Samsung 98-Inch 4K Crystal UHD DU9000 Series TV review with HDR and Alexa

Description

Key Features that Stand Out

Testing the Samsung UN98DU9000FXZA, I quickly realized the 98-inch display is not just a television—it’s a cinematic experience. The SUPERSIZE PICTURE ENHANCER transforms viewing into something extraordinary. The AI-enhanced technology sharpens images on this massive screen, and even sitting up close, I noticed minimal noise and exceptional clarity. Watching a high-contrast movie at night revealed just how effective the Mega Contrast feature is; every shadow and bright spot was perfectly balanced, making the visuals pop.

The PurColor technology is another standout. Colors feel incredibly vivid yet natural, whether it’s the green of a football field or the fiery hues of a sunset. It’s not just like watching TV; it’s like being there. Combine that with HDR functionality, and even the darkest scenes in thrillers became rich with detail.

For sports lovers—or anyone who can’t stand motion blur—the Motion Xcelerator 120Hz is a game-changer. Watching live sports felt like being on the sidelines, with no lag or jittery visuals, even during fast-paced action. The Crystal Processor 4K was the cherry on top, upscaling older shows to near-4K quality. Shows I thought I knew felt brand new.

Design and Build Quality

This TV isn’t just big; it’s imposing. At 117.7 pounds and nearly 86 inches wide, it was a two-person job to set it up. The graphite black finish is sleek and modern, blending well with most interiors. The ultra-thin bezels around the screen give it a clean, minimalist look, letting the content shine without distractions.

One thing worth noting is the stand. While sturdy, it takes up a fair bit of space, so wall-mounting might be the better option for smaller rooms. On the downside, its massive size means you’ll need a substantial wall or entertainment center to accommodate it.

Positives

The favorable aspects of this TV are undeniable, and here are a few highlights:

• Immersive viewing: The 98-inch 4K UHD display delivers theater-like visuals with stunning detail and color accuracy.
• Seamless motion: 120Hz Motion Xcelerator ensures fast-paced content is smooth and blur-free.
• Smart integrations: Built-in Alexa and Google Assistant make navigation and control effortless.
• Enhanced sound: The Q-Symphony technology synchronizes perfectly with soundbars for a more dynamic audio experience.

Areas of Concern

Of course, no product is flawless. Here are a few caveats I encountered:

• Size limitations: Its massive size might be overwhelming for smaller spaces or apartments.
• Setup challenges: The weight and dimensions make installation tricky, requiring at least two people.
• Speakers could be better: While Q-Symphony works great with soundbars, the built-in speakers lack depth.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to LG’s OLED EVO series or Sony’s Bravia XR lineup, some strengths and weaknesses become evident. The Samsung UN98DU9000FXZA shines in its massive screen size and AI-enhanced picture quality, offering a unique experience that outclasses many competitors in sheer scale. However, LG OLED models provide deeper blacks and slightly better color accuracy, especially in dark scenes. Sony, on the other hand, delivers superior audio quality out of the box, whereas Samsung relies heavily on external sound systems like soundbars to achieve optimal performance.

While Samsung’s Tizen OS is intuitive and packed with apps, LG’s WebOS and Sony’s Google TV offer similarly robust smart TV ecosystems. The choice between them might come down to personal preference, but Samsung’s Game Bar gives it an edge for gamers, with features like virtual aim points and customizable screen ratios.

Price Performance

Assessing the price-performance ratio, this TV justifies its cost if you’re looking for a cinematic experience at home. While it’s not cheap, the combination of a 98-inch display, AI-driven enhancements, and advanced features like Motion Xcelerator make it a worthy investment for those who want the absolute best in home entertainment. Other products in this price range might excel in niche areas, but few can match this TV’s all-around capabilities.

For budget-conscious buyers, taking the leap might feel steep. That said, the value proposition improves if you’re planning to use it for gaming, streaming, and movies all in one device. It’s essentially like bringing a movie theater into your home.

Verdict

Testing this TV felt like stepping into the future of home entertainment. Whether it’s the AI-enhanced picture quality, the vivid PurColor technology, or the seamless 120Hz motion, this product delivers in nearly every category. While it does have its shortcomings, like the speaker quality and installation challenges, the positives far outweigh any negatives.

If you’ve got the space and are ready for a genuinely immersive experience, this massive screen is worth considering.

Additional information