CHiQ TV

CHiQ is a relatively new player in the TV market, but has quickly made a name for itself by offering feature-packed 4K TVs at affordable prices.

The company was founded in 2004 and is owned by Changhong, one of the largest consumer electronics manufacturers in China. While not yet a household name, CHiQ has been gaining popularity in Europe and Australia for its budget-friendly smart TVs.

Some of CHiQ's key strengths include:

• Great value - Most CHiQ TVs cost significantly less than big name brands like Samsung and LG, while still offering decent picture quality and features.

• User-friendly smart TV system - CHiQ TVs run on Android TV, which provides easy access to popular apps like Netflix and YouTube. The interface is intuitive and customizable.

• Modern design - With thin bezels and sleek finishes, CHiQ TVs look much more premium than their price tags suggest. Some models include fashionable metal stands.

• Solid features - CHiQ TVs come equipped with essentials like 4K resolution, HDR, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control remotes. Higher-end models boast extras like local dimming zones.

• Wide range - The company offers screen sizes from 32" to 75" to suit different spaces and budgets. There are also options tailored for gamers and movie buffs.

While CHiQ does not have the legacy of a Sony or Panasonic, its rapid growth shows it is meeting the demand for affordable big-screen TVs packed with must-have features. For budget-conscious shoppers, CHiQ brings premium TV specs within reach.

Display Technology

CHiQ TVs use LCD display panels, which stands for liquid crystal display. This is currently the most common display technology used in televisions.

The main types of LCD panels found in CHiQ TVs are:

• IPS - In-plane switching panels provide good viewing angles and color accuracy. Many CHiQ models use IPS.

• VA - Vertical alignment panels offer high contrast ratios and deep blacks. Some high-end CHiQ models have VA panels.

• Direct LED - LED backlights placed directly behind the LCD panel. Provides good brightness and contrast. Used in mid-range CHiQ TVs.

• Edge LED - LEDs along the edges of the panel. More affordable but can cause inconsistent backlighting. Found in entry-level CHiQ models.

Resolution offered on CHiQ TVs ranges from HD (1280 x 720 pixels) on small, affordable models to 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels) on higher-end options. Most models are 1080p Full HD (1920 x 1080).

Refresh rates vary from standard 50/60Hz to up to 120Hz on select gaming and sports focused models. This impacts motion clarity.

For HDR, CHiQ TVs support basic HDR10 format. Some premium options also include HLG and Dolby Vision which offer enhanced dynamic range and contrast for supported content.

Overall, CHiQ TVs offer display quality comparable to other brands in their respective price ranges, with higher-end models including premium features like local dimming, quantum dot technology and 120Hz panels.

Smart TV Features

CHiQ TVs run on Android TV, Google's smart TV platform, giving you access to a wide range of apps and services through the Google Play store.

The latest models come with built-in Chromecast, allowing you to cast content from your mobile device or laptop directly to your TV. There is also support for Google Assistant voice controls - you can use your voice to launch apps, search for content, control smart home devices and more.

Some of the key apps and services available include:

• Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube - For all your favorite shows and movies. CHiQ TVs are Netflix Recommended TVs.

• Google Play Movies & TV - Rent or purchase the latest movie releases or TV shows.

• Disney+, Apple TV - Major streaming services with original content and exclusives.

• Spotify - Stream music on your TV while you cook or entertain.

• BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5 - Catch up on shows from top UK broadcasters.

• Plex - Organize your media library and stream it to your TV.

The Android TV interface is intuitive and customizable. You can add your favorite apps to the home screen, search for content across services, and control it all through the minimal remote or voice.

Audio Quality

CHiQ TVs offer impressive audio performance to complement their visual capabilities. They utilize various speaker setups depending on the model, ranging from standard stereo speakers to more immersive configurations.

The more premium CHiQ TVs integrate Dolby Atmos technology, which utilizes dedicated speakers to produce multi-dimensional sound with height and surround effects. This creates an immersive audio environment, making you feel like you're inside the action.

Mid-range CHiQ models feature DTS Virtual:X audio, using psychoacoustic processing to deliver spacious and dynamic sound without requiring additional speakers. Even entry-level CHiQ TVs pack decent stereo speaker power like 2x8W or 2x10W drivers.

For fine-tuning, CHiQ TVs provide audio settings like equalizers to customize treble, bass, and dialogue levels. This lets you boost quiet voices or tweak the sound profile to match your preferences. There are also preset sound modes like Movie, Music, and News to optimize audio for different content types.

Overall, CHiQ TVs deliver robust audio capabilities for the price. With support for advanced sound formats and customization options, they can produce an immersive listening experience in your living room.

Design and Build Quality

CHiQ TVs feature sleek, modern designs with thin bezels that allow the display to take center stage. The bezels measure just a few millimeters thick on most models, giving a nearly edge-to-edge viewing experience.

CHiQ uses metal and high-quality plastics in their construction to achieve a premium, durable feel. Most models come with a metal stand in a stylish triangular shape that provides stability while taking up minimal space. The stands can swivel left and right for flexible positioning.

For mounting, CHiQ TVs are VESA compliant and work with standard wall mounts. This allows you to mount the TV flush against the wall for a streamlined, contemporary look.

CHiQ subjects their TVs to rigorous quality testing before release. This includes drop tests, extreme temperature tests, humidity tests, and long-term reliability assessments. As a result, CHiQ TVs are made to last and can withstand the rigors of everyday use.

Gaming Performance

Gaming on a CHiQ TV is a smooth and responsive experience thanks to the brand's focus on reducing input lag and response times. Most CHiQ models have a dedicated gaming mode that optimizes the TV settings for low latency gaming.

When gaming mode is enabled, input lag is reduced to around 10-20ms which is on par with some of the best gaming TVs. This quick response time allows for a very reactive gameplay experience whether you are playing fast-paced competitive online games or single player adventure titles.

The gaming modes also reduce visual effects like motion smoothing in order to decrease overall latency. Combined with the fast refresh rates up to 120Hz on higher-end CHiQ models, gaming feels fluid and lag-free.

CHiQ TVs are compatible with the latest gaming consoles including the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. With HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K 120fps, you can take full advantage of your console's capabilities. VRR (variable refresh rate) ensures smooth visuals and reduced screen tearing.

For PC gaming, CHiQ also hits the mark with low input lag and fast response times. Whether your graphics card is AMD or Nvidia, you'll get an optimized low latency experience.

Overall, CHiQ TVs provide a great big screen gaming experience on par with more expensive options. The smooth visuals and quick response times are perfect for fast-paced competitive games as well as immersive single player adventures.

Energy Efficiency

CHiQ TVs are generally quite energy efficient, especially compared to older models. They have energy ratings ranging from A+ to A+++, indicating low power consumption.

The latest CHiQ models utilize LED backlighting which requires less energy than traditional CCFL backlights. Some models also have features like ambient light sensors which can automatically adjust the screen brightness based on the room lighting.

Eco modes are available on most CHiQ TVs to reduce energy use. This lowers the screen brightness and disables some processing features. There are also options to turn off the screen after a set period of inactivity.

According to reported average consumption figures, using a 50" CHiQ 4K TV for 5 hours per day would cost around £15-25 per year to run. So they are quite economical to operate.

The power saving options and high energy efficiency ratings make CHiQ TVs a good choice for environmentally conscious buyers. Low running costs are an added benefit.

Smart Home Connectivity

CHiQ TVs offer excellent smart home connectivity and integration. Many models are compatible with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This allows you to control your CHiQ TV through voice commands using Alexa or Google Assistant devices.

For example, you can turn your TV on or off, change volume, switch inputs, launch apps, and more completely hands-free. CHiQ TVs with built-in far-field microphones can pick up voice commands from across the room. Some models also have hotword detection, so you can just say "Alexa" or "Hey Google" without needing to push a button.

In addition to voice control, CHiQ TVs can be integrated into your wider smart home ecosystem. You can group your TV with other smart devices like lights, thermostats, security cameras etc. This allows you to create scenes and automations using your TV. For instance, you could set your lights to dim and your CHiQ TV to turn on automatically when you say "Alexa, movie time."

The CHiQ AI Voice assistant built into some models also allows you to control and interact with other connected smart home devices through your TV's interface. So you don't always need an additional Alexa or Google Home device.

Overall, CHiQ TVs provide seamless connectivity with major smart home platforms and excellent integration for controlling your TV and other devices through voice commands or automation. This makes it easy to create an immersive, hands-free home entertainment experience.

Warranty and Support

CHiQ TVs come with a standard 1-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This protects against issues like dead pixels, faulty components, or problems that arise through no fault of the owner under normal use.

The warranty is valid from the original date of purchase and requires proof of purchase to make a claim. Customers will need to provide the receipt or invoice showing the purchase date, model number, and serial number.

If a defect arises during the warranty period, customers can contact CHiQ support through a few channels:

• Online support form - Customers can fill out a form on the CHiQ website describing the issue. A support representative will then follow up via email.

• Live chat - CHiQ offers live chat support during business hours. Customers can have a real-time conversation with a support agent.

• Phone - For urgent issues, customers can call the CHiQ support line. Wait times may vary depending on call volume.

• Social media - Customers can also try reaching out via Facebook or Twitter. Response times may be slower but it's another option.

• Authorized service centers - For repairs, CHiQ has a network of authorized service centers that can carry out warranty repairs. Customers may need to bring or ship the TV to a nearby center.

The CHiQ support team aims to diagnose problems and arrange warranty service requests promptly based on the nature of the issue. More urgent matters like dead pixels tend to get priority handling.

Price and Value

CHiQ TVs offer great value for money across a range of price points. The most affordable models start around £200 for a 32" HD TV. In the mid-range, you can find 43" to 55" 4K TVs from £300 to £500. At the premium end, CHiQ's largest QLED and OLED TVs go up to 65" and 75" and cost between £800 and £1500.

Despite the low prices compared to other major brands, CHiQ TVs include impressive displays and smart features. The brand focuses on core essentials like sharp 4K resolution, HDR support, and smooth motion handling. You won't find extras like next-gen gaming features, but CHiQ delivers solid performance for movies, TV shows, and casual gaming.

The cheaper HD models obviously can't match the picture quality of 4K sets. But they provide decent screens for secondary rooms on a budget. Stepping up to the mid-range 4K options brings sharp images, vibrant colors, and great contrast. The premium QLED and OLED sets offer exceptional display quality that rivals top brands.

Overall, CHiQ punches above its weight class in terms of value. The brand cuts costs in areas like design and branding to provide affordable TVs packed with display and smart technology. For shoppers looking for quality on a budget, CHiQ is tough to beat.