Samsung BU8500 Review: An excellent mid-range 4K TV

Mid-range televisions are an excellent option for those who want to have a quality model without having to spend as high as it happens with the high-end. Samsung has an extensive catalog, in fact, they have released new series for this year, which generates intrigue and interest, since in most cases they are equipment of acceptable quality, yes, they have slightly higher costs, but normally it is worth the investment. However, in this article we are going to analyze in detail what the Samsung BU8500 offers .

Exterior design

We find a better worked aesthetic, which allows us to enjoy a more complete design

Let’s start by analyzing the design offered by the Samsung UE65BU8500KXXC , which stands out for showing a different aspect to what we were used to seeing in this category until now. This is an added attraction considering that nowadays appearance is something important.

 

We must consider that we are talking about the 65-inch version that, due to its dimensions, is ideal for large rooms or halls. If we want to make the most of its aesthetics, we can acquire the VESA support, which allows a more precise placement regardless of the position.

Although our recommendation is to place it directly on the wall, in this way we obtain a more complete view of the front that stands out for delivering thin bezels, which offer a more elegant environment , in addition, they allow the useful space of the screen to be greater.

The rear offers a clean space where we do not have excessive thickness as is often seen in other models, so, in general, we receive a slim style . As if that were not enough, we noticed that they implement a construction with good materials, generating security for the television.

Connectivity

It includes three HDMI 2.0 inputs that are used to connect external devices and send their signal to the television. Normally we usually use consoles, computers and laptops. It also offers two USB 2.0 ports that allow both playback and recording of any content.

This television does not have a very extensive connector box, in fact, only the necessary connections are integrated, thus avoiding the excessive use of cables. If you want to know these connections you can check the specifications table where you can also find the compatible tuners.

The fact that they no longer include so many physical connectors is due to the improvement received by wireless connectivity that presents us with excellent options such as Wi-Fi Direct to connect to the Internet from a distance. Likewise, it allows us to make use of Bluetooth 5.2 , DLNA and Wireless Dex .

Image quality and general functions

The Samsung UE65BU8500 presents a pleasant image up to a certain point, since it does not achieve the quality of more powerful models, however, the included optimization allows a pleasant view of almost any content, although this is due to certain implemented configurations.

To begin with, we have a 4K resolution that, due to the power it offers, tries to show us scenes with more details, which reach a level of greater realism . Of course, the content must be native, since we have noticed that the scaling that it includes does not meet expectations.

Also consider that it has an Edge LED backlight that from our point of view does a regular job, since it has less uniformity in blacks, likewise, its Local Dimming does not offer much precision, therefore, there are difficulties in dark environments.

It really is a panel that does not offer benefits that affect image quality, however, it also offers VA that if it manages to improve certain aspects, for example, we notice a better experience in contrast and brightness, in addition, viewing dark scenes it is comfortable.

Despite being a mid – range television , we highlight that it offers a good number of improvements that work specifically on essential parameters such as color , contrast , brightness and saturation . Also note that it offers compatibility with HLG , HDR10 , HDR10 + and HDR 1000 .

Sound

It is possibly the least attractive, since we only have two integrated speakers with the classic 20W power that we continue to see in most mid-range televisions. We are not saying that it is lousy audio, however, it lacks power in demanding content.

However, it includes technologies such as Adaptive Sound , Dolby Digital Plus and OTS Lite that improve the quality a bit, generating a more immersive and precise environment. However, we find it more appropriate to acquire an external sound system that gives us the required power.

Software analysis / Smart TV and notable features

It offers a well-optimized operating system that ensures effective access to all its functions.

Among the most striking features of the Samsung UE65BU8500KXXC is that it includes the most recent version of Tizen , a system created exclusively for these televisions, which is based on Linux, therefore, we enjoy excellent optimization and security when accessing its functions.

It should be noted that it has a complete application store that offers both old and current options, in addition, we can download music, movies and games for greater enjoyment. It also works with Google Assistant , Alexa and Bixby for powerful voice control.

We find exclusive functions that improve the TV experience, although its main attraction is that it works with Apple AirPlay 2 that allows us to transmit all kinds of content from an iPhone, iPad or Mac. Finally, this model offers a good response when playing.

Samsung BU8500: Pros and Cons

PROS:

• Modern design
• connectivity
• acceptable image
• enhancement features
• Operating system
• voice control
• exclusive features

CONS:

• Backlight
• scaled
• speaker power

 

Specifications: