Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D vs Sony Bravia 8 (XR80)

Direct compare

S90DAT / S94DAT

Info

BRAVIA 8 / XR80

Available screen sizes: 65”

Available screen sizes: 55”65”77”

Panel type: QD-OLED

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Tizen

Model year: 2024

Complete the survey to find out the result

Panel type: WRGB OLED

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Google TV

Model year: 2024

Complete the survey to find out the result

Overall rating

8.2

7.9

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    8.5

    7.5

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    9.2

    8.0

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    8.9

    8.1

  • Gaming on console

    9.6

    8.8

  • TV as a computer monitor

    8.0

    7.6

  • Watching in bright light

    5.3

    5.6

  • Utility functions

    7.7

    9.5

  • Apps

    9.3

    10.0

  • Sound quality

    7.4

    7.5

Advantages

  • Perfect black (OLED)

  • Great for 4K and HD content

  • Excellent for gamers - 144hz, HDMI 2.1, low input lag.

  • Among the best viewing angles on the market

  • High coverage of a wide color gamut

  • Above-average sound quality

  • Exquisite contrast

  • Google TV – intuitive system, easy access to apps, backlit remote.

  • Very good motion smoothness – 120 Hz, advanced motion smoothing system.

  • Excellent support for Dolby Vision

  • Very good viewing angles

  • Superb built-in audio system

Disadvantages

No like
  • No support for DTS soundtracks (may be an issue with external players)

  • Black levels issues during the day

  • Poor gradation – visible transitions on dark and light colours

  • Brightness during the day – better for night-time viewing than for use in daylight

  • Only 2 HDMI 2.1 ports - including one ARC.

Our verdict

Samsung S90D or otherwise S94D has pleasantly surprised us in many ways. It offers excellent picture quality as befits a TV with an organic matrix. Depending on the size, the television can have different types of OLED panels. In the model we tested, the 65' version with a QD-OLED panel, the blacks are deep, and the colours are vivid and intense. The brightness of the screen, thanks to quantum dot technology, makes HDR effects very impressive. Watching dynamic scenes full of details is completely immersive. This is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy cinema at the highest level at home. However, we noticed that the factory colour settings might require adjustment. But after the appropriate calibration, the TV showcases its full potential and competes with the best televisions, even above its price range. This model stands out with excellent viewing angles - better than the WOLED panel variants. The picture is clear and colourful from any position in the room. The Tizen operating system makes everyday use of the TV easy. Navigating apps and streaming services is simple and intuitive. Additionally, support for AirPlay and access to the SmartThings ecosystem enhance the multimedia capabilities of the device. When it comes to motion smoothness, the 144Hz panel handles fast scenes excellently and additionally eliminates motion blur. Watching sports or dynamic movies is a pleasure. For gamers, it offers support for HDMI 2.1 and low input lag, making it a great choice for console gaming. Despite numerous advantages, we noticed a few drawbacks. In bright rooms, the blacks on the QD-OLED panel lose their depth. This can be noticeable when watching during the day. Another somewhat less significant issue could be the readability of fonts when using a PC. It could be better; some texts are less sharp compared to other models. Nevertheless, the 65' Samsung S90D or S94D is a television that combines exceptional picture quality, motion smoothness, and innovation. It is one of the best options in the premium segment that will meet the expectations of both cinema lovers and gamers.

Bravia 8 XR80 is the only OLED model from Sony released in 2024 that will undoubtedly catch the attention of image quality enthusiasts. The television offers excellent picture quality with the deep blacks, vibrant colours, and infinite contrast characteristic of OLED. This makes every scene incredibly realistic. Thanks to OLED technology, dark scenes look perfect, and the reproduction of blacks as well as bright elements stand out with great detail. This creates an amazing effect – a cinematic experience. While watching sport or dynamic films, we particularly appreciated the smoothness of the image. The 120 Hz panel performs excellently – no issues with motion blur, even in the most dynamic moments. This is a television that truly excels in situations where fast action and distinct details matter. The Google TV system is another strong point of the Bravia 8. The interface is simple, clear, and easy to use. We had no trouble finding all the popular applications, such as Netflix, YouTube, or Prime Video. The USB-C rechargeable remote is a nice addition – it feels good in the hand, and the backlighting proved essential during evening use of the TV. Of course, not everything was perfect. The SDR brightness of 330 nits is a figure that doesn't impress, especially in well-lit rooms. This model does much better in the evenings, in more dimly lit conditions. We also noticed that the colour gradation is slightly worse than in previous Sony models – this is a very strange move considering that Japanese manufacturers were always known for their excellent digital processing. Another limitation is only having two HDMI 2.1 ports (including eARC) – with a larger number of devices, such as two consoles and a soundbar, this becomes a problem. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Bravia 8 XR80 is a great television that is suitable for both everyday use and evening viewing sessions. Excellent picture quality, smooth motion, and an intuitive Google TV system make for a combination that makes a difference. If you’re looking for a decent OLED in 2024, this model is definitely worth considering.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
0 x HDMI 2.0, 4 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
Other inputs
Outputs
Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
Toslink (Optical audio), eARC (HDMI), ARC (HDMI)
Network Interfaces
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps
Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 5GHz, Ethernet (LAN) 100Mbps

Contrast and black detail

10/10

10/10

Contrast:

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Samsung S90D, thanks to the use of a QD-OLED panel, offers excellent contrast, which is one of its greatest advantages. In QD-OLED technology, each pixel emits its own light, allowing for perfect blacks and precise detail reproduction in dark scenes. Unlike traditional LCD panels with backlighting, where blacks often appear greyish, turned-off pixels in QD-OLED remain completely black. As a result, the television provides a dynamic, realistic image with exceptionally deep contrast. For example, in scenes from "Oblivion," the Samsung S90D brilliantly captures the intensity of the lantern lights, highlighting details in the bright areas of the image, and in "The Revenant," it perfectly showcases the character against the backdrop of a deep, black forest scene, emphasizing impressive contrast reproduction. It is worth noting that in the Samsung S90D model, only this specific size is equipped with the QD-OLED panel produced by Samsung Display, setting it apart from other versions. Nevertheless, regardless of the panel used, the blacks on this television will always be perfectly black thanks to OLED technology, which turns off pixels for absolute blackness. This means that in categories such as black levels and contrast, the S90D delivers excellent picture quality regardless of the type of panel.

The Sony Bravia 8 television, equipped with an OLED panel, offers exceptional black and contrast quality. Thanks to OLED technology, each pixel emits its own light, providing perfect black depth and precision in light reproduction. On the tested scenes, such as those from the movie Oblivion and Sicario 2, the television achieves ideal light separation, resulting in a highly detailed and realistic image, even in challenging contrast conditions. The Sony Bravia 8 truly stands out from other models in this category.

HDR effect quality

6.7/10

6.6/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 99.0%, Bt.2020: 76.0%
DCI P3: 99.0%, Bt.2020: 74.0%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Brightness measurement

Result

833 nit

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Brightness measurement

Result

904 nit

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Brightness measurement

Result

913 nit

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Brightness measurement

Result

927 nit

Review Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D Brightness measurement

Result

478 nit

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Brightness measurement

Result

849 nit

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Brightness measurement

Result

865 nit

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Brightness measurement

Result

888 nit

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Brightness measurement

Result

880 nit

Review Sony Bravia 8 (XR80) Brightness measurement

Result

469 nit

Scene from the movie “Pan” (about 2800 nits)

Scene from the movie “Billy Lynn” (about 1100 nits)

Static HDR10

Dynamic: HDR10+

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

HDR luminance chart:

Sony Bravia 8 (XR80)

Luminancja HDR

Luminance of RGB colors

Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D

Luminancja HDR

Luminance of RGB colors

In the HDR effect quality category, Samsung S90D achieves remarkable results. On the luminance chart up to 10% window, the TV exceeds the magical threshold of 1000 nits, which is an impressive outcome. However, in the film scenes we tested, these values were slightly lower. Additionally, in the case of a scene with fullscreen sunlight glare, brightness drops to around 500 nits, but it still remains at a very good level. It is worth mentioning that this model stands out with very high colour gamut coverage, thanks to the QD-OLED panel used, which gives it an advantage over TVs with WOLED panels that cannot achieve such a wide spectrum of colours.

Sony Bravia 8 performs reasonably well in terms of HDR brightness. A maximum brightness level of 880 nits is satisfactory and allows for well-rendered lighting effects in most scenes. In the tested segments of the films Life of Pi and Sicario 2, the TV presents itself quite well, offering vibrant and detailed images that fully capture the atmosphere of these productions.

However, a greater challenge arises in a scene from the film The Meg, where the screen is entirely very bright. In such situations, the limitations of OLED technology become apparent, as the TV loses brightness, dropping to around 450 nits. Such a drop is less satisfying, especially when the entire scene requires intense lighting. Despite these limitations, Sony Bravia 8 remains a competitive model, offering excellent coverage of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and 74% coverage of the BT.2020 standard. This results in rich colours and precise details, significantly enhancing the quality of HDR content viewing and making for a pleasurable experience.

Factory color reproduction

7.1/10

7.2/10

Factory Mode

After calibration

Factory Mode

After calibration

Samsung 65 S90D with a QD-OLED panel has been tested in Filmmaker mode, which the manufacturer has been using for years to provide the best possible picture settings. In this mode, the TV offers a fairly decent image but with some shortcomings worth noting. In terms of white balance in HD content, viewers may notice a dominance of the red color. This effect can lead to the impression that certain skin tones appear unnatural and the overall scene will be too warm, which in turn can affect immersion in the watched material. In scenes where subtle differences in color are crucial, these distortions can be particularly noticeable. Similar sensations may also occur in 4K HDR content. Changes in white balance in this case can be analogous, with a noticeably smaller deviation in red color. This can also cause certain details and colors to not be fully represented, making the image lose its naturalness.

When it comes to contrast, the gamma presents quite well, however, some errors are still noticeable. Gamma values are below the reference level of 2.4, which can result in bright areas of the image being washed out and dark areas lacking detail. This limitation can cause some scenes to lack depth and detail, which in turn affects the overall presentation quality. On the other hand, the EOTF curve related to contrast in 4K HDR content performs really well, showing that the TV can effectively convey differences in brightness. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that these values are slightly below the ideal level on the graph, indicating the need for further optimization in this regard.

Samsung S90D in Filmmaker mode offers solid color reproduction, but requires some adjustments to fully realise the potential of the TV, especially in the context of different types of content.

The best factory mode available on the Sony Bravia 8 television is IMAX Enhanced, which provides the most cinematic experience, although it is not set up perfectly. The TV tries to replicate cinema settings as faithfully as possible, however, certain shortcomings are noticeable. Starting with white balance, both for SDR materials and 4K, there is a clear dominance of blue. This makes the picture appear too cold, taking away its naturalness. Tests using Colour Checker show that colours shift towards cooler shades, which may lead to less accurate colour reproduction and makes the image less realistic.

As for brightness and contrast characteristics, gamma shows a significant drop at the end of the graph. This means that dark details may be too dim, while bright elements are too bright, causing them to lose subtlety and become less visible. As can be seen in the sky - in the comparison photo. Meanwhile, the EOTF curve is significantly above the reference value, causing the bright elements of the image to be too intense. As a result, users may perceive the image as unnatural, and bright areas may lose detail, negatively impacting the overall viewing quality.

Color reproduction after calibration

8.9/10

8.2/10

After calibrating the TV, the Samsung S90D in film mode gains quality more than one might expect. The white balance for HD and 4K HDR content has been adjusted to near perfection. Although minor shortcomings can be noticed, they are subtle enough that they don’t significantly impact the overall picture quality. The colours have become more harmonised, aiding in the natural reproduction of details, particularly in scenes that require precise colour representation. It is worth noting that this model, in this size, uses a QD-OLED panel which offers broader colour gamut coverage compared to other sizes of this model that are equipped with a WOLED panel.

The contrast has also significantly improved. After calibration, the gamma graph is much closer to the expected line, providing a better balance between light and dark tones in the picture. The EOTF curve, which before calibration indicated issues with overexposed scenes, now shows significantly better results. This effect allows for the retention of more details in the bright areas of the image, especially in HDR materials.

The calibration process of the Sony Bravia 8 television has brought significant improvements in image quality. The white balance has been distinctly enhanced, both for SDR content and 4K HDR, with minimal errors in the middle section of the graph. Gamma proved to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the calibration – it has been completely stripped of previous drops, which significantly affected brightness stability and better detail reproduction in dark parts of the image. The EOTF curve has also been levelled out, making bright elements of the image appear more natural, and the overall tonal dynamics are now more balanced.

However, the most attention should be paid to colour reproduction, where despite the calibration, there are still some issues. Sony has omitted the use of a CMS system in this model, which allows for very precise control over colours. Consequently, the Colour Checker test for 4K materials still shows significant errors in colour samples. Despite these difficulties, we recommend carrying out the calibration, as the effects are noticeable and significantly enhance image quality, especially in terms of brightness and contrast.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

8.6/10

5/10

In the category of fluid tonal transitions, the television S90D exhibits significantly better results than its counterpart with a WOLED panel. Thanks to the use of a QD-OLED panel, this model provides more consistent and natural transitions between colours. Although some minor imperfections were noted during testing, they are subtle enough not to impact the overall visual experience. When watching various video content, tonal transitions are smooth and harmonious, allowing viewers to enjoy the depth and detail of the image without irritating distractions. In tested scenes where colour changes are particularly important, such as in landscapes or dynamic sequences, the television Samsung S90D performs excellently, rendering differences in shades with adequate precision.

The gradation in 4K materials is simply poor and clearly disappointing. There are noticeable seams in both dark and light colours, which affects the image quality and reduces overall satisfaction when watching high-definition content. Something that has always been a strong point of Sony processors is clearly failing this time.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

8/10

6.1/10

Image without overscan on the SD signal
No
OK
Smooth transition function
OK
No

Smooth transition function

Image without overscan on the SD signal

The television handles tonal transitions excellently, allowing colours to flow smoothly into each other, creating a natural image. The built-in noise reduction feature can further enhance these transitions, which can be useful in certain situations. However, it is worth remembering that activating this option may lead to excessive smoothing of the desired film grain structure, which in turn can affect the authenticity and atmosphere of the image. Therefore, caution is recommended when using this feature to avoid losing the character and depth of the content.

The Samsung S90D model effectively processes materials in lower resolutions. This can be seen in the displayed image. The model's silhouette is clear and naturally reproduced, with details well preserved. Additionally, the branches of the trees are well-defined, showing no visible jagged edges that could degrade the quality of the image. Thanks to effective upscaling, even lower resolution materials look attractive on the screen, which will surely please users enjoying a variety of content sources, such as standard cable or antenna television.

The fluidity of tonal transitions in low-quality materials on the ChooseTV 8 is lacking. Unfortunately, the gentle gradation feature (which was available in previous models) is missing, which is a significant downside. The digital noise reduction function can improve tonal transitions quite well, but it also tends to remove some details, such as clouds in scenes from the film The Martian, which may not appeal to everyone. When it comes to digital processing, the Sony XR80 TV performs quite well. The model in the test scenes is displayed without noticeable errors, and the branches in the background are not overly jagged. This shows that ChooseTV 8 is capable of processing complex image details at low resolution well.

Blur and motion smoothness

8.5/10

8.5/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
144Hz
120Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
OK
OK
BFI function 60Hz
Yes, 60Hz (image flickers)
Yes, 60Hz (image flickers)
BFI function 120Hz
Nie
Nie
Brightness drop with BFI
50%
48%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Blur (BFI function enabled):

Image flickers in this mode

Image flickers in this mode

Samsung S90D TV, equipped with a refresh rate panel of 120 Hz, and in the appropriate PC configuration even 144 Hz, ensures excellent motion fluidity. Samsung focuses on a variety of image clarity settings on a ten-point scale, giving users the freedom to adjust the display to their own preferences. In UFO tests, the OLED panel shows its strengths, eliminating any blurring. The lightning-fast pixel response makes dynamic movements faithfully reproduced.

Similar results can be observed in other sizes of this model with a WOLED panel, which also offer excellent image fluidity. Organic technology, in this case, is considered one of the best on the market. The picture of Samsung S90D, regardless of the type of panel, is incredibly sharp and detailed, making this TV perfect for dynamic scenes, both during gaming and sports broadcasts. Additionally, its capabilities in terms of refresh rate and clarity ensure that every movement is smooth and natural, which will certainly satisfy even the most demanding users.

Sony Bravia 8 offers a maximum refresh rate of 120 Hz, which lays the groundwork for smooth viewing of dynamic content such as sports and games. As a result, movements are sharp and fluid. For more demanding users, the Sony XR80 television is equipped with an advanced motion smoothing system, which is divided into three segments: Smoothness (Film), Smoothness (Camera), and Clarity. The first two are responsible for adjusting the level of blur and smoothing of the image. The third option, concerning clarity, will be described in more detail below. Each of the parameters can be tailored to personal preferences, allowing users to find the optimal setting suited to their individual needs.

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.5/10

8.1/10

  • ALLM
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR
    Yes
    Yes
  • VRR range
    48 - 144Hz
    48 - 120Hz
  • Dolby Vision Game Mode
    No
    Yes
  • Correct implementation of HGIG
    Yes
    No
  • 1080p@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • 1440p@120Hz
    Yes
    No
  • 4K@120Hz
    Yes
    Yes
  • Game bar
    Yes
    Yes

Television S90D is an excellent solution for gamers, offering a range of advanced features that elevate the gaming experience to a new level. Equipped with the HDMI 2.1 standard, the model supports modern technologies such as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). Thanks to these solutions, the image is incredibly smooth, and the response to commands is instantaneous, which is crucial in dynamic titles. Additionally, the S90D supports HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) and G-Sync and FreeSync image synchronisation. This allows for a perfect connection with the Xbox, PlayStation, or PC, eliminating issues with tearing and stuttering. The built-in operating system offers the Xbox Game Pass app, providing access to a massive library of games directly from the television. This solution makes gaming even more convenient and accessible. The Game Bar feature provides quick access to important information, such as current settings, performance statistics, and the ability to adjust image options. This allows for on-the-fly modification of display parameters, which is incredibly useful during intense gameplay. Despite lacking support for Dolby Vision, Samsung S90D still delivers excellent HDR image quality, allowing for full utilisation of the potential of games and films. As a result, S90D represents a unique combination of modern technologies, excellent image quality, and intuitive features, perfect for any gaming enthusiast.

Sony Bravia 8 has significantly improved its compatibility with consoles compared to earlier models. The TV supports variable refresh rate (VRR), which eliminates screen tearing, and is compatible with graphics cards, ensuring smooth visuals. The auto low latency mode (ALLM) reduces input lag, which is crucial in fast-paced games. Dolby Vision with low latency additionally provides impressive HDR effects that look fantastic during gameplay.

The Sony XR80 TV also features a Game Bar, which allows quick access to settings and monitoring parameters while gaming. An interesting option is the ability to enable a virtual crosshair on the screen, which can provide a slight advantage in shooter games.

A downside is the lack of support for 1440p@120hz resolution, which could make gaming easier for users with less powerful graphics cards. Additionally, the Sony XR80 only has two HDMI 2.1 ports, one of which is typically used to connect an audio system via eARC, limiting the number of available ports for connecting next-gen consoles.

Input lag

10/10

10/10

SDR

1080p60
10 ms
13 ms
1080p120
5 ms
5 ms
2160p60
10 ms
13 ms
2160p120
5 ms
5 ms

HDR

2160p60
10 ms
13 ms
2160p120
5 ms
5 ms
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
14 ms
2160p120 DV
5 ms

QD-OLED from Samsung stands out with an incredibly low input lag, making it an excellent choice for gamers. Regardless of the resolution or refresh rate, both in SDR and HDR mode, results around 10 ms are truly impressive. Such a low input lag ensures immediate response to actions on the screen, which is crucial in dynamic games where every millisecond counts. Users can enjoy smoothness and precision, which makes the S90D TV with QD OLED panel a superb option for those who prioritise performance in gaming.

Low input lag in Sony Bravia 8 is definitely an advantage – results at 13 ms are outstanding and provide excellent responsiveness. The Dolby Vision mode is also noteworthy, as it performs brilliantly in this model. In many cases with other manufacturers, this mode looks much worse, but here you can enjoy its full potential, especially in games.

Compatibility with PC

8/10

7.6/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
Yes
Font clarity
Very Good
Very Good
Readability of dark text and shapes
Very Good
Good
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
5ms
5ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
RGB
RWBG
Max refresh rate
144Hz
120Hz
G-Sync
Yes
Yes

The Samsung S90D 65 TV performs excellently as a monitor for PCs. Fonts appear sharp, making it easier to read and use various applications. Support for chroma 4:4:4 at a resolution of 4K and a refresh rate of 144 Hz ensures full colour reproduction and outstanding image clarity. Moreover, the impressive input lag of just 5 ms is a significant advantage, especially for gamers and professionals working with graphics. However, it should be noted that points were deducted in this category compared to the WOLED panel version due to the different diamond arrangement of sub-pixels, which may lead to the distinct visibility of individual sub-pixels when displaying fonts on a dark background. This issue only pertains to the 65-inch version, so users who plan to use the TV on their desk will not encounter these difficulties with smaller variants.

The cooperation of Sony Bravia 8 with computers is very good, just like with most TVs featuring a WOLED panel. The readability of fonts is at a high level, making work with documents or browsing websites comfortable. The low input lag of 5 ms is impressive and provides excellent responsiveness during gameplay. The only downside is that fonts displayed on a dark background are slightly muted.

Viewing angles

9.8/10

7.3/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
10%
28%

In the category of viewing angles, the S90D Samsung stands out as one of the best models on the market. While traditional OLED TVs already offer solid performance, the use of a QD-OLED panel in the S90D elevates the picture quality to an even higher level. Thanks to the combination of Quantum Dot technology with self-emissive pixels, users can enjoy excellent color accuracy and detail, even when watching the TV from a wide angle.

The viewing angles on the Sony Bravia 8 are very good, as one would expect from a TV with an OLED panel. This means that the image retains its colours and contrast even when viewed from a large angle. The only televisions that will be better in this category are models equipped with MLA (Meta-Lens Array) technology and QD-OLED, offering even wider viewing angles and better image quality at extreme angles.

TV efficiency during daytime

5.3/10

5.6/10

Matrix coating
Glare
Glare
Reflection suppression
Very Good
Good
Black levels during daytime
Average
Very Good

Matrix brightness

Average luminance SDR

Sony Bravia 8 (XR80): 335 cd/m2

Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D: 339 cd/m2

In the category of TV performance during the day, the model Samsung S90D 65 ranks the worst among the tested options. Although the glossy panel and good anti-reflective properties suggest some efficiency in bright conditions, the quality of blacks during sunny days proves to be the biggest issue. This phenomenon is caused by the close placement of quantum dots to the outer layer of the screen. Under the influence of external light rays, these dots can activate, resulting in the blacks on the screen becoming more cherry-like. This effect causes the image to lose depth and intensity, which can be particularly noticeable in darker scenes. As a result, users who plan to use the TV in bright rooms or under strong sunlight may encounter difficulties in achieving satisfactory image quality. However, when it comes to watching movies with a lot of black, this usually takes place in the evenings when the issue of intense sunlight is no longer as significant. In such conditions, the S90D performs significantly better, and users can enjoy a pleasant visual experience. During the day, while watching regular TV, the television also performs adequately, which means it is not a complete disqualifier for this model.

The glossy screen on the Sony Bravia 8 does a great job of reducing reflections, which take on a slight navy hue. Unfortunately, the brightness level of 330 nits isn't particularly impressive, making this TV better suited for evening viewing. During the day, to ensure optimal picture quality, it's a good idea to help out by closing the curtains, which will limit the impact of external light.

Details about the matrix

Backlight Type
Software version during testing
1120
112.624.140.1EUA
Image processor
mt5897 6gb ram

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity:

Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D

Sony Bravia 8 (XR80)

TV features

7.7/10

9.5/10

  • System
    Tizen
    Google TV
  • TV reception
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
  • Recording to USB (terrestrial TV)
    No
    Yes
  • Recording programming
    No
    Yes
  • Picture in Picture (PiP)
    Yes
    No
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    Yes
  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    Yes
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes
  • Possibility to connect Bluetooth headphones to the TV
    Yes
    Yes
  • Possibility to simultaneously use Bluetooth headphones and the TV speaker
    Yes
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen)
    RF
    RF
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    Yes
  • Teletext
    Yes
    Yes

The Samsung S90D television offers a range of features that significantly enhance user comfort, making it an ideal device for entertainment in the comfort of your home. The Tizen system, on which this model is based, is a modern and advanced platform that provides users with an intuitive and seamless experience. Thanks to the user-friendly interface, navigating through applications and settings is quick and intuitive, making it easy to use the television even for those less familiar with technology. Tizen supports a rich set of applications, including all popular streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. A new feature for 2024 is the availability of voice search in Polish. It is also worth noting the eco-friendly solar remote, which is not only environmentally friendly but also practical for everyday use. With it, you can control multiple devices connected to the television, eliminating the need for multiple remotes. Additionally, the television supports AirPlay, enabling easy content sharing from Apple devices such as iPhone or iPad. The S90D also allows for the connection of various Bluetooth devices like mice, keyboards, or headphones, which increases its versatility and allows for user experience personalisation. Furthermore, the SmartThings app significantly enhances the capabilities of the television, allowing integration with other smart home devices. This enables remote management of lighting, security, and other aspects of the home ecosystem. Users can also take advantage of the Philips Hue app, which allows for lighting synchronisation with the image displayed on the screen, creating even more immersive visual experiences. The only downside that can be pointed out is the lack of USB recording support. For some users, this may be a limitation. Despite this, the S90D television offers many advanced features and technologies that make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking high-quality entertainment in their home and wanting to integrate their devices into one convenient system.

Sony Bravia 8 runs on the Google TV system, which provides a very intuitive and quick experience when using the television, as well as nearly endless app options. Google Assistant operates in Polish, allowing for even better integration with the device. The interface is well-designed, and access to apps and features is simple and convenient. It's also worth mentioning the remote – similar to solutions from Korean competitors, the remote can be charged via a USB-C port. Moreover, it is backlit, which makes it much easier to use in the dark.

The device offers a wide range of capabilities that will satisfy most users. The Sony XR80 television allows for programme recording, as well as easy connection to external peripheral devices via Bluetooth. Unfortunately, it lacks the Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature, which would allow for simultaneous viewing of two image sources, something that could be useful in certain situations.

The television looks very good. It has a solid metal frame that gives it an elegant appearance. The television stands on two adjustable feet, which can be customised for both width and height. This allows for easy placement of a soundbar beneath the screen. Although the Sony Bravia 8 is not the thinnest OLED television on the market, it presents itself quite well thanks to its careful finish and quality materials.

Playing files from USB

8.9/10

8.7/10

Supported photo formats:

JPEG
Yes
Yes
HEIC
No
Yes
PNG
No
No
GIF
No
No
WebP
No
No
TIFF
No
No
BMP
Yes
No
SVG
No
No

Maximum photo resolution:

4 Mpix
Yes
Yes
6 Mpix
Yes
Yes
8 Mpix
Yes
Yes
10 Mpix
Yes
Yes
12 Mpix
Yes
Yes
16 Mpix
Yes
Yes
20 Mpix
Yes
Yes
24 Mpix
Yes
Yes
28 Mpix
Yes
Yes
32 Mpix
Yes
Yes

Samsung S90D is fitted with a built-in player that supports most popular video formats, allowing for convenient playback of films from various sources. The player also supports subtitles in Polish and allows users to customise the font colour, enhancing comfort when watching content with subtitles. In terms of photo formats, the television handles many, but one of the few downsides is the inability to play the popular PNG format. Nevertheless, the overall playback capabilities of the S90D are at an excellent level.

Sony Bravia 8 will satisfy most users when it comes to playing multimedia files. The built-in player handles most popular video and audio formats, allowing for easy access to a wide range of content. While there are some shortcomings in photo playback, the Google TV system allows for the installation of other players that will likely solve this issue.

Apps

9.3/10

10/10

OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Viaplay
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
No
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
MAX
No
Kodi
OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
OK
Viaplay
OK
Player_TVN
OK
Polsat_Box_Go
OK
Canal_Plus_Online
OK
TVP_VOD
OK
Apple_TV_Plus
OK
SkyShowtime
OK
Rakuten
OK
CDA_Premium_Browser
OK
Spotify
OK
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
MAX
OK
Kodi

Sound

7.4/10

7.5/10

  • Subjective sound quality:
    7.4/10
    7.5/10
  • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1:
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby True HD 7.1:
    No
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus (JOC):
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby True HD:
    No
    Yes
  • DTS:X in DTS-HD MA:
    No
    Yes
  • DTS-HD Master Audio:
    No
    Yes

The Samsung S90D TV is equipped with a 2.1 audio system boasting a total power of 40 W, delivering clear and dynamic sound. With a subwoofer located at the bottom of the casing, the bass is deep and palpable, while the mid and high tones remain well-balanced. It's worth noting that the twin model S94D offers an even more advanced 2.1.2 speaker setup with a power of 60 W. If the silver colour of the S94D casing is not a drawback, and the price difference between these models is minimal, it’s worth considering the version with the “4” at the end. Despite lacking support for the DTS format, the S90D TV utilises other advanced sound technologies such as Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus, providing spacious and immersive sound. It is also worth mentioning the presence of the proprietary Q-Symphony feature, which allows synchronisation of the TV's speakers with the manufacturer's soundbar.

Bravia 8 is equipped with a sound system with a power of 50W in a 2.2.1 configuration. The speakers are mounted behind the screen, and this system is called Acoustic Surface Audio. The sound is pleasant and well-balanced, making it a perfect complement to the picture. When it comes to audio format support, Sony Bravia 8 has plenty to boast about – in our tests, it played all popular codecs without any issues, providing a full and rich audio experience.