Samsung 85-Inch Crystal UHD Smart TV Review Stunning 4K Features and Gaming Hub Insights

Description

A Stunning Display with True-to-Life Colors

Testing the Samsung 85-Inch Class Crystal UHD CU7000 Series, I was immediately struck by the PurColor technology. The colors are vibrant and feel incredibly natural, whether I’m watching a dense jungle scene or an ocean sunset. PurColor genuinely expands the color spectrum, making even my older content look richer. The 4K upscaling feature, powered by the Crystal Processor, makes a significant difference. Watching older shows or non-4K videos feels like they’ve been given a facelift, with enhanced clarity and sharper contrasts.

The 85-inch screen size? It’s massive, and it turns my living room into a mini cinema. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures that everything fits perfectly without those annoying black bars. While the size is ideal for large spaces, it might feel overwhelming in smaller rooms.

Audio Quality That Immerses You

The Object Tracking Sound Lite is a game-changer. It’s not just about hearing the sound; it’s about feeling it move around you. During action scenes, I could hear effects traveling across the room, giving a sense of immersion I didn’t expect from built-in speakers. Pairing the TV with a Q-Series or S-Series soundbar via Q-Symphony elevates the sound experience even further. It’s like having a home theater system without the clutter of multiple speakers.

That said, the built-in 20-watt speakers are decent but don’t pack the punch you’d get from an external sound system. For someone who loves clear and impactful audio, the addition of a soundbar would be almost essential.

Performance and Gaming Experience

For gamers, the Samsung Gaming Hub is an absolute win. All my games, whether console-based or streamed, are conveniently in one location. Adjusting settings on the fly is intuitive, and the hub even recommends games I didn’t know I’d enjoy. The Motion Xcelerator ensures smooth gameplay, reducing motion blur even during fast-paced sequences.

One shortcoming, however, is the need for a high-speed internet connection to make the most of the gaming hub. Without it, the experience might feel a bit limited.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Navigating through the Samsung Smart TV Hub is a breeze. It organizes all my favorite streaming platforms, TV shows, and apps in one place. I particularly love how it tailors recommendations based on my viewing habits. Alexa being built-in is another big plus. I can control the TV, search for content, and even adjust settings without lifting the remote.

However, the setup process for some apps felt a bit cumbersome. A few required multiple logins and updates, which took longer than expected.

Key Benefits

• PurColor technology delivers a wider spectrum of vibrant, true-to-life colors.
• Crystal Processor with 4K upscaling enhances older content beautifully.
• Object Tracking Sound Lite creates a 3D sound experience.
• Gaming Hub integrates and simplifies access to multiple gaming platforms.
• Samsung Smart TV Hub provides tailored recommendations and seamless navigation.

Areas of Concern

• Built-in speakers may not be sufficient for audiophiles without a soundbar.
• Setup for some apps can be lengthy and slightly frustrating.
• High-speed internet connectivity is crucial for the best gaming hub experience.

Competing Brands

Comparing this TV to others like the LG OLED C2 or the Sony X90J, it stands out for its PurColor technology and Crystal Processor. Both competitors boast excellent color accuracy and contrast, but the Samsung TV’s upscaling abilities are slightly superior.

On the downside, LG’s OLED models provide better black levels and contrast due to their panel technology, while Sony’s TVs often excel in motion handling. The Samsung 85-Inch Crystal UHD strikes a balance between affordability and high-end features, making it a strong contender in the mid-range market.

True Value

For its size, features, and performance, this TV offers great value for its price point. The PurColor technology, combined with 4K upscaling and the Gaming Hub, justifies its cost. While audiophiles or perfectionists might find areas to nitpick, it’s hard to argue against the overall package. Investing in a soundbar or ensuring high-speed internet will help unlock its full potential, making it a smart buy for most households.

Additional information