Deals
Samsung QN90A Neo QLED Review: A Quantum Leap or Just Clever Marketing?
The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED arrived promising a revolution in LCD technology, leveraging Mini LED backlighting and Quantum Dot color to deliver a picture experience previously unattainable. But in the crowded high-end TV market, does it truly stand out, or is it just another iteration playing catch-up with OLED? We put the QN90A through its paces to find out.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the picture quality. The Mini LED backlighting, controlled by Samsung’s Neo Quantum Processor 4K, delivers incredibly precise backlighting. This results in exceptional contrast, with inky blacks that rival OLED in some scenes, particularly in dim or dark rooms. Blooming, a common issue with traditional LED TVs, is remarkably well-controlled, though not entirely eliminated. The Quantum Dot technology, as expected, provides vibrant and accurate colors that pop off the screen without feeling oversaturated. Brightness is another area where the QN90A excels. It gets incredibly bright, making it an excellent choice for rooms with plenty of ambient light.
Gaming is a joy on the QN90A. With HDMI 2.1 support, 4K/120Hz capabilities, and a low input lag, it’s a perfect companion for next-gen consoles and high-end PCs. Features like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) further enhance the gaming experience by reducing screen tearing and stuttering. The auto low latency mode (ALLM) also automatically switches the TV to game mode when a console is detected.
The design of the QN90A is sleek and modern, with thin bezels that allow for an immersive viewing experience. Build quality is also excellent, with premium materials used throughout. However, the stand, while sturdy, is somewhat bulky and takes up a considerable amount of space, which might be an issue for some users.
Samsung’s Tizen operating system provides a smooth and responsive user interface. Navigating menus is easy, and the vast selection of apps is impressive. The remote control is minimalist and intuitive. However, Tizen does come with its share of pre-installed bloatware and aggressive advertising, which can detract from the overall experience. The built-in speakers are decent for casual viewing, but serious audiophiles will likely want to invest in a dedicated sound system to truly complement the stunning visuals.
The elephant in the room is the price. The QN90A sits firmly in the premium category, and its value proposition is somewhat complicated. While it offers exceptional picture quality, especially in bright rooms, it faces stiff competition from OLED TVs, which generally offer superior contrast and black levels, albeit at a higher price point.
Verdict: The Samsung QN90A Neo QLED is a fantastic TV with exceptional picture quality, impressive gaming features, and a sleek design. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize brightness and color volume, particularly in well-lit environments. However, the high price tag and the presence of aggressive advertising within the Tizen operating system are noteworthy drawbacks. This TV is best suited for gamers and movie enthusiasts who want a premium experience and aren’t willing to sacrifice brightness for absolute black levels.
Where to Buy:
Samsung QN90A Neo QLED (various sizes) Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 89%
- Design: 93%
- Performance: 92%
- Quality: 92%
- Popularity: 91%
Top Pros
- ✅ The Mini LED backlighting provides excellent contrast and precise light control.
- ✅ Quantum Dot technology delivers vibrant and accurate colors for a stunning picture.
- ✅ HDMI 2.1 support and low input lag make it an excellent choice for gaming.
Key Cons
- ❌ The Tizen operating system includes pre-installed bloatware and aggressive advertising.
- ❌ While sturdy, the stand’s large footprint can be a problem for limited spaces.
- ❌ OLED TVs offer superior black levels and contrast, making value complex.
