Samsung 65-Inch OLED 4K S85D Series TV review with HDR and Dolby Atmos

Description

A Stunning 4K OLED TV Experience

Testing the Samsung 65-Inch Class OLED 4K S85D Series has been a ride, to say the least. From unboxing it to setting it up in my living room, I felt like I had a piece of futuristic tech at my fingertips. The graphite black finish and contour design immediately caught my eye. It’s sleek, wave-inspired, and blends seamlessly with my modern décor. It’s not just a television; it’s a centerpiece.

The size—65 inches—is large enough to dominate the room, yet the slim bezel ensures the screen itself takes center stage. I couldn’t help but marvel at how elegant it looked even before I powered it on.

Picture Quality and OLED Technology

Once I turned it on, the visuals were mesmerizing. The OLED HDR technology truly delivers on its promise of pure blacks, bright whites, and Pantone-validated colors. Whether I was watching a dark, moody movie or a vibrant animated series, the contrast and color accuracy were out of this world.

The Real Depth Enhancer adds another layer of immersion. Watching nature documentaries, I could almost feel the depth of the landscapes. It’s as if the screen mimics how our eyes naturally perceive depth, which is a feature I didn’t realize I needed until I experienced it.

And let’s talk about the 4K AI Upscaling. My old Blu-ray discs and even some older HD content looked like they were made for this TV. The AI-powered processor, with its 20 specialized networks, does some serious heavy lifting here.

Motion Xcelerator and Gaming

As someone who enjoys fast-paced action movies and gaming, the Motion Xcelerator 120Hz was a dream. The smoothness of motion at 120 frames per second is something I’ve never experienced before on a TV. Playing sports games felt ridiculously fluid, and even chaotic battle scenes in movies were crisp and clear.

For gamers, this is a fantastic choice. The near-instantaneous motion rendering and vivid colors make every frame a treat. While I didn’t test it extensively with a gaming console, I can only imagine how immersive it would feel.

Sound Quality with Dolby Atmos

Sound is where many TVs fall short, but not this one. The Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite blew me away. The sound doesn’t just come at you; it surrounds you. It’s like being in the middle of the action. Watching an action-packed movie or concert feels like you’re in a theater.

The 2CH speakers might seem underwhelming on paper, but they pack a punch. That said, audiophiles might still want to consider a soundbar or external speakers.

Key Benefits

• Unrivaled Picture Quality: OLED HDR and Pantone-validated colors deliver stunning visuals.
• Immersive Sound: Dolby Atmos creates a 3D audio experience that follows the on-screen action.
• Sleek Design: The contour design is elegant and fits into stylish homes seamlessly.
• Smooth Motion: Motion Xcelerator 120Hz makes fast scenes buttery smooth.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited Audio Power: While the sound is immersive, 2CH speakers might not satisfy everyone.
• Smart Features Dependency: Using features like the Samsung Tizen OS requires a Samsung account, which could feel restrictive.
• Weight: At 39.2 pounds, it’s not the easiest to move around during setup.

Competing Products

When comparing this 65-inch OLED TV to other products in the same range, a few alternatives stand out. LG’s OLED TVs, for instance, offer slightly brighter displays and are also renowned for their gaming capabilities. However, Samsung’s edge lies in its Real Depth Enhancer and Pantone validation, which bring a level of realism that’s hard to beat.

Sony’s OLEDs are also strong contenders, particularly for their superior sound systems. Yet, they lack the Motion Xcelerator 120Hz, which is a game-changer for sports enthusiasts and gamers alike.

If you’re looking for a TV that combines style, cutting-edge picture quality, and decent sound, this Samsung model holds its own remarkably well.

Cost Effectiveness

Given its features, this TV strikes a good balance between premium quality and cost. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, you’re paying for the OLED technology, Dolby Atmos sound, and advanced AI processor. It’s a solid investment if you value a cinematic experience at home.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, but with a few caveats. Audiophiles might need additional equipment, and some might find the smart features a bit too tied to Samsung’s ecosystem.

Additional information