What’s Replacing the Sony Bravia 9 in 2026? Plus, Why Game Mode Affects Picture Quality

Sony’s Bravia 9 has been a standout in the Mini LED TV space, but what’s coming next? And why does picture quality take a hit when you enable game mode? Here’s everything you need to know.

What’s Replacing the Sony Bravia 9 in 2026?

If you’re eyeing Sony’s next big release, expect the Bravia 10 to arrive in 2026, likely featuring RGB backlight technology. This could be Sony’s answer to the OLED competition, offering enhanced brightness, contrast, and color accuracy.

Sony has been refining its approach, staggering major releases like the A95L QD-OLED in 2023 and the Bravia 8 Mark II in 2025. The Bravia 9 debuted in 2024, so the timing aligns for a 2026 upgrade.

While it’s unclear if the Bravia 10 will truly rival OLED in black levels, Sony’s track record suggests it’ll be a top-tier Mini LED option. In the meantime, the Bravia 9 remains a fantastic choice, especially at its current price point.

Why Picture Quality Drops in Game Mode

Game mode is designed for speed, prioritizing low input lag to keep your gameplay responsive. However, this comes at the cost of picture processing. To achieve faster response times, TVs disable certain enhancements like motion smoothing and color calibration.

If you’re not satisfied with the cooler, less vibrant look in game mode, you can tweak settings like color temperature, hue, and saturation to improve the image. Just avoid over-sharpening or oversaturating the picture.

Some games also offer fidelity or performance modes, which adjust the visual quality versus frame rate. For example, Spider-Man 2 lets you choose between detailed visuals (fidelity) or smoother gameplay (performance).

Choosing Between TCL, Hisense, and Sony TVs

If you’re torn between options like the 85-inch TCL QM8K, 98-inch TCL QM7K, 100-inch Hisense U8QG, or 85-inch Sony Bravia 9, here’s what to consider:

• Picture Quality: The Bravia 9 and Hisense U8QG offer superior contrast and processing compared to TCL models.
• Size vs. Impact: Jumping from a 77-inch TV to an 85-inch might not feel as dramatic as going to 98 or 100 inches.
• Budget: The Hisense U8QG at $3,000 offers excellent value for its size and performance.

If you’re upgrading from an OLED TV, the Bravia 9’s contrast and processing might feel more familiar. Otherwise, the Hisense U8QG is a great choice for a massive, immersive viewing experience.

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