Hisense A7N 65" vs Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD)
The Verdict
Hisense A7N delivers superior value at a larger 65-inch screen with QLED technology, offering significantly brighter 600-nit peak brightness versus Samsung's 350 nits, plus Dolby Vision HDR support and Dolby Atmos audio. Samsung CU8500 counters with slightly lower input lag (11ms vs 12ms) and a more refined Tizen OS experience, though its 55-inch VA LCD panel and weaker brightness make it less suitable for bright rooms. Both feature identical 20W 2.0ch audio and Wi-Fi 5 connectivity. At $449 for a 65-incher with superior HDR capabilities and brightness, the Hisense A7N provides exceptional value for mainstream viewing, especially in well-lit spaces. Samsung justifies its higher per-inch cost only if you prioritize Tizen's interface or need the smaller footprint. Choose Hisense A7N for best overall value and performance.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Hisense A7N 65" if…
- →65-inch QLED TV under $450 is incredible value
- →Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos decoding included
- →QLED color enhancement is visible vs basic LED at this price
Buy the Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) if…
- →Affordable 4K at $479 makes it one of Samsung's best budget options
- →Crystal Processor 4K handles decent upscaling for the price
- →Tizen OS provides a full smart TV platform with all major apps
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Hisense A7N 65"
Pros
- 65-inch QLED TV under $450 is incredible value
- Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos decoding included
- QLED color enhancement is visible vs basic LED at this price
- Alexa voice control built directly into the TV
- Two USB ports for media playback or recording
Cons
- VIDAA OS has fewer apps than Google TV or Tizen
- 60Hz panel with no VRR or gaming-oriented features
- 600-nit brightness is modest for a 65-inch TV
- Build quality is firmly budget — thin plastic housing
Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD)
Pros
- Affordable 4K at $479 makes it one of Samsung's best budget options
- Crystal Processor 4K handles decent upscaling for the price
- Tizen OS provides a full smart TV platform with all major apps
- HDR10+ support for compatible content
- Slim design with clean aesthetics for the price segment
Cons
- 60Hz panel — no 120Hz or VRR for gaming
- 350 nits brightness is too dim for convincing HDR
- 20W speakers are weak — external audio recommended
- Only 3 HDMI ports, none are HDMI 2.1
- No Dolby Atmos or Dolby Vision
Full Specifications
| Spec | Hisense A7N 65" | Samsung CU8500 55" (Crystal UHD) |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 300 x 300mm | 200 x 200mm |
| Weight | 33.1 lbs | 30.4 lbs |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 57.1 x 35.8 x 11.2 inches | 48.4 x 30.3 x 8.6 inches |
| Dimensions | — | 48.4 x 28.0 x 1.0 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 20 | 20 |
| Speakers | 2.0ch | 2.0ch |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 12 | 11 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG | HDR10+, HLG |
| Size | 65" | 55" |
| Type | QLED | Crystal UHD (VA LCD) |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) | 3840 x 2160 (4K) |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 600 | 350 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | VIDAA OS | Tizen OS |
| Voice assistant | Alexa built-in | Bixby, Alexa |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Hi-View Engine 4K | — |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| USB ports | 2 | 1 |
| HDMI ports | 3 | 3 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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