Onn TVs have emerged as a budget-friendly option in the competitive television market, primarily available through Walmart. Attracting consumers with their affordability, these televisions promise access to larger screen sizes and smart features without breaking the bank. However, when considering a new TV, picture quality, sound, and overall performance are crucial factors. This article delves into a comprehensive comparison of Onn TVs, drawing insights from expert reviews and ratings to help you understand how they stack up against other brands in terms of picture quality, HDR performance, sound capabilities, and smart features. Are Onn TVs a smart choice for your entertainment needs, or do their low prices come with significant compromises in performance? Let’s explore the details.
When it comes to picture quality, Onn TVs present a mixed bag of results. Some models have shown commendable performance, particularly in standard high-definition (HD) and even ultra-high-definition (UHD) content. Certain Onn TVs have achieved favorable scores for their overall picture quality, demonstrating an ability to deliver satisfactory viewing experiences for everyday content. However, consistency across the Onn TV lineup remains a concern. Reviews indicate variability in performance, suggesting that picture quality can differ significantly from model to model. This inconsistency makes it crucial to research specific models rather than assuming uniform performance across the brand.
One of the most significant areas where Onn TVs typically fall short is High Dynamic Range (HDR) performance. HDR is a feature designed to enhance contrast and color, creating more vibrant and lifelike images. While many newer Onn 4K TVs support HDR, their ability to deliver a compelling HDR experience is often limited. This limitation stems primarily from their inability to reach sufficient brightness levels necessary to maximize HDR’s potential. As a result, viewers may find HDR content on Onn TVs lacking the dynamic range and visual impact seen on higher-performing televisions. This is a critical point for consumers who prioritize watching HDR movies, shows, and games.
Sound quality is another area where many Onn TVs tend to underperform. Consistent with trends in budget televisions, Onn sets often feature sound systems that are described as middling to below-par. While adequate for basic viewing, the built-in speakers may lack depth, clarity, and immersive qualities desired for a more cinematic audio experience. For viewers who value high-fidelity audio or plan to use their TV for movies and gaming, investing in a separate soundbar or external speaker system is often recommended to complement the visual experience of an Onn TV.
Viewing angles represent another potential drawback of Onn TVs, which commonly utilize LCD panels. Many tested Onn models exhibit limited viewing angles, a characteristic often associated with LCD technology. This means that picture quality may degrade when viewed from off-center positions. Colors may shift, and contrast can diminish as the viewing angle widens. This limitation is particularly relevant for larger rooms or viewing setups where viewers are spread out, as those not seated directly in front of the TV may experience a less optimal picture.
Furthermore, some reviews point out weaknesses in black level performance and backlight uniformity in certain Onn TVs. “Okay” black levels suggest that the TVs may struggle to render deep, inky blacks, which is crucial for contrast and shadow detail, especially in dark scenes. Backlight non-uniformity can manifest as cloudy or brighter areas in dark scenes or letterboxed movies, detracting from the viewing experience. These issues are often more pronounced in dimly lit viewing environments.
In terms of upscaling and detail, Onn TVs can also present some limitations. Upscaling, the process of converting lower-resolution content (like HD) to fit a 4K screen, is a routine task for modern TVs. However, some Onn models have been noted to exhibit below-average upscaling capabilities. This can result in a lack of fine detail and jagged edges on objects when watching non-4K content. Color accuracy has also been cited as an area for improvement in some Onn sets, potentially affecting the realism and fidelity of displayed colors.
Despite these shortcomings, there are indications that Onn TVs are evolving. More recent models, particularly 4K offerings, have started incorporating features like HDR support, even if HDR performance is not top-tier. This progression suggests a gradual improvement in features and capabilities over time. It’s also worth noting the recent acquisition of Vizio by Walmart, Onn’s parent company. The long-term implications of this acquisition on the Onn TV brand and its technology remain to be seen, but it could potentially lead to advancements in future Onn TV models by leveraging Vizio’s expertise in TV manufacturing and technology.
In conclusion, Onn TVs serve a specific market niche: budget-conscious consumers seeking large-screen TVs at very affordable prices. While they can offer satisfactory picture quality for everyday viewing and have shown improvements in newer models, they typically fall short in critical areas like HDR performance, sound quality, viewing angles, and black levels when compared to mid-range and high-end televisions. For casual viewers primarily watching standard content in well-lit rooms, an Onn TV might suffice. However, for viewers who are more discerning about picture quality, prioritize HDR and immersive sound, and seek consistent performance, exploring options from brands with stronger ratings and proven performance records, as detailed in resources like Rtings and Consumer Reports, would be advisable. Ultimately, the decision hinges on balancing budget constraints with desired picture and sound quality expectations.
