Samsung QN65S90DA 65 Inch 4K OLED Smart TV review with Dolby Atmos insights

Description

Unboxing and First Impressions of the Samsung QN65S90DAFXZA OLED Smart TV

The Samsung QN65S90DAFXZA 65-Inch 4K OLED Smart TV arrived well-packaged, and the sleek Laser Slim Design immediately caught my eye. With its Space Titan finish, it feels futuristic and blends seamlessly into a modern living room. The Simple Plus Blade Stand offers a sturdy base while maintaining a minimalistic aesthetic. Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the VESA compatibility and Samsung Tizen OS, which guided me through the initial setup process with ease. From the get-go, this TV felt like a premium product, promising cutting-edge features.

Key Benefits

The TV delivers a ton of positives that immediately stand out. Below are some of its key benefits:

• OLED Technology ensures deep blacks and vibrant whites, creating an unmatched contrast ratio.
• Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite provide a fantastic audio experience, making you feel immersed in every scene.
• Motion Xcelerator 144Hz enables smooth, lag-free gaming and content streaming.
• Real Depth Enhancer adds a lifelike dimension to visuals, enhancing foreground contrasts for realism.

After using this TV for a while, I was impressed by the OLED HDR+, which made colors pop like never before, especially during nature documentaries and action movies. The Adaptive Sound Pro adjusted the audio dynamically, ensuring dialogues were crisp even during loud sequences.

Navigating the Smart Features

The built-in Tizen OS was a game-changer. This operating system is intuitive, quick, and packed with features like Samsung TV Plus, which offers free streaming channels, and Samsung Smart Hub, where all apps are neatly organized. I found myself frequently using the Ambient Mode+, which turned the screen into a digital canvas displaying artwork or matching the room’s decor. The built-in voice assistant came in handy for quick searches, and I appreciated the seamless compatibility with SmartThings. Controlling my smart home devices through the TV was smooth.

Another standout for me was the Samsung Gaming Hub. Paired with the Motion Xcelerator Turbo 144Hz, gaming felt incredibly responsive. The low input lag paired with 4 HDMI ports and eARC support ensured I could connect multiple devices without hassle.

AudioQuest G8 Surge Protector: A Practical Addition

The bundle includes the AudioQuest G8 8-Outlet USB-A/USB-C AC Power Surge Protector, and I must say, it’s a fantastic addition. Not only does it protect the TV from sudden power spikes with its Micro Spike Protection, but it also reduces interference from devices via RF Noise-Dissipation technology. I used it to connect my soundbar and gaming console, and I noticed a cleaner audio and visual performance. It’s reassuring to know that my devices are safe from potential electrical surges.

Areas for Improvement

While the TV and its features are impressive, there are a few shortcomings that I noticed:

• Reflective Screen: The glossy finish of the screen tends to reflect light sources, which can be distracting during daytime viewing.
• No HDMI 2.1 Across All Ports: Only some HDMI ports support the latest standard, which might be limiting for users with multiple advanced devices.
• Sound Limitations Without External Speakers: While the built-in speakers are decent, audiophiles might feel the need for a separate sound system to fully appreciate Dolby Atmos.
• Price Point: This TV is undeniably premium, and while it offers a lot, it might feel like an overinvestment for casual users.

Despite these minor issues, the overall experience remains compelling, especially for tech enthusiasts and gamers.

Competing Products

In the realm of OLED TVs, there’s stiff competition, and I had the opportunity to compare this model with a few rival brands. For instance, LG’s C2 OLED TV offers similar Picture Quality and HDR Performance. However, I found the Samsung QN65S90DAFXZA excels in delivering better brightness levels and a more immersive audio experience with its Q-Symphony feature. Sony’s A95K OLED, on the other hand, is another strong contender with exceptional color accuracy, though it lacks the Motion Xcelerator Turbo+ for gaming enthusiasts.

While LG TVs often boast a more affordable price point, Samsung’s inclusion of features like Real Depth Enhancer and Samsung Gaming Hub makes it a perfect choice for users seeking innovation. Compared to Sony, this TV feels more versatile and user-friendly, especially for those already in the Samsung ecosystem.

Value for Money

Discussing the value proposition, this TV sits firmly in the premium category. Given its array of features, from Pantone-validated color accuracy to 144Hz refresh rate, it’s hard to argue against the quality for the price. Sure, the price might seem steep at first glance, but if you’re someone who values a top-tier viewing experience, seamless gaming, and smart functionality, this is well worth the investment. The addition of the AudioQuest G8 Surge Protector further sweetens the deal by ensuring your high-end electronics remain protected.

While there are budget-friendly alternatives in the market, they often compromise on image quality, advanced OS features, or gaming performance. This TV feels like a long-term investment for anyone serious about their home entertainment setup.

Additional information