Samsung CU8000: A Comprehensive Review of Samsung’s Entry-Level LED TV
Samsung has established a strong reputation in the television market, known for producing high-quality TVs with exceptional picture quality. While the Samsung CU8000 may not reach the same levels as its flagship models like the Samsung S90C, it still delivers decent color reproduction and brightness when displaying brighter content.
One of the standout features of the Samsung CU8000 is its sleek and attractive design. With a razor-slim depth, super-thin bezel, and an appealing dark finish, this TV is aesthetically pleasing. It also comes with two easy-to-install feet that can be positioned in two different ways, making it suitable for both tabletop and wall-mounted setups.
In terms of sound quality, the CU8000 falls short. The 2.0 channel speakers with a total power output of 20W result in thin and underwhelming sound. While speech levels are relatively decent, there is a lack of bass and trebles can sound harsh at higher volumes. To enhance the audio experience, pairing the CU8000 with one of the best soundbars is highly recommended.
When it comes to gaming, the Samsung CU8000 performs adequately. Despite having a 60Hz panel, the motion feels smooth and the graphics are vibrant and clean. However, it lacks next-gen gaming features such as HDMI 2.1 ports with 120Hz and VRR support, which may disappoint some gamers. Nevertheless, casual gamers will appreciate the Game Hub feature, which provides access to cloud gaming apps, including Xbox cloud gaming.
The Tizen smart TV platform, used in the Samsung CU8000, is considered one of the best in the market. It offers a user-friendly home menu, or “Smart Hub,” layout and provides a wide variety of apps to choose from. The platform also offers personalized recommendations without overwhelming the screen, allowing for a seamless viewing experience. Furthermore, the CU8000 allows users to fine-tune picture settings to suit their preferences.
In terms of pricing, the Samsung CU8000 offers various screen sizes, with the 75-inch model priced around $999/£999/AU$1,800 and the 85-inch model priced around $1,600/£1,500/AU$2,700. While its picture quality and features may not make it a steal during Black Friday sales, it serves as a solid and affordable option for those in need of a second TV.
The Samsung CU8000 was released in April 2023 and is the second most entry-level LED TV in Samsung’s 2023 lineup, with the CU7000/7100 sitting below it. The prices at the time of release were as follows:
– 43-inch: $399 / £499 / AU$899
– 50-inch: $449 / £549 / AU$995
– 55-inch: $529 / £679 / AU$1,199
– 65-inch: $649 / £849 / AU$1,499
– 75-inch: $999 / £1,199 / AU$1,999
– 85-inch: $1,699 / £1,899 / AU$2,999
Since then, the prices for the CU8000 have dropped, especially in the UK market, with an average decrease of around 30%. For example, the 55-inch version now costs $499 / £499 / AU$1,195, the same price as the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED. The 75-inch version used for our review is currently priced at $949 / £925 / AU$1,795, which is a significant reduction for a TV of that size.
In terms of specifications, the Samsung CU8000 features an LED screen with a refresh rate of 60Hz. It supports HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG formats, providing a good range of HDR options. The TV comes with three HDMI ports and includes solid feet for stability, which can be installed in two different positions.
Although the Samsung CU8000 is an entry-level LED TV, it offers a decent picture quality with vibrant colors and good HD/SDR performance. However, its black levels and contrast are lacking, and the backlight uniformity in dark conditions is not ideal. Despite these shortcomings, the CU8000 serves as a budget-friendly option, especially for those looking for a big screen.
In conclusion, the Samsung CU8000 may not have the same picture quality and features as its higher-end counterparts, but it still delivers a decent performance at an affordable price. With its sleek design, solid color reproduction, and user-friendly Tizen smart TV platform, the CU8000 is a worthy choice for those in need of a reliable second TV.
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