Samsung S90D OLED TV Review

Stunning Picture Quality with Advanced Gaming Features

Published April 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM
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The Samsung S90D OLED TV represents a significant leap forward in display technology, offering viewers an unparalleled visual experience. As part of Samsung's 2024 lineup, this 65-inch 4K powerhouse combines the deep blacks and infinite contrast of OLED technology with Samsung's advanced Quantum Dot color enhancement, resulting in a picture that is both vibrant and true-to-life. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the S90D introduces several key improvements. The new NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor utilizes 20 specialized neural networks to optimize picture quality and upscale content to crisp 4K resolution. Gamers will appreciate the Motion Xcelerator 144Hz feature, which delivers ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal lag. Additionally, the integration of Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite creates an immersive audio experience that complements the stunning visuals.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Verdict

Pros

  • Exceptional picture quality with deep blacks
  • Impressive brightness for an OLED TV
  • Excellent gaming features and performance
  • Wide viewing angles for group watching
  • Powerful AI-driven processor enhances content

Cons

  • Premium price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
  • Potential for burn-in with static images
  • Some users report power-on issues

The Samsung S90D OLED TV stands out as a top-tier option in the premium television market, offering an impressive blend of cutting-edge technology and stunning visual performance. Its OLED panel delivers the deep blacks and infinite contrast ratios that the technology is renowned for, while Samsung’s Quantum Dot enhancement provides a notable boost in brightness and color volume compared to traditional OLED displays.

Gaming enthusiasts will find the S90D particularly appealing, with its 144Hz refresh rate, low input lag, and support for variable refresh rate technologies. The inclusion of Samsung’s Gaming Hub further enhances its appeal, offering easy access to cloud gaming services directly from the TV interface. However, it’s worth noting that the premium features come with a correspondingly high price tag, which may give pause to more budget-conscious consumers.

The S90D’s AI-powered NQ4 Gen2 Processor proves its worth in upscaling lower-resolution content and optimizing picture settings on the fly. This, combined with the TV’s wide viewing angles and anti-reflective coating, makes it an excellent choice for both bright living rooms and home theater setups. The addition of Dolby Atmos support and Object Tracking Sound technology creates an immersive audio experience that complements the stellar visuals.

While the overall package is undeniably impressive, potential buyers should be aware of the inherent risk of burn-in associated with OLED technology, particularly if displaying static images for extended periods. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the TV not powering on after a few months of use, which is a concern that prospective buyers should keep in mind.

In conclusion, the Samsung S90D OLED TV represents a significant step forward in display technology, offering a compelling package for those seeking top-of-the-line picture quality and advanced features. Its strengths in gaming, HDR performance, and overall visual fidelity make it a standout choice for enthusiasts, despite its premium pricing and potential long-term durability concerns.

Check Price

Size Model Number
65-Inch QN65S90DAFXZA
42-Inch E1SAMQN42S90DARB
48-Inch E1SAMQN48S90DARB
55-Inch E1SAMQN55S90DARB
77-Inch FBASAMQN77S90DA
83-Inch E1SAMQN83S90DARB

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Differences Between Sizes

Pros

  • Available in a wide range of sizes from 42" to 83"
  • Larger sizes offer more immersive viewing experience
  • Smaller sizes ideal for bedrooms or smaller spaces

Cons

  • Picture quality may vary slightly between sizes
  • Larger sizes have higher power consumption

The Samsung S90D OLED TV series offers an impressive range of sizes to suit various room dimensions and viewing preferences. Available in 42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, and 83″ models, this lineup ensures there’s an option for nearly every space. While the core OLED technology remains consistent across sizes, there are some subtle differences to consider. Larger models, particularly the 77″ and 83″ versions, provide a more immersive viewing experience, making them ideal for home theaters or spacious living rooms. Conversely, the 42″ and 48″ models are perfect for bedrooms or smaller living spaces where a more compact display is desired.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Compared To Other TVs

Pros

  • Superior color volume and vibrancy compared to many competitors
  • Excellent gaming features with 144Hz refresh rate
  • Impressive anti-reflection technology for bright room viewing
  • Advanced AI-powered processor enhances picture quality

Cons

  • Higher price point than some competing OLED models
  • Lacks Dolby Vision support unlike some rivals

The Samsung S90D OLED stands out in the competitive TV market with its impressive picture quality and advanced features. Compared to other OLED TVs like the LG C4, the S90D offers superior brightness and color volume, thanks to its Quantum Dot technology. This results in more vibrant and lifelike images, especially noticeable in HDR content. The S90D also boasts excellent gaming capabilities with its 144Hz refresh rate and low input lag, putting it on par with or even ahead of gaming-focused models from competitors.

While the S90D excels in many areas, it does come with a higher price tag compared to some rival OLED TVs. Additionally, unlike some competitors that support Dolby Vision, Samsung opts for HDR10+ as its dynamic HDR format. However, the S90D’s anti-reflection technology and overall picture processing capabilities, driven by its advanced AI-powered NQ4 Gen2 Processor, make it a strong contender in the high-end TV market, especially for those who prioritize picture quality and gaming performance.

LG C4 OLED
42" 48" 55" 65" 77" 83"
The LG C4 OLED offers similar picture quality but may have a slight edge in gaming features with its Game Optimizer menu. However, the Samsung S90D boasts better brightness and potentially superior anti-reflective coating, making it more suitable for bright rooms.
Sony A95L QD-OLED
55" 65" 77"
Sony's A95L QD-OLED delivers exceptional picture quality and may have an edge in motion handling and upscaling. The Samsung S90D competes well with its gaming features and smart TV interface, but the Sony might have a slight advantage in overall image processing.
TCL QM8 QLED
65"es 75"es 85"es 98"es
The TCL QM8 QLED offers excellent brightness and vibrant colors at a potentially lower price point. While it can't match the S90D's perfect blacks, it provides strong value. The Samsung excels in processing and smart features, but the TCL is a formidable budget-friendly alternative.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Picture Quality

Pros

  • Exceptional contrast with deep blacks
  • Vibrant colors enhanced by Quantum Dot technology
  • Impressive HDR performance with bright highlights
  • Wide viewing angles maintain picture quality

Cons

  • Slight brightness fluctuations in some HDR scenes
  • Minor shadow detail loss in very dark scenes

The Samsung S90D OLED TV delivers stunning picture quality that showcases the strengths of OLED technology. Its self-emissive pixels produce perfect blacks and infinite contrast, creating a depth and dimensionality that brings content to life. The addition of Quantum Dot technology enhances the color volume, resulting in vibrant and lifelike hues that maintain accuracy across a wide brightness range.

HDR performance is a standout feature of the S90D. The TV’s ability to render bright highlights alongside inky blacks creates a dynamic and impactful image. This is particularly noticeable in HDR content, where specular highlights pop and add a new level of realism to scenes. The Real Depth Enhancer feature further contributes to the perceived depth, mimicking how the human eye processes depth by increasing foreground contrast.

The S90D maintains excellent picture quality from wide viewing angles, a characteristic advantage of OLED displays. This makes it an ideal choice for larger rooms or group viewing scenarios. However, some users may notice slight brightness fluctuations in certain HDR scenes, and there can be a minor loss of shadow detail in very dark scenes. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall picture quality of the S90D is exceptional, offering a premium viewing experience for both SDR and HDR content.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Gaming Performance

Pros

  • Excellent 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
  • Very low input lag enhances responsiveness
  • HDMI 2.1 ports support next-gen console features
  • VRR technology prevents screen tearing
  • Game Bar provides quick access to gaming settings

Cons

  • Slight brightness fluctuations in some HDR game scenes
  • No Dolby Vision gaming support

The Samsung S90D OLED TV delivers outstanding gaming performance that will delight both casual and hardcore gamers. Its 144Hz refresh rate ensures incredibly smooth motion, virtually eliminating blur and stuttering during fast-paced action. This high refresh rate, combined with the TV’s remarkably low input lag, creates a highly responsive gaming experience that can give players a competitive edge in fast-twitch games.

All four HDMI ports on the S90D support the HDMI 2.1 standard, allowing for 4K gaming at 120Hz on next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The TV also supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology, including FreeSync Premium and G-Sync compatibility, which effectively eliminates screen tearing and provides a smoother gaming experience across a wide range of frame rates.

Samsung’s Game Bar feature is a standout addition, offering quick access to crucial gaming-related settings and information. Gamers can easily adjust the aspect ratio, check input lag, and monitor FPS without leaving their game. The TV’s OLED panel provides excellent contrast and deep blacks, enhancing visibility in darker game scenes. However, some users may notice slight brightness fluctuations in certain HDR game environments, though this is generally minimal and doesn’t significantly impact the overall gaming experience.

While the S90D excels in most areas of gaming performance, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t support Dolby Vision gaming, which may disappoint some users who prefer this HDR format. Despite this minor drawback, the Samsung S90D OLED TV stands out as an exceptional choice for gamers, offering a feature-rich and high-performance gaming experience that competes with and often surpasses dedicated gaming monitors.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Smart Features

Pros

  • Intuitive Tizen OS interface
  • Wide range of streaming apps
  • Gaming Hub for cloud gaming
  • Voice control with Alexa built-in
  • AI-powered content recommendations

Cons

  • Occasional lag in menu navigation
  • Limited customization options

The Samsung S90D OLED TV comes equipped with the latest Tizen OS, offering a user-friendly and feature-rich smart platform. The interface is intuitive and responsive, providing easy access to a wide array of streaming services and apps. Users can effortlessly navigate through popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ with just a few clicks on the remote.

One standout feature is the Samsung Gaming Hub, which allows users to stream games directly from the TV without the need for a console. This cloud gaming service supports popular platforms like Xbox Game Pass and NVIDIA GeForce NOW, making it a convenient option for casual gamers. The TV also incorporates AI-powered content recommendations, helping users discover new shows and movies based on their viewing habits.

The S90D comes with Alexa built-in, enabling voice control for various TV functions and smart home devices. This feature adds convenience, allowing users to adjust volume, change channels, or even control compatible smart home appliances using voice commands. While the smart features are generally impressive, some users have reported occasional lag when navigating through menus, particularly when multiple apps are running in the background.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Sound Quality

Pros

  • Dolby Atmos support enhances audio immersion
  • Object Tracking Sound Lite improves spatial accuracy
  • Clear dialogue reproduction
  • Good overall sound pressure and dynamic range

Cons

  • Bass performance could be stronger
  • May benefit from external speakers for larger rooms

The Samsung S90D OLED TV delivers an impressive audio experience that complements its stellar visual performance. Equipped with Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite technology, this TV creates a more immersive soundstage that enhances the viewing experience. The 2.1 channel speaker system, with its 40-watt output, provides a robust audio foundation for most content types.

One of the standout features is the Object Tracking Sound Lite, which uses a combination of processing and speaker placement to make sound effects appear to originate from the correct area of the screen. This technology adds a new dimension to the audio, creating a more realistic and engaging viewing experience. Dialogue reproduction is particularly noteworthy, with voices coming through clearly and distinctly, even in complex soundscapes.

While the S90D’s audio performance is commendable, it does have some limitations. Bass response, while present, may not satisfy audiophiles or those seeking a truly cinematic experience. For larger rooms or for viewers desiring a more powerful audio presence, pairing the TV with a dedicated soundbar or external speaker system might be beneficial. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sound quality of the S90D is a pleasant surprise for a mid-range OLED TV, offering a well-balanced and enjoyable listening experience for most users.

Samsung S90D OLED TV Review: Conclusion

The Samsung S90D OLED TV stands out as a top-tier option in the premium television market, offering an impressive blend of cutting-edge technology and stunning visual performance. Its OLED panel delivers the deep blacks and infinite contrast ratios that the technology is renowned for, while Samsung’s Quantum Dot enhancement provides a notable boost in brightness and color volume. The 144Hz refresh rate and low input lag make it an excellent choice for gamers, while the wide viewing angles and anti-reflective coating ensure a great viewing experience in various room settings.

While the S90D excels in most areas, potential buyers should consider the premium price point and the inherent risk of burn-in associated with OLED technology. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Samsung S90D OLED TV represents a significant step forward in display technology, offering a compelling package for those seeking top-of-the-line picture quality and advanced features. Its strengths in gaming, HDR performance, and overall visual fidelity make it a standout choice for enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and are willing to invest in a premium viewing experience.

                                 

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