Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) vs Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D

Direct compare

S90DAE / S94DAE

Info

Neo QLED / QN85D / QNX1D

Info

Available screen sizes: 55”77”83”

Available screen sizes: 55”65”75”85”

Panel technology: WRGB OLED

Resolution: 3840x2160

Operating system: Tizen

Model year: 2024

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Panel technology: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

Operating system: Tizen

Model year: 2024

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Overall rating

8.1

7.4

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    8.2

    6.6

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    8.7

    6.8

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    8.5

    6.7

  • Gaming on console

    9.5

    8.9

  • TV as a computer monitor

    8.6

    7.6

  • Watching in bright light

    6.0

    7.3

  • Utility functions

    7.7

    7.7

  • Apps

    9.3

    9.3

  • Sound quality

    7.4

    7.0

Advantages

  • Ideal contrast

  • Great for 4K content

  • Perfect for gamers - 144hz, HDMI 2.1, low input lag.

  • Decent brightness

  • Advanced and smooth Tizen system

  • Nice contrast - Miniled backlighting

  • Very good for gamers - 120Hz, 4xHDMI 2.1, low input lag

  • Tizen operating system with SmartThings and AirPlay support – wide integration and flexibility

  • Very high brightness 825 cd/m² – good performance in bright rooms

  • Pleasant sound with noticeable bass

Disadvantages

No like
  • Colours from the box need improvement

  • Missing Dolby Vision (not necessary at this brightness but it would be appreciated)

  • No recording feature

  • Limited support for multimedia formats, no DTS audio format

Our verdict

The SAMSUNG S90D, also known as the S94D, is equipment that repeatedly surprised us positively during our tests. It’s worth mentioning at the outset that depending on the selected size, differences may concern the applied OLED panel. However, regardless of which variant we encounter, one can count on excellent blacks and HDR effects that, thanks to high brightness, make a huge impression. This is one of those TVs that can truly elevate home viewing to a cinematic level. During testing of films and series, we immediately noticed the great colour reproduction and depth of blacks. Dark scenes, which can be problematic on other screens, are full of details and immersive here. Although the factory colour settings could be a bit better, after calibration, the image gained clarity, and the TV showed what it’s really capable of. In terms of everyday usage, we noted that the wide viewing angles allow comfortable watching of content even from less central positions. The Tizen operating system appealed to us – it’s clear, fast, and offers access to the most popular apps. AirPlay works seamlessly, which was a nice addition during testing. And what about image smoothness?... The 144 Hz panel performs excellently. While watching sports, the image was smooth, without the slightest blur. Matches or races felt like we were really in the stands. We also couldn’t skip gaming tests. Low input lag and support for HDMI 2.1 make the S90D/S94D a great choice for gamers. Games ran smoothly, and every movement was displayed with incredible precision. This is equipment that meets the expectations of even the more demanding console users. The SAMSUNG S90D/S94D is a TV that combines excellent picture quality with modern features and versatility. Regardless of whether we're watching films, playing on a console, or simply using apps, this model impresses. In its price range, it’s truly a strong contender.

Samsung QN85D is the entry-level model in the Neo QLED series for 2024, but it certainly doesn’t come across as a "budget" option. It’s a television that combines modern technology with convenient smart features. During tests, the Tizen system operated smoothly, and integration with the SmartThings ecosystem made it easy to connect other devices in the home. If we use Apple devices, AirPlay works flawlessly, which is convenient, especially for viewing photos or videos from our phone. As for its performance during daily use, it simply works very well. The television handles viewing even in bright rooms – its brightness is sufficient that there’s no need to cover the windows. Additionally, the stable central stand not only looks good but also adds confidence that the device is standing securely and will definitely fit on smaller furniture. There is a lack of recording function, but the solar remote control, which operates decoders (e.g. Canal+) and the PiP function are practical additions that anyone who enjoys spending time watching regular television will appreciate. As for the picture – because that’s the most important thing in a TV – the QN85D makes a great impression. The VA panel provides very good blacks – especially if we watch the television head-on. Thanks to miniLED backlighting, the television better controls the light, resulting in much more detail visible in dark scenes. When it comes to motion fluidity, the television performs excellently thanks to the 120 Hz refresh rate – both games and matches are enjoyable to watch. If we’re gaming, low input lag combined with an excellent motion smoother and game bar will be a significant advantage – gameplay will be a pleasure. Samsung QN85D is a versatile television that will perform well for both everyday television watching and more demanding sessions or gaming on a console. Although it lacks some features, such as recording, its picture quality, motion fluidity, and smart capabilities definitely make up for these shortcomings. If we’re looking for a modern yet affordable Mini LED model, QN85D will be a very good choice.

TV appearance

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

Where to buy

No links

No links

Contrast and black detail

10/10

7.6/10

Local dimming function: Yes, number of zones: 120 (12 x 10)

Contrast:

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Contrast and black detail

Result

107,750:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Contrast and black detail

Result

27,100:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Contrast and black detail

Result

62,500:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Contrast and black detail

Result

8,750:1

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Contrast and black detail

Result

4,950:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Samsung S90D, thanks to its OLED matrix, offers infinite contrast, which is one of its greatest advantages. OLED matrices are characterised by each pixel emitting its own light, allowing for deep blacks and excellent detail reproduction in dark scenes. In contrast to traditional LCD matrices with backlighting, where black often takes on a grey hue due to uneven backlighting, OLED guarantees that switched-off pixels remain completely black. This allows for a very high level of contrast, making images more dynamic and realistic. In the scene from "Oblivion", the Samsung S90D beautifully showcases the high light effect of the lantern, highlighting the intensity and details in the bright parts of the image. Meanwhile, in the film "Sicario 2", you can perfectly see the separation of the helicopter lights from the dark background. A surprising aspect of the S90D model is the fact that Samsung, after years of disputes, decided to use organic matrices produced by LG, in versions with "DAE" endings in their names. Is that a bad thing? No! In terms of contrast, both WOLED and QD-OLED matrices offer the same, which is perfect black.

Samsung QN85D for 2024 is the first model from the NeoQLED series to use a VA panel, offering significantly better blacks than IPS/ADS technologies. The 55-inch version has 160 dimming zones, which may not be an impressive number compared to competing models from China. In larger sizes, the number of zones is greater, which naturally translates to better contrast. The contrast results are good, but certain limitations are evident.

With smaller elements on the screen, the limited number of zones causes issues – the TV either tries to maintain a high brightness level, resulting in a halo effect around objects, or it dims too much, as observed in the test scene from the Pioneer disc. Additionally, in the same scene where the TV showcased its highest capabilities (Oblivion) in contrast, it also has significant problems with light separation. You can see how the TV struggles to maintain the best black at the cost of detail in the whites. You can't have it all. Both of these effects impact the perception of contrast, making the performance weaker in more challenging conditions. However, compared to TVs without local dimming technology, the results are very positive and can be surprising.

HDR effect quality

6.8/10

5.3/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 98.0%, Bt.2020: 73.0%
DCI P3: 94.6%, Bt.2020: 77.5%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Brightness measurement

Result

960 nit

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Brightness measurement

Result

990 nit

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Brightness measurement

Result

1098 nit

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Brightness measurement

Result

1042 nit

Review Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED) Brightness measurement

Result

490 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Brightness measurement

Result

999 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Brightness measurement

Result

335 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Brightness measurement

Result

562 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Brightness measurement

Result

182 nit

Review Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D Brightness measurement

Result

855 nit

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

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

Static HDR10

Dynamic: HDR10+

Dynamic: HDR10+

HDR luminance chart:

Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D

Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED)

In the tested film scenes, the Samsung S90D television achieves impressive brightness results, exceeding the 1000 nit barrier in the first four shots, which can be considered a remarkable outcome. In the case of the last shot, where a full-screen flash of sunlight is visible, the brightness drops to around 500 nit, but it still remains at a very good level. Additionally, the television impresses with a DCI-P3 colour space coverage value of 98%, which guarantees extraordinarily rich and realistic colour reproduction, further enhancing the image quality. This result makes the Samsung S90D an ideal choice for those expecting high-quality images in a variety of lighting conditions.

Samsung QN85D leaves us with mixed feelings regarding HDR quality. It can shine in synthetic luminance tests, reaching even 1000 nits – which makes scenes like those from 'The Meg' or the start of 'Life of Pi', where the screen is all bright, look truly impressive. However, in practice, the device has its limitations – especially when smaller bright elements appear on the screen. In such moments, brightness noticeably drops, and the HDR effect loses its punch. At brightness levels around 200-300 nits, the magic of HDR simply fades away, not delivering spectacular effects. However, it’s not that the television completely disappoints – coverage of the DCI-P3 colour gamut at 95% is quite decent, although it doesn’t stand out against the best competitors. Colours are well-rendered, but it's clear that HDR could make a bigger impression if brightness could be better controlled.

Factory color reproduction

7/10

6.3/10

Factory Mode

After calibration

Factory Mode

After calibration

The S90D television has been tested in Filmmaker mode, which offers good colour reproduction, although with some imperfections that may be noticeable to more discerning users. This mode may seem too warm, and users who have switched from Standard mode might experience a slight shock. It’s worth noting that this state of affairs is caused by poor settings, such as in the white balance, rather than the Filmmaker mode itself. In both SDR and HDR content, the device shows drops in blue, causing colours to appear warmer than they should. In practice, this means that certain shades, such as sky blue or skin tones, may appear less natural and more tinged with pink or yellow. The Colour Checker test confirms these deviations, showing shifts towards warmer tones. In SDR content, the gamma chart indicates slight fluctuations, which may result in the image being minimally darker, especially in the shadows. This can affect the clarity of details in darker scenes. Meanwhile, in 4K HDR materials, the EOTF curve is located above the recommended line, leading to some parts of the image being displayed too brightly, which can cause clipping in the brightest areas. Overall, Samsung S90D delivers a solid picture straight out of the box, but for the best results, especially with more demanding content, additional calibration is recommended.

Samsung QN85D TV has been tested in the best available mode – Filmmaker. While one might expect its name suggests a mode perfectly suited for films, unfortunately, it has several significant issues.

When it comes to white balance for HD content, there is a noticeable dominance of red and blue, which makes the entire image take on pinkish hues – this is also confirmed by Colour Checker tests. This effect disturbs the naturalness of skin tones and many other elements, which is particularly evident in more demanding scenes. Initially, the white balance for 4K HDR content seems correct, but at the end of the graph, there is a significant spike in blue hues, affecting the final image quality and making the colours appear unnatural.

The gamma brightness characteristic is also not ideal – although it generally stays close to the reference value, there is a slight drop below 2.4, which can impact the perceived depth of shadows. The EOTF curve responsible for 4K content does not perform any better. There is a clear boost compared to the reference curve, leading to excessive brightness in some areas, thus losing the cinematic quality that the Filmmaker mode should provide. While it might initially seem that the effect is cinematic, unfortunately, the number of errors in colour and brightness reproduction is too significant to call it flawless.

Color reproduction after calibration

8.7/10

7.9/10

After calibration, the Samsung S90D TV in movie mode looks even better than one might expect. The white balance for both HD and 4K HDR content has been improved almost to perfection. Although minor errors can still be noticed, they are so minimal that they do not significantly affect the picture quality. Colours are more balanced, leading to a natural reproduction of details, especially in scenes that require a precise colour palette. It is worth noting that this model in this size is equipped with a WOLED panel, which has less coverage of a wide colour gamut and does not offer as rich colours as, for example, the 65-inch version, which is equipped with a QD-OLED panel.

The contrast has also seen a significant improvement. The gamma graph after calibration is much closer to the expected line, providing a better balance between bright and dark areas of the image. The EOTF curve, which showed problems with overexposed scenes before calibration, now demonstrates better results. This effect allows for greater detail to be preserved in the bright parts of the image, especially in HDR materials.

After professional calibration of the Filmmaker mode on the Samsung QN85D television, a significant improvement is noticeable, especially for HD/SDR content. The white balance has been completely free of major errors, and the brightness characteristics for this type of content have been significantly adjusted, allowing for a more natural and realistic image. Television, YouTube films, and other HD materials now look much better, with appropriately balanced colours and without the exaggerated hues that previously marred the experience.

However, the biggest issues arise with 4K HDR content. Despite the calibration, it's hard to speak of significant improvement in white balance here – the differences are cosmetic rather than essential. Brightness, governed by the EOTF curve, seems to be set according to the reference level in synthetic tests at first glance, but has its limitations during actual viewing in films. When analysing the EOTF curve in real film scenes, it becomes clear that the television struggles to maintain consistency in brightness. The effect is that mixed scenes still have their darkest elements boosted, leading to exaggerated contrasts, and completely dark scenes remain too dark, which negatively affects the visibility of details.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7.6/10

7.6/10

The fluidity of tonal transitions in the Samsung S90D television is at a good level, although subtle imperfections are noticeable in places. In most scenes, the tonal transitions are fluid and well-reproduced, providing a natural viewing experience. In more demanding sequences, such as a dark coloured sky, slight issues may arise; however, they do not significantly affect the overall visual experience. In the test scene with dominant red hues, slight cutoffs in the brighter areas can be observed, but they are subtle enough not to disrupt viewing. Overall, the fluidity of tonal transitions in the Samsung S90D television is solid, ensuring a good reception of content.

When it comes to tonal transition fluidity on the Samsung QN85D television, it’s generally very good. The tonal transitions are smooth, and there are no significant artifacts. However, more demanding users may notice some issues in certain scenes. For example, when blending darker colours, like in the scene with the red sea, subtle shortcomings can be observed. Similarly, in the case of lighter colours – the scene from the film 'The Martian' shows slight gradation issues, leading to subtle but noticeable transitions between shades. Despite these minor shortcomings, most users should be satisfied. The results are of a high standard and in most cases provide smooth, natural transitions between colours.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

7.9/10

7/10

Image without overscan on the SD signal
No
OK
Smooth transition function
OK
OK

Smooth transition function

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Television S90D handles tonal transitions very well. Thanks to the technology used, transitions between colours are smoother and more natural. You can also use the noise reduction feature, which further smooths out tonal transitions, which can be useful in certain situations. However, it's worth remembering that turning on noise reduction can also lead to the smoothing out of desirable film grain, thereby reducing the cinematic feel of the image. For this reason, caution is advised when using this feature, as it’s better to leave the natural grain that adds character and authenticity to the content being viewed.

Samsung, as always, does not disappoint and excels in scaling images from lower resolutions. The S90D Samsung TV effectively processes lower resolutions, as seen in the visible image. The outline of the model is clear and accurate and, as a result, looks natural and detailed. Moreover, the branches of the trees are well-represented, showing no significant jaggedness that could degrade image quality. With effective scaling, even materials in lower resolution present attractively on the screen, satisfying users who prefer various sources of content such as regular antenna/cable television.

When checking the fluidity of tonal transitions in low-resolution materials on the Samsung QN85D television, it’s worth noting the noise reduction feature, which significantly improves problematic tonal transitions. On the other hand, this feature also has its downsides – it removes film grain, which is an important element of many productions, giving them authenticity, and it can also soften the image. This may appeal to those who prefer a smoother picture; however, for lovers of the authentic look of films, using this feature should be considered carefully.

Regarding image scaling, the television performs very well. The model's figure is presented correctly, without noticeable distortions, and the branches in the background do not have excessive artificial sharpness, which is often a problem when scaling lower resolution materials. The high capabilities of the image processor are evident here, which can effectively process lower quality materials, ensuring good final quality.

Blur and motion smoothness

8.5/10

7.5/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
144Hz
120Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
OK
OK
BFI function 60Hz
Yes, 60Hz (image flickers)
Yes, 60Hz (image flickers)
BFI function 120Hz
Nie
Nie
Brightness drop with BFI
51%
75%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Samsung S90D TV is equipped with a 120 Hz panel, with the ability to overclock to 144 Hz with the right PC configuration, providing exceptional motion smoothness. For years, Samsung has offered a variety of ten-point settings for image clarity, allowing users to adjust the display to their preferences. In the UFO test, thanks to the use of an OLED panel, there is no sign of any motion blur. The pixel response is instantaneous and perfectly captures dynamic movements. In this aspect, OLED technology is considered one of the best on the market. The image is incredibly sharp and detailed, even during fast action, making the S90D an ideal choice for gamers and sports enthusiasts.

Samsung QN85D TV is equipped with a 120 Hz refresh rate panel, which should satisfy both gamers and sports enthusiasts by offering a smooth and dynamic image. There are options to enhance fluidity, such as the blur and judder reduction feature, which allows precise motion fluidity adjustments on a 10-point scale. The blur reduction increases the sharpness of fast-moving objects, making action scenes more readable, while judder reduction smooths out motion, eliminating the “judder” effect. Ghosting is generally well controlled, though minor imperfections can be visible in more demanding scenes, especially when an object moves against a dark background. Additionally, the TV offers a BFI (Black Frame Insertion) feature at a 60 Hz refresh rate, which can significantly improve motion fluidity experience, although at the cost of image flicker, which might be bothersome for some users.

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.5/10

9.5/10

  • ALLM
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR range
    48 - 144Hz
    48 - 120Hz
  • Dolby Vision Game Mode
    No
    No
  • Correct implementation of HGIG
    Yes
    Yes
  • 1080p@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • 1440p@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • 4K@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • Game bar
    Yes
    Yes

The Samsung S90D television is perfectly adapted to the needs of gamers, offering four HDMI 2.1 ports that support key features such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and HDR Gaming Interest Group (HGIG). With these technologies, gamers can enjoy smoother and more responsive gameplay, significantly enhancing comfort and performance during intense gaming sessions. An additional advantage of the television is the special Game Bar, which allows for easy management of game settings. This functionality enables quick adjustments of parameters, such as changing the aspect ratio of the television screen, which can be useful in various games and types of gameplay. Users can easily customise their preferences, making the use of the television while gaming even more convenient and enjoyable. As for PC users, the television pleasantly surprises. When connecting a computer, the panel is able to achieve a refresh rate of 144Hz, and users of Nvidia or AMD graphics cards can enjoy features such as G-Sync and FreeSync. However, it should be noted that the television does not support Dolby Vision, which may be a downside – although it is worth considering that Dolby Vision is not as popular in the context of games as it is in films. Nevertheless, the S90D television still offers excellent features for gamers, making it a great choice for gaming enthusiasts looking for outstanding picture quality and modern technological solutions.

The Samsung QN85D television is an excellent choice for gamers, offering a wide range of features that enhance the gaming experience and make it even more exciting. With a 120 Hz refresh rate panel, the image is incredibly smooth, which is crucial during dynamic scenes in action games. The television also boasts low input lag, allowing for nearly instant reactions to player commands, which translates into better control over characters and events on the screen.

In addition, the QN85D Samsung supports VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) technologies, which optimise image smoothness and reduce delays by automatically adjusting the television to the needs of gamers. Moreover, the Xbox app allows for cloud gaming without the need for a console, which is a big plus for those who want to enjoy their favourite titles without additional hardware – a feature that sets Samsung televisions apart.

The Auto Motion Plus Game feature is another aspect worth highlighting. This motion smoothing technology creates the illusion of more frames per second – as a result, games at 30 fps appear smoother, resembling gameplay at 45 fps, while games at 60 Hz come closer to 90 Hz. Most importantly, this feature does not introduce significant lag, ensuring that gaming comfort is not compromised. This allows gamers to enjoy a smoother image without compromising responsiveness.

Input lag

10/10

9.9/10

SDR

1080p60
10 ms
14 ms
1080p120
5 ms
10 ms
2160p60
10 ms
14 ms
2160p120
5 ms
10 ms

HDR

2160p60
10 ms
14 ms
2160p120
5 ms
10 ms
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
2160p120 DV

The Samsung S90D OLED features an exceptionally low input lag, regardless of resolution or refresh rate, in both SDR and HDR modes. Results around 10 ms are truly impressive and significantly enhance the gaming experience. Such low input lag ensures immediate response to on-screen actions, which is crucial in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. This allows users to enjoy smoothness and precision, making the Samsung S90D a fantastic choice for those who prioritise gaming performance.

Samsung QN85D impresses when it comes to input lag value. The television achieves outstanding results – below 15 ms for 60 Hz content and around 10 ms for 120 Hz content. This allows gamers to enjoy instantaneous responses to their actions, especially in dynamic games where every millisecond counts. Such low input lag makes gameplay more responsive and natural, enhancing the overall experience while playing.

Compatibility with PC

8.6/10

7.6/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
Yes
Font clarity
Very Good
Very Good
Readability of dark text and shapes
Very Good
Average
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
5ms
10ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
RWBG
BGR
Max refresh rate
144Hz
120Hz
G-Sync
Yes
Yes

The Samsung S90D TV works perfectly with a PC. Fonts are clearly visible, which makes reading text and using applications easier. Additionally, it supports chroma 4:4:4 at 4K resolution and a refresh rate of 144 Hz, providing complete colour reproduction and sharpness of image. It is worth highlighting that the input lag of just 5 ms is extremely advantageous, especially for gamers and professionals working with graphics. With such low latency, using the TV as a monitor becomes a pleasure, allowing for comfortable and responsive work. The Samsung S90D TV is an excellent choice for users looking for performance and quality in everyday computer use.

Samsung QN85D could be a good option as a computer monitor. Thanks to support for chroma 4:4:4 (available only in "Game" mode), text on the screen is clear and easy to read, which is crucial for those working with word documents or spreadsheets. A major advantage of this model is its exceptionally low input lag in "PC" mode – just 9 ms, which is really impressive and provides high fluidity and responsiveness, making it suitable for both work and gaming. However, there are some drawbacks. When displaying fonts on a dark background, an issue arises – when zooming in on an image, it can be seen that the horizontal lines are darker than the vertical ones. This is due to the fact that the sub-pixels in those areas do not light up fully, which may be a result of oversight on the manufacturer's part in optimising the algorithm responsible for displaying thin lines. As a result, the quality of text on a dark background is not ideal. Despite this, the television still remains a very good choice as a PC monitor, especially considering the low input lag and support for chroma 4:4:4.

Viewing angles

7.6/10

2.9/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
29%
84%

Viewing angles on the Samsung S90D television, thanks to OLED technology, are unmatched. OLED offers excellent colour and contrast reproduction, even at wide viewing angles, which ensures the picture remains clear and vibrant from almost any perspective. Users can enjoy a consistent visual experience, regardless of where they are watching the screen from. The only televisions that might perform better in this regard are models equipped with MLA (Micro Lens Array) or QD-OLED technology. These innovative solutions further enhance picture quality from various angles, but under standard conditions, OLED remains the leader in viewing angles, providing users with exceptional visual experiences.

The Samsung QN85D television, due to its VA panel, has quite poor viewing angles. When viewed from the side, colours lose their intensity, and the image becomes noticeably less contrasted. This is a typical drawback of VA panels, which offer significantly worse picture quality when viewed from wider angles. However, directly in front of the television, the situation looks much better – the VA panel then provides deep blacks and better contrast, which is a big plus if the television is mainly watched while sitting directly in front of the screen.

TV efficiency during daytime

6/10

7.3/10

Matrix coating
Glare
Satin
Reflection suppression
Good
Average
Black levels during daytime
Very Good
Good

Matrix brightness

Average luminance SDR

Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D: 825 cd/m2

Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED): 396 cd/m2

When watching during the day, the Samsung S90D performs very well, achieving an average brightness of around 400 nits, which is a very good result for OLED technology. Despite the use of a glossy panel, glare suppression is at a decent level, allowing for comfortable viewing even in bright rooms. The only noticeable downside of this technology, rather than the television itself, is the brightness at 100% white screen fill. In such conditions, OLED may struggle to achieve extremely high brightness. Situations like this can be seen when we want to watch winter sports, such as ski jumping.

Samsung QN85D TV performs very well in bright daylight conditions. Although the satin panel moderately suppresses reflections, the brightness level of 825 cd/m² is truly impressive. Even in direct sunlight, the television handles itself very well, providing a clear and sharp image, and the largest external light sources do not pose a significant problem. This makes this model a good option for rooms with a lot of natural light.

Details about the matrix

Backlight Type
Mini-LED QLED
Software version during testing
1120
1120
Image processor

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity:

Samsung OLED S90D / S94D (WRGB OLED)

Samsung Neo QLED QN85D / QNX1D

TV features

7.7/10

7.7/10

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

The Samsung S90 television offers a range of features that significantly enhance user comfort and make it an ideal device for entertainment in the comfort of your home. The Tizen system, on which this model is based, is a modern and advanced platform that provides users with an intuitive and smooth experience. Thanks to its user-friendly interface, navigation through applications and settings is quick and intuitive, making it easy for even those who are less tech-savvy to use the television. Tizen supports a rich set of applications, including all popular streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. A new feature for 2024 is the availability of voice search in Polish. It is also worth noting the eco-friendly solar remote, which is not only environmentally friendly but also practical for everyday use. For example, the remote can control multiple devices connected to the television, meaning we do not need to use multiple remotes. Additionally, the television supports AirPlay, allowing for easy content sharing from Apple devices such as iPhone or iPad. The S90D Samsung also allows for the connection of various Bluetooth devices such as mice, keyboards, or headphones, which increases its versatility and allows for the personalisation of user experiences. This way, users can easily adjust their settings to make the most of the television's capabilities. The only downside that can be pointed out is the lack of USB recording support. For some users, this may be a limitation, especially when it comes to archiving favourite shows or movies. Despite this, the Samsung S90D television offers many advanced features and technologies that make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality entertainment in their home.

Samsung QN85D offers a wide range of smart features, thanks to the Tizen platform. Users have access to applications and features such as SmartThings, allowing management not only of Samsung devices but also equipment from other brands, creating a complete smart home ecosystem. The TV also supports AirPlay, enabling convenient content streaming from Apple devices directly to the screen, enhancing flexibility and comfort in everyday use.

Model QN85D also stands out in terms of unique features. The TV features Daily+, offering a variety of daily content such as fitness exercises or workspace. Additionally, the attractive appearance of the TV, while not as slim as last year's models, still presents well. The central stand provides solid support and adds character to the device, giving the TV a more elegant look.

In terms of user features, the TV is equipped with a remote that controls set-top boxes, such as Canal+, allowing easy control of most home equipment with a single device. The TV also has a PiP (Picture-in-Picture) function, enabling simultaneous viewing of two image sources. Unfortunately, one of the drawbacks that can be noticed is the lack of a recording function, which may be a significant downside for some users.

Playing files from USB

8.9/10

8.9/10

Supported photo formats:

JPEG
Yes
Yes
HEIC
No
No
PNG
No
No
GIF
No
No
WebP
No
No
TIFF
No
No
BMP
Yes
Yes
SVG
No
No

Maximum photo resolution:

4 Mpix
Yes
Yes
6 Mpix
Yes
Yes
8 Mpix
Yes
Yes
10 Mpix
Yes
Yes
12 Mpix
Yes
Yes
16 Mpix
Yes
Yes
20 Mpix
Yes
Yes
24 Mpix
Yes
Yes
28 Mpix
Yes
Yes
32 Mpix
Yes
Yes

Samsung S90D is equipped with a built-in media player that supports most popular video formats, allowing for convenient playback of films from various sources. The player also supports subtitles in Polish and enables users to customise the font colour, increasing comfort while watching content with subtitles. In terms of image formats, the TV handles many of them, but one of the few downsides is the lack of ability to play the popular PNG format. Nevertheless, the overall playback capabilities of the S90D are at an excellent level.

The built-in player in the Samsung QN85D should satisfy most users. It handles popular video and audio formats without much trouble, offering solid support for the most commonly used codecs. However, more demanding users may notice some shortcomings – it is not possible to play photos in the HEIC format, popular in Apple devices, as well as a few other, less common photo formats.

Apps

9.3/10

9.3/10

OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Viaplay
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
No
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
MAX
No
Kodi
OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Viaplay
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
No
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
MAX
No
Kodi

Sound

7.4/10

7/10

  • Subjective sound quality:
    7.4/10
    7/10
  • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1:
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby True HD 7.1:
    No
    No
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus (JOC):
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby True HD:
    No
    No
  • DTS:X in DTS-HD MA:
    No
    No
  • DTS-HD Master Audio:
    No
    No

The Samsung S90D TV is equipped with a 2.1 audio system with a total power of 40 W, providing clear and dynamic sound. Thanks to the subwoofer located at the bottom of the casing, the bass is deep and palpable, while the mid and high tones remain well-balanced. It is worth noting that the twin model S94D offers an even more advanced 2.1.2 speaker set with a power of 60 W. If the silver colour of the S94D casing is not an obstacle, and the price difference between these models is minimal, it’s worth considering choosing the version with the digit “4” at the end. Although the TV does not support DTS format, it offers other sound technologies such as Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus. However, to fully enjoy surround sound, it’s worth considering connecting an external audio system.

The sound on the Samsung QN85D television is pleasant, with a subtle sense of bass and clarity across the entire volume range. This is thanks to the built-in 2.2 40W speakers. Unfortunately, the lack of support for the DTS audio format may be problematic for users wanting to enjoy a full sound experience. In such cases, it will be necessary to use an external player to get support for this format.