I just tested the Samsung S90F OLED and it’s my favorite TV of the year — but it’s not perfect

After reviewing last year’s Samsung S90D and loving it, I was excited to see what more Samsung could do with its mid-range OLED series. As a potential counter to the LG C5 OLED (one of this year’s best OLED TVs), the Samsung S90F has steep competition.

The S90F proves itself as a strong competitor with excellent color volume and out-of-the-box color accuracy. It offers an incredibly cinematic HDR picture, especially in Filmmaker mode. Plus, the S90F is built with gamers in mind, leveraging one of the most extensive sets of gaming features in its class, as well as super-low input latency, and Samsung’s Gaming Hub.

However, some of its predecessors’ shortcomings have carried over to the S90F. It still isn’t equipped with an ATSC 3.0 tuner or Dolby Vision support, two important features for a wide subset of users. Middling audio also persists, making the S90F a poor choice for audiophiles seeking a bombastic speaker system right out of the box.

Despite these discrepancies, I’m still in awe at how well the Samsung S90F OLED TV performs, even when placed against the five-star LG C5.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Price and release date

The Samsung S90F sits in the middle of Samsung’s 2025 OLED TV lineup, between the flagship S95F and the lower-tier S85F. It replaces the Samsung S90D OLED TV, which originally launched in 2024.

The Samsung S90F OLED TV is available for purchase in the following sizes:

• Samsung QN42S90FAFXZA (42-inch): $1,299 | Sale: $1,199Samsung QN48S90FAFXZA (48-inch): $1,399 | Sale: $1,399
• Samsung QN55S90FAFXZA (55-inch): $1,599 | Sale: $1,599
• Samsung QN65S90FAFXZA (65-inch): $2,499 | Sale: $1,699
• Samsung QN77S90FAFXZA (77-inch): $3,499 | Sale: $2,599
• Samsung QN83S90FAFXZA (83-inch): $5,399 | Sale: $4,499

We tested the Samsung S90F in its 65-inch configuration. Just like the Samsung S90D, the Samsung S90F also uses varied panel types across sizes. This means the 42-inch, 48-inch, and 83-inch models use the WOLED panel, whereas the 55-inch, 65-inch, and 77-inch sizes are built with a quantum dot-enhanced (QD-OLED) panel.

You can read more about these panel types in our guide to the difference between WOLED and QD-OLED, but when it comes to the S90F, you can expect the quantum dot-enhanced models to deliver better color volume than their WOLED-equipped counterparts.

This TV is well-priced against its closest competitor, the LG C5. At the time of writing, the 65-inch LG C5 and Samsung S90F are available at the same price of $1,699. There aren’t any other OLED TVs in the same price range, as the other major OLED TV makers — Panasonic and Sony — decided to focus on very high-end models.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Design

The Samsung S90F is super slim, measuring 1.6 inches in depth, which mirrors its predecessor. This is one of my favorite aspects of Samsung’s OLED TV designs, as it gives them a frame-like appearance that looks perfect whether mounted on a wall or set up on an entertainment center.

The bezels are similarly thin, with Samsung calling it a “4 Bezel-less design.” They are still noticeable, but the bezels don’t distract from your entertainment. However, sunlight might be a major distraction on the S90F, as this OLED TV isn’t equipped with an anti-glare screen. Unlike the Samsung S95F, which is equipped with a matte finish and glare-free technology, the S90F’s screen has a glossy sheen.

Other than the 42-inch model, every size of the Samsung S90F will come with a pedestal stand that’s super easy to build and set up; you simply pop two pieces into the back of the TV and then slide the base on these smaller legs. It’s made with plastic materials, which makes it seem somewhat cheap, but they’re just as good as metal ones.

Alternatively, you can mount the S90F to the wall via its VESA pattern. This will vary depending on the screen size, but the 55-inch and 65-inch models use a 300 x 200 pattern. For further advice, check out our best TV wall mounts to find a pick that works for your budget and TV size.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Ports

Nestled on the left-hand side of the TV’s rear are its ports. The S90F is equipped with four HDMI 2.1 inputs, which are ideal for gamers, and the third port is eARC-compatible, allowing you to connect a soundbar using an HDMI cable.

There are two USB inputs, a digital audio output for older sound systems, an RF input, and a 3.5mm audio jack for analog audio. Unfortunately, the Samsung S90F does not have an ATSC 3.0 tuner, which extends across Samsung’s 2025 TV lineup.

The S90F supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 that allow you to connect speakers or headphones to the display wirelessly rather than via the eARC or digital out connections. An Ethernet port is also available for improved internet connectivity, which I recommend using, especially if you plan to subscribe to any cloud-based video game services.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Performance

I tested the Samsung S90F with both SDR and HDR TV shows and movies. I watched several darker movies and shows in daytime and at night to see how well it can handle glare reduction and to see if the details in its shadows take a hit.

One thing that stood out was the S90F’s excellent contrast. “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” offered brooding nighttime shots and fast-paced spy action in the Call of Duty vein. The S90F handled them with aplomb, with darker action scenes retaining depth and clarity.

The S90F retains near-black detail very well, with shadows looking totally lifelike. Despite the dark, rainy setting of the subway fight sequence in "The Batman," the S90F's picture is clear enough to make out the pained facial expressions of the characters getting pummeled by Batman.

The Samsung S90F also features excellent color, particularly in HDR. In James Gunn’s “Superman”, Superman’s suit looks true-to-form, with the colors on the fabric being bright and vibrant but not oversaturated.

The S90F did struggle slightly against incoming glare in daytime viewing. It wasn’t overbearing, as OLED TVs can sometimes handle glare particularly well, but it was distracting in some scenes

How we test TVs

We follow a standard testing protocol for every TV we review at Tom’s Guide. Our benchmarks include a series of technical and subject tests designed to rate the set’s performance.

For our technical tests, we use a Jeti spectraval 1501-HiRes spectroradiometer, a Klein K10-A colorimeter, a Murideo 8K-SIX-G Metal pattern generator, and Portrait Displays’ Calman TV-calibration software to take measurements. We also use a Leo Bodnar 4K Input Lag Tester for determining the TV’s gaming prowess.

Subjective tests vary based on the reviewer, but usually feature anecdotes from a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and other content reflecting the types of things you may actually want to watch on the TV.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Test results

Like its predecessor, the Samsung S90F gives its mid-range competitors a serious run for their money. Here's how it compares to the LG C5, last year's Sony Bravia 8, and the S90D.

Looking at the performance numbers, the S90F’s HDR brightness is lower than its predecessor, but the S90F performs slightly better in Filmmaker mode. Despite it being more expensive, the Samsung S90F and the LG C5 are comparable sets in overall brightness, which is a huge win for Samsung’s lower-cost screen.

Where the S90F sets itself apart from the C5 and the Sony Bravia 8 is color volume. Thanks to its quantum dot-enhanced display, the S90F delivers much better HDR color than those WOLED-equipped sets.

It also has identical gaming performance to the LG model. We like to see input latency under 10ms, making the S90F a suitable display for PC and console gamers. Just like the C5, it only offers a refresh rate up to 144Hz via VRR, so you won’t get a 165Hz refresh rate as seen on the G5 and S95F. Unless you plan on connecting a cutting-edge gaming PC, however, you’ll never notice a difference.

Overall, these performance metrics aren’t earth-shattering, but they’re very much in-line with models that cost hundreds more — which is a real win for the S90F.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Gaming

I had an utter blast putting the S90F through its paces for gaming, playing a variety of different titles across PC, Nintendo Switch 2, and PS5 Pro.

The Samsung S90F features excellent input latency, and because it’s equipped with four HDMI 2.1 ports and a 144Hz refresh rate, it’s a great pick for PC enthusiasts, as well. Fast-paced action sequences with colorful highlights stood out from the likes of Armored Core 6 and Elden Ring Nightreign, specifically on PS5.

Samsung also has an extensive gaming hub, where you can tune the picture and settings in a variety of ways, making it one of the best gaming TVs of the year.

Gaming performance on the C5 and S90F is similar, but you might want to consider the C5 if you have an Xbox Series X and want to play games in Dolby Vision HDR.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Audio

The Samsung S90F falls into the same trap as most TVs with a subpar speaker system. It has a built-in 2.1-channel system with a 40W output, which doesn’t offer the most boisterous sound profile.

In my testing, I found bass response to be very limited. Music didn't sound as detailed, and it was difficult to make out some dialogue at times. Vocals sung by Lady Gaga in “A Star is Born” didn’t quite hit the same tonal resonance that you might get with a wider sound stage. Plus, louder tones as experienced in “F1” and “Top Gun” were distorted and unrealistic.

Overall, I recommend pairing the S90F with one of the best soundbars, as you won’t get great performance from its speakers alone.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Interface and apps

The Samsung S90F runs on Tizen OS. Its interface isn’t as intuitive as Roku’s or Google’s, but Samsung has updated the look of Tizen OS on its 2025 TVs, and I find it to be an improvement.

However, a notable irritant with the new interface is Samsung TV Plus, which is usually the first recommended app on the Now Playing carousel. You’ll also have TV Plus recommendations baked into the top of this same carousel, which isn’t ideal if you’re not regularly watching Samsung’s free live channels.

I scoured the settings to find a way to change this to other recommendations, but it seems Samsung TV Plus is always enabled as the first box you see when you turn on the TV. This will also automatically play sounds right when you turn the TV on if it’s the last app you used — not great if you have someone sleeping in a nearby room.

Fortunately, Tizen OS has access to some of the best cloud gaming services, like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now. Although these aren’t for everyone, it’s yet another way users can more easily play some of their favorite games if they don’t have that particular system or video game in question.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Remote

Samsung’s remotes have remained largely the same over the past few years, but there are some notable changes in its 2025 version: The first thing that most people will notice is the addition of a Vision AI button at the top of the remote, nestled between the voice assistant and settings buttons. It offers instant access to click-to-search functionality, but it only works in Samsung TV Plus, live TV, and for satellite broadcasts.

It’s a nice addition for those who want it, but I’m hoping Samsung can upgrade the platform to include better search functionality across apps and services. This could make it so much easier to find the exact streaming app a particular show is available on.

Samsung has also slightly tweaked the quick access functions by dropping the Disney Plus button in favor of YouTube. As someone who uses the online video platform a lot (far more than I’d like to admit), it’s a welcome addition to the Samsung remote.

Aside from these minor changes, it’s still the same awesome remote that uses solar power for charging. It’s one of the few remotes that is eco-friendly, compact, and easy to use, fitting snugly in the palm of my hand. My only suggestion? Backlit buttons would be a huge upgrade.

Samsung S90F OLED TV review: Verdict

The Samsung S90F is one of my favorite OLED TVs of the year. It features an incredibly slim design, offers a slew of gaming features, and, in terms of performance, it punches up despite its mid-range sticker price.

Be that as it may, it’s not perfect. Although minor Tizen OS concerns can be overlooked, Samsung’s lack of Dolby Vision support is hard to ignore. This is a huge letdown given its performance capabilities, and with the launch of Dolby Vision 2, Samsung should reconsider support for the HDR format in 2026.

There are also panel inconsistencies across sizes to consider. If you have your heart set on a quantum dot-enhanced OLED but you’re shopping at the 42-, 48-, or 83-inch size point, you won’t be getting an S90F with quantum dot-color.

If you aren’t invested in Dolby Vision content and are planning on buying an OLED in a 55-, 65-, or 77-inch model, the S90F is a great choice. As a mid-range model with an affordable (for OLED) sticker price, the S90F delivers a beautiful picture for less than the competition.