The X Series (2023) features Dolby Vision HDR support and runs on the Google TV UI.
Televisions can vary significantly in terms of pricing, and if you’re exploring the more budget-friendly options, Xiaomi is likely to catch your attention. While it may seem somewhat unconventional to refer to a television priced at over Rs. 60,000 as ‘affordable,’ it’s important to consider the relative perspective.
There exists a substantial demand for large-screen, feature-rich TVs that don’t carry exorbitant price tags. Among the latest entrants in this category is the Xiaomi X Series (2023) television lineup, now available in a 65-inch size variant with a price tag of Rs. 61,999 in India.
Featuring a capacious 65-inch Ultra-HD (3840×2160-pixel) display, support for Dolby Vision HDR, 30W speakers, and the Google TV user interface layered with Xiaomi’s Patchwall on top of the Android TV OS, this television offers an extensive feature set at a cost of less than Rs. 1,000 per diagonal inch of screen size. Is it the best 65-inch TV you can acquire at this reasonable price point? Discover the answer in this comprehensive review.
Design and Specifications of the Xiaomi X Series (2023) 65-inch Ultra-HD Smart TV
Xiaomi’s previous X series televisions have been available in sizes ranging from 43 inches to 55 inches, all boasting Ultra-HD (3840×2160-pixel) displays. In the 2023 series, the company introduces a new 65-inch option, expanding its lineup. It’s important to note that while this isn’t Xiaomi’s first 65-inch TV, it’s a new addition to this particular series. The TV under review is the 65-inch variant, priced at Rs. 61,999 in India.
As anticipated, the design closely resembles earlier models in the X series, and it’s offered in a single black color variant. The screen borders are slim and often go unnoticed during TV operation, with a slightly thicker and more pronounced border at the bottom. The Xiaomi logo is centered just above the module housing the indicator light and power button.
While it’s not an ultra-slim TV, it maintains a reasonably slim profile and will look aesthetically pleasing when mounted on a wall using a low-profile mounting kit.
Unlike the X Pro series launched earlier this year, the X Series (2023) lacks hands-free voice assistant functionality, and consequently, there is no built-in microphone in the TV itself. However, you can access Google Assistant through the remote, which includes a microphone for voice commands.
The TV offers three HDMI 2.1 ports (one supporting eARC), two USB type-A ports, an Ethernet port, an Optical audio port, and sockets for AV, 3.5mm audio, and antenna – all of which are standard for a TV in this price range. Due to its larger size and the placement of ports close to the center at the rear, accessing them can be a bit challenging when the TV is wall-mounted. Therefore, it’s advisable to complete the setup before wall-mounting.
The TV comes with stands included in the sales package, but a wall-mount kit is not provided. Xiaomi’s installation team can handle assembly and installation, regardless of your choice, but it’s important to coordinate with the technician regarding the type of wall-mount kit to be used and whether any additional charges apply.
Other noteworthy specifications include 2GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage dedicated to apps and app data, a quad-core A55 processor responsible for running the smart features and the Android TV operating system. The TV’s display offers a standard refresh rate of 60Hz.
It supports the Dolby Vision and HDR10 formats and relies on Bluetooth 5 and dual-band Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity. In terms of audio, the Xiaomi X Series (2023) TV boasts a 30W speaker system equipped with support for Dolby Audio, DTS:X, and DTS: Virtual X. Additionally, it offers Dolby Atmos passthrough support through the eARC enabled HDMI port.
Remote Control and Features of the Xiaomi X Series (2023) 65-inch Ultra-HD Smart TV
The remote control and feature set for Xiaomi’s larger televisions remain relatively consistent, and the 65-inch X Series (2023) TV adheres to this established pattern. The lightweight remote is compatible with various Xiaomi and Redmi TVs within the range, easily replaceable, and straightforward in its design.
Ongoing software enhancements have compensated for the absence of physical buttons, and the sales package includes AAA batteries for the remote.
The remote features dedicated hotkeys for popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and YouTube, in addition to the standard navigation pad and Android TV buttons, a Google Assistant button, and volume controls. It connects exclusively through Bluetooth and requires pairing (a quick and convenient process) when the TV is initially set up.
Other notable features of the Xiaomi X Series (2023) TV include Chromecast built-in and auto low-latency mode (ALLM). While it may not offer the same extensive feature set as the X Pro released earlier this year, the X Series (2023) provides a more cost-effective alternative for models of similar size while maintaining the core TV experience.
Software and Interface of the Xiaomi X Series (2023) 65-inch Ultra-HD Smart TV
Xiaomi has adhered to a rather consistent formula for its televisions, and while it may appear somewhat predictable, this approach has proven to be reliable. In line with the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy, much of this stability can be attributed to the software experience.
The X Series (2023) television range maintains the customary combination of Android TV featuring the Google TV user interface, along with the option to switch to Xiaomi’s own PatchWall UI.
Under the hood, the television runs on Android TV 11; however, it exhibits occasional performance struggles, particularly concerning the user interfaces and smart TV functionality. Even with a handful of basic apps installed, the TV’s navigation within the Google TV and PatchWall user interfaces can feel sluggish.
While a complete TV reboot temporarily improves performance, the issue tends to resurface after some time.
It’s worth noting that this performance concern seems to primarily affect the user interface itself. In contrast, platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube, known for their reliability in terms of performance, function smoothly on the TV. While some apps, like JioCinema, may experience occasional lag and stutter, overall, the TV remains functional and unproblematic once content is actively streaming.
The introduction of the Google TV user interface, initially seen on the Xiaomi X Pro series in 2023, is also present on the X Series (2023), marking a significant improvement over the previous stock Android TV UI. On the other hand, PatchWall maintains its familiar features, including curated categories and recommendations, which are carried over to the X Series (2023).
Performance of the Xiaomi X Series (2023) 65-inch Ultra-HD Smart TV
Xiaomi’s strong brand reputation, combined with its prominence in the smartphone industry, naturally piques the interest of TV buyers in this price range. Priced at Rs. 61,999 for the 65-inch variant, it stands as a competitive choice when compared to many other offerings in this segment.
Its compelling features and specifications, including Dolby Vision support, 30W audio output, and the Google TV user interface, make it an attractive proposition.
While the X Series (2023) exhibits minor differences in performance compared to the X Pro, these variances are unlikely to be noticeable in everyday use. It incorporates all the essential features and specifications, and its performance aligns favorably with most TVs in its price category. Typically, I have reviewed 55-inch TVs within this price range, so having a 65-inch option priced under Rs. 65,000 feels somewhat unique.
The Xiaomi X Series (2023) television offers ample Ultra-HD and high dynamic range content from various streaming platforms. The larger 65-inch screen size makes a notable impact, although it can pose challenges for lower-resolution content in terms of picture quality.
Nevertheless, the TV handles this efficiently through reasonable upscaling. It’s advisable to primarily consume Ultra-HD content for the best performance, and the Xiaomi X Series (2023) performs commendably for its price in this regard.
The Xiaomi X Series (2023) television supports Dolby Vision high dynamic range (although not the HDR10+ format), which enhances performance with compatible content from platforms like Netflix and Apple TV+. However, it’s worth noting that the Dolby Vision effect isn’t as pronounced on this TV as it is on high-end quantum-dot and OLED televisions. Still, you’ll notice a decent improvement in brightness and color vibrancy.
For instance, when watching Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, which benefits from Dolby Vision, the vibrant and extravagant visuals of locations like Knowhere (the Guardians’ city-spaceship headquarters) looked vivid and sharp, though some very bright colors and specific skin tones may appear slightly oversaturated.
Peak brightness is a concern on the Xiaomi X Series (2023) TV, as HDR content doesn’t provide a significant boost over standard dynamic range content. Fortunately, you won’t need to darken the room excessively for a good viewing experience; even with daylight in the room, the picture remains visible.
However, it’s important to be directly in front of the TV for the best viewing, as the screen becomes more reflective when viewing from off-center angles. Dimming the room lighting can significantly improve picture quality and color accuracy.
Ultra-HD content naturally displayed the highest level of sharpness and visual quality. Even content with an intentionally hazy look, like They Cloned Tyrone, appeared sharp on the Xiaomi X Series (2023) TV. However, the TV struggled with low-light scenes due to its relatively average black levels and noticeable grey undertone. Lower-resolution content, such as episodes of Barry, looked decent and was watchable without any significant issues.
That being said, don’t expect outstanding picture quality for lower-resolution content. There were instances where details appeared washed out, making the content seem older than it actually is. If a significant portion of your viewing consists of full-HD or lower-resolution content, a 65-inch Ultra-HD TV might not be the most suitable choice.
Xiaomi typically delivers good sound quality in its TVs, and the X Series (2023) is no exception. While it may not match the volume levels of the X Pro TV series, the X Series features a box speaker system with 30W of sound output. While it lacks Dolby Atmos support from the built-in speakers, this isn’t a significant drawback for most users.
The TV provides clear and audible sound even at moderate volumes, with ample room for adjustment to higher volumes if desired. The volume control is well-balanced, with minimal unpleasant volume spikes. Importantly, the TV supports Dolby Atmos pass-through, allowing you to connect to a compatible soundbar or speaker system to enjoy the benefits of Atmos sound if desired.
Conclusion
Xiaomi’s strategy of frequent product releases and a somewhat overlapping product range may appear confusing to some, but it is this diversity in the reasonably-priced large screen segment that serves as the company’s significant advantage. The Xiaomi X Series (2023) expands its already capable lineup by introducing a 65-inch variant while adhering to the current-generation and straightforward approach of the X series.
The TV’s drawbacks, such as a slightly sluggish user interface and issues with black levels affecting the viewing of dark content, are not major concerns. In all other aspects, this TV more than justifies its price, delivering a cost-effective experience that allows you to enjoy the advantages of a large TV without straining your budget.
If you desire additional features and HDR10+ compatibility, you might consider the X Pro TV series. However, for those seeking a 65-inch screen size, the X Series (2023) remains a compelling choice.