Let's dive into the world of high-end TVs and explore the Samsung S95H OLED, a model that promises an immersive viewing experience but falls short of its 'Ultra' Frame TV aspirations. In this review, we'll uncover the pros and cons, compare it to its competitors, and delve into the intriguing features that make this TV stand out, or perhaps, fall a bit flat.
The Promise of Superiority
Every year, TV manufacturers engage in a battle of one-upmanship, claiming their latest models are significantly better than the previous ones. This year, the Samsung S95H and its rival, the LG G6, entered the arena with bold promises. While they may not have delivered on every claim, these TVs still offer impressive OLED technology.
The Intriguing Art Feature
One feature that has caught everyone's attention is the S95H's ability to display static artwork, akin to a Frame TV. This is a first for OLED technology, but it's not without its limitations. The TV lacks an Ambient mode, making it a manual process to display art, which is a bit of a letdown.
Color Accuracy and Reflection
When it comes to color accuracy, the LG G6 takes the lead, offering more precise colors. However, the Samsung S95H shines in its antireflective coating, allowing for a bright and clear picture even in well-lit rooms. This is a significant advantage over the LG, which struggles to maintain black levels in such conditions.
Gaming and Value
For gamers, the Samsung S95H is a dream come true with its bright and responsive display. It's a blast to play on, but if you're looking for a better deal, last year's model or the rival LG G5 might be more appealing, offering similar features at a lower price point.
The Frame Alternative
While the art display feature is unique, if a gallery mode is your primary concern, the Frame Pro might be a more attractive option. It offers a more seamless experience without the manual process of the S95H.
Design and Remote
The design of the S95H is a departure from Samsung's previous flagships, with an external connection box replaced by a thick metal surround. This new design element is controversial, and while it houses the old connect box circuitry, it also adds thickness to the TV. The remote has been pared down to a wafer-shaped clicker, which is easy to use but lacks functionality for power users.
Brightness and Screen Technology
Samsung's S95H boasts a significant jump in brightness compared to previous models, but its screen makeup hasn't changed much. LG, on the other hand, has been releasing iterations of its brightness-enhancing technology, giving them an edge in this department.
AI and Smart TV
In the age of AI, the S95H is packed with AI-flavored technologies. While some are more useful than others, Samsung has streamlined its smart TV experience, making it cleaner and more organized. The AI Soccer Mode is an interesting addition, enhancing the viewing experience for football fans.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to the LG G6, G5, and Hisense U7, the S95H performs well in certain aspects. It offers a balanced mix of shadow and pure black, which is lacking in the G6. However, its HDR colors are not as accurate as the LG models, and it struggles to display certain shades of orange.
Bright Room Performance
In well-lit rooms, the S95H excels with its antireflective coating, rejecting all but the brightest lights. This is a significant improvement over previous models and a testament to Samsung's leadership in this area. However, it does sacrifice slightly on black levels, making the LG G6 a better choice for those who want a more dynamic image.
Gaming Experience
For gamers, the S95H is a top choice. It offers a bright and responsive display with low lag, making it ideal for immersive gaming experiences. The default settings might be a bit too vibrant, but they can be adjusted to suit personal preferences.
Conclusion
While the Samsung S95H OLED TV has its strengths, such as its bright and responsive display, antireflective coating, and gaming capabilities, it falls short of its 'Ultra' Frame TV aspirations. The lack of Ambient mode and inaccurate HDR colors are notable drawbacks. However, for those seeking a high-end TV with unique features, the S95H offers an intriguing option, especially for those who value the ability to display static artwork.
Personally, I think the S95H is a solid choice for gamers and those who prioritize a bright and clear picture. But if you're looking for a more well-rounded TV with accurate colors and a seamless art display, the competition might be a better fit.
