Sony KDL-40EX724 review

Well specified and elegantly designed 40-inch TV, but a bit of a disaster

Sony KDL-40EX724
This HD TV is great with 2D material, but sadly it is shockingly bad with 3D

TechRadar Verdict

Pros

  • +

    Solid 2D hi-def picture quality

  • +

    Bravia Internet Video IPTV and apps portal

  • +

    Revamped user interface

  • +

    Freeview HD tuner

Cons

  • -

    Appalling 3D performance

  • -

    Featherweight audio

  • -

    No support for MKV files

  • -

    No 3D glasses supplied

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The KDL-40EX724 sits at the top of Sony's mainstream EX range and offers 3D compatibility, cutting-edge internet connectivity and the kitchen sink. It's also available as the 46-inch KDL-46EX724 and the 32-inch KDL-32EX724.

The set looks smart enough, with a subtle, two-tone fascia and the requisite amount of gloss. It's fashionably thin at just 42mm and tips the scales at an eminently wall-hangable 11.2kg.
Despite the lightweight construction, build quality is considered good; the casing doesn't creak or flex and the overall cosmetic finish is high.

Priced just below the EX724 line is Sony's look-alike EX723 series. This slightly cheaper option comprises the 55-inch KDL-55EX723, 46-inch KDL-46EX723, 40-inch KDL-40EX723 and the 32-inch KDL-32EX723.

The only visible difference between the two ranges is the design of the pedestal stand. The KDL-40EX724, along with its siblings, not only has a 20° swivel but also leans back by 6°, which is perfect if you plan to park it on some fashionably low TV furniture.

Less obvious is the fact that the EX724 models have integrated Wi-Fi, whereas the EX723s require an optional Sony dongle.

Steve May
Home entertainment AV specialist

Steve has been writing about AV and home cinema since the dawn of time, or more accurately, since the glory days of VHS and Betamax. He has strong opinions on the latest TV technology, Hi-Fi and Blu-ray/media players, and likes nothing better than to crank up his ludicrously powerful home theatre system to binge-watch TV shows.