Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059

The Xtra / PML9019 / PML9059 / PML9009 / PML9049 / AMBILIGHT TV

Available screen sizes: 55”65”75”85”

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Panel technology: LCD VA | Brand: PHILIPS | Resolution: 3840x2160 | Operating system: Titan OS | Model year: 2024

Our verdict

6.8

Overall rating

Philips PML 9009 is the manufacturer's top LCD television, using Mini LED backlighting. The device itself boasts excellent build quality, a stylish remote control, and the manufacturer's exclusive multicoloured Ambilight backlighting. In terms of picture quality, a slight drawback can be noted with the blacks and contrast, which, to be frank, are not among the best and will not deliver as deep and vibrant an image as is found in televisions in a similar price range. However, it is worth noting that due to good algorithms responsible for the picture, its tonal quality was very satisfying. Therefore, the relatively low brightness of the display is well masked here, and with the implementation of Dolby Vision technology, it allows for access to HDR materials. What definitely deserves attention is the fluidity of transitions, which were quite outstanding and better than in some significantly more expensive units. The greatest advantage of this television is its performance in gaming. No negative remarks can be made in this aspect, as the television truly shines and will certainly satisfy any user. The motion smoothing system is also one of the aspects worth praising the television for. With two sliders, whose effects are perceptible at every position, each user can find the best level of smoothing for themselves. Therefore, it can confidently be said that when choosing a television for sports, PML9009 Philips can be identified as an excellent candidate. Although the TitanOS operating system is currently in the development phase and lacks a considerable number of applications, we do not believe that the manufacturer will do nothing in this regard.

Advantages

Very good tonal range of scenes exceeding the capabilities of the television
Well-functioning dynamic tone mapping feature
Colour reproduction after calibration
Performance after connecting to a console/PC

Disadvantages

Considerable halo/bloom effect
Poor viewing angles
The TitanOs system is not as advanced as the competition
Average contrast and black levels

Movies and series in UHD quality

6.4
Classic TV, YouTube

6.3
Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

6.6
Gaming on console

8.5
TV as a computer monitor

8.6
Watching in bright light

6.1
Utility functions

6.0
Apps

7.0
Sound quality

6.7

TV appearance

HDMI inputs: 0 x HDMI 2.0, 4 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps) Outputs: Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI), Mini-Jack (Headphones) Network Interfaces: Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps

Review Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059 Appearance of the TV

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Contrast and black detail

Viewing mode Game mode

6.6/10

Viewing mode Game mode

Local dimming function: Yes, number of zones: 75 (15 x 5)

Review Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059 Contrast and black detail

Contrast between the black background and the bright spotlight illuminating Jack. Scene from the movie Oblivion (Universal Pictures).

Result

132,000:1

Contrast between the glare on the chameleon's skin and the black near the edge of the screen below. Scene from the Spears&Munsil test disc.

Result

16,550:1

Contrast between the reflection on the helmet and the black on the black film strip. Scene from the movie Arrival (Paramount Pictures).

Result

14,450:1

Contrast between the actress's face and the black film strip at the top edge of the TV. Scene from the movie Gravity (Warner Bros. Pictures).

Result

7,850:1

Contrast between the colorful balloon and the black slice between the falling objects. Scene from the Pioneer Kuro test disc (2008).

Result

6,650:1

Visibility of details in the lights:

Philips PML9009 is equipped with a high-contrast VA panel. Although it does not deliver as deep and three-dimensional an image as OLED televisions, it is still a much better solution for home cinema compared to IPS/ADS panels. The measured static contrast (without local dimming activated), which stands at 6000:1, can be considered very good and allows for the full potential of the Mini LED backlighting that has been implemented in the tested television. The results of the contrast and black measurements, as you can see for yourselves, are not among the highest, and the only scene where the television demonstrated satisfactory results was that from the film "Oblivion," where the unit can be commended for its light separation, which is not so obvious even in much more expensive units. We should also mention that all tests were conducted at medium dimming power, as the lowest option produced unsatisfactory black levels, while the highest lost a significant amount of detail. Unfortunately, our standard testing procedure with the film "Sicario 2" did not go very well. Yes, all the details in the background are very well visible, but due to the operation of the dimming zones, the overall tone was significantly thrown off, not to mention the strong halo effect around the bright elements of the helicopter.

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

HDR effect quality

Viewing mode Game mode

6/10

Viewing mode Game mode

Supported formats: HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG Color gamut coverage: DCI P3: 93.0%, Bt.2020: 73.0%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059 Brightness measurement

The measured point is the setting sun against a bright sky. Scene from the movie Life of Pi (20th Century Fox).

Result

548 nit

The measured point is the moon against a dark, starry sky. Scene from the movie Life of Pi (20th Century Fox).

Result

550 nit

The measured point is the flashlight on the rifle, which shines directly at the camera. Scene from the movie Gemini Man (Paramount Pictures).

Result

824 nit

The measured point is the tail light of a helicopter flying at night. This is a very small light point, the essence of the HDR effect. Scene from the movie Sicario 2: Soldado (Lionsgate).

Result

491 nit

The measured point is the sun visible directly between the clouds. The scene is very bright and should blind the viewer as in nature. Scene from the movie The Meg (Warner Bros. Pictures).

Result

582 nit

Philips PML9009 does not really operate at the highest values in HDR content. Most effects with brightness at around 550 nits will not leave us thrilled with the lighting effects, although they are quite stable, which is a plus and will make a considerable difference compared to SDR content. It is worth noting that we can only achieve a good result in one scenario, namely in the film "Gemini", where the flashlight as the only light source can shine. Why in that scene specifically? The answer is quite simple. The scene itself does not contain a large amount of black, and the flashlight is not as large an object as the sun in the first and last scenes. Overall, the brightness measurement results in HDR content do not provide a basis for recommending this television for viewing productions that utilise a wide colour spectrum. Although it is worth noting that this model can cover it to a decent extent of 93% in the case of the DCI-P3 palette.

Scene from the movie “Pan” (about 2800 nits)

Scene from the movie “Billy Lynn” (about 1100 nits)

After conducting measurements of contrast, black levels, and brightness, it was time to check how the tested television performs in films and series regarding the depiction of the director's vision. Despite unpromising results in the brightness test, Philips PML9009 performed exceptionally well in the film "Pan," mastered to around 2800 nits. While there is a noticeable dimming of the image, the tone and contrast of the scene have been preserved in a more than satisfactory manner. This is attributed to the default tone mapping in the television and, of course, the calibration process itself. We must admit that in this case, the PML9009 positively surprised us. Moving on to a slightly less bright scene, although more challenging due to the combination of high brightness and deep black, from the film "Billy Lynn," we conclude that although the scene is slightly less contrast-rich, it is very good nonetheless. The black around the fireworks explosions is not inky, although importantly, it is uniform. In summary, the Philips PML9009 has surprised us positively, and we are even willing to say that both test scenes look as the film director intended. It is also worth mentioning that although the coverage of the DCI-P3 colour gamut is not record-breaking at 93%, the colours in the scenes were saturated and cannot be faulted.

HDR luminance chart:

Although the Philips PML9009 television performed very well in our film test sequence, it is also necessary to check its performance in another challenging scene, such as one with a lot of white. Only displays that have high luminance will accurately reproduce such a scene with static metadata, which, as we know, the PML9009 lacks. This is evident when displaying HDR10 material, where the vast majority of details are lost, although it is still not too bad due to the operation of the dynamic tone mapping function. This situation can be improved by providing a signal in Dolby Vision format, which, having dynamic metadata, adjusts the film or series to the capabilities of the television, recovering practically all that it has lost.

Static HDR10

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7/10

Undoubtedly, many of you have watched a film or series in which there were bands that should have been a smooth transition between colours. Therefore, during our tests, we also pay attention to tonal transitions. Philips PML9009 handled this matter quite correctly with each of the scenes we prepared, and although there are signs here and there of elements that could have been processed better, it is still good. It is particularly worth noting the one from "The Green Knight", which is definitely the most challenging. For the tested television, it did not prove to be a "killer" and there are no significant undesirable stutters visible in it.

Review Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059 Smoothness of tonal transitions

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

7.2/10

Smooth transition function

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Judging by how PML9009 Philips handled tonal transitions, the image scaling test should perform equally well. This time we are examining the television's algorithms responsible for enhancing the quality of images that have been recorded in lower quality. Such images can be found in various television programmes or older films. In this regard, Philips PML9009 performs quite mediocrely and significantly blurs the image. This is particularly evident in fine branches or the model's hair.

We will take another look at the tonal transitions, which performed remarkably. Within the unit, we find several levels of smoothing. Even the lowest setting can effectively eliminate any non-fluid tonal transition and will work well with the vast majority of content. More importantly, none of the settings for this function softens the effect of film grain, which is extremely important in terms of alignment with the director's vision. However, we note that sometimes it may turn out that fine details will be blurred.

Blur and motion smoothness

7.7/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel: 120Hz

Film motion smoothing option: Yes

Blur reduction option: Yes

BFI function 60Hz: No

BFI function 120Hz: No

Brightness drop with BFI: 0%

Philips PML9009 is equipped with a panel that has a native refresh rate of 120 Hz. This is the essential minimum for watching all kinds of sports and is recommended for comfortable gaming in favourite titles on consoles or PCs. The manufacturer has prepared an effective system for improving the sharpness of moving images for those who do not like the characteristic stuttering of footage recorded at 24 fps or require a high level of motion fluidity, for example, when watching football matches. In the dedicated tab, we find the "Fluidity" slider, which helps eliminate stuttering, and "Motion Blur Reduction," which aids in increasing the sharpness of dynamic elements. This function works very well and granularly, meaning each setting has a real impact on the perception of motion. With such a set, every user will find their sweet spot. In the picture, we present our choice, which is a slight fluidity enhancement without the soap opera effect.

A matter directly related to motion is the pixel response time of the panel itself. The best in this regard are, of course, OLED panels, followed by IPS and ADS-based units, and finally, VA. Despite the overall good quality of the systems responsible for smoothing the image, the use of a VA panel carries consequences in the form of a black halo behind fast-moving objects. While this will not occur frequently in the tested television, it will be visible here and there.

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.8/10

ALLM: Yes
VRR: Yes
VRR range: 48 - 144Hz
Dolby Vision Game Mode: Yes
Correct implementation of HGIG: Yes
1080p@120Hz: Yes
1440p@120Hz: Yes
4K@120Hz: Yes
Game bar: Yes

Philips PML9009, equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports at full bandwidth, supports all features dedicated to gamers. The most basic ones, such as VRR and ALLM, are a given, but G-Sync, FreeSync, and gaming in HDR Dolby Vision with low input lag are not. These features activate without any issues and during the tests conducted, they did not present any problems. Such preparation of the television is certainly a strong point and one can say that it is a unit dedicated to gamers. For more advanced users, we also mention that the PML9009 is equipped with an HGIG mode, which will be particularly felt by gamers, as there are still relatively few games supporting Dolby Vision. This mode primarily allows for the adjustment of HDR effects to the capabilities of the television on a special board, in order to avoid dimming or burning out the image.

The television additionally features a special menu - GameBar. This allows for editing the unit's settings "on the fly", without the need to exit the game. We will also find features such as enabling a crosshair or adjusting black levels for better visibility of opponents in shadows.

In a brief summary of this paragraph, the Philips PML9009 is a unit that will certainly capture the attention of gamers. Thanks to its versatility, it will allow playing any title in the highest quality without compromises. Especially since features such as VRR, ALLM, G-Sync, FreeSync, or gameplay in HDR Dolby Vision will enhance the immersion in the favourite title.

Input lag

9.6/10

The results of input lag measurements in Philips PML9009 are at a high level, regardless of the signal or resolution. All gamers will surely appreciate the manufacturer's efforts, as a game running at 4K120Hz with HDR has only 8 ms of latency, which is virtually unnoticeable even in online games. It is also worth mentioning the proper implementation of the gaming mode with Dolby Vision, which can be praised for a similar response time at 16 ms.

SDR	HDR	Dolby Vision
1080p60: 16 ms	2160p60: 16 ms	2160p60 DV: 32 ms
1080p120: 8 ms	2160p120: 8 ms
2160p60: 16 ms
2160p120: 8 ms

Compatibility with PC

8.6/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate): Yes

Font clarity: Good

Readability of dark text and shapes: Good

Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate): 8ms

Max refresh rate: 120Hz

G-Sync: Yes

Just like in games, the tested Philips PML9009 performs excellently in daily tasks as well. Measured latency of 8 ms allows for virtually instantaneous response on the mouse-screen-eye line. The correct implementation of chroma 4:4:4 enables work with text without any issues thanks to sharp fonts. The subpixel arrangement of the matrix is BGR; however, this does not cause any discomfort when working on the Windows system. It may be different with other systems that might not be able to correctly convert the text.

Viewing angles

2.6/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees: 83%

The commonly known drawback of VA panels that do not have an angle coating is their poor viewing angles. This is no different this time. Even with a slight deviation from the axis, the image becomes washed out, and the colours undergo significant degradation.

TV efficiency during daytime

6.1/10

Matrix coating: Satin

Reflection suppression: Average

Black levels during daytime: Good

As far as the brightness of the television itself in SDR material is good (let's face it, we watch films in the evening or in the dark), the suppression of reflections is at a rather average level. This is due to the satin finish of the panel, which is quite susceptible to all light sources and neither absorbs nor disperses them. However, it is worth noting that thanks to the fairly high brightness in SDR material, the television performs fairly well in bright rooms overall, and certainly better than a large number of OLED televisions.

Matrix brightness

Average luminance SDR

Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059: 564 cd/m2

Details about the matrix

Software version during testing: TPN248E_V248.003.025.151

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity:

Backlight Type: Mini-LED QLED

TV features

6/10

System operacyjny: Titan OS
TV reception: DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
Recording to USB (terrestrial TV): No
Recording programming: No
Picture in Picture (PiP): No
Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast): Yes
AirPlay: No
Voice search in native language: No
Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse: Yes
Possibility to connect Bluetooth headphones to the TV: Yes
Possibility to simultaneously use Bluetooth headphones and the TV speaker: Yes
Audio only mode: Yes
RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen): Infrared
Backlit remote control: Yes
Teletext: Yes

Review Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059 TV features

Before we move on to the software that controls the television, it is impossible not to mention the biggest distinguishing feature of the manufacturer's televisions. This is, of course, the multicoloured Ambilight backlighting, which is placed on the back of the device and displays colours tailored to what is happening on the screen, often allowing for an even greater sense of immersion. The operating system responsible for the television's functionality is Philips' proprietary system charmingly named TitanOs. It is definitely more closed and limited in terms of app resources compared to other televisions from the manufacturer that use the GoogleTV system. In addition to a lack of significant applications, its closed nature is also evident in another respect. We will not be able to perform such basic tasks as programming recordings or recording to USB. Those using Apple devices may also feel disappointed by the lack of AirPlay functionality, which allows for easy screen streaming. Fortunately, there is the option to connect a keyboard and mouse for easier navigation through the television menu. It's also worth mentioning that while the remote pairs via BT, it only works for voice selection in English. The rest operates via IR...

In summary: TitanOs has quite a few "buts," especially if we are aware users needing and using many streaming platforms. It is rather an option for those limiting themselves to the so-called holy trinity, which is Netflix, YouTube, and CDA.

Playing files from USB

Video Photos Audio

8.2/10

Video Photos Audio

Maximum photo resolution:	Supported photo formats:
4 Mpix	JPEG
6 Mpix	HEIC
8 Mpix	PNG
10 Mpix	GIF
12 Mpix	WebP
16 Mpix	TIFF
20 Mpix	BMP
24 Mpix	SVG
28 Mpix
32 Mpix

The default media player built into Philips PML9009 offers quite a wide range of capabilities, but it also has its limitations. It plays practically all video formats, except for .asf, which is rather uncommon. However, the issues are the lack of the H.265 HEVC codec at high bitrate and support for .sub files, which are quite popular. When it comes to photos, the player performs adequately, but it lacks support for some common resolutions and formats, such as HEIC, which is used on Apple devices. The player performs best with audio, where it can be faulted in no way. Unfortunately, due to system limitations, there is no possibility to expand its functions, which means we are left with what the manufacturer has prepared.

Apps

7/10

Sound

6.7/10

Subjective sound quality

Dolby Digital Plus 7.1

Dolby True HD 7.1

Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus (JOC)

Dolby Atmos in Dolby True HD

DTS:X in DTS-HD MA

DTS-HD Master Audio

To begin with, it is worth noting that sound quality is a subjective matter. The built-in audio system in Philips PML9009 stands out for its clear treble, but the bass is rather flat and significantly worse than in competing models in the same price range.

Ambilight TV: A television with built-in LED lighting behind the screen that responds to what you're watching, immersing you in a halo of colourful light.
P5 Perfect Picture Processor: Delivers a picture as perfect as your favourite entertainment, with noticeably greater depth of detail and vibrant colours.
Quantum Dot Mini-LED Technology: Guarantees a bright, detailed image with sharp contrast, offering more colours than ever before.
Smart TITAN OS Platform: Enables quick and easy access to favourite programmes and recommendations from the best streaming services.
Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos: Provide cinematic picture and sound, offering realistic visual effects and spatial audio.
Support for All Major HDR Formats: Guarantees more detail in dark and bright areas of the image.
Amazing Gaming: With a refresh rate of 120 Hz, very low latency, VRR, and FreeSync, it offers smooth and responsive gameplay.
Sustainable Materials: The remote is made from recycled plastic, responsibly packaged, and compliant with eco-friendly standards.
Easy Integration with Smart Home Networks and Voice Assistants: Compatibility with Matter and Control4 allows for integration with existing smart home networks.
Philips Wireless Home Kit with DTS Play-Fi Technology: Allows easy connection with compatible soundbars and wireless speakers throughout the home.

Philips PML9009 – Innovation in Premium LCD TVs

Philips PML9009 is a television that stands out from the competition thanks to its use of Mini LED technology and distinctive Ambilight backlighting. This model, available in the Philips 55PML9059 version, offers a stylish design and excellent build quality, making it an ideal choice for those who value aesthetics in their AV equipment. In the Philips 55PML9059 test, we noted the exceptional motion fluidity and excellent tonal gradation, which distinguishes this model in its class compared to other TV tests.

Ambilight and Advanced Technologies

One of the most important features of Philips PML9009 is the unique multicolour Ambilight backlighting, which enhances the viewing experience for movies and games. The Philips PML9059 uses advanced algorithms to improve picture quality, ensuring high tonal accuracy and colour reproduction. Admittedly, black levels and contrast could be better; however, Dolby Vision compensates for these shortcomings, allowing you to fully enjoy HDR content. In the Philips 55PML9059 test, we also appreciated the good masking of the display's brightness limitations.

Perfect for Gaming and Sports

PML9009 is a television designed with gamers in mind. The Philips 9059 features an exceptionally low input lag that ensures fast response times, crucial for real-time gaming. The motion smoothing system, equipped with two adjustable sliders, allows fluidity to be tailored to individual user needs. As a result, Philips 55PML9059 is an ideal solution not only for gaming but also for watching sports. During the Philips 55PML9059 test, this aspect was rated as one of the product’s greatest advantages.

Modern Operating System

Philips PML9009 runs on the evolving TitanOS operating system. Although it currently lacks some applications, the manufacturer is systematically developing its platform. The Philips 55PML9059 is a television that combines modern design with functionality, offering exceptional capabilities for demanding users.

Philips 9059 is a choice that will meet the expectations of both gaming and sports enthusiasts. Choose Philips PML9059 to enjoy motion fluidity, Ambilight technology, and excellent visual experiences at the highest level.

Philips PML9009 / 9019 / 9059

Our verdict

Advantages

Disadvantages

Competing TVs in this price range

TV appearance

Buy in the best price

Contrast and black detail

HDR effect quality

Factory color reproduction

Color reproduction after calibration

Smoothness of tonal transitions

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

Blur and motion smoothness

Console compatibility and gaming features

Input lag

Compatibility with PC

Viewing angles

TV efficiency during daytime

Details about the matrix

TV features

Playing files from USB

Apps

Sound

Philips PML9009 – Innovation in Premium LCD TVs

Ambilight and Advanced Technologies

Perfect for Gaming and Sports

Modern Operating System