Samsung S90F QD-OLED TV Review: Refined From Any Angle

Samsung’s S90F QD-OLED TV: A Stellar Display Marred by Software Quirks

Samsung’s latest S90F QD-OLED TV is a visual powerhouse that delivers stunning picture quality and immersive gaming experiences. However, its software interface and some design choices leave room for improvement, creating a mixed bag for potential buyers.

The S90F’s picture quality is nothing short of spectacular. Samsung’s Quantum Dot OLED technology produces vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The TV’s ability to render fine details in both bright and dark scenes is impressive, making it ideal for movie enthusiasts and gamers alike. The Filmmaker Mode, in particular, offers a cinema-like experience with minimal adjustments needed, showcasing the TV’s potential for accurate color reproduction.

Gaming on the S90F is a treat, thanks to its low input lag and support for variable refresh rates. The Game Hub feature is a standout, offering easy access to cloud gaming services and on-the-fly adjustments through the game bar. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of “Ghost of Tsushima” or navigating the colorful chaos of “Astro’s Playroom,” the S90F delivers a responsive and visually stunning gaming experience.

However, the TV’s software interface, Tizen, can be frustrating at times. The persistent push for Samsung TV Plus, an ad-based service, is particularly annoying. Despite turning it off in the Advanced Settings, the service kept reactivating, even launching shows like “The Fairly Odd Parents” on startup. This aggressive promotion of Samsung’s services detracts from the overall user experience.

The TV’s HDMI CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) system, Anynet, also exhibits some erratic behavior. It occasionally powers on connected devices like the Panasonic DP-UB9000 Blu-ray player or PS5 without prompt, while at other times ignoring them entirely. This inconsistency can be frustrating for users who rely on seamless integration between their devices.

Another point of contention is the lack of ATSC 3.0 support, which means users won’t be able to access NextGen TV channels with features like HDR. This omission is particularly noticeable given the TV’s otherwise cutting-edge display technology.

The split Settings tabs, while not a deal-breaker, add an unnecessary layer of complexity to the user interface. Samsung’s decision to focus on HDR10 and HDR10+ instead of supporting Dolby Vision may also disappoint some users, although it aligns with Samsung’s broader ecosystem strategy.

Despite these software and feature-related issues, the S90F’s hardware capabilities are undeniable. The TV’s ability to produce stunning visuals is evident in content like Disney’s “Skeleton Crew,” where the glittering stars and gleaming planets showcase the full potential of OLED technology. However, this particular show had an unexpected side effect of waking up sleeping babies, adding an unintended twist to the viewing experience.

In conclusion, Samsung’s S90F QD-OLED TV is a visual marvel with some software quirks that prevent it from achieving perfection. Its stunning picture quality and gaming performance make it a strong contender in the high-end TV market, but potential buyers should be prepared to navigate some frustrating software issues. For those willing to overlook these drawbacks, the S90F offers a premium viewing experience that pushes the boundaries of home entertainment technology.

Tags: Samsung S90F, QD-OLED TV, Tizen, Samsung TV Plus, ATSC 3.0, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, Game Hub, HDMI CEC, Anynet, Quantum Dot OLED, NextGen TV, Dolby Vision, Disney’s Skeleton Crew, Ghost of Tsushima, Astro’s Playroom, Panasonic DP-UB9000, PS5

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