Samsung S90C 55" (4K OLED) vs Sony A80L 65" (OLED)
The Verdict
Samsung's S90C delivers exceptional value with its QD-OLED panel producing 1300 nits peak brightness and 144Hz gaming support at 55 inches for $1599. Sony's A80L expands to 65 inches with superior Acoustic Surface Audio+ (dual subwoofers + actuators) and Dolby Vision support, though its WOLED panel peaks at 1000 nits and carries a $1999 price tag. Gaming performance favors Samsung with 6ms input lag versus Sony's 8ms, plus the S90C's higher refresh rate capabilities. Picture quality remains exceptional on both, but Samsung edges ahead in brightness and gaming responsiveness. Sony justifies its premium through larger screen real estate, enhanced audio architecture, and Google TV's superior interface. For gaming-focused enthusiasts prioritizing performance and value, Samsung's S90C is the stronger choice. Cinephiles and those seeking immersive audio with extra screen space should consider Sony's investment.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Samsung S90C 55" (4K OLED) if…
- →QD-OLED at $1,599 is the most affordable OLED with quantum dot color
- →Infinite contrast ratio with perfect black levels
- →144Hz with VRR — excellent for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming
Buy the Sony A80L 65" (OLED) if…
- →Sony's legendary image processing with XR Cognitive Processor is unmatched
- →Acoustic Surface Audio+ vibrates the screen as a speaker — immersive and unique
- →Superb motion handling makes it the best TV for film and sports content
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung S90C 55" (4K OLED)
Pros
- QD-OLED at $1,599 is the most affordable OLED with quantum dot color
- Infinite contrast ratio with perfect black levels
- 144Hz with VRR — excellent for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming
- Vivid, wide color gamut coverage exceeds traditional WOLED
- Ultra-slim panel at 0.4 inches looks stunning mounted
Cons
- 55-inch S90C uses a different (WOLED) panel in some regions — verify before buying
- No Dolby Vision support
- 40W audio is weaker than the S95C — soundbar recommended
- Wi-Fi 5 only on the 55-inch model
Sony A80L 65" (OLED)
Pros
- Sony's legendary image processing with XR Cognitive Processor is unmatched
- Acoustic Surface Audio+ vibrates the screen as a speaker — immersive and unique
- Superb motion handling makes it the best TV for film and sports content
- Google TV platform has the widest app selection of any smart TV OS
- Perfect blacks with no blooming — inherent OLED advantage
Cons
- Only 2 of 4 HDMI ports are HDMI 2.1 — limiting for multi-console setups
- Wi-Fi 5 in 2023 is a disappointing omission
- $1,999 is pricier than LG C3 and Samsung S90C at the same size
- Burn-in risk with OLED for static content use
Full Specifications
| Spec | Samsung S90C 55" (4K OLED) | Sony A80L 65" (OLED) |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ||
| VESA mount | 300 x 300mm | 300 x 300mm |
| Weight | 33.5 lbs | 44.1 lbs |
| Dimensions | 48.2 x 27.7 x 0.4 inches | 57.1 x 33.3 x 2.1 inches |
| Dimensions (w/ stand) | 48.2 x 30.2 x 9.3 inches | 57.1 x 35.0 x 11.8 inches |
| Audio | ||
| Output (watts) | 40 | 50 |
| Speakers | 2.1ch | Acoustic Surface Audio+ (2 actuators + 2 subwoofers) |
| Dolby Atmos | ||
| Gaming | ||
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | ||
| ALLM | ||
| Input lag (ms) | 6 | 8 |
| Display | ||
| HDR | Quantum HDR OLED, HDR10+, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG |
| Size | 55" | 65" |
| Type | QD-OLED | OLED (WOLED) |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) | 3840 x 2160 (4K) |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz (144Hz via Game Mode) | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1300 | 1000 |
| Smart TV | ||
| Os | Tizen OS | Google TV |
| Voice assistant | Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant | Google Assistant, Alexa (via Works with Alexa) |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Ethernet | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.0 |
| USB ports | 2 | 2 |
| HDMI ports | 4 | 4 |
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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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