The Samsung Neo QLED TV (QN87D) is a premium television that offers stunning picture quality, immersive sound, and a sleek design. It is a top-of-the-line model packed with features that make it a great choice for movie lovers, gamers, and anyone who wants the best possible viewing experience. I had the opportunity to host the 55-incher in my bedroom for a couple of weeks, and here’s how it went.
Design: 4.5/5
The Samsung Neo QLED TV (QN87D) is a beautiful TV with a modern, minimalist design. It has a slim bezel that maximizes screen real estate, and the stand is sleek and unobtrusive. The 55-inch test unit is quite large and, while it requires only a few screws to set up, at least 2 pairs of hands are needed for handling and installation.
Featuring the vaunted NeoSlim Design, the Neo QLED TV has an ultra-slim profile and a near bezel-less design, so the screen commands full attention with no distractions from the frame. The build quality is excellent, and the TV feels very sturdy, with a solid base that ensures the unit won’t easily tip over in case of unforeseen knocks or bumps.
Hardware: 4.5/5
The hardware of the Samsung Neo QLED TV (QN87D) is where it truly shines. At the heart of the QN87D is Samsung’s Quantum Matrix Technology, which utilizes Mini LEDs to deliver precise control of the picture’s brightness and contrast. This technology results in accurate light control for the most life-like, ultra-fine picture quality in all types of scenes.
The Neo QLED QN87D is powered by an NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor that optimizes both picture and sound through its 4K upscaling technology, thus delivering an excellent 4K experience. Its impressive 120Hz refresh rate further enhanced by Motion Xcelerator is another plus factor. Details are captured with incredible clarity while reducing motion blur and ensuring smooth transitions.
At the rear, you will find an array of ports, including HDMI 2.1, which supports higher resolutions and refresh rates, making it future-proof for upcoming consoles and devices. There are also multiple USB ports, an Ethernet port, and optical audio out, providing ample connectivity options for all your devices. It also supports Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi-6 wireless connectivity.
Samsung has also paid attention to audio quality with the Dolby Atmos 2.2.2 top-channel speakers. Complemented by Object Tracking Sound (OTS), the multiple speakers around the screen create a realistic 3D sound experience.
User Experience: 4/5
The Neo QLED TV (QN87D) is surprisingly easy to configure out-of-the-box as it runs on the intuitive and user-friendly Samsung Tizen operating system. Navigating through the menus and apps is smooth and responsive. It integrates into the Samsung SmartThings ecosystem, so you can actually control compatible home devices (in my case, my washer/dryer combo).
The Smart Hub offers easy access to my favorite streaming services—Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO, etc. The interface is well-organized so it’s easy to find binge-worthy movies and series.
I was in the middle of my House of the Dragon Season 2 binge, and the Neo QLED TV totally elevated the viewing experience for me. The large 55-inch screen, along with stunning visuals and surround sound quality delivered an immersive, cinematic experience. Even for dark scenes, the excellent contrast ensured that you don’t miss out on the details.
With regard to sound quality, the realistic effect of OTS as it moves with the action, and the dialogue enhancement from the Active Voice Amplifier feature were also major plus points.
Value: 3/5
When considering the value of the Samsung Neo QLED TV (QN87D), it’s important to take into account its cutting-edge technology, superior design, and excellent user experience. It is positioned as a premium television, and its PHP100,000+ price tag reflects that. However, the features and performance it offers justify the investment for those who demand the best in picture and sound quality.
Specifications:
- Display: 55” screen size | 4K (3840×2160) resolution | 120Hz refresh rate
- Video: NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor picture engine | Adaptive HDR 10+ | Neo Quantum HDR | Quantum Matrix Technology | Supreme UHD Dimming | Motion Xcelerator 120Hz | 4K AI Upscaling | Real Depth Enhancer
- Audio: Dolby Atmos | 2.2.2CH | 60W sound output | 360 Audio | Q-Symphony
- Smart Service: Tizen Smart TV operating system | Bixby | Web Browser | SmartThings
- Smart Feature: Multi-device experience | Ambient Mode+ | NFT | Apple AirPlay
- Connectivity: 4 x HDMI (4K 120Hz) | 2x USB-A | Digital audio out | Ethernet | WiFi 6 | Bluetooth 5.2 | RF In | Anynet+
- Design: NeoSlim | Flat look | Sharp neck pentagon stand type | 4 Bezel-less | Titan Black color
- Power: 20W max power consumption, 0.5W standby | AC100-250V ~ 50/60Hz power supply | Auto power off | Auto power saving
- Dimension: 1227.4 x 705.6 x 26.9mm (without stand), 1227.4 x 768.7 x 243.9mm (with stand)
- Weight: 17.2kg (without stand), 19.8kg (with stand)
- Accessory: TM2360E remote controller
What’s Hot:
- Outstanding picture quality
- User-friendly interface
- SmartThings integration
What’s Not:
- Premium-priced
Bottomline:
An excellent television that offers a premium viewing experience, this is a great choice for those who want only the best.
Reviewed by Maribelle Alba
Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE August 2024 Issue.