Samsung S95H OLED TV Review: A Mixed Bag of Features and Performance
The Samsung S95H OLED TV is a high-end display that promises a lot, but does it deliver? This review takes a deep dive into its features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The S95H boasts a sleek design with a 1-inch-thick metal surround, a significant upgrade from previous models. However, the lack of a replaceable frame is a disappointment. The TV's depth of 1 inch is noticeable, and the vents on the side add to its unique look. The easy-to-assemble stand is a welcome change, making setup a breeze.
The remote control is minimal, powered by a solar panel, but its limited functionality may frustrate power users. A dedicated input button would be a welcome addition.
Picture Quality and Antireflective Coating
The S95H's screen is a standout feature, with impressive antireflective technology that reduces glare and maintains black levels even in well-lit rooms. Samsung's advancements in this area are notable, and the 'H' version is the best yet. However, in a bright room, black levels may appear slightly gray.
The TV's brightness has increased by 30% year-over-year, making it a great choice for gamers. The antireflective coating also enhances the viewing experience, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Artwork and Ambient Mode
One of the S95H's unique features is its ability to display static artwork, a first for OLED technology. The art mode is impressive, but the lack of an ambient mode to display images when the TV is off is a missed opportunity.
Smart TV and AI Features
The S95H comes with various AI-powered features, including AI Soccer Mode and NQ4 AI Gen3 processor for image processing. The smart TV system has been streamlined, making it cleaner and better organized. However, the gesture control is underutilized, and the remote lacks dedicated input buttons.
Gaming Performance
The S95H excels in gaming, offering low lag and excellent brightness for shadowy game scenes. The default settings may be too vibrant, but adjustments can be made to suit individual preferences.
Color Accuracy and HDR
While the S95H has impressive brightness, its color accuracy in HDR mode is a concern. Test results show higher luminance error and color checker errors compared to other TVs. The visible color differences in program material and the disappearance of the sun in test footage highlight these issues.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to other high-end TVs like the LG G6 and G5, the S95H shows mixed results. It performs well in some areas, such as gaming and antireflective coating, but falls short in color accuracy and HDR performance.
Conclusion
The Samsung S95H OLED TV is a mixed bag. It offers impressive features like antireflective technology and artwork display, but it also has shortcomings in color accuracy and HDR performance. The design and build quality are solid, but the overall value may be better found in competing models.
