Who Makes Hisense TV? Complete Guide to the Company, Manufacturing & Quality (2025)

Quick Answer: Who Makes Hisense TVs?

Hisense TVs are manufactured by Hisense Group Co., Ltd., a Chinese multinational electronics company headquartered in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China. Founded in 1969, Hisense has grown from a small radio factory into the world's second-largest TV manufacturer by units shipped.

The company operates manufacturing facilities across China, Mexico, Slovenia, and South Africa, giving it true global production capabilities. Beyond its own Hisense-branded TVs, the company also manufactures televisions under the Toshiba brand following its 2017 acquisition.

Hisense offers excellent value with competitive picture quality at prices typically 30-50% below Samsung and LG equivalents. That said, reliability ratings remain mixed compared to premium brands—Consumer Reports estimates approximately 20% of Hisense TVs experience problems within five years.

Who Makes Hisense TVs? The Complete Answer

Hisense TVs are produced by Hisense Group, a Chinese multinational corporation currently led by president Fisher Yu. The company doesn't just slap its name on products made elsewhere—Hisense designs, engineers, and manufactures the vast majority of its televisions in facilities it owns and operates.

What separates Hisense from some competitors is its vertical integration. The company manufactures many of its own LCD panels rather than relying entirely on external suppliers. This approach reduces costs and gives Hisense greater control over quality and production timelines.

The Hisense Group maintains an impressive global footprint: 14 industrial parks, 18 research and development centers, and over 80,000 employees worldwide. R&D facilities span multiple continents, with centers in China (Qingdao and Shenzhen), the United States (Illinois), Germany, Slovenia, and Israel.

Beyond consumer TVs, Hisense operates as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for other brands. Some televisions you see at retailers with different brand names actually roll off Hisense production lines. This OEM business represents a significant but often overlooked portion of the company's manufacturing output.

The company also sells products under multiple brand names beyond Hisense itself. After strategic acquisitions over the past decade, Hisense now manufactures and sells TVs under the Toshiba, Sharp (historically in the Americas), Gorenje, Kelon, and Ronshen brands. When you purchase a Toshiba TV today, you're actually buying a Hisense product manufactured in their facilities.

Hisense has been China's largest TV manufacturer by market share since 2004—a remarkable streak spanning over two decades. Globally, the company shipped more TV units than LG and TCL in 2024, trailing only Samsung in total volume.

Hisense Company Overview: History & Corporate Structure

The Hisense story begins in September 1969 when the Qingdao No. 2 Radio Factory opened its doors in the coastal city of Qingdao, Shandong Province. The factory's first product was a humble radio sold under the "Red Lantern" brand—a far cry from the 116-inch RGB Mini-LED behemoths the company produces today.

Television production came sooner than many realize. By 1971, the factory had produced 82 black-and-white television sets through a trial production run ordered by the Shandong National Defense Office. The first official TV model, the CJD18, rolled off the line in 1978. China's television industry remained constrained until 1979, when government policy shifted to encourage civil electronics manufacturing.

The transformation from regional factory to global corporation accelerated in the 1990s. Zhou Houjian, appointed head of the enterprise in 1992 at just 35 years old, initiated radical restructuring that culminated in the formation of "Hisense Group" in 1994. The newly structured company went public on the Shanghai Stock Exchange in April 1997.

The late 1990s proved turbulent for Chinese electronics. Increased competition sparked price wars that actually benefited Hisense—the company absorbed ten struggling enterprises by 1998, gaining manufacturing capacity and market share through consolidation.

Today's corporate structure centers on two major publicly traded subsidiaries. Hisense Visual Technology (SSE: 600060) handles the television manufacturing operations, while Hisense Home Appliances Group (SEHK: 921, SZSE: 000921) oversees refrigerators, air conditioners, and other white goods. Both subsidiaries maintain significant state ownership through Hisense's holding company structure.

The company's global expansion has been deliberate and strategic. Hisense established its first overseas manufacturing facility in South Africa in 1996, initially serving the African market exclusively. Subsequent expansions into Mexico, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic created a manufacturing network capable of serving every major global market while minimizing shipping costs and import duties.

Who Owns Hisense? Ownership Structure Explained

This question generates more confusion than perhaps any other about Hisense. The straightforward answer: Hisense is primarily state-owned, with the Qingdao municipal government holding significant stakes through state-owned entities.

The ultimate beneficial owner of the broader Hisense Group is the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the Qingdao Municipal Government. Before corporate restructuring in 2020, both major listed subsidiaries (Hisense Visual Technology and Hisense Home Appliances) maintained state ownership exceeding 30% through the holding company.

That 2020 restructuring marked an important shift. Hisense Electric announced plans to sell 17.2% of equity—approximately 41.5 million new shares—through the Qingdao Property Rights Exchange. The goal was embracing "mixed-ownership restructuring," attracting private investors to invigorate the traditionally state-controlled enterprise.

The result? A more diversified ownership model without any single controlling shareholder. Major stakeholders now include Hisense Group Holdings Co., Ltd., Qingdao Hisense Electric Holdings Company Limited, and institutional investors including international entities like BlackRock.

Despite this diversification, state influence remains substantial. The Qingdao Municipal People's Government continues as a significant stakeholder in various Hisense ventures. Government support has historically benefited the company through favorable loans, subsidies, and tax incentives—Hisense received a 1.5 billion yuan (approximately $220 million) subsidy from the Qingdao government in 2019 for 5G technology development.

What does state ownership mean for consumers? Primarily stability. Government backing provides Hisense with resources and long-term strategic patience that purely private competitors may lack. The company operates with considerable commercial autonomy in product development and business decisions despite government shareholding.

This ownership structure isn't unusual among major Chinese technology companies. Similar arrangements exist across China's electronics manufacturing sector, reflecting the country's hybrid economic model blending state ownership with market-driven operations.

Where Are Hisense TVs Made? Global Manufacturing Locations

Hisense operates a truly global manufacturing network, with production facilities strategically positioned to serve regional markets while minimizing logistics costs and import duties.

China: The Manufacturing Heartland

Qingdao remains the nerve center of Hisense's global operations. The main manufacturing facility spans an impressive 12 square kilometers—roughly 4.6 square miles—and employs over 39,000 workers. This single complex handles primary TV production for Asian markets and serves as the global headquarters for research and development.

Additional Chinese facilities operate in Shunde (Guangdong Province) and Huzhou (Zhejiang Province). These plants produce televisions alongside other consumer electronics and appliances, contributing to the company's massive domestic production capacity.

Mexico: Serving the Americas

The Rosarito facility, acquired from Sharp in 2015 for $23.7 million, represents Hisense's primary manufacturing base for North and South American markets. A second facility in Monterrey, added in 2021, expanded production capacity to meet growing demand across the Americas.

Manufacturing TVs in Mexico offers significant advantages for the U.S. market. Products qualify for favorable trade treatment under the USMCA agreement, and proximity to American retailers reduces shipping times and costs compared to trans-Pacific routes from China.

Slovenia: European Production Hub

The Velenje facility, acquired through Hisense's 2018 purchase of Gorenje, produces over 2.5 million television units annually for European markets. This Slovenian plant gives Hisense manufacturing presence within the European Union, avoiding import duties and enabling faster fulfillment for European retailers.

South Africa: Global Export Center

Hisense's South African operations have evolved dramatically since opening in 1996. Initially serving only African markets, the facility has expanded to a remarkable 10 million unit annual capacity. Production quality has improved sufficiently that South African-manufactured TVs now export globally, supplementing output from other facilities during peak demand periods.

What About the United States?

Hisense maintains no TV manufacturing facilities within the United States. The Georgia subsidiary handles distribution and logistics, while the Illinois research and development center focuses on software, user interface design, and market-specific product optimization. All televisions sold in the U.S. ship from the Mexico facilities.

Brands Hisense Owns: Toshiba, Sharp & Gorenje

Hisense's acquisition strategy over the past decade has transformed it from a regional manufacturer into a global brand portfolio company. Understanding these acquisitions helps explain how Hisense grew so quickly.

Toshiba Visual Solutions (2017)

The Toshiba acquisition represents Hisense's most significant brand purchase. In November 2017, Hisense paid $113-114 million for a 95% stake in Toshiba Visual Solutions Corporation. Toshiba retained the remaining 5%.

This deal delivered far more than manufacturing capacity. Hisense gained:

• 40-year license to use the Toshiba brand worldwide

• Two television factories in Japan

• Hundreds of R&D employees with decades of experience

• Extensive patent portfolio covering TV image quality technologies

• Established relationships with European and Southeast Asian retailers

The Toshiba brand carries recognition that Hisense simply couldn't build organically in Western markets. Consumers who remain hesitant about Chinese brands often purchase Toshiba TVs without realizing they're buying Hisense products.

Sharp Americas (2015-2019)

The Sharp situation proved more complicated. In July 2015, Hisense purchased Sharp's Mexico manufacturing facility for $23.7 million along with rights to use the Sharp brand on televisions sold in North and South America.

Problems emerged quickly. Sharp's parent company, now controlled by Foxconn following their 2016 acquisition, grew dissatisfied with how Hisense handled the Sharp brand. A 2017 lawsuit alleged Hisense produced Sharp-branded TVs with inferior quality, damaging the brand's reputation. Sharp eventually dropped the lawsuit in 2018, but the licensing agreement expired in 2019 and was not renewed.

Today, Sharp has reclaimed its brand in the Americas and operates independently of Hisense. The Mexico manufacturing facility remains Hisense property, now producing Hisense and Toshiba branded televisions.

Gorenje (2018)

Hisense acquired 95.4% of Slovenian appliance manufacturer Gorenje in 2018, primarily to expand its white goods (refrigerators, washing machines, ovens) portfolio in European markets. The Gorenje brand carries strong recognition across Central and Eastern Europe.

While Gorenje doesn't manufacture televisions, this acquisition provided Hisense with valuable European manufacturing infrastructure, distribution networks, and retail relationships that benefit their TV business as well.

Additional Brands

Hisense's brand portfolio extends further: Kelon and Ronshen serve Chinese domestic markets; ASKO, the premium Scandinavian appliance brand, came with the Gorenje acquisition; and a joint venture with Hitachi produces commercial air conditioning systems.

Who Supplies Hisense TV Screens and Components?

Unlike many TV brands that simply assemble components from external suppliers, Hisense maintains significant vertical integration—meaning they manufacture many components themselves.

In-House LCD Panel Production

Hisense produces many of its own LCD panels, a competitive advantage that most consumers don't realize. This vertical integration reduces dependence on external suppliers, improves cost control, and enables faster product development cycles.

Not every panel comes from Hisense factories, however. The company maintains strategic partnerships with external panel manufacturers to supplement internal production and access specialized technologies.

BOE Technology: Primary External Partner

BOE Technology, the Chinese display giant that overtook LG Display as the world's largest LCD panel producer, serves as Hisense's primary external panel supplier. Industry analysis suggests approximately 76% of LCD panels purchased by Hisense and competitor TCL came from Chinese manufacturers including BOE, ChinaStar, HKC Display, and CSOT in recent years.

This heavy reliance on Chinese panel suppliers reflects broader industry trends. Samsung Display and LG Display have largely exited LCD TV panel production, leaving Chinese manufacturers to dominate the market.

LG Display: OLED Supplier

For its OLED television models, Hisense sources panels from LG Display—the only company mass-producing large OLED TV panels. Every major OLED TV manufacturer (except Samsung with its QD-OLED technology) uses LG Display panels. Hisense's OLED models feature the same fundamental panel technology as LG, Sony, and other premium OLED TVs, with differentiation coming through processing and software.

Other Component Partners

Additional component suppliers include:

• Chi Mei Corporation/Innolux (Taiwan): LCD panels for select models

• AUO (AU Optronics): Supplementary panel sourcing

• Intel: Flash memory chips and processors

• TDK: Electronic components

• MediaTek: TV processors including the new Pentonic 800 chip in 2025 models

This diversified supply chain helps Hisense manage risk and maintain production flexibility. When component shortages affected the entire industry during 2020-2021, Hisense's vertical integration and multiple supplier relationships helped mitigate disruptions.

Hisense TV Technology Explained: ULED, Mini-LED & More

Hisense marketing prominently features terms like "ULED" and "Mini-LED PRO" that can confuse consumers. Here's what these technologies actually mean.

What is ULED?

ULED—Ultra LED—is not a new display panel type like OLED. It's Hisense's proprietary marketing term for a combination of enhancement technologies applied to LED-LCD televisions.

According to Hisense, ULED encompasses approximately 20 patents spanning four key areas:

• Ultra Wide Color Gamut: Enhanced color reproduction through quantum dot technology

• Ultra Local Dimming: Improved contrast via zone-based backlight control

• Ultra 4K Resolution: Upscaling and image processing for 4K clarity

• Ultra Smooth Motion Rate: Blur reduction for sports and action content

Think of ULED as a technology package rather than a panel type. A ULED TV uses the same fundamental LED-LCD technology as other brands but applies Hisense's specific combination of enhancement features.

Mini-LED Technology

Mini-LED represents a genuine technological advancement in LED-LCD backlight design. Traditional LCD TVs use a relatively small number of LED lights behind the screen to illuminate the image. Mini-LED TVs use thousands of much smaller LEDs, enabling far more precise local dimming.

Hisense's 2025 flagship models feature impressive specifications:

• U8 Series: Up to 5,000 nits peak brightness, expanded local dimming zones

• U9 Series: Premium brightness and processing with Hi-View Engine X

• UX Series: 40,000 local dimming zones, up to 10,000 nits peak brightness

More dimming zones mean the TV can darken specific screen areas while keeping others bright, improving contrast and reducing the "blooming" effect where bright objects glow against dark backgrounds.

RGB Mini-LED: The Next Frontier

Hisense's 2025 UX series introduces RGB Mini-LED backlighting—a significant advancement over conventional Mini-LED. Traditional Mini-LED uses blue LEDs with phosphor conversion to create white light, which then passes through color filters.

RGB Mini-LED uses separate red, green, and blue LEDs. This approach delivers:

• Wider color gamut (97% BT.2020 coverage claimed)

• Improved energy efficiency

• Higher potential peak brightness

The 116-inch UX model represents the first consumer TV to use this technology at a (relatively) accessible size and price point.

Hi-View Engine Processing

Hisense's proprietary image processing chips—Hi-View Engine Pro and Hi-View Engine X—handle real-time picture optimization. These 16-bit neural processing chips manage:

• AI 4K upscaling for lower-resolution content

• AI Super Resolution enhancement

• AI Noise Reduction

• AI Local Dimming optimization

• AI HDR Upscaling

• AI Depth Enhancement

The "X" version found in the U9 and UX series represents the company's most advanced processor, previously reserved for ultra-premium models.

QLED (Quantum Dots)

Many Hisense TVs feature quantum dot technology (QLED), which uses nano-scale semiconductor particles to enhance color production. Quantum dots absorb light at one wavelength and emit it at another, enabling wider color gamuts than traditional LED-LCD technology.

Hisense's combination of quantum dots with Mini-LED backlighting delivers impressive color and brightness specifications that compete with significantly more expensive competitors.

Hisense Operating Systems: VIDAA, Google TV & Fire TV

Smart TV platforms have become increasingly important as streaming dominates home entertainment. Hisense uses multiple operating systems across its product line, which can create confusion for buyers.

VIDAA: Hisense's Proprietary Platform

VIDAA is a Linux-based smart TV operating system developed by VIDAA USA, Inc., a Hisense subsidiary headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Introduced in 2014, VIDAA has grown substantially—the platform now operates on over 30 million connected devices worldwide.

In 2024, VIDAA claimed the #2 position among smart TV operating systems globally with 7.8% market share, trailing only Samsung's Tizen (12.9%) and surpassing LG's webOS (7.4%).

VIDAA offers:

• Access to 400+ content partners including Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more

• Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant

• Free FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels

• Unified content search across platforms

• Up to 8 years of software update support

The platform's main limitation? Smaller app selection compared to Google TV. Some niche streaming services and regional apps may not be available.

VIDAA powers Hisense TVs across Europe, Australia, and other markets outside the United States. Toshiba-branded TVs also use VIDAA in many regions.

Google TV: Premium U.S. Models

Hisense's premium U.S. models—the U7, U8, U9, and UX series for 2025—run Google TV, Google's modern smart TV platform built on Android.

Google TV advantages include:

• Full Google Play Store access with extensive app library

• Built-in Google Assistant with superior voice recognition

• Chromecast functionality for casting from phones and tablets

• Personalized content recommendations across streaming services

• Regular software updates

For American consumers, Google TV typically provides the most complete smart TV experience with the widest app compatibility.

Fire TV: Budget U.S. Models

Hisense's 2025 U6 series and other budget models in the U.S. market run Amazon's Fire TV platform instead of Google TV. This represents a change from previous years when Google TV appeared across more of the lineup.

Fire TV offers:

• Alexa voice control integration

• Amazon Prime Video optimization

• Alexa Voice Remote included

• Extensive app library (though slightly smaller than Google TV)

• Smart home control capabilities

The Fire TV platform works well for Amazon ecosystem users but may feel limiting for those invested in Google services.

Roku TV: Select Models

Some Hisense models feature Roku TV, particularly in North American markets. Roku's platform emphasizes simplicity and offers perhaps the largest app library of any smart TV platform.

Platform Recommendation

For most U.S. consumers, Google TV models (U7 and above) provide the best experience. The additional cost over Fire TV models typically proves worthwhile for the expanded app selection and Google ecosystem integration. VIDAA works well for basic streaming needs but may frustrate users seeking specific niche apps.

Is Hisense a Good TV Brand? Quality & Reliability Assessment

This question demands honest, balanced analysis rather than marketing enthusiasm. Hisense offers genuine strengths alongside legitimate concerns.

Picture Quality: Genuinely Competitive

Hisense's picture quality has improved dramatically over the past five years. The U8 series consistently earns strong reviews from publications like RTINGS.com, with particular praise for:

• Excellent peak brightness (Mini-LED advantage)

• Impressive color accuracy with quantum dot technology

• Strong HDR performance in Dolby Vision and HDR10+ content

• Competitive contrast ratios from local dimming

• Good motion handling for sports and gaming

The picture quality gap between Hisense's premium models and Samsung/LG equivalents has narrowed significantly. For many viewers, side-by-side differences are subtle at best.

Reliability: The Significant Concern

Here's where Hisense struggles. Consumer Reports' survey data, covering nearly 100,000 televisions, estimates that 20% of Hisense TVs experience problems within the first five years. This earned Hisense a "Fair" reliability rating—sufficient for Consumer Reports to remove "recommended" designation from several models.

For context, Sony TVs show approximately 11% failure rates over the same period, earning "Very Good" reliability ratings. That's nearly half the Hisense failure rate.

Hisense disputed these findings, claiming internal data shows defect rates under 4%. The discrepancy likely reflects different measurement methodologies—factory defect rates versus real-world consumer problems over extended ownership periods.

What does this mean practically? Roughly one in five Hisense TVs may develop issues within five years. Premium brands offer significantly better odds of trouble-free ownership.

Customer Service: Mixed Experiences

Owner reviews reveal inconsistent customer service experiences. Common complaints include:

• Slow warranty claim response times

• Difficulty reaching support representatives

• Extended repair or replacement timelines

• Inconsistent warranty execution despite valid coverage

Some owners report excellent support experiences, but enough negative reports exist to warrant caution.

Value Proposition: Still Compelling

Despite reliability concerns, Hisense's value proposition remains strong for budget-conscious buyers. A 65-inch U8 at $999 offers specifications matching competitors priced at $1,500-$2,000.

The calculation becomes: exceptional picture quality at 30-50% savings versus elevated reliability risk. For buyers who prioritize upfront savings and accept potential long-term inconvenience, Hisense delivers genuine value.

Lifespan Expectations

Hisense LED-LCD TVs typically last 5-10 years with normal use, consistent with industry averages. Consumer Reports found 87% of TVs purchased in 2010 remained in use roughly eight years later—suggesting most televisions outlast their owners' upgrade cycles regardless of brand.

Warranty Coverage

Standard Hisense TVs include one-year warranty coverage for parts and labor. Laser TV models receive two-year warranties reflecting their premium positioning. Extended warranties are available through retailers.

Strong recommendation: Purchase extended warranty coverage from a retailer with solid repair/replacement processes (Costco, Best Buy). Given Hisense's reliability data, extended protection proves worthwhile insurance.

Hisense vs Samsung, LG, TCL & Sony: How They Compare

Understanding how Hisense stacks up against major competitors helps frame purchase decisions.

Hisense vs Samsung

Samsung advantages:

• Superior reliability track record

• Stronger brand recognition and resale value

• Exclusive QLED and QD-OLED technologies

• Better customer service reputation

• Wider availability of repair services

Hisense advantages:

• 30-50% lower prices for comparable specifications

• Competitive Mini-LED brightness levels

• Similar gaming features (VRR, ALLM, 144Hz+)

• Multiple smart TV platform options

Verdict: Samsung justifies premium pricing through reliability and support. Hisense offers comparable picture quality at significant savings for buyers comfortable accepting reliability trade-offs.

Hisense vs LG

LG advantages:

• Market-leading OLED picture quality

• Superior viewing angles (especially OLED)

• Better reliability ratings

• webOS platform maturity

• Strong customer support

Hisense advantages:

• Mini-LED brightness exceeds OLED in bright rooms

• Significantly lower prices across lineup

• 100-inch options at accessible prices

• Competitive gaming specifications

Verdict: LG dominates if OLED picture quality is priority and budget allows. Hisense Mini-LED offers excellent bright-room performance at fraction of OLED costs.

Hisense vs TCL

TCL advantages:

• Similar aggressive pricing strategy

• Roku TV platform option widely available

• Slightly larger U.S. market share in some segments

Hisense advantages:

• Stronger global brand presence

• FIFA World Cup and sports sponsorships building recognition

• More premium model options (U9, UX series)

• Larger 100-inch+ offerings

Verdict: Near-equivalent value propositions. Both Chinese brands compete directly in budget and mid-range segments. Choice often comes down to specific model availability and platform preferences.

Hisense vs Sony

Sony advantages:

• Best-in-class image processing and motion handling

• Superior reliability (11% vs 20% failure rates)

• Premium build quality and design

• Excellent customer service

• Strong audio quality

Hisense advantages:

• 50%+ price savings for equivalent screen sizes

• Competitive brightness and contrast specs

• Gaming features match or exceed Sony

• Multiple size options including 100-inch+

Verdict: Sony represents the premium choice for buyers prioritizing reliability and processing quality. Hisense offers compelling value for those comfortable with reliability trade-offs.

Summary Comparison Table

2025 Hisense TV Lineup: Models, Specs & Pricing Guide

Hisense's 2025 lineup spans entry-level budget options through ultra-premium flagships. Here's what's available:

QD6/QD7 Series: Entry Level

The QD (Quantum Dot) series represents Hisense's most affordable options with enhanced color technology.

QD6 Series:

• Display: Direct-lit LED with quantum dots

• Platform: Fire TV

• Features: Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Game Mode

• Pricing: 65-inch approximately $330

QD7 Series:

• Display: Mini-LED with quantum dots

• Platform: Fire TV

• Features: Higher brightness than QD6, VRR support

• Pricing: 65-inch approximately $435

U6 Series: Step-Up Premium

The U6 represents entry into Hisense's ULED Mini-LED lineup with impressive value.

Key Specifications:

• Display: Mini-LED QLED

• Refresh Rate: 144Hz native

• Platform: Fire TV (2025 change from Google TV)

• Audio: 2.1-channel with built-in subwoofer

• Gaming: FreeSync Premium, ALLM, VRR

• Sizes: 55" to 100"

2025 Pricing:

• 55-inch: $399

• 65-inch: $549

• 75-inch: $749

• 85-inch: $999

The U6 delivers genuine Mini-LED benefits—local dimming and impressive contrast—at remarkably accessible prices.

U7 Series: Gaming & Sports Focus

Hisense positions the U7 as its gaming and sports-optimized offering at sub-$1,000 price points.

Key Specifications:

• Display: Mini-LED Pro QLED

• Peak Brightness: 3,000 nits

• Refresh Rate: 165Hz native

• Platform: Google TV

• Audio: 60W 2.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos

• Gaming: Game Booster 288Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro, Dolby Vision Gaming

• Sizes: 55" to 100"

2025 Pricing:

• 55-inch: $499

• 65-inch: $749

• 75-inch: $999

• 85-inch: $1,299

The U7 represents exceptional value for gamers—165Hz with VRR and premium gaming features at prices typically reserved for 60Hz competitors.

U8 Series: Premium Performance

The U8 offers Hisense's "best-in-class" performance for serious enthusiasts.

Key Specifications:

• Display: Mini-LED Pro QLED

• Peak Brightness: Up to 5,000 nits

• Refresh Rate: 165Hz native

• Platform: Google TV

• Audio: 82W 4.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos

• Processor: Hi-View AI Engine Pro

• Sizes: 55" to 100"

2025 Pricing:

• 55-inch: $699

• 65-inch: $999

• 75-inch: $1,499

• 85-inch: $1,999

The U8 competes directly with Samsung and Sony's premium offerings at 30-40% lower prices.

U9 Series: Ultra-Premium

The U9 bridges premium and flagship categories with advanced processing and specifications.

Key Specifications:

• Display: Advanced Mini-LED with Ultra LR (Low Reflection) panel

• Processor: Hi-View AI Engine X (flagship chip)

• Refresh Rate: 165Hz native

• Platform: Google TV

• Audio: 105W 5.1.2-channel CineStage X Surround

• Sizes: 65", 75", 85"

Pricing not yet finalized at time of publication—expect premium positioning above the U8 series.

UX Series: Flagship RGB Mini-LED

The UX series represents Hisense's technology flagship, featuring RGB Mini-LED backlighting.

Key Specifications:

• Display: RGB Mini-LED (first consumer TV with this technology)

• Dimming Zones: Up to 40,000

• Peak Brightness: Up to 10,000 nits

• Processor: Hi-View AI Engine X

• Color: 97% BT.2020 coverage

• Platform: Google TV

• Sizes: 85", 116"

2025 Pricing:

• 116-inch: $19,999 (technology flagship)

The 116-inch UX targets ultra-premium buyers seeking cutting-edge display technology without OLED's brightness limitations.

Best Value Pick: U7 Series

For most consumers, the U7 series offers the optimal balance of features, performance, and value. Gaming capabilities match or exceed competitors at double the price, and the 165Hz refresh rate with full HDMI 2.1 support handles everything current consoles and PCs can deliver.

Common Misconceptions About Hisense TVs

Several persistent myths deserve direct correction.

"Is Hisense Owned by Samsung?"

No. Hisense and Samsung are completely separate, competing companies. Hisense is a Chinese state-owned enterprise headquartered in Qingdao; Samsung is a South Korean conglomerate headquartered in Seoul. They share no ownership relationship and compete directly in global TV markets.

The confusion may arise because both manufacture televisions and compete in similar market segments. Some Hisense OLED TVs use panels manufactured by LG Display (not Samsung), which may contribute to ownership confusion.

"Is Hisense Owned by LG?"

No. Again, these are competing companies from different countries with no ownership relationship. Hisense does purchase OLED panels from LG Display—the only major producer of large OLED TV panels—but this supplier relationship doesn't constitute ownership.

"Is Hisense the Same as TCL?"

No. Hisense and TCL are separate Chinese television manufacturers that compete directly in budget and mid-range segments. Both are headquartered in China (Hisense in Qingdao, TCL in Huizhou) and pursue similar market strategies, but they operate independently with distinct product lines and corporate structures.

"Is Hisense a Knock-Off Brand?"

Absolutely not. Hisense is a legitimate electronics manufacturer with over 55 years of history, 80,000+ employees, and the #2 global position in TV shipments. The company develops its own technology, operates its own factories, and maintains significant R&D capabilities.

The "knock-off" perception sometimes applies to budget Chinese brands, but Hisense's scale, longevity, and technological development clearly distinguish it from generic manufacturers.

"Are Hisense TVs Low Quality Because They're Chinese?"

Not inherently. Manufacturing location doesn't determine quality—manufacturing processes, quality control, and component selection do. Hisense operates facilities meeting global quality standards, and their premium models compete directly with Korean and Japanese competitors on picture quality.

That said, reliability data does suggest Hisense TVs experience higher failure rates than premium Japanese brands like Sony. Whether this reflects manufacturing quality, component selection, or quality control consistency remains unclear—but "Chinese manufacturing" alone doesn't explain the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hisense TVs

Who makes Hisense TVs?

Hisense TVs are manufactured by Hisense Group Co., Ltd., a Chinese multinational electronics company headquartered in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China. Founded in 1969, Hisense is the world's second-largest TV manufacturer by units shipped. The company is primarily state-owned through the Qingdao municipal government and operates manufacturing facilities in China, Mexico, Slovenia, and South Africa.

Where are Hisense TVs manufactured?

Hisense produces televisions across multiple global facilities. Primary manufacturing occurs in Qingdao, China. The Mexico facilities (Rosarito and Monterrey) serve North and South American markets. The Slovenia plant in Velenje produces over 2.5 million units annually for Europe. South Africa's facility has 10 million unit annual capacity and now exports globally. Assembly and distribution operations exist in the Czech Republic.

Is Hisense a Chinese company?

Yes. Hisense Group Co., Ltd. is headquartered in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China, and is primarily state-owned through the Qingdao municipal government. The company was founded in 1969 as Qingdao No. 2 Radio Factory and has remained a Chinese enterprise throughout its history, though it now operates globally with facilities on multiple continents.

Does Hisense own Toshiba?

Hisense owns 95% of Toshiba's television business. In November 2017, Hisense acquired a 95% stake in Toshiba Visual Solutions Corporation for approximately $113 million. The deal included a 40-year license to use the Toshiba brand worldwide, access to Japanese TV factories, and Toshiba's television patent portfolio. Toshiba retained 5% ownership. This applies only to Toshiba's TV division—other Toshiba businesses remain separately owned.

Are Hisense TVs reliable?

Reliability is Hisense's weakest area. Consumer Reports estimates approximately 20% of Hisense TVs experience problems within the first five years, earning a "Fair" reliability rating. By comparison, Sony shows approximately 11% failure rates with "Very Good" ratings. Extended warranty purchases are strongly recommended for Hisense TVs. Many owners report years of trouble-free operation, but statistically significant reliability concerns exist.

How long do Hisense TVs last?

Hisense LED-LCD TVs typically last 5-10 years with normal use, consistent with industry averages for LED televisions. With proper care—adequate ventilation, reasonable brightness settings, surge protection—many TVs exceed this range. The reliability concerns noted above relate to problems developing during ownership, not necessarily complete failure.

Is Hisense better than Samsung?

It depends on priorities. Hisense offers comparable picture quality at 30-50% lower prices with competitive gaming features. Samsung provides better reliability, stronger brand recognition, superior customer service, and exclusive display technologies. For budget-conscious buyers comfortable with reliability trade-offs, Hisense delivers excellent value. For those prioritizing long-term dependability and support, Samsung justifies premium pricing.

What is ULED technology?

ULED (Ultra LED) is Hisense's proprietary marketing term for a combination of enhancement technologies applied to LED-LCD televisions. It encompasses approximately 20 patents across four areas: Ultra Wide Color Gamut, Ultra Local Dimming, Ultra 4K Resolution, and Ultra Smooth Motion Rate. ULED is not a new panel type like OLED—it's a technology package including quantum dots, local dimming, and processing enhancements applied to conventional LED-LCD displays.

Does Hisense make their own screens?

Partially. Hisense manufactures many of its own LCD panels, providing competitive advantage through vertical integration. However, the company also sources panels from external suppliers, primarily BOE Technology (Chinese LCD manufacturer) and LG Display (for OLED panels). This hybrid approach—internal production supplemented by strategic supplier relationships—is common among major TV manufacturers.

Is Hisense worth buying in 2025?

For budget-conscious buyers, yes—with caveats. Hisense delivers excellent picture quality and features at prices 30-50% below premium competitors. The U7 and U8 series offer genuine value for gaming and entertainment. However, reliability concerns warrant purchasing extended warranties and buying from retailers with strong return policies. If reliability and long-term support are priorities, Samsung, LG, or Sony may justify higher prices despite lesser specifications at equivalent price points.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Hisense TV in 2025?

After comprehensive analysis, Hisense earns a qualified recommendation for specific buyer profiles.

Hisense TVs are worth buying if you:

• Prioritize value and are willing to accept reliability trade-offs

• Want maximum screen size for your budget (especially 75-inch+)

• Need gaming features (144Hz+, VRR, ALLM) without premium pricing

• Purchase from retailers with strong return/exchange policies (Costco, Best Buy)

• Budget for extended warranty coverage

Consider alternatives if you:

• Prioritize long-term reliability above upfront savings

• Value excellent customer service and warranty execution

• Want OLED picture quality (LG or Sony OLED outperform Hisense Mini-LED in dark rooms)

• Keep televisions 7+ years and want maximum confidence

The Value Proposition:

Hisense's 65-inch U8 at $999 delivers specifications matching Samsung and LG TVs priced $1,500-$2,000. The 85-inch U8 at $1,999 competes with premium 75-inch options from competitors. This price-to-performance ratio represents genuine value—you're getting more television for less money.

The Trade-Off:

That value comes with elevated reliability risk. One in five Hisense TVs may develop problems within five years versus one in ten for Sony. Customer service experiences range from excellent to frustrating. Extended warranty coverage becomes nearly essential rather than optional.

Recommendations by Budget:

• Under $500: Hisense U6 delivers Mini-LED benefits at remarkable prices

• $500-$1,000: Hisense U7 offers exceptional gaming value; consider Sony X80L or Samsung Q60D for reliability

• $1,000-$2,000: Hisense U8 competes well; LG OLED options worth considering if picture quality matters more than brightness

• $2,000+: Premium buyers should consider LG or Sony OLED unless Hisense's brightness advantages are specifically needed

Bottom Line:

Hisense has earned its #2 global position through genuine value rather than marketing hype. The company produces competitive televisions at attractive prices. Reliability concerns remain the primary caveat—but for buyers who understand and accept this trade-off, Hisense delivers excellent entertainment value in 2025.

Sources: Consumer Reports, RTINGS.com, Wikipedia, Hisense USA, Connected TV Marketing Association, Best Buy, China Daily, Caixin Global, FlatpanelsHD