When looking at the best Samsung TVs currently available, you may have trouble understanding the differences between the Samsung QN90B and the Samsung QN85B.
Sometimes it’s easy to understand the differences between “TV Reach A” and “TV Reach B”. They might use different technologies, they might have specification differences, they might have different features, there might be a big difference in the asking price.
But what if the differences aren’t that obvious? What if “A” and “B” are both from the same manufacturer, both are specified similarly, both use the same technology, and both have very similar feature sets? How are you supposed to know which one is best for you?
This is the situation with the Samsung QN90B and Samsung QN85B. Both feature mini-LED technology, which Samsung likes to call “Neo QLED”. They look pretty much identical to physical objects. They have many specification similarities.
So let’s take a look at the differences and see if we can’t determine which one is a better fit for your needs – and don’t forget to read our full Samsung QN85B review for additional in-depth information on this model.
Samsung QN90B vs. Samsung QN85B: prices and sizes
Of course, Samsung wants these models to appeal to as many people as possible, and as such they come in a variety of screen sizes. But – and we can’t stress this enough – it’s important to buy a TV that’s right for your viewing area. Just because you can afford a bigger TV doesn’t mean you should necessarily get one. Unless you want to feel intimidated by your own TV. Likewise, buy a TV that’s too small and you’ll feel underpaid almost immediately.
The Samsung QN85B is available in four different sizes. It officially costs £1,399/$1,299 for a 55-inch screen, £2,199/$1,799 for a 65-inch model, £3,299/$2,299 for the 75-inch version and £4,699/$3,299 for the 85 -inch screen.
The QN90B, on the other hand, is available in six different sizes. It starts with a 43-inch screen for £1,099/$1,199, the 50-inch alternative is £1,199/$1,599, the 55-inch model is £1,499/$1,599, a 65-inch version is £2,299 £/$2,299, there’s a 75-inch screen that costs £3,499/$2,999, while the 85-inch Whopper costs £5,199/$3,799.
Aside from a) the alarmingly high prices for UK customers compared to their American counterparts and b) some localized pricing weirdness (a 50-inch version of the QB90B costs the same as the 55-inch version in the US ?), the most obvious takeaway is that there really isn’t much choice in terms of pricing – although we’re already seeing discounts on Samsung’s 2022 TVs, so keep an eye out for the latest prices, which will slightly alter that balance.
But in general, unless you want a 43-inch or 50-inch screen, we’ll have to find more compelling reasons to make a choice between the two sets than prices.
Samsung QN90B vs Samsung QN85B: Design
The similarities keep coming back when you look at the TVs. These are both Neo-QLED models, meaning they use a mini-LED backlight with a Quantum Dot panel, and they both share the same design – Samsung calls it a “slim design,” and if a TV is only 27 mm deep (and consistent with that) it’s hard to argue with the description.
Put them side by side and you would have a very hard time guessing the difference between them. The QN85B has silver trim and a slightly chunkier stand design, while the QN90B is all black with a curvier stand shape, but that’s about it.
Both are compatible with Samsung’s “Slim Fit” wall mount, and if you don’t like that option, both come with a central base that makes them useful in terms of the size of the surface they’re standing on.
Samsung QN90B vs. Samsung QN85B: Screen and Sound
They use the same Neo Quantum Processor 4K image processing engine. Both are compatible with Samsung’s ‘Q Symphony’ range of soundbars (which allow the TV’s audio system to continue contributing even when a soundbar is connected). Both come with a pair of remote controls – a nice solar powered alternative and a nastier battery powered alternative.
What exactly are the differences? Can it really just be ‘+5’ in the model numbers?
Well, no – not quite. The QN85B and QN90B are more similar than different, but there are worthwhile differences. You just have to search (pretty hard) for them.
peak brightness is one. One of Mini-LED’s main selling points is its relative brightness compared to more traditional backlit LED screens or the best OLED TVs, but the QN85B is rated at HDR1500 (which basically means the screen can deliver 1500 nits of peak brightness). The QN90B, on the other hand, is rated HDR2000 by Samsung (which means – you guessed it – 2000 nits of peak brightness). So if you’re looking to cure cataracts, you’ll know which model is best for you – although the 50-inch and 43-inch models are both only rated for HDR1500.
The QN85B has what Samsung describes as “wide viewing angles” (and if you read our review, you’ll know that we’re impressed with how consistent the QN85B’s image remains, even when it’s significantly off-axis). However, the QN90B has an “ultra viewing angle” that’s even wider – and an “anti-reflective screen” that’s said to improve clarity in bright rooms.
Well, all but the 43-inch QN90B anyway – the smallest screen has to make do with a normal “wide viewing angle”. And the 43-inch QN90B dispenses with “anti-reflective” screen technology.
All of this means the QN90B should be more visible in bright rooms during the day – the extra brightness and anti-glare screen means you’re less likely to see yourself instead of the picture.
There are also differences in the audio systems. Both ranges can handle Dolby Atmos soundtracks, and both ranges have a couple of upward-firing speaker drivers to try and deliver a touch of spatial audio. The QN85B has a total of six drivers in a 2.2.2 arrangement – two to the front, two to the side and two to the top. The QN90B features eight drivers in a 4.2.2 array, four firing forward, two firing sideways, and two firing upwards.
Well, all QN90B models have this, except for the 43-inch model, which only has stereo sound. There’s a pattern emerging with the 43QN90B, isn’t there?
Samsung QN90B vs Samsung QN85B: Gaming
There really isn’t anything to choose from here – at least not if you’re planning on taking your game radically off-axis.
Both ranges support all the clever features of your next generation gaming console with HDMI 2.1 support on all four connections: 4K 120Hz, ALLM, VRR, Freesync Premium Pro and so on.
And both come with Samsung’s Game Bar and Super Ultra-Wide Game View features if you want to use them as full-fledged gaming monitors.
Samsung QN90B vs Samsung QN85B: Verdict
The relative prices suggest there might not be too much to choose between these two model ranges and it proves it.
Your requirements have to be pretty specific for the QN90B to be compelling over the QN85B if there’s a significant price saving to be had – unless availability of a smaller screen size is a factor (and let’s be honest, the 43-inch QN90B seems to be it). more like a QN80B based on its specs anyway).
There are improvements in buying the QN90B, no question. When the QN90B’s extra peak brightness and anti-reflective coating improve the visibility of reflections in your living room, it’s worth it. The two additional drivers as part of the integrated audio system also make a difference. And if you need something to have the family sitting at side angles while watching, the QN90B might be a better option.
For most people – whether you’re looking for the best gaming TV or just the best 4K TV for you in general – the close match of specs and technology means it’s probably the smart move to splurge on the QN85B to save.