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Sony KDL40EX520 - 40-Inch 1080p LED HDTV (2011 Model)
Sony KDL40EX520 - 40-Inch 1080p LED HDTV (2011 Model)
Sony KDL40EX520 - 40-Inch 1080p LED HDTV (2011 Model)
Sony KDL40EX520 - 40-Inch 1080p LED HDTV (2011 Model)
Sony KDL40EX520 - 40-Inch 1080p LED HDTV (2011 Model)
Sony

Sony KDL40EX520 - 40-Inch 1080p LED HDTV (2011 Model)

★★★★★3.6 (15 reviews)
1080p1920 x 1080

Sony BRAVIA KDL40EX520 delivers Full HD 1080p picture quality with edge LED backlighting and built-in streaming apps in a 40-inch panel.

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Overview

The Sony BRAVIA KDL40EX520 is a 40-inch Full HD LED television from Sony's 2011 lineup, designed to bring quality 1080p viewing to living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. Its edge-lit LED backlighting produces a bright, vivid picture while keeping the chassis slim and energy consumption lower than traditional CCFL-backlit LCD panels. The 1920 x 1080 resolution ensures crisp detail for Blu-ray movies, broadcast television, and streaming content, making it a capable display for everyday entertainment at this screen size.

On the connectivity front, the KDL40EX520 is well-equipped with four HDMI inputs, two USB 2.0 ports, component and composite video inputs, and both digital and analog audio outputs. The built-in Ethernet port enables wired internet access for the integrated smart TV platform, which provides direct access to Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube, and Pandora. For wireless connectivity, the TV requires an optional Sony USB Wi-Fi adapter. While the smart platform reflects its 2011 vintage and no longer receives app updates, the generous HDMI port count means a modern streaming stick or set-top box can easily fill that gap, extending the TV's usefulness as a reliable Full HD display.

Key Features

Power-saving motion sensors

Sony Internet TV for wide variety of streaming media and other Internet content

LED backlighting for incredible contrast, slim design, and energy efficiency

40-inch display with full HD (1080p) picture quality (1920 x 1080 native panel resolution)

Sony's X-Reality Engine sharpens images for a clear, vivid, life-like picture

40-inch display with full HD (1080p) picture quality (1920 x 1080 native panel resolution)

LED backlighting for incredible contrast, slim design, and energy efficiency

Sony's X-Reality Engine sharpens images for a clear, vivid, life-like picture

Sony Internet TV for wide variety of streaming media and other Internet content

Power-saving motion sensors

Specifications

Screen Size
40 Inches
Resolution
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080)
Backlight Type
Edge LED
Refresh Rate
60Hz
HDMI Ports
4
USB Ports
2 (USB 2.0)
Component Video
1
Composite Video
2
PC Input
D-Sub
Audio Output
Digital Audio Output, Analog Audio Output
Audio Input
Analog Audio Input
RF Connection
Yes
Networking
Ethernet, Wi-Fi Ready (adapter sold separately)
Streaming Services
Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube, Pandora
Model Year
2011

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Four HDMI inputs provide ample connectivity for multiple devices without needing to swap cables.
  • Edge LED backlighting offers improved energy efficiency and a slimmer profile compared to CCFL-backlit LCDs of the same era.
  • Full HD 1080p resolution delivers sharp, detailed picture quality for a 40-inch screen size.
  • Built-in streaming apps allow direct access to Netflix, YouTube, and other services without an external device.

👎 Cons

  • Wi-Fi requires a separate USB adapter purchase, as the TV only has Wi-Fi Ready support and not built-in wireless.
  • The 60Hz native refresh rate may produce noticeable motion blur during fast-paced sports or action content.
  • As a 2011 model, the smart TV platform has a limited and outdated app selection that no longer receives updates.
  • No 4K resolution support, which limits future-proofing as content increasingly shifts to Ultra HD.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, this TV is Wi-Fi Ready, meaning it supports wireless connectivity but requires a separate Sony USB wireless adapter (sold separately). It does include a built-in Ethernet port for wired internet access.
The KDL40EX520 includes built-in access to Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube, and Pandora. The selection of apps is fixed to what Sony provided for this 2011-era smart TV platform.
It has 4 HDMI inputs, giving you plenty of connections for a Blu-ray player, game console, streaming stick, and sound bar simultaneously.
Yes, the KDL40EX520 uses a standard VESA mounting pattern compatible with third-party wall mount brackets. Check Sony's specifications for the exact VESA dimensions and screw size.
The panel operates at a native 60Hz refresh rate, which is standard for general viewing and casual use but does not offer the higher motion smoothness of 120Hz panels.

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