Samsung AU8000 Series 55-Inch 4K Smart TV review with HDR and Alexa

Description

Dynamic Picture Quality That Stands Out

Testing the Samsung 55-Inch Crystal 4K UHD AU8000 Series was an eye-opener—literally. The Dynamic Crystal Color technology truly brings content to life with millions of vibrant shades, making every scene pop. Whether I was streaming a blockbuster movie or casually watching a nature documentary, the colors felt rich and immersive. The Crystal Processor 4K is another standout feature, as it upscales lower-resolution content to near-4K quality. This means even older shows and movies look sharper and more refined. I noticed the clarity particularly during action sequences, where every detail was crisp without any annoying pixelation.

The HDR (High Dynamic Range) functionality is a game-changer for modern streaming services. It enhances the contrast and detail of dark and bright scenes, making nighttime shots in crime dramas or brightly lit landscapes in travel shows equally stunning. If you’re someone who values high-quality visuals, this TV is built to impress.

Sleek Design Fits Any Room

One of the first things I appreciated was the ultra-thin AirSlim profile. This television is incredibly slim, which makes it blend seamlessly into any room. It doesn’t scream for attention but still manages to look elegant and modern. I set it up in my living room, and it instantly elevated the space without overpowering the decor. The 8.9 x 48.5 x 29.5-inch dimensions and lightweight build make it easy to install, whether you’re mounting it on the wall or placing it on a stand.

The design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s practical too. The three HDMI ports provide plenty of connectivity options for devices like gaming consoles, soundbars, or streaming sticks. I found this particularly useful when switching between my PlayStation, a Blu-ray player, and a streaming device without constantly plugging and unplugging cables.

Seamless Smart Features

The built-in voice assistants, including Alexa, are a lifesaver. I was initially skeptical about how often I’d use voice commands, but it quickly became second nature. Saying “Alexa, play Stranger Things” or “Turn down the volume” feels futuristic and convenient, especially when my hands are full. The TV’s interface is smooth and intuitive, with a simple on-screen guide that recommends content based on your viewing history. It’s a small touch, but it makes discovering new shows and movies much easier.

One feature that stood out is Tap View, which lets you mirror your phone on the TV with just a tap. As an Android user, I could easily share photos and videos from my phone to the TV screen, which became a hit at family gatherings. However, keep in mind that this feature is limited to Samsung Galaxy devices with Android OS 8.1 or higher, which might be a downside for some users.

Performance for Gamers and Movie Buffs

Gaming on this TV felt like an upgrade, thanks to Motion Xcelerator technology. It reduces motion blur and enhances clarity during fast-moving scenes, which is crucial for gaming or watching sports. I tested it with a fast-paced racing game, and the fluidity of motion was remarkable. The 16:9 aspect ratio and 4K UHD resolution added depth to the visuals, making gaming sessions more immersive than ever.

For movie buffs, the 4K UHD upscaling ensures you’re getting the best picture quality even with older content. Watching classic films felt like a completely new experience, as the TV breathed new life into them. The built-in speakers, while decent, might not satisfy audiophiles. I paired it with a soundbar for a fuller audio experience, which I’d recommend if you’re particular about sound quality.

Positives

• Dynamic Crystal Color delivers vibrant and lifelike visuals.
• Crystal Processor 4K enhances older content to near-4K quality.
• Slim and modern design fits seamlessly into any space.
• Voice assistants make navigating and controlling the TV effortless.
• Motion Xcelerator improves motion clarity for gaming and sports.
• Tap View makes mirroring phones quick and easy.
• Multiple HDMI ports for flexibility.

Shortcomings

• Tap View is restricted to certain Samsung Galaxy devices.
• Built-in speakers lack depth for a cinematic audio experience.
• Some settings menus take a bit of digging to fully customize.

Product Comparisons

Compared to other popular brands like LG and Sony in the same price range, this Samsung model holds its own. The Dynamic Crystal Color technology stands out against LG’s NanoCell displays, offering more vibrant and natural hues. Sony’s TVs often excel in motion handling, but the Motion Xcelerator technology here bridges that gap effectively.

On the downside, Sony’s TVs tend to offer better sound quality out of the box, while LG’s OLED models provide deeper blacks and slightly better contrast. However, those models are often pricier, making the Samsung AU8000 Series a strong contender for those looking for a balance of features and affordability.

Bang for the Buck

This TV delivers excellent value for its price, combining high-quality visuals, smart features, and a sleek design. While it may not have the absolute best audio or the deep blacks of an OLED, it excels in areas that matter most for everyday use. If you’re someone who values vibrant colors, smooth performance, and user-friendly smart capabilities, this is a worthy investment. The combination of 4K UHD upscaling and HDR functionality ensures an impressive viewing experience without breaking the bank.

Additional information