Samsung QLED TVs 2021 lookup: What TV model should you buy?

In 2021, Samsung continued to develop and promote its QLED TVs, offering a wide range of models to suit different budgets and preferences. The 2021 lineup includes the Q60A, Q70A, Q80A, QN85A, and QN90A, starting with the more basic Q60A and culminating in the premium QN90A. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or the highest-quality viewing experience, there’s a model for everyone.

Display Technology

The key difference between the models lies in the display technology. The Q60A, as the entry-level model, uses an edge-lit LED backlight and has a lower color depth (8-bit), resulting in less precise color reproduction and lower contrast. It also supports a maximum of 60Hz refresh rate, which limits its performance in fast-moving scenes. The Q70A improves on this with a 120Hz refresh rate but still uses an edge-lit backlight, which doesn’t allow for advanced local dimming. The Q80A features a full-array backlight, improving brightness and contrast, and offers a better viewing experience overall. The QN85A and QN90A take things a step further with Neo QLED technology, incorporating Mini-LED backlighting. This allows for finer control over local dimming, resulting in superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vivid colors. The QN90A, being the flagship, offers the best performance, including a real 10-bit color depth for the most accurate and lifelike colors.

Processors

When it comes to processing power, the Q60A features a less powerful Quantum Processor 4K Lite, limiting it to a 60Hz frame rate. In contrast, the other models—Q70A, Q80A, QN85A, and QN90A—are equipped with more advanced processors (Quantum Processor 4K or Neo Quantum Processor 4K), which support up to 120Hz refresh rates, enhancing the smoothness of motion and providing a better experience for gaming or fast-paced content.

Sound Quality

Sound quality also varies across the models. The Q60A and Q70A have simpler audio setups with 20W output and basic Object Tracking Sound (OTS). While they offer decent audio for casual viewing, they lack the depth and clarity of higher-end models. The Q80A, QN85A, and QN90A, however, come with built-in subwoofers and a more powerful sound system, offering 60W of total output. These models provide a richer, more immersive sound experience, especially with content that supports OTS.

Operating System and Gaming Features

In terms of operating systems, all models run Tizen 6.0, Samsung’s latest smart TV platform. It features a more intuitive interface, along with new functions like the Samsung Health app and a Game Bar for gamers. From the Q70A upwards, these models also support FreeSync, which eliminates screen tearing and provides smoother gameplay when used with gaming consoles or PCs.

Comparison of Q60A, Q70A, Q80A, QN85A, QN90A specifications