Samsung TVs Review 2022 | U.S. News


South Korean electronics giant Samsung has three televisions in our Best TVs of 2022 and Best Smart TVs of 2022 ratings. On both lists, the QN85A is No. 5, and the Q80A and QN90A tie for No. 7. The QN85A and QN90A also come in at No. 3 and No. 4, respectively, for Best Gaming TVs of 2022. These TVs are only a fraction of the models Samsung sells, which number around two dozen.

Samsung sells a wide variety of smart TVs, available in either 1080p Full HD or 4K UHD, as well as 8K QLED in its high-end models. While those super high-end TVs are prohibitively expensive, OLED TVs like the Q80A, QN85A, and QN90A produce an impressive picture in HDR and are much more affordable to the everyday consumer.

Popular TVs

Samsung QN85A  »

Samsung QN85A

Price (65 in)
$2,199.99

Display Type
QLED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
56.9 x 32.6 x 1.0 inches

Pros:

  • High brightness and low reflection

  • Easy-to-use smart TV platform

Cons:

The Samsung QN85A is part of Samsung’s “Neo QLED” 4K UHD line, which is a step up from its standard QLED TVs.

One of the main benefits of Neo QLED is better brightness, which is especially noticeable when viewing HDR content. While its contrast ratio isn’t as good as other TVs that made our ratings, local dimming technology helps compensate somewhat for the lack of deep blacks. Like many of Samsung’s TVs, the QN85A features the company’s quantum dot technology, which is said to improve colors.

Multiple reviewers found the smart TV features of the QN85A to be easy to use with Samsung’s Tizen operating system. The screen has a large viewing angle, and low reflection preserves the QN85A’s high picture quality even in brighter rooms.

The QN85A is available in 43-, 55-, 65-, 75-, and 85-inch sizes. Regardless of the size you choose, the screen is very thin. Even on larger models, the total depth is generally less than an inch. We’d recommend using a wall mount. With the included stand, you’ll need at least 15 inches of depth, which somewhat defeats the purpose of such a thin TV.

The overall performance of the QN85A is what you’d expect from a TV in its price class, with a few caveats. Some reviewers say upscaling and motion are subpar in certain situations, while others say the black levels and low contrast ratios are disappointing. Shoppers also shouldn’t expect much from the QN85A’s stock speakers, as reviewers report average sound quality and recommend using a soundbar for the best experience. There’s no Dolby Vision support, which is a problem with any Samsung TV.

Even with these issues, the QN85A’s cheaper price tag and relatively similar picture quality compared to the QN90A makes it the best overall Samsung TV we’ve reviewed.

The 55-inch model retails for $1,599.99, the 65-inch retails for $2,199.99, and the 75-inch an additional $800. The 85-inch is the largest size available and retails for $4,499.99. These retail prices don’t include any promotional discounts, which may save you quite a bit.

  • Sizes Available: 55 inches, 65 inches, 75 inches and 85 inches
  • Weight (including stand): 45.9 lbs (55-inch), 61.9 lbs (65-inch), 90.2 lbs (75-inch), 113.8 lbs (85-inch)
  • Stand: Floating plate
  • Screen Type: Neo QLED
  • HDR (High Dynamic Range) compatibility: Quantum HDR 24x, HDR10+, HLG
  • Dolby Atmos Support: Yes (no Dolby Vision)
  • TV OS: Tizen
  • Connectivity: Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth 4.2, Smart Phone, Alexa, Google Assistant
  • HDMI Ports:
  • USB Ports:

Sony Bravia X90J  »

Sony Bravia X90J

Price (65 in)
$1,499.99

Display Type
LED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
57.2 x 32.8 x 2.8 inches

Samsung QN85A vs. Sony Bravia X90J 

While the Samsung QN85A is an excellent TV with a bright picture, reviewers note that its contrast ratios aren’t as high, resulting in blacks that look more like grays. The Sony Bravia X90J has much higher contrast ratios, although it will have more reflection in brightly lit rooms than the QN85A.

If you’re planning to watch TV casually, the QN85A is the best choice. However, the Bravia’s probably a better choice if you’re usually watching in the dark as part of a home theater setup.

LG C1  »

LG C1

Best Gaming TV of 2022

Price (65 in)
$2,299.99

Display Type
OLED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
57.0 x 32.7 x 1.8 inches

Samsung QN85A vs. LG C1

According to professional reviews, the LG C1 is the clear winner. The QN85A’s average contrast ratio is no match for the “near infinite” contrast ratio of the LG C1, resulting in a dramatically better picture.

One area where the QN85A is better is overall picture brightness. However, professional reviewers note that the overall picture quality is worse, making the LG C1 the better choice for just about anyone considering these two TVs.

Samsung Q80A  »

Samsung Q80A

Price (65 in)
$1,699.99

Display Type
QLED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
56.9 x 32.7 x 2.2 inches

The Samsung Q80A is considered a mid-range Samsung TV. While it doesn’t have the Neo QLED technology found on QN series TVs, the company’s standard QLED screen is still plenty bright. Like most QLEDs, the picture quality gets good marks in reviews, with quantum dot technology and wide viewing angles. The latter makes it a good option for larger rooms.

Four screen sizes are available, starting with a 50-inch model. The next model up is 55 inches, and screen sizes come in 10-inch increments after that up to 85 inches. Reviewers note that the quick response rate and both HDMI 2.1 and variable refresh rate (VRR) support will make this an excellent choice for gamers.

But while the picture quality and colors look great, reviewers all fault the Q80A’s poor contrast ratio. While it isn’t as noticeable in brightly lit rooms, it’s more obvious in dark rooms, where blacks look gray. The Q80A employs local dimming to accentuate blacks, but this doesn’t entirely fix the problem.

We recommend home theater enthusiasts choose a TV with better contrast ratios. Still, gamers are well-served by the Q80A, which is cheaper than any comparable Neo QLED set from the manufacturer.

As with other Samsung TVs that made our ratings, the smart TV functionality gets high marks. Reviewers also note that the almost bezel-less display and overall thin design help it blend into almost any decor.

The smallest Samsung Q80A, the 55-inch model, has a retail price of $1,299.99, while the 65-inch retails for $1,699.99. The 75-inch and the 85-inch are $2,699.99 and $3,699.99, respectively. These prices don’t include promotional discounts or sales that might be available from Samsung or its retail partners.

  • Sizes Available: 50 inches, 55 inches, 65 inches, 75 inches and 85 inches
  • Weight (including stand): 39.9 lbs (50-inch), 46.3 lbs (55-inch), 61.3 lbs (65-inch), 88.8 lbs (75-inch), 110.5 lbs (85-inch)
  • Stand: Floating plate
  • Screen Type: QLED
  • HDR (High Dynamic Range) compatibility: Quantum HDR 12x, HDR10+, HLG
  • Dolby Atmos Support: Yes (no Dolby Vision)
  • TV OS: Tizen
  • Connectivity: Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth 4.2, Smart Phone, Alexa, Google Assistant
  • HDMI Ports:
  • USB Ports:

Sony X80J  »

Sony X80J

Price (65 in)
$699.99

Display Type
LCD

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
57.6 x 33.1 x 2.8 inches

Samsung Q80A vs. Sony X80J 

The Samsung Q80A and Sony X80J are both excellent TVs. However, the X80J is an entry-level Sony TV and doesn’t have the contrast ratio or the brightness of the midrange Q80A. Reviewers also find the display on the Q80A to be slightly less reflective. If you’re looking for a brighter, more colorful picture, we’d opt for the Q80A, but obtaining the best picture requires calibrating.

TCL 6-Series  »

TCL 6-Series

Price (65 in)
$1,299.99

Display Type
QLED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
56.9 x 33.3 x 3.6 inches

Samsung Q80A vs. TCL 6 Series

While TCL is known more for its budget TVs, professional reviewers generally praise the 6 Series. It uses QLED displays and offers excellent picture quality. Compared to the Samsung Q80A, the TCL 6 Series offers significantly better contrast ratios and a brighter picture overall. Where the Q80A struggles to produce true blacks, the TCL 6 Series does a far better job, although at the expense of a significantly narrower viewing angle. The TCL 6 Series also has a less reflective screen, making it a better option in more brightly lit rooms. Overall, the TCL 6 Series is the better choice for just about any other case.

Samsung QN90A  »

Samsung QN90A

Price (65 in)
$2,599.99

Display Type
QLED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
56.9 x 32.6 x 1.0 inches

Pros:

Cons:

  • Blooming around bright on-screen objects

The Samsung QN90A 4K UHD Smart TV is one of the company’s flagship models, with some reviewers saying it has the best picture of any non-OLED TV. Behind this performance is Samsung’s Neo QLED screen technology, which delivers an outstanding picture, both in brightness and color.

While this UHD 4K TV suffers from poor contrast ratios and disappointing blacks, a better display is used in the QN90A. According to reviewers, the screen is also less reflective than other Neo QLED sets and bright enough to perform well in brightly lit rooms.

An interesting feature of the QN90A is its Eco Remote, which has a solar panel on the back to charge the remote without needing batteries.

Like other Samsung TVs we reviewed, the QN90A runs on Samsung’s Tizen platform and is easy to use. And for those who want a big TV, the QN90A is a great choice. In addition to 43, 50, 55, and 65-inch models, 75-, 85-, and 98-inch models are available, too.

The QN90A is expensive, and it only has one HDMI 2.1 port (most competing TVs include two or more). There’s also no Dolby Vision (Dolby Atmos is supported), and reviewers notice blooming around bright on-screen objects.

The 43-inch model retails for $1,299.99, the 50-inch $1,499.99, and the 55-inch $1,799.99. The 65-inch retails for $2,599.99, the 75-inch $3,499.99, and the 85-inch $4,999.99. The 98-inch model retails for $14,999.99. These prices do not include any promotions or sales by Samsung or its retail partners.

  • Sizes Available: 43 inches, 50 inches, 55 inches, 65 inches, 75 inches, 85 inches, and 98 inches
  • Weight (including stand): 30.4 lbs (43-inch), 41 lbs (50-inch), 48.3 lbs (55-inch), 69.2 lbs (65-inch), 98.8 lbs (75-inch), 125 lbs (85-inch), 166.9 lbs (98-inch)
  • Stand: Bending plate
  • Screen Type: Neo QLED
  • HDR (High Dynamic Range) compatibility: Quantum HDR 24x (43-inch) or 32x (50-98-inch), HDR10+, HLG
  • Dolby Atmos Support: Yes (no Dolby Vision)
  • TV OS: Tizen
  • Connectivity: Apple AirPlay, Bluetooth 4.2, Smart Phone, Alexa, Google Assistant
  • HDMI Ports:
  • USB Ports:

Samsung QN90A vs. Toshiba Fire TV Edition

The Samsung QN90A and the Toshiba Fire TV Edition are two dramatically different TVs aimed at different types of shoppers. The QN90A is best for those looking for a bright picture with deep blacks and vivid colors. Using Samsung’s Neo QLED screens, the picture quality of the QN90A is significantly better.

However, the Toshiba Fire TV Edition may be a better buy for a secondary TV, such as a bedroom or a den due to its much lower cost. Reviewers noted that this TV is best for watching TV shows, but the QN90A is a far better choice for just about anything else.

TCL 6-Series  »

TCL 6-Series

Price (65 in)
$1,299.99

Display Type
QLED

TV Resolution
4K UHD

Dimensions
56.9 x 33.3 x 3.6 inches

Samsung QN90A vs. TCL 6 Series

While both the Samsung QN90A and the TCL 6 Series TVs use QLED, the QN90A has Samsung’s newer Neo QLED technology, resulting in a brighter overall picture. While the TCL has a better contrast ratio, the QN90A’s local dimming produced deeper blacks and less blooming around bright objects on the screen.

However, for just about every other use, from gaming to movies, the TCL 6 Series performance came close to that of the QN90A. We’d recommend the TCL 6 Series for those looking for a high-performing TV without the high price – as long as you’re okay with a slightly lower quality picture.

Samsung offers a wide range of television models, from 1080p Full HD up to 8K. Many of its televisions use QLED displays, with its higher-end sets using Neo QLED and OLED technology. Prices range from as little as $200 to as much as $15,000 for its most expensive sets.

In addition to standard TVs, Samsung produces specialized TVs, including the Frame TV, intended to look like a picture frame; the Terrace, a weather-resistant outdoor TV; and the Sero, which rotates based on the orientation of the content on the screen.

Similar TVs

How do I buy a Samsung TV?

Shoppers have several options to purchase Samsung TVs. The company sells directly to the consumer as well as through select online and brick-and-mortar partners, including Best Buy, Walmart, World Wide Stereo, and B&H. Online retailers include The Big Screen Store, BuyDig.com, and Crutchfield.

On Samsung’s site, click the “where to buy” link on the product page of your preferred TV to find out more.

Do Samsung TVs come with a warranty?

Yes, Samsung warranties all televisions for one year for both parts and labor. Samsung says the warranty is only good for televisions purchased and used in the United States.

In some cases, Samsung may offer in-home warranty services.

What is Samsung’s return policy?

While return policies will differ based on the authorized retailer you purchase from (check the individual websites for details), TVs bought from Samsung directly can be returned if the customer requests a return within 15 days of delivery. You will have 15 days from the time you request and have your return approved to return the television to Samsung.

Purchases picked up at Best Buy or Samsung Experience locations must be returned to those locations directly within 15 days as well, according to Samsung’s return policy.

Other Guides from 360 Reviews

At U.S. News & World Report, we rank the Best Hospitals, Best Colleges, and Best Cars to guide readers through some of life’s most complicated decisions. Our 360 Reviews team draws on this same unbiased approach to rate the products that you use every day. To build our ratings, we researched more than 48 TVs and analyzed 18 reviews. Our 360 Reviews team does not take samples, gifts, or loans of products or services we review. All sample products provided for review are donated after review. In addition, we maintain a separate business team that has no influence over our methodology or recommendations.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.



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