Samsung’s new S95D TV offers a feature-rich experience with exceptional brightness, making it ideal for gaming and delivering top-notch OLED image quality. However, a new feature could be a deal breaker for some.
Design
![Samsung S95D Review: Design and Build](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-Design-and-Build.jpg)
The Samsung S95D TV, in my setup with the 65-inch version (also available in 55 and 75-inch sizes), fits perfectly. I opted for the included stand over flush-mounting it to the wall, though assembling the stand was surprisingly heavy and the TV remains somewhat wobbly. While this isn’t a major issue, it’s worth noting.
The S95D TV features nearly edge-to-edge bezels, contributing to its premium build quality. Additionally, the entire TV is housed within the One Connect box, maintaining a super thin profile. The box can be placed elsewhere or mounted on the back of the stand for flexibility.
UI, Apps and Burn-in
![Samsung S95D Review - TizenOS](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-UI-TyzenOS.jpg)
The box includes two One Connect cables: a short one for rear mounting and a longer one for other setups. Driving this setup is Samsung’s TizenOS, surprisingly good for an out-of-the-box solution. While I’ll still use my PlayStation 5 or Apple TV, Tizen OS is super snappy and covers most needs.
Like other TVs, the homepage suggests plenty of content with tiles for popular apps like Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV, and Prime. There’s also a gaming section for cloud gaming, great for casual gamers or those testing the waters.
Another feature I really like is ambient mode, turning this into a large Samsung Frame TV with its matte finish. Being an OLED display, concerns about burning are addressed with built-in prevention like pixel shift and scrubbing, usable when the TV is off.
Gaming
![Samsung S95D Review: Gaming](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-Gaming.jpg)
As a longtime PC gamer, relaxing on my couch after a long day is one of my favorite experiences. Unlike the intensity of a mouse and keyboard, there’s something about a couch and a controller that truly relaxes me.
Playing games on the Samsung S95D TV has been phenomenal. With HDMI 2.1 ports, next-gen consoles now support variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALM). This means smoother gameplay with frame rates ranging from 48 to 120 Hz, perfect for dominating in games like Call of Duty. ALM ensures near-instant in-game responsiveness, crucial for FPS gaming. Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, powered by AMD chipsets, benefit from AMD FreeSync Pro support on this TV, eliminating graphical tearing and frame issues.
At 4K 120 Hz, my PlayStation 5 looks incredible on this TV, even without reaching its full 4K 144 Hz potential. Opting for enhanced HDR profiles enhances the visual experience out of the box. For FPS games, using an aiming crosshair and adjusting black levels can significantly improve gameplay, especially for those like myself who struggle with accuracy. The gaming menus display helpful information like current frame rates, adding to the immersive experience.
From an image quality perspective, the S95D’s OLED display is truly impressive. With HDR capabilities and a peak brightness exceeding 1,700 nits, it’s the brightest display I’ve ever used. OLED’s ability to turn off individual pixels delivers deep blacks and vibrant colors, making games like Ghost of Tsushima visually stunning. Whether true 4K or upscaled, games look consistently awesome on this display.
For FPS favorites like Overwatch and Call of Duty, VRR and ALM optimize gameplay experience, but every game benefits from the exceptional 4K and HDR performance of the S95D. Overall, it’s hard to find anything to complain about with such a badass gaming setup.
Matte Coating
![Samsung S95D Review: Matte Coating](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-Matte-Coating.jpg)
Samsung’s new matte coating on this year’s OLED TV stands out immediately. For OLED enthusiasts, matte versus glossy finishes can be a contentious topic. While preference plays a role, the matte finish here is exceptionally well-executed, especially in terms of anti-reflective properties.
In my bright living space with large windows and patio doors, ambient light can be a challenge during the day. However, this matte coating noticeably enhances my viewing experience. Despite the glare, the TV maintains an impressive image quality throughout.
Looking ahead, I hope to see Samsung implement similar technology, like the S95D, in gaming monitors and future models. The TV also excels in viewing angles, offering solid performance across different seating positions.
For those in light-controlled environments, a glossy finish might still be preferable if available. Nonetheless, the matte finish on this TV holds up admirably under various conditions.
Picture Quality
![Samsung S95D Review: Picture Quality](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-Picture-Quality.jpg)
From a media perspective, I don’t see any compromises except for the lack of Dolby Vision support, which many people prefer. The TV still supports HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG media formats. There are also various profile presets for different viewing preferences.
Watching animated movies really highlights the display’s HDR capabilities, which are impressive and easy to appreciate. Compared to Samsung’s S95D display and OLED panels, it provides an excellent media experience. Personally, as I study cinematography to enhance my YouTube videos, I’ve explored a wide range of content—from Hollywood movies to indie films, other YouTubers’ videos, and both new and classic anime.
While other TVs may offer similar experiences, this has been the best one I’ve tried so far.
One Connect Box Ports
![Samsung S95D Review: One connect box ports](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-One-connect-box-ports.jpg)
The Samsung S95D features a separate box from the display, known as the One Connect Box. This box serves as the central hub for the entire setup, handling all ports and connections. It includes four HDMI 2.1 ports, with one designated as the One Connect Port linking directly to the TV. There’s also a port for an antenna, an optical port for sound systems, an Ethernet port for internet connectivity, and two USB-A ports along with one Type-C port.
Personally, I use it with my Apple TV 4K and PlayStation 5.
Speakers
![Samsung S95D Review: Speakers setups](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-Speakers-setups.jpg)
The speakers on S95D OLED are excellent. They sound full and get plenty loud without needing to go beyond 30% volume yet. It’s a 70W setup, and while I’m considering a soundbar, the built-in speakers suffice for now.
There are sound settings available, including AI features and custom EQ options, which is always useful. Samsung’s S95D supports Dolby Atmos, and you can use the 70W setup as a center speaker in a surround sound system.
During gaming, the sound is loud and full, enhancing the experience. Playing music from Apple Music or Spotify in the living room is enjoyable too. Overall, I’m impressed with the sound quality, which even a YouTube video can’t fully capture.
Remote
![Samsung S95D Review: remote](https://www.clearcrypt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Samsung-S95D-Review-remote.jpg)
In the box, alongside the stand, TV, and cables, you’ll find the remote. It’s compact and minimalist, which I prefer, and includes all the essential shortcuts like Disney and Netflix. However, it lacks an input switch button, which is a drawback. You’ll need to adjust inputs directly on the TV.
Charging the remote is convenient thanks to the built-in solar panel on the back or via USB Type-C.
Final Thought
Samsung’s S95B TV impresses me nearly to perfection. Personally, I struggle to find any flaws. However, it lacks a glossy option, common among OLED panels, which might deter those who prefer a glossy finish over matte. Additionally, while Dolby Vision isn’t a concern for me, it’s a notable absence for many who prioritize this feature. Despite these considerations, I find little else to fault with this TV. It’s set to become my new primary television.
The gaming experience and brightness exceed any other TV I’ve used, particularly ideal for couch and console gaming enthusiasts like myself. For media and cinema lovers, the Samsung 95D promises an exceptional viewing experience. I eagerly anticipate enjoying more movies on this impressive display.
Overall, the Samsung S95D TV offers an exceptional blend of design, performance, and features, making it an excellent choice for both gamers and media enthusiasts. However, its suitability may vary depending on individual preferences regarding design finish and specific feature requirements like Dolby Vision support.
Pros
- Premium build quality with nearly edge-to-edge bezels
- Smooth and user-friendly interface
- auto low latency mode, and AMD FreeSync Pro support
- High-quality matte finish with excellent anti-reflective properties
- built-in speakers with Dolby Atmos support
Cons
- Stand can be wobbly
- Lack of glossy option for OLED panel may disappoint who prefer glossy finishes
- No Dolby Vision support, which may be a drawback
- Design9
- UI & Burns-In8
- Gaming10
- Mate Coatings9
- Picture Quality9
- One Connect Box Ports9
- Speakers9
- Remote8