The Samsung QLED QE65Q80R (QN65Q80R in North America) is a 2019 mid-range QLED TV that offers a compelling mix of features and performance. This 65-inch display targets viewers who prioritize excellent picture quality for everyday entertainment, especially HDR content. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths:

  • Impressive HDR Performance: The Q80R utilizes a direct-lit LED backlight with local dimming, enabling good black levels and improved contrast compared to edge-lit models. This results in a clear distinction between bright and dark areas, crucial for detailed HDR visuals.
  • Vibrant Colors and Wide Color Gamut: Samsung’s QLED technology delivers a wide color range, showcasing a rich and lifelike spectrum, especially noticeable in colorful content like nature documentaries or animated movies.
  • Upscaling Capabilities: The Q80R effectively upscales lower-resolution content to near-4K quality. This means you can enjoy older movies and TV shows with improved detail and sharpness.
  • Smooth Motion Handling: The Q80R boasts a 100Hz (or 120Hz in some regions) refresh rate for smoother motion handling, particularly beneficial for fast-paced action scenes or sports broadcasts.
  • Smart TV Features: The Q80R runs Samsung’s Tizen operating system, offering a user-friendly interface with access to popular streaming services, apps, and voice control capabilities.

Weaknesses:

  • Limited Dolby Vision Support: While the Q80R supports HDR10 and HDR10+, it lacks Dolby Vision compatibility. This might be a drawback for viewers who prefer Dolby Vision’s dynamic HDR format.
  • No Dolby Atmos: The Q80R doesn’t come with Dolby Atmos, a premium audio format that enhances spatial sound. This might be a concern for movie enthusiasts who prioritize immersive audio experiences.
  • Viewing Angles: The VA panel offers good picture quality from head-on, but contrast and colors can shift when viewed from wider angles. Consider seating arrangements for optimal viewing.
  • Not the Latest Model: Being a 2019 release, the Q80R may not have the most cutting-edge features compared to the latest offerings.

Overall:

The Samsung QLED QE65Q80R is a strong contender for those seeking a vibrant and immersive entertainment experience, particularly for HDR content. Its impressive color reproduction, good black levels, and upscaling capabilities make it ideal for various viewing scenarios. However, the lack of Dolby Vision and Atmos support, coupled with limitations in viewing angles, might be dealbreakers for some. Before purchasing, consider your priorities and compare this model with newer offerings to ensure it aligns with your needs.