If you're in the market for a new TV for the upcoming year, you might wonder where to start. With a plethora of technology, old and new, being touted as the best, and every brand claiming that their TVs are life-changing, it can be difficult to sift through the noise to find the essential details.
Currently, Samsung has the largest number of TVs available, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are the best choice for everyone. We've been comparing the best TV brands to determine which is truly the best for features like OLED, 8K, or Mini LED, as well as budget options and larger screens
Continue reading to see how Samsung and Hisense, which are often found in the mid-budget range, stack up against each other.
Samsung vs Hisense: Pricing
Samsung's TV lineup offers a wide range of models at varying price points. The budget-friendly options include the Q60A QLED series, while the mid-range offerings feature the Neo QLED lineup. Premium models such as the S95B OLED and The Terrace cater to those looking for high-end options. Samsung TVs have seen an increase in prices in recent years. For example, the high-end QN95C is available for $3,300 for the 65-inch version, scaling up to $5,800 for the 85-inch model.
Hisense offers a diverse selection of TVs at competitive prices, catering to various budget segments. The A6G 4K Android TV provides a budget-friendly option, while the mid-range Quantum ULED sets offer a balance of quality and affordability. Although Hisense doesn't have offerings in the high-end price range, its focus on value makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers. In 2024, Hisense continues to offer a wide range of TVs, including the entry-level H4F series, mid-range U6G Quantum series, and high-end U9DG Dual Cell 4K ULED Smart TV. They have also entered the Mini-LED market with the U8G series.
- Verdict: As a brand known for its more affordable options, Hisense has a lead over Samsung in the price realm. That said, it's pretty close, and Samsung does offer extras like its outdoor TV at the higher end of the price scale.
Samsung vs Hisense: Display technology
Samsung offers advanced TV display technology, including Neo QLED and OLED models. They recently released the S90C and S95D OLED TVs, which combine LG Display's OLED technology with Samsung's Quantum Dot and QD-OLED technologies. Samsung's Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs promise lifelike picture quality, premium audio, and a good selection of apps and services. The newest Neo QLED 8K features Samsung's latest TV processor, the NQ8 AI Gen3, which is twice as fast as its predecessor. Samsung has also introduced MicroLED technology for personalized screen design and AI enhancements for sharper, clearer, and more realistic viewing experiences.
Hisense's display technologies center around ULED and laser TVs, with limited availability of OLED models. Their ULED TVs deliver impressive performance and value, appealing to those who want high-quality display technology at a reasonable price. Hisense has introduced its Laser TVs and ULED X lineups, which include the 110-inch ULED X Mini-LED TV, promising superior brightness and contrast. The 90UX also offers a 5,000-nit display with over 10,000 dimming zones and a 144 Hz display for smooth gaming visuals.
- Verdict: Samsung has a single OLED offering but opts for its own QLED and Neo QLED technology. It also has more choices regarding 8K TVs, beating out Hisense's single TV. While Hisense does have OLED models, they are yet to become widely available in the US.
Samsung vs Hisense: Formats and operating systems
Samsung offers a variety of formats and operating systems across its range of smart TVs. The company is heavily invested in its Tizen smart TV platform, which provides a seamless and user-friendly interface for accessing apps, streaming services, and other smart features. Samsung's smart TVs also support voice assistant technology, with Alexa built-in on certain models. This lets users control their TV and smart home devices using voice commands. Samsung TVs are also compatible with Apple HomeKit, further integrating with Apple devices.
Hisense offers a variety of TV formats and operating systems to cater to different preferences. For instance, the Hisense R6G, U6GR Quantum ULED, and U800GR 8K ULED models run on Roku, providing a user-friendly interface for streaming content. Some Hisense TVs also operate on Android or Google TV, offering various apps and services.
- Verdict: Samsung users are locked into Tizen and Alexa if they don't have another smart speaker in the home, while Hisense users have a choice of three smart TV platforms (including the popular Google TV and Roku). Hisense also offers support for Apple HomeKit, though only on one model.
Samsung vs Hisense: Our verdict
- Winner: Hisense
Samsung offers more choices for consumers, but Hisense outperforms it in several areas. Those seeking a great deal on a larger TV should consider the latter brand, although Samsung does have some technologies like Neo QLED and its outdoor TV that Hisense lacks.
It's worth noting that Hisense has more OLED sets in its lineup, although they may not be available in all regions. The brand also offers slightly better smart home support and a greater variety of smart TV platforms for consumers to choose from.