Overview of the Latest QLED TV
The QLED TV in question stands out for its high SDR peak brightness, catering to viewers who prefer a television that performs well in brightly lit environments. This feature, combined with good reflection handling, ensures that glare is effectively combated, making it an ideal choice for rooms with abundant ambient light. Enhanced gaming experiences are a significant focus of this TV, supported by a variable refresh rate (VRR) and HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on all four HDMI ports for most sizes, which is a noteworthy upgrade from previous iterations that offered HDMI 2.1 on only one input. This positions the TV as a strong contender for gamers seeking low latency and tear-free gameplay.
A notable change from earlier models is the improvement in dark room performance. While previous versions, such as the Q80A, suffered from blooming effects that impacted the viewing experience in dimly lit environments, this model makes strides to address this issue. Additionally, the ADS panel technology in select sizes provides wide viewing angles, maintaining image consistency regardless of the viewer's position. This is particularly beneficial for larger living spaces where viewers may be spread out across the room.
With the introduction of the Tizen OS, smart functionality receives a boost, offering a wide selection of apps and features, including voice control support for popular virtual assistants. This seamless integration of smart features, along with advancements in connectivity and image quality, highlights the TV's commitment to keeping pace with the evolving demands of modern home entertainment. Furthermore, the TV's capabilities as a PC monitor are enhanced due to its sharp text clarity, making it a versatile addition to any home entertainment or work setup.
Technical Specifications
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Picture Quality | Contrast Ratio: 5,626:1 (Native), 1,486:1 (With Local Dimming); HDR Brightness: Peaks at 839 cd/m²; SDR Brightness: Peak 898 cd/m²; Color Gamut: DCI P3 xy – 89.65%, Rec 2020 xy – 65.15%; Gray Uniformity: Decent; Black Uniformity: Poor |
| Display Resolutions | Resolution Support up to 4k @ 120Hz |
| Input Ports | HDMI Ports Total: 4 (HDMI 2.1 bandwidth); USB Ports Total: 2; Digital Optical Audio Out: 1 |
| Dimensions | Width: 15.4"W; Depth: 9.4"D (65" model stand footprint) |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz for sizes 55", 65", 75", and 85"; 60Hz for size 50" |
| Power Consumption | Typical -76 W; Maximum –181 W |
| Smart Features | Tizen OS with app selection and voice control for Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Sound Quality | Frequency response with low-frequency extension at about ~59.93 Hz; Decent distortion handling |
Key Advantages of the QLED TV
The most notable key feature of this TV is its high SDR and HDR peak brightness, making it an excellent choice for bright room viewing.
- High SDR peak brightness suitable for well-lit rooms
- Good response time with minimal ghosting in fast-moving scenes
- HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on all ports for most sizes, enhancing connectivity
- Wide viewing angles with ADS panel technology for consistent images
- Excellent PC monitor performance due to sharp text clarity
- Tizen OS smart platform with extensive app selection and voice control
- Low input lag at various resolutions, benefiting gamers
- Support for VRR including HDMI Forum VRR, FreeSync, and G-SYNC
Potential Downsides of the QLED TV
The main problem with this TV is the low native contrast ratio, which can lead to less than ideal black levels in dark viewing environments.
- Low native contrast ratio resulting in grayer blacks
- Local dimming feature struggles leading to blooming around bright objects
- Screen uniformity issues with the dirty screen effect
- No Dolby Vision support which limits HDR performance
- Build quality concerns with misalignment between parts
- ADS panel's limited contrast impacts dark room viewing
- Variation in performance between different sizes due to panel technology changes
- Sound artifacts present at max volume might detract from audio experience
Personal Opinion on the QLED TV
When it comes to making a purchasing decision, this QLED TV offers a well-rounded package with standout features in brightness and gaming performance, making it a compelling option for those who prioritize these aspects. The Tizen OS enhances the smart TV experience with a broad app selection and intuitive voice control. However, for viewers seeking the deepest blacks and most immersive dark room experience, the low native contrast ratio may be a detracting factor.
The value of this TV lies in its versatility, shining as both a living room centerpiece for family viewing and as a feature-packed option for gaming enthusiasts. While the absence of Dolby Vision is a notable omission in an increasingly HDR-centric market, the TV compensates with its high brightness levels and color performance. If you're seeking a multi-purpose TV that excels in bright environments and offers robust gaming features, this could be a strong contender. Conversely, for those who prioritize cinematic viewing in darker settings, exploring other options with better contrast may be advisable.
