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

Direct compare

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Samsung QD-OLED S90D / S94D
$1 397

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Sony Bravia 8 (XR80)
$1 398

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.

  • One of the best viewing angles on the market

  • High coverage of a wide color gamut

  • Above-average sound quality

  • Excellent contrast

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

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

  • Great Dolby Vision support

  • Very good viewing angles

  • Superb built-in audio system

Disadvantages

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

  • Black level issues during the day

  • Poor gradation – visible connections on dark and light colors

  • Brightness during the day – better for night sessions than for use in daylight

  • Only 2 HDMI 2.1 ports - one of which is ARC.

Our verdict

The Samsung S90D TV is a model full of pleasant surprises, offering excellent picture quality and modern technologies. It is worth noting that depending on the size, the TV may differ in the type of OLED panel used. The tested model, equipped with a QD-OLED panel, delivers flawless black levels and intense, vivid colours. Thanks to its exceptional brightness, HDR effects make a huge impression, and watching dynamic scenes full of detail can completely capture the viewer's attention. This is the ideal TV for those who want to enjoy cinema at the highest level in their own home. Although the factory colour settings may require adjustments, after proper calibration the Samsung S90D reveals its full potential, competing with the best in its price category. This version stands out with the best viewing angles, allowing for a vibrant and colourful picture from any spot in the room. As a result, even when watching from the side, we do not lose quality, and every detail remains equally impressive. As for the operating system, Tizen makes everyday use of the TV, including handling applications and streaming services, enjoyable and hassle-free. Additionally, the support for AirPlay and access to the rich SmartThings ecosystem elevate the multimedia capabilities of the TV to a very high level.

The Samsung S90D also excels in motion fluidity, thanks to the 120Hz panel, which handles fast scenes flawlessly, eliminating blurring. Watching sports or dynamic films on this TV is pure pleasure. For gamers, the TV offers full support for HDMI 2.1 and low input lag, making it a great choice for console gaming, providing smooth and responsive experiences. Although the Samsung S90D has many advantages, it is worth mentioning a few drawbacks. In bright rooms, the black levels on the QD-OLED panel do not look as perfect as in dark conditions – they lose depth, which may be noticeable when watching during the day. Additionally, the readability of fonts could be better – some text displayed on the screen is less sharp compared to competing models. Nonetheless, the 65" Samsung S90D is a TV that combines excellent picture quality, motion fluidity, and innovation. It is one of the best options in the premium segment, meeting the expectations of both cinema lovers and gamers.

The Bravia 8 is Sony’s flagship OLED model for 2024, aimed at attracting image quality enthusiasts. This television delivers outstanding picture quality with OLED’s hallmark deep blacks, vivid, precise colours, and infinite contrast, creating a highly realistic viewing experience. Dark scenes are presented with perfect black levels, while brighter elements are rendered with impressive detail, giving each frame a distinctive cinematic feel. With a 120 Hz refresh rate, the Bravia 8 ensures excellent motion fluidity, making it ideal for sports, gaming, and fast-paced movie scenes. Its ability to provide a ghost-free image allows viewers to appreciate fine details even during rapid action sequences, a feature that will particularly appeal to fans of dynamic content. Running on the Google TV platform, the Bravia 8 offers an intuitive, fast, and user-friendly interface. This system provides seamless access to popular applications and favourite content. The clear and responsive interface enhances the viewing experience, making navigation smooth and straightforward. The practical, backlit remote control adds further convenience and can be charged via USB-C, distinguishing it from traditional battery-powered remotes. This thoughtful design ensures easy use, even in low-light conditions. However, despite its strengths, the Bravia 8 does have some limitations. With an SDR brightness level of 330 nits, it may not perform optimally in very bright rooms, potentially leading to reflections or a less vivid display in strong ambient light. Users who valued the superior gradation in earlier Sony models may find this a minor drawback. Additionally, the television features only two HDMI 2.1 ports, which could be limiting for gamers who use multiple consoles or other high-bandwidth devices. Overall, the Sony Bravia 8 is a premium OLED television that excels in most areas. Its superb picture quality, advanced gaming features, and solid sound performance make it an excellent choice for a reliable OLED model in 2024. While there are some areas for improvement, particularly in SDR brightness and connectivity, the Bravia 8’s overall performance and features make it a compelling option for both everyday use and immersive viewing experiences.

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:

The 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 grayish, the turned-off pixels in QD-OLED remain completely black. This allows the television to offer a dynamic, realistic image with exceptionally deep contrast. For example, in scenes from "Oblivion," the Samsung S90D beautifully captures the intensity of the lantern lights, highlighting details in the bright parts of the image, and in "The Revenant," it perfectly portrays the figure against a deep black forest scene, which underscores the impressive contrast reproduction. It is worth noting that in the Samsung S90D model, only this specific size is equipped with a QD-OLED panel produced by Samsung Display, distinguishing it from other versions. Nevertheless, regardless of the type of panel used, the black in this television will always be perfectly black thanks to OLED technology, which turns off pixels to achieve absolute black. This means that in categories such as black and contrast, the S90D offers excellent picture quality regardless of the type of panel.

The Sony Bravia 8 television, equipped with an OLED matrix, delivers exceptional picture quality with outstanding black levels and contrast. Thanks to OLED technology, each pixel emits its own light, ensuring deep blacks and precise light reproduction. During testing with scenes from films like Oblivion and The Revenant, the Bravia 8 showcased impeccable separation between light and dark elements, producing detailed and lifelike images, even in challenging high-contrast scenarios. This performance places the Bravia 8 among the top models in its class.

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 category, the Samsung S90D delivers remarkable performance. On the luminance graph for up to 10% of the window, the television surpasses the 1000 nits mark, which is a notable achievement. However, in the film scenes we tested, these values were slightly lower. In scenes with fullscreen sun glare the brightness drops to about 500 nits, but this is still considered a very good result. It is also worth noting that this model stands out due to its very high colour gamut coverage, thanks to the QD-OLED panel, giving it an edge over televisions with WOLED panels, which cannot achieve such a wide spectrum of colours.

The Sony Bravia 8 performs commendably in terms of HDR brightness, reaching a peak of 880 nits. This level is sufficient to render lighting effects effectively in most scenes. In tested clips from Life of Pi and Sicario 2, the television demonstrated vibrant, detailed imagery that captured the atmosphere of these films beautifully.

However, challenges arise in scenes with consistently high brightness, such as in The Meg, where the display's limitations become apparent. In these situations, OLED technology can struggle, with brightness levels dropping to around 450 nits, which can be less satisfying when intense illumination is needed throughout a scene. Despite this, the Sony Bravia 8 remains a strong contender, offering excellent DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage and 74% BT.2020 coverage. These attributes result in rich, accurate colours and fine details, enhancing HDR content and providing an enjoyable viewing experience.

Factory color reproduction

7.1/10

7.2/10

Factory Mode

After calibration

Factory Mode

After calibration

The Samsung 65" S90D with a QD-OLED panel has been tested in Filmmaker Mode, which the manufacturer has used for years to deliver optimal picture settings. In this mode, the TV offers a very good image, but there are some shortcomings worth noting.

In terms of white balance, viewers may notice a red dominance in HD content, which can make skin tones appear unnatural and create a warm overall scene, potentially affecting immersion. This issue becomes more apparent in scenes where subtle colour differences are important. The same effect can be observed in 4K HDR content, though the red shift is less pronounced. This shift can prevent certain details and colours from being fully realised, diminishing the naturalness of the image.

As for contrast, the gamma performance is decent but still has some issues. The gamma values fall short of the reference level of 2.4, resulting in bright areas of the image appearing washed out and dark areas lacking detail. This limitation can make certain scenes feel less dynamic and impact the depth and richness of the picture. However, the EOTF curve for contrast in 4K HDR content performs well, showing the TV's ability to handle differences in brightness. That said, these values still fall slightly below the ideal range, indicating room for further optimisation.

Overall, the Samsung S90D in Filmmaker Mode offers solid colour reproduction, but some adjustments are needed to fully unlock its potential, particularly with different types of content.

The best factory mode on the Sony Bravia 8 television is IMAX Enhanced, offering the most cinematic experience, though it isn't perfectly calibrated. The TV attempts to replicate cinematic settings as accurately as possible, but some issues are evident. Starting with white balance, both for SDR and 4K content, there is a noticeable blue dominance, making the image appear too cold and lacking in natural warmth. Colour Checker tests reveal a shift towards cooler tones, affecting colour accuracy and making the image feel less lifelike.

Regarding brightness and contrast, the gamma shows a significant drop towards the end of the spectrum, meaning dark details may become too shadowed, and bright areas too intense, causing a loss of subtlety and detail. This is particularly noticeable in the sky, as seen in the comparison image. Additionally, the EOTF curve is considerably above the reference value, making bright elements overly intense. As a result, users may experience an unnatural image, with bright parts losing detail and negatively impacting the overall viewing quality.

Color reproduction after calibration

8.9/10

8.2/10

The quality improves more than anticipated after calibrating the S90D television in movie mode. The white balance for HD and 4K HDR content has been fine-tuned to near perfection. While minor imperfections are still noticeable, they are subtle enough not to significantly impact the overall picture quality. Colours have become more cohesive, promoting a natural reproduction of details, particularly in scenes where precise colour representation is essential. It’s important to note that this particular model, in this size, uses a QD-OLED panel, which offers a broader colour gamut compared to other versions of this model equipped with a WOLED panel.

The contrast has also seen a marked improvement. After calibration, the gamma chart is much closer to the expected curve, resulting in a better balance between the bright and dark areas of the image. The EOTF curve, which previously indicated issues with overexposed scenes, now shows significantly better results. This improvement allows for greater preservation of details in the brighter parts of the image, particularly in HDR content.

The calibration process of the Sony Bravia 8 television resulted in significant improvements in image quality. The white balance was notably enhanced for both SDR and 4K HDR content, with minimal errors in the middle section of the graph. Gamma calibration was one of the biggest improvements, eliminating previous dips that had impacted brightness stability and the reproduction of detail in dark areas. The EOTF curve was also corrected, making bright elements appear more natural and improving the overall tonal balance.

However, the most attention should be given to colour reproduction, where some issues persist despite calibration. Sony has omitted the CMS system in this model, which would allow for more precise colour control. As a result, the Colour Checker test for 4K content still reveals significant colour inaccuracies. Despite these limitations, calibration is still recommended, as the improvements in brightness and contrast are noticeable and greatly enhance the overall image quality.

Smoothness of tonal transitions

8.6/10

5/10

In the category of tonal transition fluidity, the S90D delivers significantly better results than its WOLED counterpart. Thanks to the QD-OLED panel, this model offers more consistent and natural transitions between colours. While some minor imperfections were observed during testing, they are subtle enough not to disrupt the viewing experience. When watching various video materials, the tonal transitions are smooth and harmonious, allowing viewers to enjoy the depth and details of the image without distracting interruptions. In scenes where colour changes are especially important, such as in landscapes or dynamic sequences, the S90D excels, accurately capturing subtle shade variations with impressive precision.

In 4K materials, the gradation is notably poor and disappointing. Visible seams are apparent in dark and light colours, detracting from the image quality and diminishing the overall viewing experience of high-resolution content. This is a notable weakness, as Sony's processors have typically excelled in this area, but it appears to be a failure 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 excels at smoothing tonal transitions, allowing colours to blend seamlessly, resulting in a natural and fluid image. The built-in noise reduction feature can further enhance these transitions, useful in certain situations. However, it is important to note that activating this option may overly smooth out the desired film grain structure, potentially compromising the authenticity and atmosphere of the image. Therefore, caution is advised when using this feature, to maintain the character and depth of the content.

The S90D model handles lower-resolution materials effectively, as demonstrated in the displayed image. The model's silhouette remains sharp and naturally reproduced, with fine details preserved. Additionally, the branches of the trees are well-defined, free from any visible jagged edges that might otherwise degrade the image quality. Thanks to efficient scaling, even lower-resolution content appears attractive on the screen, which is sure to please users who rely on a variety of content sources, such as standard cable or antenna television.

The fluidity of tonal transitions in lower-quality materials on the Bravia 8 is lacking. Unfortunately, the gentle gradation function, which was available in previous models, is missing, which is a significant drawback. The digital noise reduction feature can improve tonal transitions, but it often removes fine details, such as clouds in scenes from The Martian, which may not be to everyone's taste. On the other hand, the digital processing in the Sony XR80 is quite effective. In test scenes, it performed well without noticeable flaws, and the branches in the background remained smooth without jagged edges. This indicates that the Bravia 8 is capable of handling complex low-resolution image details with relative ease.

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

The S90D TV, featuring a 120 Hz refresh rate matrix and up to 144 Hz in the appropriate PC configuration, delivers excellent motion fluidity. Samsung highlights a range of sharpness settings on a ten-point scale, allowing users to fine-tune the display to their preferences. In UFO tests, the OLED matrix showcases its strengths by eliminating any blurring. The ultra-fast pixel response ensures dynamic movements are faithfully reproduced.

Similar results can be seen in other sizes of this model with a WOLED matrix, which also offer outstanding image fluidity. Organic technology, in this case, is considered among the best on the market. The S90D image, regardless of the matrix type, is exceptionally sharp and detailed, making this television perfect for dynamic scenes, whether for gaming or sports broadcasts. Additionally, its refresh rate and sharpness capabilities guarantee that every movement is smooth and natural, satisfying even the most discerning users.

The Sony Bravia 8 offers a maximum refresh rate of 120 Hz, ensuring smooth viewing of dynamic content such as sports and games, with sharp and fluid motion. For more demanding users, the Sony XR80 features an advanced motion smoothing system, divided into three settings: Smoothness (Film), Smoothness (Camera), and Clarity. The first two settings adjust the level of blur and smoothness, while the Clarity setting will be discussed in more detail below. Each of these parameters can be customised to suit individual preferences, allowing users to fine-tune the settings for the optimal viewing experience.

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

The S90D television is an excellent solution for gamers, offering a range of advanced features that elevate gaming quality to a new level. Equipped with 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) as well as G-Sync and FreeSync image synchronisation. This enables a perfect connection with 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 vast library of games directly from the television. This solution makes gaming even more convenient and accessible. The Game Bar feature provides quick access to essential information, such as current settings, performance statistics, and the ability to adjust image options. This allows for on-the-fly display parameter modification, which is extremely useful during intense gameplay. Despite lacking support for Dolby Vision, the S90D still offers excellent HDR image quality, allowing for full utilization of the potential of games and movies. As a result, the S90D represents a unique combination of modern technologies, outstanding image quality, and intuitive features, perfect for any gaming enthusiast.

The Sony Bravia 8 has greatly improved its compatibility with consoles compared to earlier models. It supports variable refresh rate (VRR), which eliminates screen tearing and can sync with graphics cards for smooth visuals. The Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) reduces input lag, a crucial feature for fast-paced games. Additionally, Dolby Vision with low latency enhances HDR effects, offering stunning visuals during gameplay.

The Sony XR80 also includes a Game Bar, which provides quick access to settings and monitoring tools during gaming. A notable feature is the option to enable a virtual crosshair on the screen, giving players a potential advantage in shooter games.

However, there are some drawbacks. The TV lacks support for 1440p@120Hz resolution, which would benefit users with less powerful graphics cards. Furthermore, the Sony XR80 has only two HDMI 2.1 ports, one of which is typically used for connecting an audio system via eARC, limiting the number of available ports for 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 resolution or refresh rate, both in SDR and HDR modes, results around 10 ms are truly impressive. Such a low input lag ensures immediate response to actions on the screen, which is crucial in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. Users can enjoy smoothness and precision, making the S90D TV with QD OLED panel a great choice for those prioritizing gaming performance.

The low input lag on the Sony Bravia 8 is certainly a standout feature, with a remarkable 13 ms providing exceptional responsiveness. The Dolby Vision mode also deserves praise, as it performs exceptionally well on this model. Unlike many other manufacturers, where Dolby Vision often underperforms, it delivers its full potential here, enhancing the gaming experience.

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 S90D television works great as a monitor for PC computers. Fonts appear clearly, 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 color reproduction and excellent image sharpness. Moreover, the impressive input lag of just 5 ms is a significant advantage, especially for gamers and professionals engaged in graphics. However, it should be noted that points were deducted in this category compared to the version with a WOLED panel due to a different, diamond-shaped sub-pixel arrangement, which can lead to the visibility of individual sub-pixels when displaying fonts on a dark background. This issue only affects the 65-inch version, so users who plan to use the television on a desk will not encounter these difficulties in the smaller variants.

The Sony Bravia 8 works very well with computers, much like most WOLED matrix televisions. Font readability is excellent, making it comfortable to work with documents or browse websites. The impressive 5 ms input lag ensures excellent responsiveness during gameplay. The only downside is that fonts on a dark background appear slightly dimmed.

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 television stands out as one of the best models on the market. While traditional OLED televisions already offer strong performance, a QD-OLED panel in the S90D takes image quality to an even higher level. With Quantum Dot technology and self-emissive pixels, users can enjoy exceptional colour reproduction and detail, even when viewing the television from a wide angle. This ensures that the picture remains vivid and accurate, making it ideal for group viewing or any situation where the seating isn't directly in front of the screen.

The viewing angles on the Sony Bravia 8 are excellent, as expected from an OLED TV. The image retains its colours and contrasts even when viewed from wide angles. The only models that outperform it in this area are those equipped with MLA (Meta-Lens Array) technology and QD-OLED, which provide even wider viewing angles and superior 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

For TV performance during the day, the S90D model ranks the lowest among the tested variants. While the glossy screen and good reflection handling suggest some efficiency in bright conditions, the quality of black levels during sunny days is the biggest issue. This is due to the close placement of quantum dots to the outer layer of the screen. Under external light, these dots can become activated, leading to a more cherry-like black on the screen. This effect causes the image to lose depth and intensity, particularly in darker scenes. As a result, users who plan to use the TV in bright rooms or areas with high sunlight may encounter challenges in achieving satisfactory image quality. However, when watching films with a lot of black content in the evenings, when sunlight is less intense, the S90D performs significantly better, offering a more enjoyable visual experience. During the day, for regular television viewing, the TV still performs reasonably well, meaning it is not a complete dealbreaker for this model.

The glossy matrix on the Sony Bravia 8 effectively reduces reflections, although they take on a slightly bluish hue. However, the brightness level of 330 nits is not particularly impressive, making this TV better suited for evening viewing. During the day, to ensure optimal image quality, it's advisable to close the windows to minimise 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 home entertainment. The Tizen operating system provides a modern and intuitive platform, ensuring users enjoy a smooth and efficient experience. The user-friendly interface makes navigation through apps and settings quick and easy, even for those less familiar with technology. Tizen supports a wide range of applications, including all major streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. A notable addition for 2024 is the availability of voice search in Polish, enhancing accessibility.

Additionally, the S90D features an eco-friendly solar remote that reduces environmental impact and serves as a practical tool for everyday use. It can control multiple devices connected to the TV, eliminating the need for separate remotes. The TV also supports AirPlay, allowing seamless streaming from Apple devices like iPhones and iPads. Bluetooth connectivity is another strength, with support for various devices such as mice, keyboards, and headphones, enhancing the TV's versatility and personalising the user experience.

The SmartThings app further enhances the TV’s functionality by enabling integration with other smart home devices. This allows users to control aspects like lighting and security remotely. Additionally, the Philips Hue app enables lighting synchronization with the TV's visuals, providing a more immersive viewing experience.

The only drawback is the lack of USB recording support, which may be a limitation for some users. Despite this, the Samsung S90D offers many advanced features, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking high-quality entertainment and wishing to integrate their home devices into a convenient, unified system.

The Sony Bravia 8 runs on the Google TV system, offering an intuitive and user-friendly interface with access to an extensive range of applications. The interface is well-designed, with easy access to apps and features. The remote, similar to those from Korean competitors, can be charged via a USB-C port and is backlit, making it much easier to use in low-light conditions.

The TV provides a broad range of features that will satisfy most users. The Sony XR80 allows for program recording and easy connection to external devices via Bluetooth. However, it lacks the Picture-in-Picture (PiP) feature, which would enable simultaneous viewing of two image sources—a feature that could be useful in certain situations.

The design of the television is impressive, featuring a sturdy metal frame that adds an elegant touch. It stands on two adjustable feet, allowing for customisation of both width and height, making it easy to place a soundbar beneath the screen. While the Sony Bravia 8 is not the thinnest OLED on the market, its high-quality materials and meticulous finish ensure it presents well.

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

The Samsung S90D offers a solid set of features for media playback, including a built-in player that supports a wide range of popular video formats. This makes it convenient for users to enjoy movies from various sources without external devices. The TV also provides customisation options for the subtitle font colour, enhancing readability and viewer comfort.

In terms of photo formats, the S90D handles most common formats well. However, it does have a limitation in that it cannot play the popular PNG format, which might be disappointing for users who work with images in that format. Despite this minor drawback, the overall media playback capabilities of the S90D remain excellent, ensuring a high-quality experience for most users.

The Sony Bravia 8 will satisfy most users for multimedia playback. The built-in player supports the most popular video and audio formats, ensuring seamless access to a wide variety of content. While there are some limitations with photo playback, the Google TV system allows users to install alternative players that should address these issues.

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 is equipped with an advanced 2.1 audio system, delivering a total power output of 40W, ensuring clear and dynamic sound. The built-in subwoofer, positioned at the bottom of the cabinet, enhances the bass, providing deep and powerful low-end frequencies that enrich the audio experience. This makes the sound more immersive when watching movies, listening to music, or playing games. The mid and high tones are well-balanced, ensuring that all aspects of the audio spectrum are well-represented.

Although the TV lacks DTS support, it compensates with other advanced audio technologies such as Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus, offering a spatial and immersive sound experience. Additionally, Samsung's Q-Symphony feature enables seamless synchronisation between the TV's speakers and a Samsung soundbar, creating an even more enhanced and cohesive audio environment.

The Bravia 8 has a 50W sound system in a 2.2.1 configuration, featuring speakers mounted behind the screen under the Acoustic Surface Audio system. The sound is pleasant and well-balanced, perfectly complementing the image. In terms of audio format support, the Sony Bravia 8 performs excellently, playing all popular codecs without issues and delivering a rich, immersive audio experience.