When considering purchasing an OLED TV from Samsung, you are faced with two well-known models: the S90C and S95C, which are 2013 models. A notable aspect of the decision-making process is the price difference between these models, which is about $1,000. This begs the question: Does the S95C justify its higher price than the S90C? To answer this question, we need to understand the features of each model, highlight their distinguishing features, and evaluate whether the S95C’s improvements match its higher price.
Analysis of Samsung S90C and S95B OLED TVs
In 2023, Samsung introduced new OLED TV models, the S90C and S95B, which belong to the premium Ninth Series. It is essential to realize that the S90C is not strictly a new invention. Instead, it is a modified version of the 2022 S95B model. This modification is primarily due to the upgrade to the Tizen 7.0 operating system, which is the 2023 version.
The Samsung OLED S90C can be safely called a reincarnation of the 2022 S95B model. Both models have the same form factor, indicating a continuation of the design philosophy. This similarity extends to small details such as port layout. Comparing the S90C (2023) and S95B (2022) shows an identical port layout, indicating that the same basic design scheme was used.
However, to create a clear market position for the S90C and justify its difference from the S95, Samsung has made significant changes to the audio department. The S90C has reduced the number of speakers, utilizing a configuration of two speakers and one subwoofer. This adjustment resulted in a noticeable drop in sound quality compared to its predecessor, the S95B, which had a more powerful audio system.
Differences between Samsung OLED S90C and S95C
The Samsung OLED S90C and S95C from the 2023 lineup have a few key differences in terms of design, audio capabilities, and connectivity.
- Form Factor: The most notable difference is their form factor. In the S90C, all electronic components, including the screen, are housed in a single enclosure. In contrast, the S95C takes a more modular approach and features a One Connect box. This separate unit houses the power supply and the TV’s main board, while the TV contains only the OLED control board. This design choice in the S95C results in more excellent maintainability and fewer cables to the display.
- Sound System: The two models are noticeably different when it comes to sound. The S90C features a 2.1 sound system with two speakers and one subwoofer. The S95C, the other hand, boasts a superior 4.2.2 sound configuration consisting of six speakers and two subwoofers. This enhancement in the S95C provides a more immersive and rich sound experience.
- Connectivity Ports: Another area of difference is the connectivity options each model offers. The S95C has three USB ports, one more than the S90C. This extra port can be very handy for users who require multiple USB connections for peripherals, such as external storage devices or charging the TV remote.
The cost of the S95C and the S90C
The significant price difference between Samsung’s S95C and S90C OLED models, around $1,000, requires a detailed look at the factors behind this cost difference. Understanding the rationale behind the higher price of the S95C is crucial, especially considering that both models are from the 2023 lineup and the usual price premium applies to both TV models.
USB port: While convenient, the extra USB port in the S95C is not a significant cost factor. It costs about $1, which is a negligible amount in the context of a high-end TV.
Audio: The improved audio system in the S95C, with a 4.2.2 configuration compared to the 2.1 in the S90C, certainly adds value. However, installing the additional speakers is estimated to cost less than $100. That increase doesn’t equate to a $1,000 price difference, especially considering that the S95B model, which features a more powerful speaker system, costs less.
One Connect unit: The One Connect unit in the S95C, which separates the power supply and main board from the TV, does not significantly impact production costs. The manufacturing costs of the external unit compared to the integrated main board are relatively comparable, which does not justify the significant price difference.
The main factor behind the S95C’s higher cost is the use of second-generation OLED panels. These new panels offer a significant increase in brightness, with Samsung claiming a 30 percent increase over the 2022 models. This display technology improvement improves image quality and involves using better manufacturing processes and materials. The increased brightness and color saturation provided by second-generation OLED panels are significant advances in display technology and justify the higher price of the S95C model.
S95C and S90C Specifications
Technical specifications of S90C, S95C models in one table. You can view and compare both TV models.
| S90C (2023) | S95C (2023) | |
|---|---|---|
| screen | ||
| Screen Size | 55, 65, 77 | 55, 65, 77 |
| Style | Flat Panel | Flat Panel |
| Resolution | 3,840 x 2,160 | 3,840 x 2,160 |
| screen bit | 10bit | 10bit |
| type screnn | QD+OLED | QD+OLED |
| screen technology | OLED | OLED |
| Backlighting | self-luminous pixels | self-luminous pixels |
| Dimming Technology | pixel level | pixel level |
| Stand Type (Color) | SIMPLE PLUS-METAL | Slim OC Stand |
| Bezel Width | 4 Bezel-less | 4 Bezel-less |
| Video | ||
| Motion Rate | ||
| refresh rate | 120Hz (Up to 144Hz) | 120Hz (Up to 144Hz) |
| Color | Perceptional Color Mapping | Perceptional Color Mapping |
| Contrast | Self-illuminating pixels | Self-illuminating pixels |
| HDR (High-Dynamic Range) | Quantum HDR OLED | Quantum HDR OLED+ |
| Picture Engine | Neo Quantum Processor 4K | Neural Quantum Processor 4K |
| Film Mode | Yes | Yes |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | Yes | Yes |
| Motion Technology | Motion Xcelerator Turbo Pro | Motion Xcelerator Turbo Pro |
| Anti-Reflection | Yes | Yes |
| Audio | ||
| Dolby | MS12 5.1ch | MS12 5.1ch |
| Dolby Atmos | Yes | Yes |
| Sound Output | 40W | 70W |
| Woofer | Yes | Yes |
| Speaker Type | 2.1 CH | 4.2.2 CH |
| Object Tracking Sound | OTS Lite | Yes |
| Q-Symphony | Yes only soundbar | Yes only soundbar |
| Multiroom Link | Yes | Yes |
| Features | Yes | Yes |
| OS | Tizen 7.0 | Tizen 7.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Yes WiFi5 | Yes WiFi5 |
| Bluetooth | Yes (ver.5.2) | Yes (ver.5.2) |
| Smart | Yes | Yes |
| Samsung Health | Yes | Yes |
| Bixby | Yes | Yes |
| Film Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Filmmaker Mode | Yes | Yes |
| 360 Video Player | NA | Yes |
| 360 Camera Support | NA | Yes |
| Easy Setup | Yes | Yes |
| App Casting | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless TV On - Samsung WOW | Yes | Yes |
| Wired TV On - Samsung WOL | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless DEX | Yes | Yes |
| ConnectShare | Yes | Yes |
| Closed Captioning | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Game Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Eco Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile to TV - Mirroring, DLNA | Yes | Yes |
| Google Assistant | Yes | Yes |
| Alexa | Yes | Yes |
| SmartThings App Support | Yes | Yes |
| SmartThings | Yes | Yes |
| Far-Field Voice Interaction | Yes | Yes |
| TV Plus | Yes | Yes |
| Web Browser | Yes | Yes |
| Gallery | N/A | N/A |
| EPG | Yes | Yes |
| FreeSync | Yes FreeSync Premium | Yes |
| IP Control | Yes | Yes |
| BT HID Support | Yes | Yes |
| MBR Support | Yes | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes | Yes |
| Tap View | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Game Mode (ALLM) | Yes | Yes |
| Multi View | Yes 2 videos | Yes 2 videos |
| Game Motion Plus | Yes | Yes |
| Dynamic Black EQ | Yes | Yes |
| Super Ultra Wide Game View | Yes | Yes |
| Game bar | Yes 3.0 | Yes 3.0 |
| Expert Calibration | NA | Yes |
| Auto Channel Search | Yes | Yes |
| InstaPort S (HDMI Quick Switch) | NA | Yes |
| Ambient Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Power Off | Yes | Yes |
| AI Technology | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Motion Plus | Yes | Yes |
| Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) | Yes | Yes |
| V-Chip | Yes | Yes |
| TV to Mobile - Mirroring | Yes | Yes |
| USB HID Support | Yes | Yes |
| AI Upscale | Yes | Yes |
| Easy Setup | Yes | Yes |
| IoT Hub | Yes | Yes |
| TV initiate mirroring | Yes | Yes |
| Video Communication | Google Duo | Google Duo |
| HGiG | Yes | Yes |
| Inputs & Outputs | ||
| HDMI | 4 ver 2.1 | 4 ver 2.1 |
| USB | 2 | 3 |
| Ethernet | Yes | Yes |
| RF In (Terrestrial/Cable | Yes | Yes |
| RF In (Satellite Input) | Yes Europe, No US | Yes Europe, No US |
| Digital Audio Out (Optical) | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Return Channel Support | Yes | Yes |
| eARC | Yes | Yes |
| One Connect | No | Yes |
| Samsung OneRemote | Yes | Yes |
| System | ||
| Digital Broadcasting | ATSC 3.0 (Canada) ATSC/ClearQAM - US: DVB- Europe | ATSC 3.0 (Canada) ATSC/ClearQAM - US: DVB- Europe |
| Analog Tuner | Yes | Yes |
| Accessories | ||
| Remote control | TM2360E solar | TM2360E solar |
| __ |
Which is better to buy an OLED TV, Samsung S90C, S95C or S95B (2022)
Buying a Samsung S90C or S95C OLED TV depends mainly on individual preferences, budget, and specific usage scenarios.
Samsung S95C: If budget is not a primary concern and you are looking for a TV that will deliver exceptional performance in bright lighting or during daytime viewing, the S95C is the best choice. Its key advantage is its second-generation OLED panel, which offers increased brightness and improved color reproduction. This makes the S95C particularly suitable for rooms with high ambient light, where its advanced display can maintain clarity and color accuracy. In addition, the S95C’s sound system (4.2.2 configuration) and One Connect modular unit complement its premium features, making it an ideal choice for those looking for the latest technology and an upscale viewing experience.
Samsung S95B (2022 model): For those looking for a more economical option without significantly sacrificing display quality, the Model 2022 S95B is a worthy alternative. It has the same display quality as the S90C but features a superior audio system. The S95B balances high-end display technology and a robust sound system, making it an attractive option for users who prioritize visual and audio quality but are mindful of their budget.
Samsung S90C: The S90C, on the other hand, is a suitable choice for those who prefer a newer model but are willing to make some compromises. While the S90C features a similar display to the S95B, it has a more basic 2.1 sound system and integrates all components into a single unit, differentiating it from the S95C’s modular approach. This model represents a sweet spot, offering the enhancements of the 2023 lineup at a lower price point than the S95C.
Overall, the choice between these models should be determined by your specific requirements and budget. The S95C offers superior display performance in bright lighting and advanced features, making it an ideal choice for users looking for the latest technology without budget constraints. The S95B offers a balanced combination of high-quality display and sound at a more economical price. At the same time, the S90C is a compromise option, offering newer technology with some feature limitations at a lower price.
