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

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

  • Decent brightness

  • Advanced and smooth Tizen system

  • Great 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
  • The colours from the box need improvement

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

  • No recording function

  • Limited multimedia format support, no DTS audio format

Our verdict

The SAMSUNG S90D, also known as the S94D, is a device that has repeatedly pleasantly surprised us during our tests. It is worth mentioning that depending on the chosen size, the differences may concern the OLED panel used. However, regardless of which variant we encounter, one can count on excellent black levels and HDR effects, which, thanks to high brightness, make a huge impression. This is one of those TVs that really can elevate home viewing to a cinematic level. While testing films and series, we immediately noticed the great colour reproduction and depth of black. Dark scenes, which can be problematic on other screens, are full of detail and immersive here. Although the factory colour settings could be a bit better, after calibration the picture gained clarity, and the television showed what it is truly capable of. In terms of everyday use, we noticed that the wide viewing angles allow comfortable viewing even from less central positions. The Tizen operating system appealed to us – it is clear, fast, and offers access to the most popular applications. AirPlay works flawlessly, which was a nice addition during our tests. And what about picture fluidity?... The 144 Hz panel performs excellently. While watching sports, the image was smooth, with no hint of motion blur. Matches and races felt as if we were really in the stands. We also couldn't overlook the gaming tests. Low input lag and HDMI 2.1 support make the S90D/S94D an excellent 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 television that combines excellent picture quality with modern features and versatility. Whether we are watching films, playing on a console, or simply using applications, this model impresses. In its price range, it is truly a strong contender.

Samsung QN85D is the base model in the Neo QLED series for 2024, but it certainly does not come across as "budget". It is a television that combines modern technology with convenient smart features. During tests, the Tizen system worked 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 when viewing photos or videos from a phone. As for how it performs in daily use, it simply works very well. The television handles viewing even in a bright room—its brightness is sufficient so that windows do not need to be covered. Additionally, the stable central stand not only looks good but also adds assurance that the device stands firmly and will definitely fit on many smaller pieces of furniture. It is true that it lacks recording features, but the solar remote control, which operates decoders (e.g. Canal+), and the PiP function are practical additions that everyone who enjoys spending time with regular television will appreciate. When it comes to picture quality—because that is the most important aspect in a television—QN85D makes an excellent impression. The VA panel provides very good black levels—especially when watching the television head-on. Thanks to miniLED backlighting, the television better controls the lighting, and consequently, much more detail is visible in dark scenes. As for motion fluidity, with a 120 Hz refresh rate, the television performs excellently—both games and sports matches are enjoyable to watch. If we are playing games, the low input lag combined with the excellent motion smoothing and game bar will be a significant advantage—the gameplay will be a pleasure. Samsung QN85D is a versatile television that will perform well both in everyday television watching and during more demanding screenings 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 are looking for a modern yet affordable Mini LED model, QN85D would be an excellent 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 the OLED matrix used, offers infinite contrast, which is one of its greatest advantages. OLED matrices are characterised by the fact that each pixel emits its own light, allowing for deep blacks and excellent detail reproduction in dark scenes. Unlike 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 achieving a very high level of contrast, making the images more dynamic and realistic. In the scene from "Oblivion," the Samsung S90D brilliantly showcases the high light effect of the lantern, highlighting the intensity and details in the bright parts of the image. Conversely, in the film "Sicario 2," you can clearly see the separation of the helicopter lights from the dark background. A surprising aspect of the S90D model is that Samsung, after years of disputes, decided to use organic matrices manufactured by LG, in versions with "DAE" at the end of the name. 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, featuring a VA panel that offers significantly better blacks than IPS/ADS technologies. The 55-inch version has 160 dimming zones, which may not seem impressive compared to competing models from China. In larger sizes, the number of zones increases, which naturally translates into better contrast. The contrast performance is good, but certain limitations are evident.

With smaller screen elements, the limited number of zones causes issues – the television either tries to maintain a high level of brightness, leading to a halo effect around objects, or dims too much, as observed in the test scene from the Pioneer disc. Additionally, in the same scene where the television showcased its highest capabilities (Oblivion), it also struggles significantly with light separation. You can see how the television fights to maintain the best black at the expense of detail in the whites. It's a trade-off. Both of these effects influence the perception of contrast, making the performance weaker in more challenging conditions. However, compared to televisions 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 television Samsung S90D achieves impressive brightness results, exceeding the 1000 nits barrier in the first four shots, which can be considered an outstanding result. In the case of the last shot, where a full-screen flash of sunlight is visible, the brightness drops to around 500 nits, but still remains at a very good level. Additionally, the television impresses with a DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage measurement of 98%, ensuring an extraordinarily rich and realistic colour reproduction, further enhancing the picture 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 brightness tests, achieving up to 1000 nits – which makes scenes like those from the film 'The Meg' or the beginning of 'Life of Pi', where the screen is entirely 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 impact. At brightness levels around 200-300 nits, the magic of HDR simply fades away, failing to deliver spectacular effects. However, it's not the case that the television completely disappoints – a DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage of 95% is quite decent, although it does not stand out against the best competitors. Colours are well-reproduced, but it's clear that HDR could make a bigger impression if brightness were 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 a bit too warm, and users who switched from Standard mode may experience a slight shock. It is worth noting that this situation 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 exhibits drops in blue colour, making colours warmer than they should be. In practice, this means that some 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 graph indicates slight fluctuations, resulting in a minimally darker image, especially in shadows. This can affect less defined details in darker scenes. Conversely, in 4K HDR materials, the EOTF curve is above the recommended line, leading to overly bright displays in certain parts of the image, which can cause clipping in the brightest areas. Overall, Samsung S90D presents a solid picture right out of the box, but for the best effects, especially with more demanding content, additional calibration is recommended.

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

In terms of white balance for HD content, there is a clear dominance of red and blue, which causes the entire image to take on a pinkish hue – this is also confirmed by Colour Checker tests. This effect disrupts the naturalness of skin tones and many other elements, particularly noticeable in more challenging 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 shades, which impacts the final image quality, making the colours appear unnatural.

The gamma brightness characteristics are also not ideal – although it generally stays close to the reference values, there is a slight drop below the 2.4 level, which can affect the perceived depth of shadows. The EOTF curve responsible for 4K content does not present itself any better. There is a noticeable boost relative to the reference curve, which leads to excessive brightening of the image in some areas, thereby losing the cinematic quality that the Filmmaker mode should provide. Although 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 television in movie mode looks even better than one might have expected. The white balance, for both HD and 4K HDR content, has been improved almost to perfection. Although minor flaws can still be noticed, they are minimal enough not to significantly affect the picture quality. The colours are more balanced, which translates to a natural reproduction of details, especially in scenes requiring 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 the 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.

Contrast has also seen significant improvement. The gamma graph post-calibration is much closer to the expected line, providing better balance between bright and dark areas of the image. The EOTF curve, which prior to calibration showed issues with overexposed scenes, now presents better results. This effect allows for greater detail retention in 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 stripped of serious errors, and the brightness characteristics for this type of content have been significantly adjusted, allowing for a more natural and realistic image. Television, YouTube movies, and other HD materials now look much better, with appropriately balanced colours and without the excessive hues that previously spoiled the viewing experience.

However, the biggest issues concern 4K HDR content. Despite the calibration, it's difficult to speak of a serious improvement in white balance – the differences are cosmetic rather than crucial. Brightness, which is governed by the EOTF curve, appears to be set in line with the reference level in synthetic tests at first glance, but has its limitations during actual usage in films. When we analyse the EOTF curve in real film scenes, it becomes apparent how the television struggles to maintain brightness consistency. The effect is that mixed scenes still have lifted darkest elements, leading to exaggerated contrasts, while completely dark scenes remain too dark, negatively affecting the visibility of details.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7.6/10

7.6/10

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

When it comes to the fluidity of tonal transitions on the Samsung QN85D television, it is generally very good. The tonal transitions are smooth, and no significant artifacts are visible. However, more demanding users may notice some issues in certain scenes. For example, when blending darker shades, as in the scene with the red sea, slight imperfections can be observed. Similarly, with lighter colours – the scene from the film 'The Martian' shows minor gradation issues, leading to subtle yet noticeable transitions between hues. Despite these small shortcomings, most users should be satisfied. The performance is at a high level and, in most cases, delivers 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 performs very well at smoothing tonal transitions. Thanks to the applied technology, the transitions between colours are more fluid and natural. There is also the option to use noise reduction, which further smooths tonal transitions, which can be useful in certain situations. However, it is worth remembering that enabling noise reduction can also lead to the smoothing of desirable film grain, which in turn could reduce the cinematic atmosphere of the image. For this reason, caution is advised when using this feature, as it is better to leave the natural grain that adds character and authenticity to the viewed content.

Samsung, as always, does not disappoint and excels in the area of scaling images from lower resolutions. The S90D Samsung television effectively processes lower resolutions, as can be 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-rendered, showing no significant jaggedness, which could diminish the image quality. Thanks to effective scaling, even materials in lower resolution present attractively on the screen, pleasing users who prefer various sources of content such as regular antenna/cable television.

When checking the smoothness of tonal transitions in low-resolution materials on the Samsung QN85D television, it is 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 more smoothed image; however, for lovers of the authentic look of films, using this feature should be considered carefully.

As for 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. You can see the high capabilities of the image processor, 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 possibility of "overclocking" to 144 Hz with the appropriate PC configuration, providing exceptional motion fluidity. Samsung has been offering a variety of sharpness settings on a ten-point scale for years, allowing users to adjust the display to their preferences. In the UFO test, thanks to the use of an OLED panel, there's no sign of any smearing. 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 picture is extremely sharp and detailed, even during fast actions, making the S90D TV 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 fans by providing a smooth and dynamic picture. There are options to enhance fluidity, such as the motion blur and judder reduction feature, which allows for precise adjustment of motion smoothness on a 10-point scale. Motion blur reduction increases the sharpness of fast-moving objects, making action scenes clearer, while judder reduction smooths movement, eliminating the "stuttering" effect. Smearing is generally well controlled, although there are occasional minor shortcomings that may be visible in more demanding scenes, particularly when an object moves against a dark background. Additionally, the TV offers a BFI (Black Frame Insertion) feature at 60 Hz, which can significantly improve the experience of motion fluidity, although at the cost of image flicker, which may be bothersome to 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 TV 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 affecting 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 to parameters such as changing the TV's screen aspect ratio, which can be useful in various games and types of gameplay. Users can easily customise their preferences, making the use of the TV during gaming even more convenient and enjoyable. As for PC users, the TV pleasantly surprises. When connected to a computer, the panel is capable of achieving a refresh rate of 144Hz, and users of Nvidia or AMD graphics cards can enjoy features such as G-Sync and FreeSync. It should be noted, however, that the TV does not support Dolby Vision, which may be a drawback - but it's worth bearing in mind that Dolby Vision is not as popular for games as it is for films. Nevertheless, the S90D TV still offers excellent features for gamers, making it a great choice for gaming enthusiasts who seek top-notch 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 refresh rate of 120 Hz, the image is incredibly smooth, which is crucial during dynamic scenes in action games. The television also features low input lag, ensuring that reactions to the player's commands are nearly instantaneous, translating to better control over the character 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 fluidity and reduce delays by automatically adjusting the television to meet the needs of gamers. Furthermore, the Xbox app allows access to cloud gaming without the need for a console, which is a significant advantage for those who want to enjoy their favourite titles without additional hardware – a solution that sets Samsung televisions apart.

The Auto Motion Plus Game feature is another element worth highlighting. This motion smoother creates the impression of a higher frame rate – as a result, games running at 30 fps appear smoother, resembling gameplay at 45 fps, while games at 60 Hz come close to 90 Hz. Most importantly, this feature does not introduce significant lag, ensuring that the gaming experience remains undisturbed. This allows players to enjoy a smoother image without compromising on 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 and frame rate, both in SDR and HDR modes. Results around 10 ms are truly impressive and significantly enhance the gaming experience. Such a low input lag ensures instant reactions to on-screen actions, which is crucial in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. This allows users to enjoy fluidity and precision, making the Samsung S90D a superb choice for those prioritising gaming performance.

Samsung QN85D impresses when it comes to input lag value. The television achieves remarkable results – below 15 ms for 60 Hz content and around 10 ms for 120 Hz content. As a result, gamers can enjoy instantaneous reactions 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 gaming.

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 television works perfectly with a PC. The fonts are clearly visible, making it easier to read text and use applications. Additionally, it supports chroma 4:4:4 at 4K resolution and a refresh rate of 144 Hz, which ensures full colour reproduction and sharp image quality. It is worth mentioning that the input lag of only 5 ms is extremely advantageous, particularly for gamers and professionals working with graphics. With such low latency, using the television as a monitor becomes a pleasure, allowing for comfortable and responsive work. The Samsung S90D television is an excellent choice for users seeking performance and quality in everyday computer use.

The Samsung QN85D can be a good option as a computer monitor. Thanks to the support for 4:4:4 chroma (available only in "Game" mode), the text on the screen is sharp and easy to read, which is crucial for those working with word documents or spreadsheets. A significant advantage of this model is also the exceptionally low input lag in "PC" mode – just 9 ms, which is really impressive and provides high smoothness and responsiveness, beneficial for both work and gaming. However, there are some drawbacks. When displaying fonts on a dark background, a problem arises – when we zoom in on the 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 these areas do not fully illuminate, which may result from a manufacturer oversight in optimising the algorithm responsible for displaying thin lines. As a result, the quality of text on a dark background is not perfect. Despite this, the television remains a very good choice as a PC monitor, especially considering the low input lag and support for 4:4:4 chroma.

Viewing angles

7.6/10

2.9/10

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

The viewing angles on the Samsung S90D television, thanks to OLED technology, are unparalleled. OLED offers excellent colour and contrast reproduction, even at wide viewing angles, ensuring that the image remains sharp 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 image quality from various angles, but under standard conditions, OLED remains the leader in terms of viewing angles, providing users with exceptional visual experiences.

The Samsung QN85D television, due to the applied VA panel, has rather poor viewing angles. When viewed from the side, the colours lose intensity, and the picture becomes noticeably less contrasty. This is a typical disadvantage of VA panels, which offer significantly worse picture quality when viewed from wider angles. However, straight on, 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 viewed 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 level of around 400 nits, which is a very good result for OLED technology. Despite the glossy display, the suppression of reflections is at a decent level, allowing for comfortable viewing even in bright rooms. The only noticeable drawback 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 screen moderately reduces reflections, the brightness level of 825 cd/m² is truly impressive. Even in strong sunlight, the television handles very well, providing a clear and sharp image, and the largest external light sources pose no 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 home entertainment. The Tizen system, upon which this model is based, is a modern and advanced platform that provides users with an intuitive and smooth experience. Thanks to the user-friendly interface, navigating through applications and settings is quick and intuitive, making it easier for even those less familiar with technology 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 novelty for 2024 is also the availability of voice search in Polish. It's 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, which means we don't have to use multiple remotes. Additionally, the television supports AirPlay, allowing 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 enables the personalization of user experiences. 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 wanting to archive favourite programmes or films. Despite this, the Samsung S90D 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 functions such as SmartThings, allowing them to manage not only Samsung devices but also equipment from other brands, creating a complete smart home ecosystem. The television also supports AirPlay, enabling convenient content streaming from Apple devices directly to the screen, which enhances flexibility and comfort in everyday use.

The QN85D model also stands out in terms of unique features. The television includes Daily+, offering diverse content daily such as fitness exercises or workspace options. Additionally, the attractive appearance of the television, although not as slim as last year's models, still looks good. The central stand provides solid support and adds character to the device, giving the television a more elegant look.

When it comes to usability features, the television is equipped with a remote control that works with decoders such as Canal+, allowing easy control of most home equipment with one device. The television also includes a PiP (Picture-in-Picture) function, enabling users to watch two image sources simultaneously. Unfortunately, one of the drawbacks that can be noticed is the absence 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 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 photo formats, the television handles many of them well, however, one of the few drawbacks is the inability to play the popular PNG format. Nevertheless, the overall file playback capabilities of the S90D are outstanding.

The built-in player in the Samsung QN85D should satisfy most users. It handles popular video and audio formats without major issues, providing 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, which is popular on Apple devices, as well as several 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 television 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 system with a power of 60 W. If the silver colour of the S94D casing is not a hindrance, and the price difference between these models is minor, it is worth considering the version with the number "4" at the end. Although the television does not support the DTS format, it offers other audio technologies such as Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus. However, to fully enjoy spatial sound, it is worth considering connecting an external audio system.

The sound on the Samsung QN85D television is pleasant, with a subtle sense of bass and clarity throughout the 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 audio experience. In such cases, it will be necessary to use an external player to gain support for this format.