Samsung S85D vs Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F)

Direct compare

S85D

The Frame / LS03FAU

Info

Available screen sizes: 55”65”77”

Available screen sizes: 43”50”55”65”

Panel type: WRGB OLED

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Tizen

Model year: 2024

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Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Tizen

Model year: 2025

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Overall rating

7.8

7.0

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    7.8

    6.8

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    8.6

    6.5

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    8.4

    6.4

  • Gaming on console

    9.4

    8.3

  • TV as a computer monitor

    7.6

    8.2

  • Watching in bright light

    5.0

    6.3

  • Utility functions

    7.4

    7.2

  • Apps

    8.7

    8.7

  • Sound quality

    7.0

    6.0

Advantages

  • Outstanding contrast - OLED

  • Tizen system – fast and intuitive

  • Solar remote – control of other devices (e.g. decoder)

  • Excellent viewing angles – OLED

  • High motion fluidity – 120 Hz panel

  • Lots of functions for gamers

  • Unusual design

  • Price

  • Matte panel effectively reduces reflections

  • Screen customisation option with interchangeable frames + art mode

  • Free add-ons including wall mount + OneConnect module

  • High native contrast

  • Good brightness

  • High refresh rate - 120/144Hz

  • Plenty of features for gamers - VRR, ALLM, Gamebar, proprietary motion smoother functioning in games

Disadvantages

No like
  • No recording feature from the built-in tuners

  • Average SDR brightness – 310 nits

  • No support for DTS audio tracks

  • No HGiG mode – makes precise HDR settings on the console difficult.

  • No DTS support – requires additional equipment for some films on Bluray discs.

  • Paid picture mode

Our verdict

Samsung S85D is Samsung's entry-level OLED model for 2024, but it certainly doesn't feel "budget". From the very first contact, the TV demonstrated that OLED technology makes a difference. Deep blacks, excellent contrast, and great viewing angles make watching your favourite films and series pure pleasure, no matter where you sit. It's a screen that can truly immerse you in the action. The Tizen operating system is another strong point of Samsung S85D. It's simple, intuitive, and runs smoothly. Switching between apps like Netflix and YouTube takes a moment, and the ability to support AirPlay and Bluetooth provides plenty of options for connecting other devices. The solar remote not only doesn't need charging, but we also had no trouble using it to control the set-top box or soundbar – these are small details that make daily usage easier. Like any TV, S85D has its minor shortcomings. The lack of a recording feature can be noticeable, especially if we like to go back to our favourite shows or films. The absence of support for DTS soundtracks may require purchasing and directly connecting a Blu-ray to an external audio system. If we want to fully utilise this codec, it's worth keeping this in mind. SDR brightness, while sufficient in most cases, may not always meet expectations in brighter rooms. It's a TV that shows its best side in the evening – that's when the OLED black and contrast really impress. Despite these few drawbacks, S85D left us with very positive impressions. It’s a model that proves excellent picture quality and great technological solutions don't have to come with a high price tag. If we're looking for a TV that performs well in everyday use as well as during evening screenings without ruining our budget, then Samsung S85D OLED is a great choice. It's a device that gives the feeling that we've made a good investment, offering really a lot for a reasonable amount.

Samsung The Frame 2025 is a TV like no other – and even though it has competition now, it still does it best. The matte panel, flush with the wall, and one thin cable thanks to the One Connect module make the device resemble a piece of art more than any other screen. The Art Store app continues to offer the best scans of artworks on the market (even if they are subscription-based), and with interchangeable frames, we can match the TV to the interior almost like furniture. When it comes to the picture itself, because after all, we are also talking about a regular TV, there are no major changes, but also no disappointments compared to last year's model LS03D. The Frame still offers high native contrast and solid brightness at 600 nits, which combined with the matte coating provides very comfortable daytime use. The colours are not as vibrant as in glossy screens, but compared to competitive matte constructions – they fare the best. A novelty is the 144 Hz refresh rate, though in practice it will mainly benefit PC gamers. And indeed – in terms of features for gamers, The Frame has nearly everything: low input lag, support for variable refresh rate (VRR), automatic game mode (ALLM), Game Bar, and a unique motion smoother designed for gaming. Unfortunately, not everything is as perfect as it might seem. Why? Because the HGiG mode is missing, which suddenly disappeared from the latest version of the Tizen system. And here Samsung really should respond, as for many gamers this is a key element in choosing a screen. And we fully understand that. Although LS03F The Frame 2025 does not bring major revolutions, it is still a unique TV that, aside from its appearance, offers a quite solid picture and advanced gaming features. It’s just a pity that year after year we also receive new compromises.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
0 x HDMI 2.0, 4 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
3 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x HDMI 2.1 (40Gbps)
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
Build quality
BuildQuality-Good
Premium
Stand type
Legs
Legs
Stand type
stand-type-Graphite
stand-type-Changeable Frame
Stand
stand-Height Adjustment
stand-Height Adjustment
FlatDesign
Yes
Yes
Accessories
accessories-Stand
accessories-Stand, accessories-Wall Bracket, accessories-OneConnect Box

Contrast and black detail

10/10

6/10

Local dimming function: No

Contrast:

Review Samsung S85D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung S85D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung S85D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung S85D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung S85D Contrast and black detail

Result

:1

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Contrast and black detail

Result

4,800:1

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Contrast and black detail

Result

4,750:1

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Contrast and black detail

Result

14,900:1

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Contrast and black detail

Result

4,500:1

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Contrast and black detail

Result

4,300:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Samsung S85D is a television that truly makes a difference when it comes to picture quality. The blacks are so deep it’s hard to believe, and the contrast makes even the most demanding scenes – like those from the film “Oblivion” – look incredibly lifelike. Thanks to OLED technology, dark areas of the screen are perfectly black, without any unwanted glow or blooming.

It’s worth highlighting that, similar to some variants of the S90D model, the Samsung S85D uses a WOLED panel supplied by LG. This panel is a key element that contributes to the amazing contrast quality, which is particularly noticeable in scenes with high dynamic lighting, making it the perfect choice for lovers of high production quality films and series.

The year 2025 is shaping up to be quite interesting when it comes to lifestyle televisions. Why? Because Samsung has prepared two versions of the iconic model The Frame – one standard and the other with the addition of "Pro". In this review, we take a look at the version without "Pro", which – as we will soon see – makes a significant difference. The standard model LS03F lacks any local dimming technology, unlike its more expensive sibling. This is important as it affects not only the overall picture quality but primarily how this television handles black levels.

The VA panel used in The Frame 2025 has a high native contrast – and this obviously works in its favour. In the tested movie scenes, details in the dark areas of the image were well visible, nothing blended together, and there was no uniform black/light blob. For the average viewer, this will be perfectly sufficient. But of course, not everything is ideal. The lack of local dimming means that the black levels on this television are not perfectly deep – they resemble a dark navy blue rather than pitch black. Additionally, in our tested unit, we noticed slight blooming on the right side of the screen, but this may simply be the "character" of the unit rather than a rule. Theoretically, one could try to improve the perception of black by backlighting the screen – for example, with an LED strip – but in the case of The Frame, that’s rather impossible, as this television is meant to sit flush against the wall like a piece of art. So to achieve better blacks visible to our eyes, we are forced to watch LS03F with the lights on. Such is the charm of this technology.

HDR effect quality

5.7/10

6/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 98.9%, Bt.2020: 74.6%
DCI P3: 91.5%, Bt.2020: 72.2%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review Samsung S85D Brightness measurement

Result

570 nit

Review Samsung S85D Brightness measurement

Result

580 nit

Review Samsung S85D Brightness measurement

Result

666 nit

Review Samsung S85D Brightness measurement

Result

629 nit

Review Samsung S85D Brightness measurement

Result

283 nit

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Brightness measurement

Result

642 nit

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Brightness measurement

Result

589 nit

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Brightness measurement

Result

574 nit

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Brightness measurement

Result

584 nit

Review Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F) Brightness measurement

Result

631 nit

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

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

Static HDR10

Dynamic: HDR10+

Dynamic: HDR10+

HDR luminance chart:

Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F)

Luminancja HDR

Luminance of RGB colors

Samsung S85D

Luminancja HDR

Luminance of RGB colors

Brightness is a key parameter in televisions, and the S85D Samsung model offers a level comparable to other OLEDs from a few years ago. Though it doesn't impress in this regard, its huge advantage is a very competitive price. A peak brightness of 600 nits provides good image quality in HDR conditions, giving users a taste of cinema-like experiences in the comfort of their home. However, as with many budget OLED models, the biggest problem is very bright, full-screen scenes – in such moments, like the final shot from the movie "The Meg," the television can lose as much as half of its brightness, which is noticeable compared to more expensive OLED models. Despite this, the television offers an impressive DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage of 99%, allowing for the display of vibrant and accurate colours.

The Frame LS03F is a television that can surprise with its brightness. The maximum luminance reaches around 650 nits, which already looks solid on paper. But as we know – lab tests are one thing, and real film scenes are quite another story. When watching HDR materials in natural conditions, The Frame 2025 maintains very good results. In most film scenes, peak brightness stayed at around 550–650 nits. This is enough to feel the difference between standard picture and that in HDR quality – bright highlights, reflections on water, or moonlight look distinct and impressive.

It's also worth noting that the LS03F is a QLED television, which translates to solid colour saturation. The coverage of the DCI-P3 colour space reaches about 92%, allowing for vibrant, intense colours in HDR content. It's not at the level of top premium models, but for a lifestyle screen – the result truly deserves recognition.

Factory color reproduction

6.6/10

7.1/10

Factory Mode

After calibration

Factory Mode

After calibration

The Filmmaker mode on Samsung's S85D does indeed offer the best factory settings, but it is not without flaws, particularly evident in colour reproduction. The white balance graph for HD and HDR content shows clear issues – both red and blue colours are significantly weakened, leading to a dominance of green. The result is an unnatural yellowish tint that can affect the perception of realistic scenes. The Color Checker test clearly shows that the colour samples deviate from the expected values – for HD materials, the colours tend to be overly saturated, with a marked shift towards green, which is also evident in the white balance graph. Conversely, for 4K HDR content, the colours appear too dull and lacking in depth, causing the image to lose its appeal and naturalness. This effect is particularly noticeable in delicate scenes where colour precision plays a key role, which can be disappointing for discerning viewers who expect faithful reproduction of details and colour intensity.

When it comes to brightness, the gamma graph for HD content looks quite good; however, there is a clear spike at the end, exceeding the value of 2.4. Although this is not a major issue in most scenes, in more demanding sequences it can affect the clarity of bright details. For 4K content, the EOTF curve, responsible for rendering brightness, proves to be problematic. The initial part of the graph shows a slight spike. This phenomenon can result in excessive boosting of brightness in the brightest areas of the image, leading to a loss of detail in very bright scenes.

Although Samsung S85D offers quite decent factory settings, especially in Filmmaker mode, it is worth considering manual adjustment of settings to improve some imperfections, particularly in colour reproduction.

When it comes to picture quality right out of the box, even in Filmmaker mode, which is supposed to be the closest to reference, there were some issues. In both HD and 4K HDR content, we noticed clear deviations in white balance. The picture was heavily skewed towards red and blue, giving the screen a distinctive pinkish hue. This effect was most noticeable in bright scenes – for example, in shots with a lot of white, where neutral light should naturally dominate. In such moments, the screen clearly took on pink tones, which is also evident in the attached comparative photo. As for brightness characteristics – it wasn't as bad as one might expect given such colour inaccuracies. Analysis of the gamma curve and EOTF showed a slight brightening of the image compared to the reference, but not enough to drastically spoil the viewing experience.

Color reproduction after calibration

8.7/10

8/10

After calibration, the Filmmaker mode on Samsung S85D really impressed. The white balance, regardless of the type of content, has improved significantly, resulting in more natural colours. The Color Checker test shows that colour reproduction errors are now minimal and rarely exceed acceptable values, which indicates precise colour reproduction. The factory colour representation left a lot to be desired, but now the situation has significantly improved – colours are natural, accurate, and look as if they have been precisely rendered according to the creators' intentions. This is a huge step forward compared to earlier generations, where colours were often distorted or too intense.

The brightness characteristics have also benefited from calibration – it's now more vivid and precise. The gamma, although reasonably good before, has become even more stable, providing a deeper, more natural image. The EOTF curve has been flattened, allowing details in dark areas to be more visible, and the contrast is better balanced. Thanks to all these improvements, the television delivers an image close to reference quality, which definitely enhances the enjoyment of watching films and HDR content.

After calibration, the movie mode gained a completely new quality. The issue of the pink tint, which was previously clearly visible, especially in bright scenes, has been effectively eliminated. Colours started to look significantly more natural, and the white balance no longer dominated the rest of the image. It was no longer the same oversaturated "picture from a box" – everything took on coherence and a cinematic character. Additionally, the tendency of the TV to slightly brighten scenes, previously visible in the EOTF curve analysis, has been partially corrected. Of course, within the limits of what the design allows without local dimming – it's difficult to speak of perfect brightness management here. Nevertheless, the final effect was definitely closer to what one might expect from a mode named Filmmaker.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7.2/10

9/10

Samsung OLED S85D handles tonal transitions very well. There are no major issues, and transitions between different colour levels are smooth and natural. The only minor drawback is slight problems around the reds, where in some scenes, you can notice a bit of interference. Nevertheless, the overall effect is very positive – the television performs excellently with most material.

In terms of the smoothness of tonal transitions, the LS03F maintains a high standard – just like last year's models. The television didn’t have any issues during testing of more challenging film scenes, where visible transitions between shades can easily occur. The colour gradation performs very well here – both in lighter and darker parts of the image. We did not observe the typical banding effect or any other disturbances that could be noticeable while watching films. If we were to nitpick, in the most demanding scenes – with subtle transitions and delicate gradients – minor imperfections can be seen. But only if you get really close to the screen and start analysing the image from an unintended distance.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

7.4/10

6.7/10

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

Smooth transition function

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Samsung S85D does a great job of scaling images and smoothing tonal transitions. Like other Samsung models, the television offers three noise reduction modes: off, standard, and high. While it improves gradation well, it unfortunately also removes film grain, which many viewers desire to give the image a cinematic character. This grain often adds authenticity and a certain rawness to films that is lost once it is smoothed out. Removing the grain can make the image appear too sterile and smooth, which takes away some of the charm of the original film material. When it comes to image scaling, the Samsung S85D excels at displaying lower resolution content – the model in the photo and the branches in the background were shown correctly, without major issues with jagged edges. The only noticeable downside is the presence of overscan, which can sometimes cut off parts of the image, which may not appeal to everyone.

LS03F is equipped with an NQ4 processor, which is responsible for improving image quality – especially in lower-quality materials. In practice, it works surprisingly well, particularly when it comes to older content and recordings with lower resolution. Activating the "noise reduction" feature delivers noticeable results. The television effectively smooths tonal transitions and removes digital noise that can appear in darker areas of the image. Compared to previous generations, there is a clear improvement – earlier, this feature often smoothed everything too much, including details that it shouldn't have removed. In this year’s model, the smoothing still occurs, but it happens in a much more acceptable way. Textures of materials, skin, or fabric details are not as heavily muted as before – the image retains more naturalness. However, this does not change the fact that film grain is still removed by the television, which may not appeal to everyone. On the other hand, it's no longer such an aggressive intervention as in previous models. It's also worth mentioning that the LS03F may struggle with very weak signals – for example, from VHS tapes or low-resolution video. In such cases, we noticed slight clipping of the image at the edges – the so-called overscan. This can lead to situations where a small part of the image (e.g., subtitles at the bottom edge) gets cut off.

Blur and motion smoothness

8.5/10

6.9/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
120Hz
144Hz
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
49%
43%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Blur (BFI function enabled):

Image flickers in this mode

Image flickers in this mode

As befits an OLED television, Samsung S85D offers excellent motion fluidity. Equipped with a 120 Hz panel and a fast response time, the TV delivers very smooth playback of dynamic scenes without visible blurring. For movie enthusiasts, there is a feature called "Picture Clarity Settings," which allows for adjusting the image smoothness to individual preferences on a 10-point scale. Motion blur reduction enhances the sharpness of fast-moving objects, while motion smoothing eliminates the "judder" effect for a smoother motion. This way, every user can set the appropriate level of clarity that best suits their taste, from a more cinematic effect to clearer, smoother movements.

The new feature in The Frame for 2025 is a 144 Hz refresh rate display. Yes – in a television primarily associated with displaying works of art, you can now not only watch Van Gogh, but also comfortably play on a console or follow fast-paced sporting events. This is a significant step towards greater versatility. In the case of Samsung movies, as usual in models with a 120 Hz display and above, it allows you to adjust motion fluidity according to your preferences. You can set a more cinematic reproduction that maintains frame rate or opt for complete image smoothing. The range of options is broad, allowing you to tailor the effect to your tastes – regardless of whether the screening is meant to look like classic cinema or a performance on a modern theatre panel.

*this part of the test refers to the model LS03FAU in sizes 55 and 65 inches, which is equipped with a 144Hz display; the sizes 43 and 50 inches have 60Hz displays, and consequently perform much worse in terms of motion fluidity.

Console compatibility and gaming features

9.5/10

8.1/10

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

Samsung S85D OLED is an excellent choice for gamers thanks to its many modern features that make gameplay easier and more enjoyable. The TV has four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing you to connect the latest consoles without worrying about limitations in image quality or frame rates. This means support for 4K resolution at 120 Hz, which is ideal for modern titles. Additionally, the Samsung S85D has an ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) feature that automatically activates low latency mode when it detects a gaming device. This means you don’t have to manually switch settings – the TV takes care of ensuring fast response times, which is crucial in games where every second counts.

The VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) feature and G-Sync support are additional elements that make gameplay smoother. VRR adjusts the refresh rate to match the frame rate generated by the console or computer, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. This is especially useful in fast-paced games where the frame rate can fluctuate. Auto Motion Plus Game is a feature that Samsung introduced with gamers in mind, and it’s worth appreciating. It makes the picture in games smoother – 30 frames per second looks like 45, and 60 Hz gains in smoothness, giving an effect close to 90 Hz. At the same time, there’s no significant increase in input lag, which remains below 25 ms, making this feature stand out compared to others available on the market. Gamers can enjoy smoother visuals without worrying about reduced responsiveness.

Samsung has also thought of something extra – the TV has a built-in Xbox Game Pass app, which means you can game in the cloud without needing a console. It’s a great solution for those who want to enjoy gaming without investing in additional hardware. All you need is an internet connection, and you have a massive library of games at your fingertips. This makes Samsung S85D an excellent choice for both casual and more advanced gamers.

As we mentioned earlier – although The Frame likely displays images and artwork for most of the time, Samsung recognised that a Van Gogh fan could just as easily be an avid gamer. And it must be said that The Frame 2025 has almost everything to become a fully-fledged gaming TV.

Onboard, we find support for ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) thanks to the implementation of a single HDMI 2.1 port. The TV handles lower resolutions at higher refresh rates effortlessly and features an expanded Game Bar – already known from other Samsung models – which allows for quick preview and adjustment of key gaming-related settings. For this, it gets extra points from us. Noteworthy is also the proprietary motion smoother, Auto Motion Plus Game, which – and this is worth emphasising – works without increasing input lag. Samsung remains the only manufacturer that has managed to implement this feature in a practically unnoticeable way regarding delays. The result? Much better fluidity in games, especially those that struggle to maintain a stable 60 frames. This solution can genuinely improve gaming comfort in more demanding titles – particularly on consoles that don’t always manage full fluidity, especially in AAA games.

As for the downsides – the lack of Dolby Vision is already something we consider standard in Samsung TVs, so there’s not much to specifically nitpick here. However, the problem lies elsewhere. In the latest version of the Tizen system, the HGiG option has disappeared. Literally – it’s gone. This is a significant inconvenience when configuring the console for proper HDR content display in games. It's hard to understand why such a decision was made, but one thing is certain – this needs to be fixed as soon as possible. We’re talking about a brand that has set standards for gaming on TVs for years. If HGiG returns – and we hope it does – The Frame LS03F can confidently aspire to be a proper gaming TV. Not only as a decoration on the wall, but as equipment that truly enhances the gaming experience.

Input lag

9.9/10

10/10

SDR

1080p60
14 ms
13 ms
1080p120
5 ms
8 ms
2160p60
14 ms
13 ms
2160p120
5 ms
8 ms

HDR

2160p60
14 ms
13 ms
2160p120
5 ms
8 ms
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
2160p120 DV

Samsung S85D achieves excellent results in terms of input lag, regardless of refresh rate or resolution. This means that the screen responses are nearly instantaneous, which is particularly important in fast-paced, dynamic games. Gamers can rely on the TV's lightning-fast response to controller movements, providing an edge in competition and greater satisfaction in gameplay. Low input lag is a definite advantage of this model, making the Samsung S85D OLED an ideal choice for gaming enthusiasts.

When it comes to input lag, Samsung maintains a very high standard. The LS03F, like most of this year's models from the brand, achieves a score of 8 ms for 4K content, which is practically a benchmark value. This result allows you to play even the most dynamic titles without delays and with complete responsiveness. Well done!

Compatibility with PC

7.6/10

8.2/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
Yes
Font clarity
Very Good
Good
Readability of dark text and shapes
Very Good
Average
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
5ms
8ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
RWBG
BGR
Max refresh rate
120Hz
144Hz
G-Sync
Yes
Yes

Samsung S85D performs very well as a computer monitor. With clear visibility of text, regardless of the background type, using it is convenient and comfortable. Chroma 4:4:4 support ensures precise reproduction of text and graphics, which is essential for office work, browsing the internet, or editing documents. Samsung S85D is a versatile television that easily serves as a monitor for everyday use. We deducted 0.4 points for the WRGB layout, as is common with every television with such a sub-pixel arrangement.

Collaboration of The Frame 2025 with a computer poses no major issues. Let's start with gaming, as this is where this model shows its strengths – support for 144 Hz signal, low input lag, and compatibility with G-Sync technology (for NVIDIA cards) make it hard not to consider it a full-fledged gaming monitor. It’s one of the more interesting "gaming with PC" televisions available on the market in this class.

When it comes to everyday work, the situation looks just as good. The Frame easily handles chroma 4:4:4, which translates to good font readability and overall user comfort. We only noticed slight issues with dimming very thin lines and dark details on a light background – this effect may occur, particularly when working with small interface elements. In practice, however, with a 55-inch screen and standard office working distances, it will be hard to realistically notice this problem. Nonetheless, it's worth keeping this in mind if the television is to serve as a monitor not only for entertainment but also for precise graphic or text work.

Viewing angles

7.7/10

3.5/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
28%
70%

The viewing angles on the Samsung S85D are excellent, as expected from OLED. The picture remains crisp and doesn't lose quality even when watched at a wide angle, making the TV perfect for larger rooms and shared viewing with family or friends. The only TVs that offer better viewing angles are those with QD-OLED organic matrices or MLA OLED.

As one could expect from a VA panel, the viewing angles on The Frame 2025 are at best mediocre. The image loses saturation and contrast when viewed off-axis. It's a shame, because we're talking about a model that displays digital artworks in standby mode – and it's precisely in such moments that wide viewing angles would make the most sense, enhancing the feeling of interacting with a real piece of art rather than just its screen imitation.

Perhaps in the future, manufacturers will decide to introduce special coatings or modified versions of VA panels that improve this aspect – as it would have real significance not only in terms of functionality but also aesthetics for lifestyle televisions.

TV efficiency during daytime

5/10

6.3/10

Matrix coating
Satin
Matte
Reflection suppression
Average
Very Good
Black levels during daytime
Very Good
Poor

Matrix brightness

Average luminance SDR

Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F): 596 cd/m2

Samsung S85D: 313 cd/m2

Samsung S85D performs quite well with reflections thanks to the matte screen's satin finish, which effectively dampens them. Unfortunately, the SDR brightness of 310 nits is rather average, meaning the TV's effectiveness may be limited in very bright rooms. It’s not an impressive result, so this model will definitely perform better during evening viewing when such brightness will be sufficient. During the day, to achieve better comfort, it may be necessary to draw the blinds or curtains.

One of the most distinctive features of The Frame is its matte display – and it must be said that Samsung has really perfected this aspect. From our experience, it's one of the best solutions for reducing reflections, especially direct ones. If reflections on the screen can be irritating, it will be hard to find a better screen in this budget than the matte panel used in Samsung TVs. Of course, this comes with a certain compromise. In very bright sunlight, colours may appear slightly faded, and the image loses a bit of depth. However, this is something we consciously accept when opting for a matte screen – you win some, you lose some. In practice, the colours and contrast on Samsung's matte screen still outperform those on Chinese models such as TCL NXT Vision or Hisense Canvas TV. If effective reduction of reflections is a priority and you want to use the TV also as a “digital artwork” in bright rooms, it’s hard to make a better choice.

The Frame achieves around 600 nits of brightness, which, combined with the matte coating, ensures that the TV performs well in well-lit daytime conditions. It may not be at the level of flagship models, but in everyday use – in a living room with plenty of light – it handles it without any problems.

Details about the matrix

Backlight Type
QLED
Software version during testing
1120
T-PTMFDEUC-0090-1110.7, E2500007, BT-S
Image processor

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity and thermal imaging:

Samsung S85D

Samsung The Frame 2025 (LS03F)

TV features

7.4/10

7.2/10

  • HDMI inputs
    0 x HDMI 2.0, 4 x HDMI 2.1 48Gbps
    3 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
  • 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
  • TV reception
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C
    DVB-T, DVB-T2, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C

Classic features:

  • Recording to USB (terrestrial TV)
    No
    No
  • Recording programming
    No
    No
  • Picture in Picture (PiP)
    Yes
    No
  • RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    No
  • Teletext
    Yes
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • Possibility to connect Bluetooth headphones to the TV
    Yes
    Yes
  • Possibility to simultaneously use Bluetooth headphones and the TV speaker
    Yes
    Yes

Smart features:

  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Wyszukiwanie głosowe
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    Yes
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes

Samsung S85D runs on the Tizen operating system, which is intuitive and provides easy access to many apps and streaming services. The system offers smooth and quick navigation, significantly improving the comfort of using the television. The TV is equipped with a solar-powered remote control, which allows for the control of other devices, such as set-top boxes or home theatre systems, enabling the operation of all home equipment with one device. In terms of connectivity, the Samsung S85D supports AirPlay, making it easier to stream content from Apple devices, and it has a built-in Bluetooth module that enables the connection of peripheral devices, such as keyboards, headphones or speakers.

When it comes to everyday use of the television for regular TV shows, the S85D model offers several useful features but also has some drawbacks. One of its advantages is the PIP (Picture-in-Picture) function, which allows for simultaneous viewing of two contents – for example, a match in a small window while the rest of the screen shows a favourite series. This is a convenient solution for those who want to stay up-to-date with various programs. However, it is disappointing that there is no recording capability from the built-in tuners. This limitation makes it impossible to save favourite programs or movies for later, which can be a problem for those who want to flexibly adjust their TV watching to their schedule - however, we believe that the absence of this feature is becoming less of a burden, as users now have wide access to various content online, making the need for recording less significant.

The design of the OLED Samsung S85D stands out with its distinctive, rounded shape at the back, setting it apart from most OLED televisions that typically have a flat back. This unusual design gives it a unique look and attracts attention, making the television appear modern and elegant. The package includes a remote control, a CI+ module, a stand in the form of two feet, and a power cable, allowing for a quick and convenient start to using the television without the need to purchase additional accessories.

Classic TV Features

In terms of classic features, The Frame doesn’t stand out in any significant way compared to its competitors. There’s no option for USB recording or PiP (picture in picture), which may be disappointing for some users. On the other hand, the TV allows simultaneous use of speakers and headphones, which can be useful – especially for older users. The EPG, or electronic programme guide, is quite readable, and despite the absence of traditional buttons on the remote, we managed to launch even the teletext. In everyday use, the basic functions work smoothly and without major complaints.

Smart System – Tizen and Apps

The Frame 2025 runs on the Tizen system, which has been regarded as one of the most refined Smart TV solutions on the market for years. It’s a system designed for devices that are more than just a television – and it has been designed with this spirit in mind. Tizen offers full integration with external devices – supporting both Apple AirPlay and Miracast. Thanks to the SmartThings app, it’s possible to control not only the television but also other devices within the smart home framework. Since last year, Samsung has also been developing its own voice assistant with support for the Polish language, which significantly facilitates operation. However, the greatest strength of the Smart system in The Frame remains the Art Gallery app. Although access to it is paid (via subscription), it offers the best art scans on the market – we’re talking about scans, not just ordinary photos. This makes the effect of a digital painting hanging on the wall appear significantly better than in any other lifestyle TV.

Playing files from USB

9.1/10

9.1/10

Supported photo formats:

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

Playing multimedia files on Samsung S85D will satisfy most users. The television offers wide compatibility with popular video, audio, and image file formats, providing smooth playback from both USB media and local networks. The built-in media player operates efficiently and is easy to use, although there may be issues with some less common formats.

During testing, we didn't notice any major issues with playing files from a USB memory stick. The television handled both video materials and photos well. Of course, there are some exceptions – for example, the lack of support for the HEIC format (used by Apple devices) – but it's hard to consider this surprising. On the positive side, it fully supports high-resolution photos – the television displays high megapixel files without any problems, which can be significant for those wanting to treat The Frame as a digital photo frame as well. However, during testing, we noticed a limitation regarding subtitles – the television only correctly handled files in .txt format. It's worth keeping this in mind and ensuring that downloaded subtitles for films are saved in this format; otherwise, they may simply not display.

Apps

8.7/10

8.7/10

OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
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
HBO_MAX
No
Kodi
OK
Apple_music
No
Eleven_sports
OK
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
OK
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
No
Steam Link
OK
Disney_Plus
OK
Amazon_Prime_Video
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
HBO_MAX
No
Kodi
OK
Apple_music
No
Eleven_sports
OK
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
OK
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
No
Steam Link

Sound

7/10

6/10

  • Maximum volume
    -
    -
  • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby True HD 7.1
    No
    No
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby Digital Plus (JOC)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Dolby Atmos in Dolby True HD
    No
    No
  • DTS:X in DTS-HD MA
    No
    No
  • DTS-HD Master Audio
    No
    No

Samsung S85D OLED offers quite decent sound, even though the built-in speaker system is not particularly impressive (2x10W). The television supports Dolby Atmos technology, which provides spatial sound, however, it does not support the DTS format. The sound is clear and sufficient for everyday use, although for more demanding users it may be advisable to connect an external audio system for a fuller and more dynamic sound.

For such a slim television, the sound is quite decent. It’s full, adequate for everyday viewing, but lacks much excitement – typical of flat designs. There's not much bass, although at times it can be heard. The speakers in a 2.0.2 configuration have a total power of 40 W. (in the 55+ inch version) Unfortunately, the television does not support DTS format, so for movies with that sound, you'll need to rely on external equipment, like a home theatre system. You can connect a soundbar, and thanks to the Q-Symphony feature, the television plays along with it. Samsung also offers visually matching models for The Frame like S700D or S800D, but they are sold separately. (This shouldn’t really surprise anyone😉).