Key Points
- Both Samsung QN85A and QN90A TVs feature Neo QLED technology, providing true-to-life 4K images and impressive color gamut.
- QN90A offers higher peak brightness (3,200 nits) compared to QN85A (2,400 nits), enhancing HDR performance.
- QN90A comes with OTS+ sound technology, providing a more immersive audio experience than the standard OTS in QN85A.
- Both TVs support gaming features like Motion Xcelerator Turbo+ and 4K content streaming at 120Hz.
- QN90A offers a wider range of sizes, including smaller 43-inch and 50-inch options, while QN85A starts at 55 inches.
If you want a big-screen TV without going over the top, choosing an older – yet still capable – model could be your best bet. Samsung has launched several products recently, with some of its acclaimed models featuring the brand’s proprietary Neo QLED technology. The QN series A models are some of the top contenders in the budget-friendly segment. Differences between these TVs are subtle, but they still exist. This head-to-head between the QN85A vs. QN90A can help you find the best Samsung TV.
QN85A Vs. QN90A: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Samsung QN85A | Samsung QN90A | |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 2021 | 2021 |
| Display type | Neo QLED | Neo QLED |
| Color accuracy | True-to-life | True-to-life |
| Display resolution | 4K | 4K |
| Picture processor | Neo Quantum Processor 4K | Neo Quantum Processor 4K |
| Picture technology | Quantum HDR 24X | Quantum HDR 32X |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Peak brightness | 2,400 nits | 3,200 nits |
| Design | Slim | Slim |
| Sound | OTS | OTS+ |
| Smart platform | TizenOS | TizenOS |
| Available sizes | 55”, 65”, 75”, 85” | 43”, 50”, 55”, 65”, 75”, 85”, 98” |
| Price | $999.99 – $3,749.99 | $999.99 – $14,999.99 |
QN85A Vs. QN90A: What’s the Difference?
Samsung launched its QN85A series of Neo QLED TVs in 2021 and, in the same year, released its upgrade, the QN90A. Since then, the brand has introduced newer and better televisions. Both models can still deliver an outstanding viewing experience at a fraction of the price of more recent releases. The QN85A and QN90A are the same, but the latter has more size options and better picture and sound. Let’s find out what these differences are in detail.
- DETAILS IN THE DARK: See brilliantly intense, 4K UHD contrast delivered by Mini LEDs and Quantum Matrix Technology
- 4K UPSCALING: No matter what you watch, Neo Quantum Processor 4K transforms it to 4K through machine-based, AI-based deep learning
- RICH COLOR AND CONTRAST: Kick up the picture on your Smart TV with the vivid color and exceptional detail of Quantum HDR 24X
- SMOOTH MOTION: Action movies, sports and games look fluid up to 4K at 120Hz with Motion Xcelerator Turbo-Plus
- SOUND YOU CAN FOLLOW: Object Tracking Sound gives you realistic 3D audio that moves with the action on screen
Image Quality
Samsung QN85A and QN90A use Neo QLED panels. This is an improvement to the brand’s proprietary QLED technology, which combines quantum dots and mini LEDs. Quantum dot technology in televisions refers to a layer of tiny particles placed over an LCD panel, similar to those in LG NanoCell TVs. The quantum dots reflect the light from the screen, increasing the color gamut by up to 50 percent. In addition to the quantum dot layer, Neo QLED TVs use mini LEDs instead of standard LEDs.
The smaller lights can be grouped in more dimming zones. Neo QLED televisions might not be able to display the same true black we’ve come to expect from OLED panels, but the result is quite close to it. While the dimming zones are identical between the two models, the QN90A delivers a slightly better picture thanks to the overall HDR brightness.
The quantum HDR 24x in the QN85A delivers a maximum brightness of 2,400 nits. The QN90A offers HDR 32x and 3,200 nits of peak brightness. This is usually enough to watch TV in full sunlight without worrying about glare. Both models also feature an anti-reflection film that reduces glare and minimizes distractions.
Sound
A great picture is nothing without great sound. Samsung’s sound developers developed the object-tracking sound (OTS) technology in 2020. OTS analyses the content and input and sends the sound to the relevant speakers to create an immersive experience. However, slight differences exist between the QN85A and QN90A televisions.
The QN85A features the standard OTS technology that tracks objects, produces sounds to follow, and includes two high speakers developed to enhance the object-tracking effects. As an upgrade, the QN90A comes with OTS+.
The plus version includes everything in the OTS but adds two wide speakers on each side of the screen for even better object tracking. This technology produces theater-like sounds and won’t need an additional soundbar. You can still enhance the experience with an external surround audio system.
Gaming
Smart TVs can become the core of your great room, but they also find their place in a high-tech gaming room. Both TVs allow you to bring your games to the big screen. Specific gaming features include the Motion Xcelerator Turbo+, which adds next-gen gaming capacities. You can use this feature with downloaded games on your TV or a separate gaming console connected through HDMI 2.1.
Other game enhancement features include the Game Motion Plus and the TVs’ capacity to stream 4K content at 120Hz. You might even enjoy your sub-4K games in 4K resolution thanks to AI upscaling. You can change the screen ratios and optimize everything with an on-screen Game Bar menu in real time to enhance your experience.
Like most Samsung TVs, the QN85A and QN90A are compatible with the Xbox. Cloud gaming is also available on both TV models.
Smart Features
Samsung TVs typically pack loads of smart functions and apps – some of which you can also find in Galaxy devices. For instance, you can access Samsung Health and watch training videos, monitor your performance (tracked via a Galaxy phone or watch), or get health tips.
The QN85A and the QN90A are compatible with cameras, which can turn your TV into a conference room display. This is useful for remote workers who want to attend meetings from the comfort of their living room. A multi-screen view is another nice perk on these TVs. You can stream live stats or video guides for games while watching the match or gaming.
Both TVs support mobile mirroring, meaning you can enjoy media content and apps on the big screen. Another nice touch is the free access to Samsung TV. This allows you to enjoy movies, shows, sports, and more without worrying about a subscription.
QN85A and its sibling run on TizenOS, an intuitive operating system, although it might not come with as many apps as WebOS.
Sizes
Big-screen TVs have become staples in most homes in recent years. However, they are unsuitable for smaller rooms. To enjoy the high image and sound quality in a bedroom, you’ll need a TV with a diagonal under 55 inches.
Of the two models, only the QN90A comes in smaller sizes, including 43-inch and 50-inch options. The QN85A is available in sizes 55 to 85 inches. Its upgraded version comes in larger sizes, too, including a whopping 98-inch option ideal for large entertainment rooms and home theaters.
- Upgrades your pictures to 4K
- X-tended Dynamic Range Pro 6x contrast
- X-Motion Clarity (120Hz)
- Acoustic Multi-Audio sound technology
- X1 Ultimate picture processor
Price
Matching a TV’s size with your budget is often tricky, especially if you want the biggest screen. Released in 2021, the QN85A and the QN90A are relatively affordable.
The former costs between $999.99 and $3,749.99. The latter has the same starting prices, but the largest size can set you back $14,999.99. The smaller options are more affordable but still cost more than the QN85A.
QN85A Vs. QN90A: 5 Must-Known Facts
- Samsung QN85A is a Neo QLED TV part of the brand’s 2021 lineup and is available in various sizes from 55 to 85 inches.
- Launched in 2021, The QN90A is an upgrade to the QN85A and is offered in sizes from 43 to 98 inches.
- Of the two models, only the QN90A is still sold by Samsung. The earlier version was discontinued.
- Both TVs are still available in the market and sold by independent retailers. Renewed or refurbished versions are also available on marketplaces.
- The two televisions are similar in most ways, except for some improvements found in the QN90A.
QN85A Vs. QN90A: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing between the QN85A and QN90A comes down to availability and budget. The former is the most affordable but also the most difficult to find. It is not as bright as the QN90A and doesn’t have an OTS+ sound, but these differences are hardly noticeable. The QN90A is more capable but also more expensive. However, it could be your only option if you want it to be new. Otherwise, you might have to switch series and opt for a newer Neo QLED version or settle for a renewed QN85A.
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