Samsung DU7192 (VA) vs TCL P7K / P79K

Direct comparison

P7K / P79K

Info

Available screen sizes: 43”50”75”85”

Available screen sizes: 43”50”55”65”75”85”

Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Tizen

Model year: 2024

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Panel type: LCD VA

Resolution: 3840x2160

System: Android TV

Model year: 2025

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Overall rating

5.4

5.8

  • Movies and series in UHD quality

    5.4

    5.1

  • Classic TV, YouTube

    5.3

    5.5

  • Sports broadcasts (TV and apps)

    4.8

    5.3

  • Gaming on console

    6.7

    7.1

  • TV as a computer monitor

    6.0

    2.0

  • Watching in bright light

    3.2

    4.6

  • Utility functions

    5.2

    7.0

  • Apps

    8.7

    9.6

  • Sound quality

    5.4

    6.2

Advantages

  • Advanced Tizen operating system

  • High native contrast - VA panel

  • Low input lag

  • Accurate colour reproduction after calibration

  • Great blacks and high contrast

  • Support for 120 Hz in gaming (at lower resolutions)

  • Very low responsiveness (input lag), great for fast-paced gaming

  • Modern features for gamers, such as VRR and ALLM

  • Efficient Google TV system with a vast app base

  • Very well-functioning Google Assistant in Polish

  • Easy screen mirroring from your phone (support for AirPlay)

  • Attractive price

Disadvantages

No like
  • Missing Dolby Vision

  • Low brightness

  • Poor viewing angles

  • Low brightness, which makes the HDR effect weak and the image poorly visible in sunlight

  • The image loses quality and colour when viewed from an angle

  • Not suitable as a computer monitor due to very poor text readability

  • Strong dithering phenomenon (highly digital image)

Our verdict

Samsung DU7192 is a simple and affordable television that performs well for everyday use. Thanks to the VA panel, it stands out with good contrast, which is especially important when watching films in the evening. The blacks are deep, and details in dark scenes are well visible. With subdued lighting, it creates a really good impression. After properly adjusting the colour settings, the picture becomes even more natural, and tonal transitions appear smooth. For daily tasks, the television performs quite well. Tizen, Samsung's operating system, is easy to use and provides access to many popular applications such as Netflix and YouTube. Everything runs smoothly, although some applications may occasionally have limited functionality. A nice addition is support for AirPlay, which allows for quick streaming of content from Apple devices to the large screen. Regarding its use as a monitor, DU7192 also performs adequately. The low input lag (11 ms) makes gaming smooth and responsive – even in fast-paced action games. Fonts are readable when connected to a computer thanks to the well-functioning chroma feature, meaning the television is suitable for simple office tasks. However, this is not a model without flaws. The brightness level of 274 nits is average, so in brightly lit rooms, the screen may look washed out. With HDR content, it is evident that it lacks power, and the absence of Dolby Vision is another downside if full HDR capabilities are a priority. The VA panel also has limited viewing angles – if sitting from the side, colours lose intensity, and contrast deteriorates significantly. Samsung DU7192 is a good choice for those looking for a simple television for watching films, series, or occasional gaming. Excellent contrast and an intuitive operating system are its strengths that compensate for shortcomings in brightness and viewing angles. It is equipment that performs best in evening use or in rooms with controlled lighting.

The time has come to gather all observations. The TCL P7K / P79K is a television that cleverly juggles compromises, offering much more in its price range than we could have expected. Its undeniable asset is the VA panel, guaranteeing deep blacks and high contrast, and the surprisingly rich package for gamers (with VRR and support for 120 Hz at lower resolutions) makes it a phenomenal proposition for console owners. The whole is tied together by the functional Google TV system. Of course, the low peak brightness means that HDR content lacks spectacular bursts, and the TV's performance in sunlit rooms is limited. And although, at its relatively low price, the P7K / P79K is quite a decent option, its biggest rival turns out to be… its more refined sibling, the P8K. Often, FOR a small additional payment, we get a device of a higher class – with a native 4K 144 Hz panel, significantly better audio system, and generally higher quality of operation, which is reflected in its much higher rating on our portal. Therefore, the final verdict must be as follows: if your budget is absolutely non-negotiable, the P7K / P79K will be a good and cost-effective choice. However, if you can afford to add a small amount, the P8K model will offer significantly more and will ultimately be a more satisfying investment.

TV appearance

HDMI inputs
3 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
0 x HDMI 2.0, 3 x HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps)
Other inputs
Toslink (Optical audio)
Outputs
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
Build quality
Average
Average
Stand type
Legs
Legs
Bezel color
Graphite
Graphite
Stand
Height adjustment
Fixed
Accessories
Stand
Stand
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) TV appearance

Contrast and black detail

5.7/10

5.2/10

Local dimming function: No

Local dimming function: No

Contrast:

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail

Result

4,400:1

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail

Result

5,200:1

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail

Result

5,250:1

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail

Result

5,250:1

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail

Result

4,650:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

4,000:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

6,500:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

2,700:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

2,800:1

Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Result

3,800:1

Halo effect and black detail visibility:

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail
Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Contrast and black detail
Review TCL P7K / P79K Contrast and black detail

Model Samsung DU7192 in this variant is equipped with a VA panel, which is a definite advantage in this class of televisions regarding blacks. As a result, the contrast levels are good, with test results reaching around 5000:1. For this segment of televisions, this is quite a satisfactory result. Of course, the lack of local dimming – typical for this price range – means that the black in some scenes loses a bit of depth, taking on shades of navy blue. Such an effect can be observed, for example, in the film Sicario 2 during demanding shots. Nevertheless, the overall quality of blacks remains satisfactory, especially for users who do not expect complete perfection in the darkest parts of the image.

In the discussion about image quality, the conversation almost always begins with the issue of black depth and contrast, which are parameters that define the plasticity and realism of the observed world. Here, the TCL P7k/P79k immediately lays its strongest asset on the table – a VA panel. Its construction is what makes the native relation between the brightest and darkest parts of the image more than satisfactory, especially in the context of the price segment that this model represents. In the majority of scenes, the black achieved has a noble depth, which allows for building an engaging spectacle for the viewer. To illustrate the scale, it is worth mentioning that competing constructions based on IPS panels often offer results that are even four times, and sometimes five times, lower, which in direct comparison represents a chasm. Of course, when entering the territory of models oriented towards affordability, we must be aware of certain compromises. Therefore, we will not find an advanced local dimming system in the discussed television, which could further enhance the sense of contrast. However, the absence of this feature is fully understandable and constitutes a logical consequence of positioning the product in the market – this technology in TCL's portfolio for 2025 has been reserved for higher positioned, more prestigious series marked with the letter "C".

HDR effect quality

3.7/10

4.3/10

Supported formats
HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG
Color gamut coverage
DCI P3: 82.1%, Bt.2020: 61.4%
DCI P3: 86.3%, Bt.2020: 65.0%

Luminance measurements in HDR:

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Brightness measurement

Result

224 nit

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Brightness measurement

Result

240 nit

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Brightness measurement

Result

292 nit

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Brightness measurement

Result

265 nit

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Brightness measurement

Result

271 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

206 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

247 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

297 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

237 nit

Review TCL P7K / P79K Brightness measurement

Result

281 nit

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

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) HDR effect quality
Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality

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

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) HDR effect quality
Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality

Static HDR10

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) HDR effect quality
Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality

Dynamic: HDR10+

Dynamic: Dolby Vision

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) HDR effect quality
Review TCL P7K / P79K HDR effect quality

HDR luminance chart:

TCL P7K / P79K

HDR luminance

Samsung DU7192 (VA)

HDR luminance

In the luminance charts, the peak brightness of the television is around 280 nits. Unfortunately, this value is too low to fully enjoy HDR effects, which require significantly higher luminance. In the tested materials, such as The Meg and Gemini Man, the lack of adequate brightness severely limits the magic of HDR, and the details in the brighter parts of the image are not sufficiently highlighted. For users primarily consuming SDR content, this level of quality may be acceptable, but it is definitely not enough when it comes to HDR. Additionally, the coverage of the DCI-P3 colour palette at 82% does not favour presenting HDR content in its full glory. The limited colour gamut makes it difficult for the television to reproduce vibrant and diverse colours, which is crucial for achieving a cinema-like experience.

When turning to the assessment of HDR performance, we must be clear and without marketing embellishments: the P7K/P79K is not, and was never intended to be, a master in this field. The maximum peak brightness that this panel can generate hovers around a mere 300 nits. This represents a threshold, a kind of thin red line between what can be considered a barely satisfactory HDR signal and what is, in fact, not much different from standard dynamic range (SDR), unfortunately leaning towards the latter. Synthetic tests found brutal confirmation in reality – our measurements taken during movie screenings showed that luminance in key bright portions of the scenes rarely exceeded the ceiling of 200-250 nits. Thus, this is not a television that would allow content realised in a wide tonal range to spread its wings, and this must be openly admitted.

Unfortunately, the issue of colour reproduction is presented with equal restraint. Although the manufacturer positions this model within the "QLED" family, thanks to the use of a PFS LED filter, the results do not match the heightened expectations. The coverage of the wide DCI-P3 colour gamut reaches only 86%. In the context of the market, this is at best an average result, as most devices that employ additional layers to expand the colour spectrum easily achieve values at a minimum level of 90-92%.

Factory color reproduction

4/10

5.9/10

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Factory color reproduction
Review TCL P7K / P79K Factory color reproduction

Factory Mode

After calibration

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Factory color reproduction
Review TCL P7K / P79K Factory color reproduction

Factory Mode

After calibration

The best factory mode we relied on during testing turned out to be "Filmmaker". Although this mode is the closest to the creators' intent for films, it is not without certain imperfections. The white balance chart in both SDR and HDR clearly shows a dominance of red, resulting in significant yellowing, particularly noticeable in whites and on actors' faces. In HDR mode, there is also a slight dominance of green, which, however, does not have as much impact on the perception of the image. The gamma, which is responsible for brightness in SDR materials, performed quite well, but with one serious caveat. In the darkest parts of the image, it was too low, causing excessive brightness in those scenes, depriving the film of drama and contrast. For HDR, the white balance remains at a similar level; however, the EOTF curve chart draws attention. At the beginning, the curve clearly bulges, leading to a strong brightness in the darkest scenes. Then the result suddenly drops below the reference line, resulting in an overly dark image and a loss of dynamics in the brighter parts.

In summary, the "Filmmaker" mode, despite its advantages, requires refinement – especially regarding white balance and proper management of brightness in the darkest and brightest parts of the image. In its current form, it may be acceptable for less demanding users, but for viewers expecting precise image reproduction, it may leave much to be desired.

Every accurate assessment of image quality must begin with selection of the most optimal factory mode. In the case of the tested model P7K/P79K, the choice was made without hesitation for the "Film" mode. It is this mode that presents an image closest to the intentions of the creators, avoiding both the exaggerated brightness of the dynamic mode and the excessive dimming known from eco settings. And it must be admitted that, for a device in this price range, the factory calibration is surprisingly decent, although it has not escaped a few missteps. The most noticeable flaw turned out to be the not completely correctly set white balance. A slight dominance of the blue component gives the image a subtly cool, cold character, thus deviating from the exemplary neutrality that the director wanted to show us. The television performs much better in reproducing the greyscale in the standard dynamic range – the gamma curve is nearly exemplary. The only minor reservation could be made regarding the darkest parts of the image, where a slight deviation from the norm causes a loss of some detail in the shadows. The most serious challenge for the TCL software, however, was interpreting the HDR signal, as illustrated by the course of the EOTF curve. The television follows its own, quite free path here – the darkest details are disproportionately brightened, after which there is a noticeable slowdown in the increase of brightness for midtones. Fortunately, most of these imperfections are software-related issues that can be eliminated. With this thought in mind, we began the process of professional calibration.

Color reproduction after calibration

5.9/10

7/10

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Color reproduction after calibration
Review TCL P7K / P79K Color reproduction after calibration
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Color reproduction after calibration
Review TCL P7K / P79K Color reproduction after calibration

Even for its lower models, Samsung offers advanced image calibration tools, which allow for significant improvement of the factory settings. We undertook this task, and the results turned out to be more than satisfying. The white balance, which previously exhibited a strong yellowish tint in both SDR and HDR, was significantly improved. Although slight deviations from the norm can be noticed, the overall effect is much cleaner and more natural than before calibration. As a result, whites and skin tones look much better. We also managed to properly shape the gamma in SDR materials, which allows for achieving the maximum contrast that this television can offer. The EOTF curve, responsible for HDR materials, was also improved – the image is no longer brightened or darkened as drastically as it was before calibration. Despite these successes, HDR materials still struggle with high deltaE error values. The main reason lies in the limited brightness of the television, which does not allow for a complete representation of the dynamics of HDR content. Nevertheless, after calibration, the image is clearly better and more aligned with the creators' intentions. For users seeking the best possible quality in this class of equipment, calibration is definitely recommended.

The calibration process turned out to be spot on, particularly in the context of standard dynamic range (SDR) content. We successfully mitigated the television's tendency to emphasize cool tones, restoring the whiteness to its natural neutrality. Moreover, precise adjustments allowed us to correct a slight error in the gamma curve, ensuring that the darkest parts of the image regained their proper depth, without any trace of unnatural brightness. The effects are measurable and impressive – in the ColorChecker test, the overwhelming majority of colour reproduction errors fell below the perceptual threshold, achieving a deltaE value of under 2. This is a result that pricier models would not be ashamed of. Unfortunately, when it comes to HDR content, we encounter a barrier in the form of the inherent limitations of the panel itself. And although we managed to bring the colours into line, the software's characteristics mean that the television still adapts brightness in its own way, as evidenced by the persistent, non-standard EOTF curve. In summary, calibration adds immense value, but one must be aware that it cannot overcome certain physical barriers. The slightly elevated black level, due to the lack of local dimming, along with limited peak brightness, means that HDR content may not always be able to showcase its full potential. This is simply not the primary task of this display; its true strength, especially after professional tuning, lies in the viewing of SDR material.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

7.7/10

5/10

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Smoothness of tonal transitions

The Samsung DU7192 television deserves praise for its smooth tonal transitions. In our tests, this model performed very well, offering smooth and natural transitions between shades. In everyday use, it is difficult to notice any imperfections that could affect viewing comfort. The only exception is the final scene in our testing procedure, where slight posterisation was noticeable in the reds on the left side of the picture. Although this is a minor shortcoming, for most users it will be almost imperceptible during normal use.

The issue of the fluidity of tonal transitions, or popular grading, is another area where the P7K / P79K evokes mixed feelings and surprises with its dual nature. If we were to evaluate solely its ability to render smooth colour gradients, we would undoubtedly give it a solid score of 8/10. Unfortunately, this positive image is marred by the use of very aggressive and unpleasant dithering. This artefact is particularly noticeable on demanding test patterns – such as the one depicting an actor submerged in red water – where rough, unnatural texture appears on uniform colour surfaces, betraying the digital nature of the image. This is all the more disappointing, as it is not a new issue. It seems to be a sort of inheritance from previous generations of budget TCL models, which is a pity, as it represents a flaw on what is fundamentally a quite competent image and is a mistake that could have been avoided.

Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

3.2/10

7/10

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

Smooth transition function

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

Image without overscan on the SD signal

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions
Review TCL P7K / P79K Image scaling and smoothness of tonal transitions

The tonal smoothing function operates in two modes – "off" and "auto". Turning it off causes gradation issues, while the "auto" mode ensures smooth transitions, but at the cost of grain and detail, which are often blurred. Due to these limitations, we do not recommend using this feature, as confirmed by our tests conducted with it turned off.

Scaling of lower resolution materials in this model is not impressive. Details are blurred, and the edges of objects may contain artifacts. This limitation makes the television perform better with higher resolution content.

After a series of harsh evaluations, fortunately, the time comes for praise, and this is due to the TCL AiPQ image processor for its work in the field of digital processing and content scaling. It should be noted right away that we are not talking about the level known from flagship designs; however, in the price segment represented by the P7K/P79K, the results achieved are more than solid. The feature for smoothing tonal transitions performs particularly well, effectively eliminating posterisation, which are the characteristic bands often visible in highly compressed materials, for example, from the ChooseTV service. The algorithm adeptly removes unwanted gradients, which ultimately looks really good. The television also handles upscaling competently, which is the task of elevating low-resolution materials to 4K standard. The resulting image, although it may initially seem a bit too sharp, fortunately, is not a problem. The software allows for free adjustment of this parameter using a sharpness slider, making it easy to customise the final appearance to personal preferences.

Blur and motion smoothness

4.9/10

4.8/10

Maximum refresh rate of the panel
60Hz
60Hz
Film motion smoothing option
OK
OK
Blur reduction option
No
No
BFI function 60Hz
Yes, 120Hz (double contours)
No
BFI function 120Hz
-
No
Brightness drop with BFI
47%
-%

Blur (native resolution, maximum refresh rate):

Although the Samsung DU7192 is the lowest model in the manufacturer's range, it is equipped with motion smoothing technology. While the functionality of this solution is significantly limited compared to more expensive models, its presence alone distinguishes the television amidst competitors in this price bracket. The TV supports a maximum refresh rate of 60 Hz, which is sufficient for comfortable viewing of films and series, but may be inadequate for dynamic content such as sports. In the motion smoothing menu, we can find, among other things, the "Judder Reduction" feature. Unfortunately, its performance leaves much to be desired – regardless of the setting, the picture exhibits the characteristic stutter known from materials recorded at 24 frames per second, making this feature practically ineffective.

The issue of fluidity and sharpness of the image in motion is inextricably linked to a fundamental parameter of the matrix, and in the case of the TCL P7K/P79K, we are dealing with a panel with a native refresh rate of 60 Hz. This specification defines its capabilities from the outset and makes it difficult to unequivocally recommend it to enthusiasts of dynamic sports broadcasts. During fast camera movements, the image loses sharpness, and the panel also shows a slight tendency to smearing, which may be noticeable to more sensitive viewers. Fortunately, not everything in this aspect has been left to chance. The manufacturer has implemented a simple motion smoothing system, which is primarily used in film material recorded at 24 or 30 frames per second. Thanks to a dedicated slider, users can decide for themselves the final character of the motion – from maintaining a fully cinematic, slightly juddery image to achieving a very smooth, almost theatrical effect. It is a simple but effective tool that allows users to tailor the viewing experience to their own preferences.

Console compatibility and gaming features

4.2/10

6.7/10

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

Samsung DU7192 is equipped with HDMI 2.0 ports, which is expected in this price range. This limitation means there is no support for the full capabilities of the latest generation consoles, such as VRR technologies. The television only offers a basic feature for gamers – automatic switching to low latency mode (ALLM), and support for basic HDR for games in the HGiG standard. HGiG allows for the display of HDR content in games according to manufacturers' guidelines; however, the limited brightness of the television does not allow for full enjoyment of the effects that this standard offers. Unfortunately, there is a lack of conveniences such as GameBar, which is increasingly found even in cheaper models and greatly facilitates quick adjustment of settings for games. The presence of this feature could significantly enhance user comfort, especially for those who frequently change display modes.

Although on paper the native 4K@60Hz panel might suggest that the TCL P7K/P79K is not a television tailored for gamers, the reality is surprisingly different. On the contrary, the manufacturer has ensured a rich package of features that make it a very friendly companion for next-generation consoles. Onboard, we find key technologies such as ALLM, which provides automatic switching to low latency mode, and VRR, or variable refresh rate, which eliminates screen tearing. The list is complemented by support for Dolby Vision Gaming and a simple yet functional Game Bar. However, the real and extremely pleasant surprise is something else. It turns out that the television easily supports a high refresh rate signal of 120 Hz but at lower resolutions – 1080p and 1440p. This is fantastic news for console owners, who know well how rarely games run in native 4K at a full 120 frames per second. The ability to choose between higher resolution and doubled smoothness is therefore an extremely sensible compromise.

In summary, although the P7K/P79K may not be the target screen for the most passionate tournament players, for the casual or occasional console user, it offers a package of options that is hard to find among many competitors at this price.

Input lag

10/10

9.9/10

SDR

1080p60
11 ms
15 ms
1080p120
10 ms
2160p60
11 ms
14 ms
2160p120

HDR

2160p60
11 ms
14 ms
2160p120
4320p60

Dolby Vision

2160p60 DV
14 ms
2160p120 DV

The results of the input lag measurements in DU7192 are at a high level, regardless of the signal or resolution. All players will certainly appreciate the manufacturer's efforts, which ensure that a game running in 4K 60 Hz with HDR will have only 11 ms of lag, which is practically unnoticeable even in online games.

Complementing this rich package for gamers is a parameter that has a direct impact on comfort and performance in gameplay – input lag. Already in native 60 Hz mode, the television boasts an excellent result of just 15 ms. However, the real magic happens when switching to 120 Hz mode, where the lag drops nearly by half, reaching values below 10 ms. Such responsiveness ensures that every command from the controller is translated to the screen in the blink of an eye, which will be appreciated not only by professionals but by anyone who values smooth and direct interaction with the game.

Compatibility with PC

6/10

2/10

Chroma 444 (maximum resolution and refresh rate)
Yes
No
Font clarity
Very Good
Average
Readability of dark text and shapes
Very Good
Poor
Input lag in PC mode (4K, maximum refresh rate)
11ms
16ms
Matrix subpixel arrangement
BGR
BGR
Max refresh rate
60Hz
60Hz
G-Sync
No
Yes
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Compatibility with PC
Review TCL P7K / P79K Compatibility with PC

When connecting the Samsung DU7192 television to a computer, we can expect a low input lag of around 11 ms, which is practically unnoticeable and ensures smoothness along the mouse-screen-eye line. Additionally, thanks to the correct implementation of 4:4:4 chroma, the readability of fonts is at a high level, making this model a good choice for working with text. The television uses a BGR subpixel layout, which does not negatively affect its performance as a monitor in practice. Although operating systems are not optimised for this subpixel format, which may lead to slightly less sharp contours, this is a practically unnoticeable flaw, detectable only by a few. When it comes to PC gaming, the lack of support for G-Sync or FreeSync and the limitation of the refresh rate to 60 Hz may disappoint gamers who prefer dynamic titles requiring quick reactions. For this reason, as a gaming monitor, the DU7192 performs averagely.

We finally come to an area that can undoubtedly be described as the biggest Achilles' heel of the TCL P7K/P79K – its compatibility with PC. It is paradoxical in that, on paper, everything looks promising. The presence of G-Sync and support for high refresh rates at lower resolutions might suggest that it would also be a great monitor. Unfortunately, practice brutally verifies these assumptions. The key issue is the lack of support for full 4:4:4 chroma sampling. In everyday use, this translates to terrible font rendering quality – these, especially the coloured ones, become jagged, surrounded by artefacts, and simply poorly legible. This is not the end of the story, as in PC mode, the problem of aggressive dithering also becomes evident, giving the entire image an artificial, overly digital appearance. The only consolation in this situation is the fact that in games we can take advantage of the additional hertz and G-Sync technology, but these are not advantages that could compensate for the fundamental deficiencies in displaying a static interface. The verdict is therefore clear: while as a screen solely for gaming on PC it might still hold its own, as a monitor for work or browsing the internet, the P7K/P79K simply performs poorly.

Viewing angles

3.8/10

3.2/10

Brightness drop at an angle of 45 degrees
66%
78%

The viewing angles on the Samsung DU7192 television are average, due to the use of a VA panel. Compared to the previously tested model with an IPS panel, the picture quality when viewing at an angle is noticeably worse. Although the VA panel provides better contrast, the downside is the limited viewing angles, causing colours to lose intensity and black levels to appear noticeably brighter when viewed from the side. Therefore, this model is best suited for setups where viewers can sit directly in front of the television.

When it comes to viewing angles, we enter the territory where VA panel technology dictates unavoidable conditions. As expected, this is the weak point of this model. It is enough to move away from the screen axis to observe a gradual degradation of the image: colours begin to fade, contrast noticeably drops, and black loses its depth. In direct comparison with IPS panels, which are renowned for their generosity in this aspect, the VA panel must concede superiority to its competitor. Is there any upside to this? Paradoxically, yes. Poor viewing angles are, after all, the price we consciously pay for the fundamental advantage of this technology – a significantly higher native contrast and deeper blacks when viewed head-on. Thus, it can be said that this is a television that favours viewers sitting in the 'ideal' spot, offering them a maximally vibrant image at the cost of versatility.

Daytime performance

3.2/10

4.6/10

Panel finish
Satin
Satin
Reflection suppression
Average
Decent
Black levels during daytime
Average
Good
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Daytime performance
Review TCL P7K / P79K Daytime performance
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) Daytime performance
Review TCL P7K / P79K Daytime performance

Panel brightness

Average luminance SDR

TCL P7K / P79K: 299 cd/m2

Samsung DU7192 (VA): 227 cd/m2

The screen of the Samsung DU7192 television, finished in satin, provides only average reflection handling. Unfortunately, in practice, it does not perform very well in neutralising reflections, especially when direct light hits the screen. Additionally, the maximum brightness of the screen in SDR materials, at only 227 nits, does not help improve visibility in well-lit rooms. As a result, the television is better suited for darker environments, as its performance is significantly limited during the day.

The final practical test for any television is its daily performance in daytime conditions when it has to compete with ambient light. In this competition, the TCL P7K / P79K starts with a certain advantage in the form of a satin finish on the screen. Its structure handles direct reflections quite decently, diffusing them and protecting the image from excessive fading of colours or lightening of blacks. However, the passive struggle against reflections is one side of the coin. The other is the active ability to 'break through' bright surroundings, and here one of the model's key limitations comes to light. The previously mentioned peak brightness of around 300 nits is simply too low to ensure a fully comfortable and dynamic viewing experience in a brightly lit living room. In such conditions, the image may lack punch, and scenes with lower brightness can lose their clarity.

Panel details

Backlight Type
White LED
PFS LED
Software version during testing
T-KSU2EDDEUC-1043.3
V8-0008T01-LF1V441
Image processor
RTD6748 2GB RAM

Subpixel Structure:

Panel uniformity and thermal imaging:

Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) TV Panel details
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV Panel details

TV features

5.2/10

7/10

  • HDMI inputs
    3 x HDMI 2.0, 0 x HDMI 2.1
    0 x HDMI 2.0, 3 x HDMI 2.1 48Gbps
  • Other inputs
    Toslink (Optical audio)
  • Outputs
    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
  • 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)
    No
    No
  • RF remote control (no need to aim at the screen)
    No
    Yes
  • Backlit remote control
    No
    No
  • Teletext
    Yes
    Yes
  • Audio only mode
    Yes
    Yes
  • Bluetooth headphones support
    Yes
    Yes
  • Simultaneous Bluetooth headphones & TV audio
    Yes
    Yes

Smart features:

  • AirPlay
    Yes
    Yes
  • Screen mirroring (Windows Miracast)
    Yes
    Yes
  • Voice search
    No
    Yes
  • Voice search in native language
    No
    Yes
  • Ability to connect a keyboard and mouse
    Yes
    Yes
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) TV features
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) TV features
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) TV features
Review Samsung DU7192 (VA) TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features
Review TCL P7K / P79K TV features

Samsung DU7192 uses the Tizen system, which has long been the foundation of the software in this manufacturer's televisions. One of the greatest advantages of this system is its smooth operation – in our tests, we did not notice any lags or other responsiveness issues. The interface is clear, and navigating through the menu is intuitive, especially with the help of the included Bluetooth remote control, which allows for quick and convenient operation.

The app store offers a wide selection of items, but the limitations stemming from the closed nature of the system may disappoint more advanced users. For example, there is no option to install applications from outside the official store, which may be felt when certain services, such as Tidal, are not supported.

However, the Tizen system stands out with excellent integration with external devices such as decoders and soundbars. The process of connecting them is quick and hassle-free. An additional advantage is the support for AirPlay, which will particularly please users of Apple devices, enabling easy streaming of images to the television screen.

Smart Features – the Power of Google TV

The heart and operating brain of the TCL P7K / P79K is the Google TV system, which is a significant advantage in itself. This platform opens access to an almost limitless library of applications from the Play Store, ensuring that we won't miss any key streaming service. Integration with other devices is exemplary – Apple users will appreciate the seamless collaboration thanks to AirPlay, and Windows and Android users can easily utilise screen mirroring features. One should also highlight Google Assistant, which performs exceptionally well with voice search in Polish, remaining one of the most effective and convenient solutions of its kind on the market. The system’s performance on the tested model can be described as "above average." The interface is mostly smooth, but during tests, there were occasional slowdowns and even sporadic "freezes" that required a moment of patience. Minor glitches can also be seen in the translation of some system messages, which can be clumsy – however, these are minor oversights on TCL's part that do not affect overall functionality.

Classic Features

In the era of smart systems, traditional television functions often take a back seat, and this is also the case here. A significant advantage is the inclusion of a classic remote control with a numeric keypad, which does not require precise aiming at the screen for communication, significantly enhancing user comfort. The presence of Bluetooth technology for connecting external devices, such as headphones or speakers, should also be regarded positively. However, this is essentially where the list of conveniences ends. It is evident that TCL has almost put everything on the Google TV card, treating classic functions as an absolute minimum. Therefore, we will not find options to record programmes from built-in tuners to a USB drive or the once-popular PiP (Picture-in-Picture) feature. This is, therefore, a basic package that simply works but does not offer anything beyond what is essential.

Playing files from USB

9.1/10

7.2/10

Supported photo formats:

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

Maximum photo resolution:

4 Mpix
Yes
Yes
6 Mpix
Yes
Yes
8 Mpix
Yes
Yes
10 Mpix
Yes
No
12 Mpix
Yes
No
16 Mpix
Yes
Yes
20 Mpix
Yes
No
24 Mpix
Yes
No
28 Mpix
Yes
No
32 Mpix
Yes
Yes

The built-in media player in the Samsung DU7192 television is certainly an asset of this model. In our tests, the device handled nearly all video and audio files with ease, except for Dolby Vision formats and less popular codecs – which is understandable in this price range. The ability to support Polish characters in subtitles and the option to change font colours also deserves attention, as it improves the viewing comfort for films with external subtitles. Unfortunately, in the case of photos, the player performs worse, supporting only the popular JPEG format.

The built-in media player in the P7k/P79k model is quite a puzzling case, placing us in a rather unusual situation. On one hand, its engine manages to decode most popular video formats, which is obviously good news. On the other hand, we encountered a surprising and frustrating flaw – the default app has a fundamental issue with correctly displaying Polish diacritical characters in subtitle files. Instead of letters like "ą," "ę," or "ż," empty squares or random, unreadable symbols appeared on the screen. Fortunately, thanks to the flexibility of the Google TV system, this issue can be easily circumvented. Installing an alternative, advanced player, such as the tried and tested VLC or KODI, fully resolves this inconvenience. The situation is particularly odd since we didn't encounter such a flaw in other TCL models we tested previously. We are therefore dealing with an obvious software oversight, which we hope will be fixed in a future update.

Apps

8.7/10

9.6/10

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
OK
Tidal
OK
Netflix
OK
YouTube
OK
HBO_MAX
OK
Kodi
No
Apple_music
OK
Eleven_sports
No
Xbox Game Pass
OK
GeForce Now!
No
Amazon Luna
OK
Boosteroid
OK
Steam Link

Sound

5.4/10

6.2/10

  • Maximum volume
    83dB
    -
  • 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
    Yes
  • DTS-HD Master Audio
    No
    Yes

The built-in converters offer basic quality, which at higher volume levels can lead to distortion. For this reason, we recommend using half of the volume scale to avoid distortion.

On the plus side, the support for a wide range of audio codecs, including DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby Digital Plus, should be noted. These standards allow for the transmission of high-quality surround sound to external devices, such as soundbars or home cinema systems. As a result, despite the limitations of the built-in sound system, users can enjoy significantly better audio experiences using additional equipment.

In terms of the built-in audio system, the TCL P7k/P79k presents a level that can be described as functional and correct, but lacking audiophile ambitions. The speakers play quite loudly, and the dialogues in films and television programmes are delivered clearly and without distortion, which is crucial in everyday use. However, the soundstage definitely lacks a foundation in the form of low tones. This is a direct consequence of the absence of a dedicated subwoofer – an element that in the higher P8K series, represented by a large Onkyo subwoofer at the back of the cabinet, constituted the strength of its sound. Here, that element is simply missing, which makes the sound seem flatter and devoid of the depth that creates a cinematic atmosphere. We also noticed a peculiar aspect in the software – when attempting to set the maximum volume, the television automatically reduces it. It is difficult to determine definitively whether this is a form of protection against distortion or a minor software glitch; nonetheless, it’s a shame because the power reserves seem to be slightly greater.