Samsung QN90D – Design and Build
The Samsung QN90D is a sleek and straightforward television right out of the box. The stand, which can be easily assembled if you choose not to wall-mount the TV, is sturdy and simple. Make sure to route your cables properly, as all the ports are on the right side except for the power source, which is on the left side.
Samsung has equipped the QN90D with four HDMI 2.1 ports, with one recommended for gaming and another labeled as eARC for HDMI-connected sound systems. All four ports support technologies like Auto Low Latency (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and up to 4K at 144Hz.
Additional connections on the back of the TV include two USB-A ports, a LAN port, a cable input, and an optical audio output port. Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 5 are also supported. The QN90D boasts a modern design with slim bezels and a sturdy stand that complements the overall aesthetic of the TV.
However, the cable management on the QN90D is average at best. Routing cables through the back of the stand can be challenging, as the pre-cut slots may not accommodate all cable sizes effectively. In my experience, some cables remained visible, detracting from the overall clean look of the setup.
On a positive note, the stand elevates the TV enough to fit a slim soundbar underneath, offering a convenient setup for audio enhancement without compromising space.
Samsung QN90D – The Remote
Samsung’s remotes are known for their simplicity, and the QN90D’s remote follows suit. With only a few buttons and a minimalistic design, the remote may require some familiarization for new users. Additionally, the remote is solar-powered, eliminating the need for battery replacements and charging.
Samsung QN90D – Software and UI
In recent years, Samsung’s Tizen operating system has been a point of contention for some users. While Tizen still has its drawbacks, Samsung has made noticeable improvements to reduce its intrusiveness and auto-play features. The TV no longer defaults to auto-playing content, enhancing the overall user experience.
While Tizen lacks deep picture customization options, Samsung has introduced new features like Daily+ to integrate the TV into a Samsung-connected home ecosystem. However, the absence of Dolby Vision HDR support may disappoint enthusiasts seeking the latest HDR standards.
Other noteworthy technologies like Real Depth Enhancer Pro and AI Customization Mode enhance the viewing experience by sharpening foreground elements and optimizing content upscaling. These features contribute to improved picture quality, especially when viewing lower resolution content.