Last year the UN55D8000 was considered one of the best 55-inch HDTVs ever, time for a check if the Samsung UN55ES8000 can fulfil the high expectations put in the new top model. The most obvious change you spot on first sight is the new design and stand. An almost edgeless display, even slimmer than the 2011 version. It looks far more futuristic and although 55-inch is really big, it’s still elegant. Nice changes overall, but even more interesting: What’s inside?
Let’s first have a look at the 3 high end model series this year to see what makes the ES8000 unique. As you can see on the chart below, there aren’t many differences, but rather dramatic ones.
As you can see, there are different types of micro dimming, often also referred to as local or precision dimming. It means that the TV isn’t lit from the edge only, but there are several dimming zones acress the screen. The more and the smaller those zones, the better the black levels and overall image quality. Only the ES8000 comes with the “ultimate” feature and after having a look at the other models available, I can assure this isn’t just marketing talk. The difference is slight, but visible.
This leads us to the Clear Motion Rate 960. The TV does not have 960Hz, it’s only 240hz, but the CMR 960 takes into account the image processor speed and backlight technology as well. While this is some kind of value created by Samsung and no real industry standard, CMR 960 still means that the UN55ES8000 can display fast-moving images better and clearer than a TV with a lower CMR value.
Last but not least, Samsung finally decided to add 4 pairs of active shutter 3D glasses to the package, they are included for free, a wise decision since LG and their passive 3D technology are becoming more and more popular, one reason is the really cheap passive 3D glasses. In earlier years, you had to invest several hundred dollars on top just for the glasses, these times are gone for good. Thanks, Samsung!
The price is far from really cheap, but when looking at the overall value for money, it’s reasonable. We recommend getting it from Amazon, they are offering the Samsung UN55ES8000 with the popular low price guarantee as well as free shipping and free 30 day returns. Nice deal, even after checking several price comparision websites, we didn’t find it cheaper anywhere else.