Hisense A7 Series 43-Inch 4K UHD Smart TV review with gaming features

Description

Unpacking the Hisense A7 Series 43-Inch Class 4K Smart TV

Testing the Hisense A7 Series 43-Inch Class 4K UHD Smart Google TV (43A7N) has been quite an adventure, and I’ve got a lot to share. From its brilliant display technology to the advanced gaming features, this TV certainly tries to tick all the right boxes. However, like any product, it has its quirks. Whether you’re into streaming, gaming, or just casual viewing, this TV offers a range of features that cater to a variety of needs.

Design and Build Quality

The sleek black finish and minimalist design of the Hisense A7 make it a stylish addition to any living room or entertainment space. The TV feels solid, and at 23.9 pounds, it’s relatively easy to set up. Its slim profile (2.9 inches thick) allows it to sit flush against the wall or on a stand without looking bulky. I also appreciated the built-in cable management, which keeps the setup clean and organized. However, the plastic construction of the stand feels a bit flimsy, and I’d recommend wall-mounting for added stability.

Picture Quality and Performance

The Wide Color Gamut technology with advanced phosphors is one of the standout features here. Colors are vivid and true-to-life, which is especially noticeable when watching nature documentaries or animated films. The 4K AI Upscaler is another impressive addition. Even older shows and movies are transformed into sharper, more detailed visuals, making this TV a great option for those who enjoy revisiting classics.

One of the features I tested extensively was Dolby Vision HDR, and honestly, it didn’t disappoint. It brings out incredible contrast, with deep blacks and bright highlights. Watching action-packed scenes felt immersive, almost cinematic. However, I did notice that in darker scenes, the TV sometimes struggles with maintaining detail in the shadows.

Audio Features

Audio quality often gets overlooked in TVs, but the DTS Virtual:X technology deserves some praise. It creates an immersive soundstage, simulating height and surround audio without needing extra speakers. While it’s not a replacement for a dedicated sound system, it does a decent job for casual viewing. Dialogues were clear, and there was enough bass to make explosions and action sequences feel impactful. That said, audiophiles might find the built-in speakers lacking in depth and might prefer to invest in a soundbar.

Gaming Performance

As someone who enjoys gaming, the Game Mode Plus was a delight to test. The combination of a 60Hz refresh rate, variable refresh rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) ensures a smooth and responsive gaming experience. I tested it with both a console and a PC, and the reduced input lag was immediately noticeable. Fast-paced games ran without stuttering, and there was no screen tearing, even during intense action scenes. However, competitive gamers might prefer a higher refresh rate for an even smoother experience.

Smart Features and Voice Control

Navigating through the Google TV interface was a breeze. It’s intuitive and organizes content from various apps and subscriptions in a user-friendly manner. What I found particularly handy was the voice remote. Saying “play the latest episode of [your favorite show]” or “increase the volume by 10” felt oddly satisfying. The voice recognition is accurate most of the time, though it occasionally struggles with less common commands.

The built-in Chromecast is another feature I used frequently. Sharing media from my phone or laptop to the TV was seamless, and it worked flawlessly with both Android and iOS devices.

Key Benefits

• Wide Color Gamut technology enhances color accuracy and vibrancy.
• 4K AI Upscaler makes older content look sharper.
• Game Mode Plus ensures a responsive and smooth gaming experience.
• Google TV interface is intuitive and well-organized.
• The voice remote adds convenience for hands-free control.

Areas for Improvement

• The stand feels a bit unstable, especially on uneven surfaces.
• Shadow detail in darker scenes could be better.
• Built-in speakers lack depth, making a soundbar a worthwhile investment.

Competing Products

In this price range, the Samsung Q60C and LG Nano75 are two strong competitors. The Samsung model offers a higher refresh rate (120Hz), which makes it a better pick for hardcore gamers. However, it lacks the advanced AI upscaling that the Hisense A7 provides. Meanwhile, LG’s NanoCell technology delivers excellent color reproduction, but it doesn’t come with Dolby Vision HDR, which gives the Hisense an edge for movie enthusiasts.

Compared to these rivals, the Hisense A7 strikes a balance between performance and affordability, especially for casual users who want a blend of gaming and streaming features.

Bang for the Buck

Considering the features packed into this TV, it offers excellent value for the price. The combination of Dolby Vision HDR, Wide Color Gamut, and Game Mode Plus makes it a versatile option for families, gamers, and streaming enthusiasts alike. While it does have some minor drawbacks, they’re not deal-breakers, especially when weighed against the overall performance and user-friendly experience.

Testing this TV has been enjoyable, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a well-rounded 4K smart TV without breaking the bank.

Additional information