OLED TVs are considered the top-tier televisions on the market, providing exceptionally high image contrast, vibrant colors, seamless motion, and significantly better viewing angles compared to LCD TVs. While they come with a higher price tag, they are a worthwhile investment for individuals who are truly passionate about movies or gaming.
We suggest going for the Samsung S90C Series due to its remarkable picture quality offered at a relatively competitive price.
Our pick
This TV offers stunning picture quality and excellent features at a relatively reasonable price. However, it does not support Dolby Vision HDR.
Last year, Samsung impressed us with its first QD-OLED TV, the S95B Series — the initial 4K TV to merge an OLED panel and quantum-dot color. This year, the Samsung S90C Series delivers similarly outstanding picture quality and improved video processing at an even more affordable price and in a variety of screen sizes.
The S90C also enhances the S95B’s somewhat sluggish Smart Hub smart-TV platform while providing dazzling HDR imagery, quick responsiveness during gaming, and a sleek, durable build quality. It also feels particularly futuristic, equipped with a solar-powered remote control and built-in cloud-gaming features.
We identified two drawbacks. Firstly, Samsung TVs do not support the Dolby Vision HDR format, which might be a deal-breaker for some individuals. Secondly, the 83-inch model, the largest in the series, does not utilize the QD-OLED panel, so it may not stand out as much from other OLEDs in performance.
Runner-up
This OLED TV is an excellent option, especially if you want Dolby Vision HDR or a screen size smaller than 55 inches. However, it is not as bright or colorful as our top pick.
For a long time, LG’s C Series has been the preferred choice for most OLED buyers as it strikes a balance between price and performance. This year’s LG C3 Series remains a great choice, particularly for those looking for a 42- or 48-inch screen size. However, the introduction of the Samsung S90C has slightly altered the value proposition of this LG OLED.
The C3 utilizes a standard OLED panel, as opposed to QD-OLED, meaning it is not as bright or colorful as our top pick. Additionally, its webOS smart-TV platform feels somewhat outdated. While this TV offers improved video processing compared to LG’s previous C2 Series, it does not make any significant advancements otherwise.
Nonetheless, the C3 supports Dolby Vision HDR, which some consumers consider a essential feature, and overall it remains one of the best OLED values of 2023, delivering exceptional picture quality and all the extras expected from a premium TV.
