Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: the king of QLED

Our Verdict

The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV's mini-LED backlight delivers unparalleled picture brightness, while a host of smart features and a new eco-friendly remote complete the premium experience. With a stunning one-inch-thick design, it's also one of the best looking sets you can buy.

For

Beautiful slim design

Neo QLED delivers incredible brightness

Impressive anti-glare capabilities

New rechargeable remote control

Versus

Flowering visible sometimes

Single HDMI 2.1 port

No Dolby Vision support

Today's best deals on Samsung's QN90A QLED TVs

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Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV: Specifications

Price:

$2,599

Model Number:

QN65QN90AAFXZA

Screen size:

65 inches

Resolution:

3840x2160

HDR:

HDR10, HDR10+, HLG

Refresh rate:

120Hz

Ports:

4 HDMI (1 HDMI 2.1), 2 USB

Audio:

60W, 4.2.2 channel sound

Smart TV software:

Tizen

Cut:

56.9 x 32.6 x 1 inches (without stand)

Weight

: 53.8 lbs (without stand)

The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV is one of the

best tvs

you can buy right away, period. It's incredibly bright, surprisingly thin, packed with nifty “smart” features, and as reliable as the company's sets have ever been.

With a proprietary mini-LED panel called Neo QLED, the QN90A promises superior performance to both established OLED competitors and ever-more-compelling mid-range QLED manufacturers. of all 4K

2021 Samsung TVs

, it's actually cheaper than its Q90T predecessor.

It's not perfect. Increasing the brightness sometimes undermines other elements of the picture, and Samsung still won't give away more than one HDMI 2.1 port. But this Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review crowns a new champion of Quantum Dot display technology, rewarding a set for effectively demonstrating that there is still room for innovation.

Editor's note:

The Samsung Neo QLED QN90A cleaned in the

Tom's Guide Awards 2021

, winning Best TV, Best Gaming TV and Samsung Object Tracking Sound Plus (OTS+) and Q-Symphony winning Best TV Sound!

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV: Prices and configurations

The QN90A Neo QLED TV is Samsung's top-of-the-line 4K LCD TV this year. Neo QLED is also offered in the company's line of 8K sets, but those options are much more expensive than the QN90A. There's also many reasons

you don't need an 8K TV

at present.

Even better, the QN90A Neo QLED TV is a bit more affordable than last year's Q90T QLED, costing $100-300 less, depending on size. The 65-inch configuration I tested is $2,599, while the 55-inch model is $1799 and the larger 75-inch size is $3499. It's also one of the

best 85 inch tvs

you can buy, offering a widescreen option for $4999.

55 inch QN55QN90AAFXZA:

$1799.99

65 inch QN65QN90AAFXZA:

$2,599.99

75 inch QN75QN90AAFXZA:

$3,499.99

85 inch QN85QN90AAFXZA:

$4,999.99

Be sure to see our '

What size TV should you buy?

' guide to help you choose the version that's right for you. You should expect to see similar performance to our 65-inch test model across all size options. All four models offer the Neo Quantum 4K processor, latest Tizen smart features, voice assistant controls and Object Tracking Sound Plus. Our recommendations should apply to all screen sizes of the QN90A Neo QLED model.

Although you can find last year's Q90T QLED on sale right now with some of the

best cheap tv deals

, the QN90A Neo QLED will only get minor discounts ahead of the holiday season, keeping it firmly in the premium price range.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: Design

When it comes to modern TV aesthetics, the QN90A is the cream of the crop. Although installing 65-inch TVs is a two-person job, this set is easier to maneuver than others. time of Samsung's One Connect entry box, the company managed to pack all the pieces of the set into an ultra-slim 1-inch-thick build with no protruding parts to distract from the effect.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

The bezels of the Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV are virtually invisible, blurring the boundary between panel and chassis. I thought my current

Samsung Q80T QLED TV

was a nice piece of tech, but the QN90A seriously raised my standards.

(Image credit: Samsung)

And that's without fixing the QN90A to the wall, as Samsung suggests. As I only tested the set temporarily, I opted for the center stand, which didn't build confidence as much as I'd like .I felt that a clumsy bump could cause this TV to disappear, so I'd avoid using it, if possible.Go for Samsung's No-Gap Wall Mount for the ultimate flush-mount look, though a 400 x 300 millimeter VESA wall mount would also work for the 65-inch model. (Check

best tv mounts

for many great options.)

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: Ports

Like the rest of the 4K QLED lineup, the Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV has two USB 2.0 ports and four HDMI ports. But only one of those four ports offers

HDMI 2.1

, which supports peripheral features such as eARC, automatic low latency mode, and variable refresh rate. These settings take advantage of the next-generation graphics capabilities of the

PS5

and

Xbox series X

.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

LG's OLED TVs all come with multiple HDMI 2.1 inputs, so Samsung's QLEDs just feel like they're limiting. eARC-enabled sound simultaneously exploit their best capabilities, which could become troublesome over time.

Beyond traditional ports, Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV incorporates NextGen TV

ATSC 3.0

tuners. In locations where emerging broadcast technology is available, ATSC 3.0 can support live 4K imaging as well as a return channel that enables interactivity and targeted advertising.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: performance

Let's talk about Neo QLED. The QN90A image is powered by an array of tiny light cells using mini LED lights, promising dramatic improvements in contrast and backlight control. The mini LEDs work with the Neo Quantum 4K processor to provide a 4K optimized picture.

Watching WandaVision's "All-New Halloween Spooktacular" episode on Disney Plus, the set could show how it handles motion and high-contrast scenes. As Wanda expands the reach of her Hex, Camp SWORD is transformed into a traveling circus. Even as the agents attempt to escape the growing frontier, you can see their uniforms and gear seamlessly (and hilariously) transform into clown gear and colorful tents. some blooming, as well as occasional vignetting in the corners.

The QN90A's HDR capabilities are excellent, but they highlight a quirk of Samsung TVs. While high dynamic range performance is excellent, HDR formats are a bit limited. Samsung doesn't support the best HDR format, Dolby Vision, using its proprietary HDR10+ format instead.

These are signs of uneven backlighting issues, perhaps at the expense of Neo QLED's increased brightness, but the average viewer probably won't notice it much. Or at least won't care when you see it at how brilliant this set can be. Even in a room flooded with sunlight, the Samsung QN90A's image was much clearer than the LG G1 and Samsung Q80T in side-by-side tests. The anti-glare capabilities are quite impressive , handling the dark and menacing golden armor fight scene well in Wonder Woman 1984.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

As Diana battled Cheetah, Wonder Woman's golden wings looked stately and majestic, but not out of place in the dark, misty setting. The set could have identified the armor as the focal point of the scene and enhanced it for effect. cartoonish, but it produced a balanced image, probably as the filmmaker intended. Again, this speaks to the brightness of Neo QLED, since I made these observations in a room with natural light. Tried the scene in the dark, not only did it look fantastic, but I realized I wouldn't need the lights in my living room at night – the decor literally lit up my apartment.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: test results

Our exclusive Tom's Guide TV tests taught me more about the Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV beyond my anecdotal viewing experience. LCD/LED TVs have always outperformed OLEDs in brightness, but the QN90A wipes it out what we've ever seen. It peaked at 1813.83 nits.

LG G1 OLED TV

achieves a peak brightness of just 412.05 nits, for comparison. And it's not just OLED that makes the QN90A triumph - the Quantum-powered

Vizio P-Series (P65Q9-H1)

and

TCL 6 series R635

maxed out at 471.20 nits and 583.1 nits, respectively.

We measure TV accuracy with a Delta-E rating. A smaller score is ideal (0 is perfect), and the Samsung QN90A scored a 2.6, providing an improvement over the Q80T's 3.9 score. .It's also close to the Vizio P-Series and TCL 6-Series R635, both of which scored 2.2.LG's OLED panels still have a clear advantage in accuracy, with the LG G1 scoring a 1 ,6 and last year

Sony A8H Bravia OLED TV

earn a 1.5.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

As for color reproduction, which we measured using an X-Rite i1 Pro spectrophotometer and SpectraCal CalMAN Ultimate calibration software. The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED was able to reproduce 99.51% of color reproduction. Rec 709 color space. Anything near 100% is good for a non-OLED TV, and this QLED scored in the range of others like the Vizio P-Series (99.90%) and TCL 6-Series ( 99.92%).

(Image credit: Samsung)

Gamers will be happy to know that the Samsung QN90A has one of the best latency times you'll find. improvement over the Q80T's 30.1 milliseconds. Usually we recommend sets with sets with latency under 20 milliseconds for the

best gaming tvs

, and the addition of gaming-focused features make the QN90A Neo QLED a great choice for gamers.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: Audio

The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV features 60W speakers which, when paired with Samsung's Object Tracking Sound (OTS) Plus technology, deliver loud and immersive listening.OTS is said to adapt the audio of all to on-screen content using built-in top and bottom speakers.

Watching Wonder Woman 1984, Diana's Lasso of Truth whip followed its movement with precision. Then, as bullets ricochet off Wonder Woman's armor as she attempts to arrest Maxwell Lord at the White House, he actually looks like the shells fell on the ground around my own feet.

OTS almost makes up for the set's lack of native Dolby Atmos. That said, it will output Atmos-formatted content for a Dolby Atmos speaker. I'm usually inclined to use an external speaker anyway, so check out our list of

best soundbars

for the recommendations.

Beyond OTS, Samsung said you should experience audio that's suited to your surroundings no matter where your TV is placed. AI should also improve on-screen voices when playing. set detects loud environmental sounds.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: Smart TV features

Samsung's Tizen smart TV software is more or less the same this year, and I'd say that's a good thing. The software is reliable, offering a wide selection of apps.

Loki

TV series on Disney Plus at one of the

best HBO Max shows

and movies, you'll find most of the apps and content you love. Tizen even has a special Apple TV app for enjoying iTunes movies and shows, as well as the Apple original.

Apple TV Plus

shows and

Apple Fitness Plus

- no separation

Apple TV 4K (2021)

box needed.

The home screen's bottom bar layout is clean and unobtrusive. You can customize the row of apps to include all your favorite services and continue watching a show while browsing. I much prefer this to the recent redesign of LG's webOS, which took me away from what I was looking at to find something else.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

When you're not watching TV, you can launch a screensaver-style low-power ambient mode that displays all kinds of artwork, personal photography, or weather updates. The effect is more impressive on

Samsung's The Frame lifestyle TV

, but Ambient Mode is still a good alternative to the QN90As' basic 'off' black screen. Especially when this TV is wall-mounted.

Multi View is another notable screen mode. New this year, you can watch what's on your TV and phone (depending on model) on the same screen in picture-in-picture or side-by-side mode. .I prefer to watch one thing at a time, but in cases where I need a video game presentation or want to keep an eye on a sports game, this multitasking feature can come in handy. also to a tease of the multi-entry visualization of

Samsung's Huge MicroLED TVs

.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: Smart home features

As a Samsung TV, the QNA90A Neo QLED TV integrates with your

Samsung SmartThings

smart home system.One of

best smart home hubs

, SmartThings provides a control dashboard for all

best smart home devices

compatible with the Samsung platform.Du

Ecobee (5th generation)

smart thermostat to Samsung Family Hub refrigerators, you can use your TV to quickly install or adjust settings.

If you are not immersed in Samsung's smart home network, you can configure

Alexa

Where

Google Assistant

(but not both) for voice commands on your TV. Using the remote's microphone, you can ask the voice assistant basic questions or control one of the

best alexa-enabled devices

Where

best google home compatible devices

.

Samsung has also partnered with Logitech to make the Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV compatible with webcams. With one of the best webcams, you can use your device to video chat with up to 12 other people via

Google Duo

This might be useful for those who are still working from home or trying to stay in touch with loved ones, but I think most people are fed up with video calls these days.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: Remote control

Samsung's Neo QLED TVs come with an all-new Samsung Solar Cell remote, which replaces the usual AAA batteries with a rechargeable battery. The remote also has a small solar panel that helps maintain the remote's battery by using the ambient light in your space. To learn more about the environmental benefits, see why we think

smartest TV tech of the year is Samsung's solar remote

.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Even with its new tricks, the Solar Cell remote is light and comfortable to hold. Its design is more uniform than the curved but thin remote that Samsung has used in the past, making it a little less prone to slipping between the cushions of the It's still minimal in terms of buttons, but it has most of the controls you'll need, including a microphone trigger, plus dedicated launch buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and Samsung TV Plus.

Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV review: verdict

Just as Samsung found its stride with QLED, maintaining the capabilities of its OLED competitors, it innovated the heart of its product with an all-new panel - a panel that actually showed improvements in our tests. It also reminded QLED alternatives that it's still the company to beat.

When it comes to the next-gen TV landscape, Neo QLED makes bigger strides than OLED evo, committing to all-around improvements in a more affordable package. Tizen's familiarity and cell remote's environmental benefits solar are useful too. Yes, I wish it had more than one HDMI 2.1 port, but that's far from a compromise. The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV is the best LCD TV on the market right now.

Kate Kozuch

Kate Kozuch is a Senior Writer at Tom's Guide and covers clothes, TVs, and all things smart home. When she's not in cyborg mode, you can find her riding an exercise bike or channeling her chef celebrity within.She and her army of robots will one day rule the world, but until then, join her at

kate.kozuch@futurenet.com

.