I was eyeing the 2018 model of this TV since I saw it at BJ's a month ago and I was in love. But after reading reviews about the narrow viewing angle, I had to go back and verify for myself. Sure enough, the colors were washed out if you viewed from anything more than 30 degrees off center. Samsung heard the criticisms and made the 2019 model nothing short of perfection. The picture quality is amazing from any angle. I can watch my shows from my kitchen, about 60 degrees off center and the picture remains consistent. Couple that with its 120Hz Native refresh rate, (240 Motion Rate) and you have a match made in heaven. My video games and movies are crystal clear with zero lag or blur, even during intense high-paced action scenes. I've noticed that you have to be very diligent in researching TVs, because manufacturers will jump through all types of hoops to give you an inflated number. No matter what 60Hz cannot produce a picture this smooth.
Picture: 5/5
The sound quality from the built-in speakers is good, but not quite as impressive as last year's model. Granted I only got to actually hear the 2018 model in the store, but even in that industrial warehouse of a store, the sound was what reeled me in. I'm not sure why, but the bass isn't quite as rich in this model. This doesn't really matter much to me though, seeing as how I almost exclusively use my Klipsch soundbar for audio. On that note I can say that there is no delay in the optical output audio vs the built-in speaker audio, like I noticed with my last Vizio TV. There is no annoying "echo" effect if I do happen to have both audio outputs active. Lastly, the built-in EQ customizations are top-notch and they should easily suffice for the casual viewer and even some audio streaming. I did find the "Optimized" EQ to be excellent at automatically tuning itself for Spotify music, then my video games and streaming shows on Hulu.
Audio: 4/5
As you can see from the photos, the design is gorgeous. The bezels are thin, so it's practically all screen and at 2.3 inches thick, it makes a beautiful addition to any home theater setup. It comes with a clip for power cable management that runs it along the foot and out of the way.
Design: 5/5
Samsung packed AirPlay, every major streaming service (Spotify, Netflix, Prime, Hulu, TIDAL, YouTube and many more), PlutoTV, Remote Desktop Control (with USB keyboard and mouse inputs), Screen Mirroring/Casting. I can't imagine needing anything else from my TV. It even has voice assistant, for those who are into that kind of thing :D
Features: 5/5
At this price point, you won't find a more solid package. If you're on the market for a feature-packed 55" well under $1,000 with a high NATIVE refresh rate, look no further. I'm thoroughly impressed and confident it will last me for many years.
| Brand Name | Samsung Electronics |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 40.3 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 9.3 x 43.4 x 27.6 inches |
| Item model number | UN49RU8000FXZA |
| Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required. |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color Name | TITAN GRAY |
| Speaker Type | 2CH |
| Item Weight | 40.3 Pounds |
| Standing screen display size | 49 Inches |
