Samsung QLED 55-Inch The Frame TV review Art Mode and Quantum HDR tested

Description

A Stylish Blend of Art and Entertainment

The Samsung 55-Inch Class QLED 4K LS03D “The Frame” Series TV truly feels like a game-changer in the world of televisions. When I first set it up in my living room, the transition from a traditional TV to this art-inspired masterpiece was jaw-dropping. This isn’t just a TV; it doubles as a digital art display, and honestly, that’s where it really stands out. The Art Mode, which allows you to showcase over 2,500 pieces of art through the Samsung Art Store, is nothing short of mesmerizing. Whether you’re into Basquiat, Salvador Dali, or MoMA classics, this product transforms your entertainment area into a mini art gallery.

Design and Aesthetic Excellence

The sleek design of this model is its ultimate crowning jewel. With the Slim Fit Wall Mount included, the TV hangs flush against the wall, making it almost indistinguishable from a framed piece of art. I appreciated how customizable it is; you can switch out the bezels to match your decor. It even offers digital mat options that enhance its gallery-like appearance. The matte display is a huge win, providing a glare-free experience that makes the art look like it’s actually printed on the screen. It’s certified glare-free, which means you can enjoy your favorite shows or artwork in any lighting conditions without straining your eyes.

Display Quality and Performance

The Quantum HDR and 100% Color Volume capabilities are where this TV starts flexing its muscles. Colors on this TV are vivid, precise, and true-to-life, whether you’re binge-watching a show or admiring a piece of art. Even my friend, who works as a professional photographer, was floored by the Pantone Validated ArtfulColor technology. It’s rare to find a TV that bridges the gap between entertainment and artistic expression so seamlessly.

On top of that, the Motion Xcelerator 120Hz ensures smooth visuals even in high-action scenes. I tested it with a couple of fast-paced video games, and the experience was buttery smooth. The Real Depth Enhancer also adds a subtle yet noticeable improvement in image clarity, making everything pop without looking overly artificial.

Ease of Installation and Connectivity

Setting up this TV was surprisingly straightforward. The One Connect Box is a brilliant addition, as it eliminates the usual mess of cables. Everything connects through a single cable, which not only keeps things tidy but also simplifies the installation process. The Samsung Smart Hub is intuitive and allows seamless integration with streaming apps, although it does require a Samsung account for full functionality.

Alexa’s built-in capability was a pleasant surprise. I’ve used it to control the TV hands-free, whether it’s switching inputs or adjusting volume. Voice commands work smoothly, although it can take a little getting used to if you’re new to smart assistants.

Key Benefits

• Art Mode turns your TV into a personal gallery.
• 100% Color Volume ensures vibrant and lifelike visuals.
• Slim Fit Wall Mount creates a seamless, sleek design.
• One Connect Box reduces cable clutter for a clean setup.

Areas for Improvement

• The subscription fees for Samsung Art Store can add up if you want access to the full art collection.
• The motion sensor in Art Mode isn’t always consistent, especially in low lighting.
• Bezels for customization are sold separately, which could add to the overall cost.

Competing Brands

Comparing this TV to other QLED competitors, it’s clear that Samsung has a unique niche with its art-focused approach. LG’s OLED models, for example, might have slightly deeper blacks and better contrast, but they lack the artistic and customizable edge that makes “The Frame” so special. Sony’s high-end TVs are fantastic for gaming and cinematic experiences, but they don’t offer the Art Mode or design flexibility.

What sets this TV apart is its dual functionality—a fully capable entertainment system and an aesthetic decor piece. However, if you’re looking for sheer performance and aren’t as interested in the artistic features, there might be better options at a similar price point.

Bang for the Buck

For its dual purpose, this TV delivers a surprisingly solid value proposition. Yes, it’s on the higher end of the price spectrum, but you’re essentially paying for two products: a high-quality QLED TV and a customizable art display. If you’re someone who values both aesthetics and performance, this is well worth the investment. That said, the additional costs for bezels and the Art Store subscription could make it less appealing for budget-conscious buyers.

Overall, this TV isn’t just for tech enthusiasts—it’s for anyone who wants their living room to make a statement. Whether you’re using it to watch the latest blockbuster or display a Monet, it’s bound to turn heads.

Additional information