Let's dive into the world of high-end TVs and explore the Samsung S95H OLED, a model that promises an immersive viewing experience but falls short of its 'Ultra' Frame TV aspirations. In this review, we'll uncover the pros and cons, compare it to its competitors, and delve into the unique features that make it stand out (or not).
The Promise of the S95H
Every year, TV manufacturers engage in a battle of superiority, claiming significant improvements over their previous models. The Samsung S95H, along with the LG G6, promised a lot for 2026, but did they deliver?
One of the most intriguing aspects of the S95H is its ability to mimic a Frame TV, displaying static artwork. This feature, previously unseen in OLED technology, is a game-changer for art enthusiasts. However, as we'll explore, it's not without its limitations.
A Closer Look
Design and Remote
The S95H sports a controversial new design with a thick metal surround, reminiscent of The Frame series. While it's not as sleek as its predecessors, this design choice has a purpose: it houses the circuitry that was once in a separate box. This trade-off results in a thicker TV, but it's a small price to pay for the improved ventilation and heat management.
The remote has also undergone a transformation, now resembling a wafer-thin clicker powered by solar energy. It's a sleek upgrade, but power users might miss the dedicated input buttons.
The Star: The Screen
The S95H's screen is its true selling point. With impressive antireflective coating, it virtually eliminates glare, making it an ideal choice for rooms with pesky light sources. This feature, combined with its ability to display static art, sets it apart from other OLEDs.
However, the S95H's HDR colors are a cause for concern. In our tests, we noticed inaccurate color reproduction, especially with oranges tending towards yellow. This issue is particularly noticeable when compared to the LG G6 and G5, which offer more vibrant and accurate colors.
Smart TV and AI
In line with the latest trends, the S95H boasts an array of AI-powered features. From AI Soccer Mode to the NQ4 AI Gen3 processor, Samsung has embraced artificial intelligence. While these features add value, they're not without their drawbacks. For instance, the lack of Dolby Vision HDR might be a deal-breaker for some.
The smart TV system has seen improvements, with a cleaner and more organized menu. However, the gesture control feature, accessible through a Samsung Galaxy Watch, is likely to be a novelty rather than a practical tool.
Comparison with Competitors
When pitted against the LG G6, G5, and Hisense U7, the S95H holds its own in certain areas. It excels in gaming, offering a bright and responsive experience. However, its HDR color accuracy falls short, especially when compared to the LG models.
Bright Room Performance
Samsung has long been a leader in antireflective coatings, and the S95H continues this tradition. It excels in rejecting bright lights, making it an excellent choice for well-lit rooms. However, this comes at the cost of slightly gray blacks, a trade-off that might not be worth it for some viewers.
Gaming Experience
For gamers, the S95H is a dream come true. Its low lag and bright display make it an ideal choice for immersive gaming sessions. However, the default settings might be too vibrant for some, so customization is key.
Final Thoughts
While the Samsung S95H OLED offers some unique features, such as its antireflective screen and art display mode, it falls short of the 'Ultra' Frame TV expectations. The inaccurate HDR colors and lack of Ambient mode are notable drawbacks. However, for gamers and those seeking a bright, responsive TV, the S95H is a solid choice.
In my opinion, Samsung has taken a step forward with the S95H, but it's not without its compromises. The art display mode is a welcome addition, but the overall picture quality could use some refinement. Nonetheless, it's an impressive piece of technology that showcases Samsung's innovation.
