Is the Samsung OLED S90D Series (2024) Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Maybe—it's a good option if significantly discounted but lacks some newer tech features.
Is Samsung OLED S90D Series (2024) worth it? Is the Samsung OLED S90D Series (2024) worth it in 2026? For those hunting for high-quality displays at a lower price, this older model could be appealing. However, potential buyers should weigh its technological limitations against newer models available today. PageBen recommends considering how the lack of certain features impacts overall value before making a decision. The S90D Series offers premium specifications and features that still hold up well for many users, especially in terms of picture quality and gaming performance. Yet, as technology progresses, newer models come equipped with advanced capabilities and improved functionalities that might make this model feel outdated. Ultimately, your decision should heavily rely on pricing and your specific needs in a television.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
The Samsung OLED S90D Series presents a strong price-to-performance ratio when purchased at a significant discount compared to newer models. With 4K resolution and support for 144Hz refresh rates, it caters particularly well to gamers, offering an input lag of approximately 3 ms at 144Hz. This makes it a viable option for competitive gaming, as newer models may command higher prices for similar specs. However, the lack of Dolby Vision might turn away some cinephiles who prioritize HDR formats.
In 2026, the market will likely showcase models with better HDR support and enhanced features like improved smart interfaces, making the S90D feel somewhat dated. The Tizen OS might not compete with the streamlined interfaces of newer systems, which could impact user experience. Therefore, potential buyers should evaluate if the S90D's capabilities justify its price, particularly if newer models offer greater value at a similar cost.
The QD-OLED panels in the 55-77 inch models provide excellent color accuracy and brightness, with peak brightness around 1,200 nits for stunning visuals. However, the WOLED models (42/48/83 inches) offer significantly lower brightness levels (700-800 nits), which can detract from the viewing experience. If the S90D can be found at a lower price point, it could still represent good value, especially for those prioritizing color performance over the latest technologies.
Overall, the value proposition hinges on the price. If discounted significantly, the S90D can be an excellent investment for users looking for high-quality OLED performance, particularly in gaming. Conversely, if priced closely to newer models, it may not be justified, given the advancements in display technology since its release.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Exceptional Picture Quality
The Samsung OLED S90D Series delivers perfect black levels and infinite contrast, which significantly enhances the viewing experience for movies and games. This quality remains relevant in 2026, especially for users looking for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The QD-OLED models (55-77 inches) are particularly impressive, offering about 99% DCI-P3 color gamut, ensuring rich and accurate color reproduction that meets the demands of modern content.
For gamers, the 144Hz refresh rate combined with a low input lag of approximately 3 ms at 144Hz makes this TV an attractive choice. Its performance in high-paced gaming scenarios allows for smooth gameplay without noticeable delays, providing a competitive edge for serious gamers. Thus, even in 2026, if performance and picture quality are priorities, the S90D remains a strong contender.
2. Solid Gaming Features
The S90D Series is equipped with 4x HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K@144Hz, making it an ideal choice for PC gamers and next-gen console users. The inclusion of features like FreeSync Premium and G-SYNC compatibility ensures reduced screen tearing and enhanced visual fluidity, which are critical for competitive gaming. These features are still relevant in 2026, as high refresh rates continue to be sought after for an optimal gaming experience.
Moreover, the Auto Game Mode (ALLM) automatically adjusts the settings for the best gaming performance, catering to users who want a hassle-free setup. As gaming technology evolves, having a TV that can adapt quickly to gaming needs remains a valuable asset, thereby justifying the investment in the S90D Series.
3. Versatile Smart Features
The Samsung Tizen OS provides a robust platform for streaming and smart functionality, featuring support for major apps via the Samsung Smart Hub. With voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, users can enjoy hands-free control and integration into smart home ecosystems. This versatility is beneficial for consumers looking for a multi-functional entertainment hub in their living space.
While the interface can be cluttered with ads, the overall functionality allows for easy access to a wide range of content, making it suitable for families and casual viewers alike. This remains a strong selling point in 2026, as smart features are a significant aspect of modern TVs.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Lack of Dolby Vision Support
One major drawback of the Samsung OLED S90D is its lack of Dolby Vision support, which has become a standard feature in many premium TVs by 2026. Without this capability, users may miss out on the enhanced HDR experience that Dolby Vision provides, resulting in less dynamic range and color depth when watching compatible content. This limitation could particularly affect cinephiles who prioritize high-quality visual experiences and may lead them to consider newer models with broader HDR support.
Moreover, many newer TVs now offer improved HDR formats that enhance overall picture quality, making the S90D less appealing for those who want the best possible viewing experience. Therefore, for users who frequently consume HDR content, this lack of support could be a significant deterrent.
Outdated User Interface
The Tizen OS interface has been noted for being cluttered with ads and recommendations, which can detract from the user experience. As newer models come equipped with streamlined and more user-friendly interfaces, the S90D may feel less inviting to navigate. This could be especially frustrating for users who value quick and easy access to their favorite content.
Additionally, the aggressive Auto Brightness Limiter (ABL) can reduce brightness during bright scenes, which might not meet the expectations of users looking for consistent brightness and visual quality. As technology advances, user experience has become a higher priority, and the S90D's shortcomings in this area may push potential buyers towards more modern alternatives.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The resolution of 4K (3,840 x 2,160) in the Samsung OLED S90D Series remains competitive in 2026, as it is still the industry standard for premium TVs. However, newer models may offer enhancements in processing technology, such as improved upscaling and AI capabilities. The NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor does provide decent 4K AI upscaling using 20 neural networks, but advancements in AI processing since 2024 could make this feature feel less cutting-edge.
In terms of gaming, the S90D's full 4K @ 144Hz support across all four HDMI 2.1 ports is a notable strength, especially for PC gamers. With modern gaming consoles also supporting high refresh rates, the S90D positions itself well in this aspect. Nonetheless, if gaming is a primary use case, it's worth exploring newer models that may have further refined gaming features and technologies.
One limitation is the absence of Dolby Vision, as Samsung opted for HDR10+ instead. In 2026, Dolby Vision has become a prevalent standard in many premium TVs, which may limit the S90D's appeal for users who seek the best HDR experience. The HDR formats supported by the S90D (OLED HDR+, HDR10+, HLG) are good, but newer models may offer expanded HDR options that enhance the viewing experience.
The contrast ratio is infinite, thanks to the self-illuminating pixels of the OLED technology, ensuring perfect blacks and vibrant colors. While this remains a significant advantage, newer OLEDs may incorporate additional technologies that enhance brightness and color accuracy further, making them more appealing for users looking for the latest advancements.
Lastly, the audio features such as Dolby Atmos and Active Voice Amplifier Pro are solid for a TV of this age. However, the audio output power of 40 W may not satisfy audiophiles or those looking for a home theater experience. Newer models may offer enhanced audio technologies that could make a substantial difference in sound quality, which is another factor to consider when assessing overall value.
Compare with similar options:
Who Is This For?
The Samsung OLED S90D Series is best suited for gamers and casual viewers seeking a premium OLED experience without breaking the bank. With 144Hz refresh rate support and low input lag, it meets the needs of competitive gamers looking for a responsive display.
However, it may not be ideal for those who prioritize advanced HDR formats or a modern user interface. Users who consume a lot of HDR content or expect a streamlined smart TV experience may find more value in newer models that offer enhanced features and better performance in 2026.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You find the S90D at a significantly lower price point than newer models.
- •You prioritize gaming performance and value OLED picture quality.
- •You want a versatile smart TV with solid streaming capabilities.
✗ Skip if:
- •You require Dolby Vision support for the best HDR experience.
- •You prefer a more modern and user-friendly interface for streaming.
In conclusion, the Samsung OLED S90D Series (2024) can still be a worthwhile investment in 2026, especially if priced significantly lower than newer alternatives. Its strengths in picture quality and gaming performance make it appealing for specific audiences. However, buyers should be cautious of its limitations, particularly regarding HDR support and user interface. For the best deal, check current pricing on PageBen to ensure you make a well-informed decision.