Samsung‘s first-ever QD-OLED TV, the S95B, has generated plenty of excitement. With exceptional contrast and accurate color reproduction powered by quantum dot technology, it stands out in picture quality.
However, at $2,199 for the 55" model, it doesn‘t come cheap. And it may not be the ideal fit for every user.
Fortunately, if you‘re looking for an alternative, there is no shortage of excellent high-end OLED televisions to choose from in 2023. I‘ve tested and reviewed all the latest models – here are my top 6 picks for alternatives to consider instead of the Samsung S95B:
1. LG G2 (Best Overall)
LG 55-Inch Class OLED evo Gallery Edition G2 Series
Priced around $1,700
LG has perfected its OLED technology over several generations, and the G2 represents the pinnacle. It builds on the strong foundation of last year‘s C2 model and brings an even brighter, more vibrant and detailed picture.
The self-lit OLED pixels deliver perfect blacks alongside intense brightness up to 1000 nits in HDR content. This high contrast creates a sense of depth and realism that has to be seen firsthand to fully appreciate.
Meanwhile, the new Brightness Booster Max technology pushes peak luminance up to 30% higher compared to a standard WRGB OLED panel. So specular highlights in scenes literally shine with lifelike brilliance.
LG‘s latest α9 Gen 5 AI Processor helps optimize every frame, leveraging machine learning to detect scenes and make adjustments automatically. From color accuracy to edge definition, the improvements are noticeable across various types of content from movies to games and sports.
Gaming performance impresses too, with cutting-edge HDMI 2.1 connectivity supporting 4K 120fps and VRR. Input lag measures an ultra-responsive 5ms, giving you an edge in competitive online titles.
While lacking the quantum dot layer of the S95B, make no mistake – the G2 delivers Samsung-beating color reproduction and substantially better near-black gradation.
For the optimal viewing experience, I recommend tuning the picture settings using recommended calibration measurements from sites like Rtings.com. This allows you to achieve supreme color accuracy with an average ΔE value under 2 (lower is better) out of the box.
If you want one of the most technically advanced and best performing TVs money can buy today with perfect blacks, incredible brightness, lush colors and buttery smooth motion clarity, the LG G2 OLED evo is impossible to beat.
2. Sony A95K QD-OLED (Best Splurge)
Priced around $3,000
As LG‘s closest competitor in the premium OLED space, Sony pulled out all stops with its debut QD-OLED TV – the A95K.
It shares the same quantum dot film layer as the Samsung S95B, allowing both class-leading brightness and rich, accurate colors. Sony‘s Pixel Contrast Booster technology enhances luminance in highlights by up to 200% for greater dynamic range.
Three distinct actuators behind the panel provide incredibly precise acoustic surface sound with stereo separation and Dolby Atmos height performance that soundbars struggle to match.
The Google TV operating system makes navigating streaming apps and content discovery smoother compared to Samsung‘s Tizen. Voice control works well with built-in Google Assistant and Alexa support too.
As you would expect from a TV positioned as Sony‘s new flagship, gaming capabilities excel – with 4 HDMI 2.1 ports, ALLM, VRR, ultra low input lag and exclusive auto HDR tone mapping and genre picture mode switching for PS5 titles.
Downsides are limited, though off-axis color shifting can be noticeable at wider viewing angles. And Sony still uses the ATSC 3.0 tuner standard rather than the more widely supported DVB-T2.
Priced almost double that of an equivalent LG G2, the Sony A95K ultimately delivers on ambitious innovation goals. Exceptional picture and sound justify costs for home theater enthusiasts unwilling to compromise.
3. LG C2 (Best Value)
LG 55-Inch Class C2 Series OLED 4K Smart TV
Priced around $1,300
The LG C2 continues to win praise as the best overall TV value despite launching back in early 2022. As LG‘s mid-range OLED series, it dials back brightness capability compared to the newer G2 but retains the stellar contrast and color reproduction the brand is known for.
Gamers will appreciate HDMI 2.1 support across all ports, enabling 4K 120fps gaming and VRR on the latest consoles. With a rated 5ms response time and ALLM mode switching activated automatically, performance holds up wonderfully even in fast-paced multiplayer titles.
WebOS provides a smooth smart TV experience as well for navigating all popular streaming apps.
Room lighting can impact picture quality more compared to the brighter Evo panels I‘ve recommended. But in a moderately lit home theater room, blacks retain their inky depth and you‘ll be amazed at the cinematic picture quality.
If your budget is around $1,500 max, this Editor‘s Choice winner remains my top pick for performance and value.
4. Hisense U8H (Best Budget Pick)
Hisense U8H QLED 4K Google Smart TV
Priced under $1,500
It‘s wonderful that OLED TVs have gotten more affordable. But if you want quantum dot powered performance without the premium price tags charged by Samsung, Sony and LG – Hisense delivers compelling options.
Case in point is the U8H, their best 4K TV featuring ULED technology with a quantum dot layer for wider color and boosted peak brightness up to 1500 nits.
That level of peak luminance trounces any OLED, translating to phenomenal high dynamic range performance. Specular highlights in films and games look closer to real life, aided by Dolby Vision IQ adjusting picture settings dynamically based on ambient light.
For gaming, the U8H checks all the right boxes – 120Hz refresh rate, HDMI 2.1, Game Mode Pro enhancing detail and responsiveness with under 10ms input lag measured.
My main complaint would be off-angle viewing quality doesn‘t match OLED due to the risk of backlight blooming. But for under $1,500 the Hisense U8H defines great balance, packing flagship worthy picture and smooth Android smart TV features at a mid-range price point.
5. Sony A80K (Best Smart TV)
Sony OLED 77 inch BRAVIA XR A80K
Priced around $2,600
Sony‘s software solution with Google TV stands miles ahead of LG and Samsung‘s alternatives for its slick responsive interface packed with features.
No matter which streaming service you prefer, they all get showcased wonderfully by the personalized recommendations and watchlist management. Finding 4K HDR content also becomes easier with integrated search aggregating results across installed apps.
But software experience alone does not make the A80K worth recommending. Backed by Sony‘s cognitive XR processor for picture and sound enhancement, you get superb OLED contrast and color reproduction aided by XR OLED Contrast adjusts brightness in real time based on what‘s being shown to optimize dynamic range.
For PS5 owners especially, I believe Sony TVs make the most sense to unlock your console‘s graphical potential. Auto genre picture mode switching and exclusive BRAVIA Core streaming app support are nice bonuses too.
The acoustic surface audio produces impressive room-filling sound, though plugging in a soundbar can further elevate the viewing experience.
If you want a feature packed TV guaranteed to keep up with latest trends thanks to extensive Google TV support as well as class leading picture quality for movies and gaming, the Sony A80K deserves serious consideration.
6. Samsung QN90B Neo QLED (Best LED-LCD)
SAMSUNG 55′′ Class Neo QLED 4K QN90B Mini LED TV
Priced under $1,300
For shoppers wanting an LED-LCD alternative to OLED, Samsung‘s 2022 Neo QLED 4K lineup led by the QN90B makes a compelling case combining their quantum dot and mini LED powered picture quality.
The smaller LEDs used behind the panel measured in microns boost dimming control for improving black level depth significantly compared to traditional full array local dimming execution. ThisMini LEDs numbering in thousands also help push peak luminance close to 2000 nits.
So the HDR experience impresses with specular highlights that really pop while avoiding crushed shadows. Samsung‘s anti-reflective screen layer maintains picture fidelity even if sunlight is directly hitting the TV.
Gamers can enjoy ultra-smooth 4K 120fps gameplay leveraging HDMI 2.1 connectivity and 6ms response time with VRR eliminating tearing or stuttering.
It may lack the per-pixel precision of OLED but with over a billion colors displayed, vibrant and accurate colors combined with technologies minimizing traditional LCD drawbacks like blooming around bright objects, the QN90B Neo QLED makes a compelling case delivering flagship caliber performance at more accessible pricing.
What To Consider When Choosing a Samsung S95B OLED Alternative
Here are some key factors I would evaluate when deciding on an alternative to the S95B:
Viewing Environment – Think about room lighting and whether you prefer watching TV during the day or night. OLED contrast excels in darker rooms. Brighter LED/QLEDs have an advantage in well lit living spaces.
Usage – Big gamer? Make sure your shortlisted models support next-gen gaming features like 4K 120fps, VRR and ultra low input lag. Movie buff? Prioritize contrast and color accuracy.
Budget – Decide how much you’re willing to spend. While it’s tempting to go all out on the latest flagship series, you can get great performance without breaking the bank from last year’s models.
Screen Size – Determine what size your seating distance and room size can accommodate. Bigger isn’t always better if the pixels get too stretched out. I suggest a maximum viewing distance equal to 1.5 times the diagonal length.
Sound Needs – Almost all slim TVs skimp on built-in speakers. If audio quality is vital, factor in costs of adding a sound system.
Smart Features – Compare media streaming platforms like webOS, Tizen and Google TV in terms of usability and app support. Voice assistants, casting ability and smart home controls also differ across brands.
Once shortlisted, don’t decide purely on specs. Visit stores to judge picture quality firsthand if possible. This gives you the best idea of real world performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is burn-in a risk on OLED TVs? How can I prevent it?
A: Permanent image retention leading to burn-in is certainly a drawback compared to LED/LCD technology but the latest generation OLED panels have near instant pixel refreshing algorithms along with screen shift features to minimize static content being displayed for long durations. Follow basic precautions like avoiding static bright graphics being shown for extended periods and turn the screen off rather than leaving news channels on an idle OLED TV to virtually eliminate any long term burn-in risk.
Q: Why are OLED TVs generally more expensive than LED/LCDs?
A: The OLED panel production process is more complex currently, requiring highly advanced manufacturing processes. The material costs are therefore higher, translating to premium pricing for consumers. As mass production scales up further, costs should continue lowering just like how 4K LED TV price points were brought down over time.
Q: Is a higher refresh rate important for console gaming?
A: Yes, a 120Hz panel enables next generation consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X to deliver smoother gameplay at up to 4K 120fps. This results in much lower input lag and an overall more responsive, artifact-free visual experience compared to 60Hz TVs thanks to HDMI 2.1 connectivity. For competitive online multiplayer titles especially, those extra frames can give you an edge.
I hope my detailed OLED TV alternatives recommendations prove useful. Let me know if you have any other questions!
