized TV chips.
Even with some integration, these chips still fall short of delivering the same level of optimization as a dedicated image processing chip. Real improvements require independent development, unique algorithms, and extensive R&D investment.
**Not all manufacturers can develop high-quality image chips**
Developing an effective image processing chip requires collecting vast amounts of video content to build a database. This data is then used to create optimized algorithms for different resolutions, colors, and image types. Only companies with strong technical capabilities can do this effectively.
Leading manufacturers like Sony, Samsung, LG, and Hisense have invested heavily in their own image processing technologies.
**Sony X1 Image Processing Chip (Advanced Version)**
Sony’s flagship TVs feature the advanced X1 image processing chip. It includes three core technologies: HDR dynamic object-by-object remapping, dual-image databases, and 4K HDR 14-bit smooth gradient technology. These enhance color, clarity, and HDR performance with precision.
**Samsung 8K AI TV Chip**
At the recent New York conference, Samsung introduced the world’s first 8K AI TV chip. Using Machine Learning Super Resolution (MLSR), it enhances low-resolution content by analyzing high and low versions, creating a database to optimize brightness, contrast, and resolution. This allows lower-resolution content to be upscaled to 8K.
**LG α9 TV Chip**
The LG α9 chip improves image processing and AI capabilities. It supports 120fps, reduces noise, separates foreground and background elements, and enhances color accuracy. It also supports voice commands and smart features, making it a versatile choice.
**Hisense Hi-View Pro TV Chip**
Hisense developed China’s first self-developed TV chip, Hi-View Pro. It significantly improves dynamic range, contrast, color gamut, and sharpness. This chip is widely used in Hisense’s high-end TVs and works with ULED technology to further enhance picture quality.
**In conclusion**
While the screen is important, the image processing chip plays a crucial role in determining overall picture quality. High-quality panels offer better backlight control and light transmission, but without a powerful chip, even the best panels may not perform optimally. The combination of a great screen and a strong image processing chip is what truly defines a high-quality TV experience.
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