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Samsung BU8505 Review: Mid-range TV with a high-end vibe

Samsung BU8505
Samsung BU8505
Tech Week Score
Tech Week Score

Samsung ‘s mid-range has been surprising us since last year, since they have been releasing new models more regularly and each television is designed to cover the different needs that a user may have. This year has not been different and we have witnessed the birth of very interesting equipment that has left good experiences to the people who have already acquired it. Today we will talk about the Samsung BU8505 that we believe has a good value for money, although we are going to analyze it in more detail.

Exterior design of the Samsung BU8505

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It can be considered a positive point, since it has an attractive design that combines the details it implements quite well.

It is difficult for this firm to present ugly designs, in fact, it already seems like a flagship for the good designs that we have seen in the different ranges, obviously the Samsung UE43BU8505KXXC is not far behind and continues to show a striking aesthetic that integrates into any environment.

We must bear in mind that it has a size of 43 inches, thus being the smallest version, therefore, it easily fits in rooms of different dimensions . In case you want an easier placement, the best option will be to acquire the VESA support.

So we can install it directly on the wall to get more out of the front that seems to us the most remarkable thanks to the thin bezels it offers, which in combination with a completely black chassis provide an elegant appearance that enhances the presence .

Unlike other models, the rear part will not be a problem, since we find a less voluminous space that allows us to enjoy a better elaboration . As the only negative point, we note that the construction is a bit weak, but it does not bother too much.

connectivity

It allows the use of three HDMI 2.0 inputs that usually provide good performance when connecting consoles, computers and laptops, in addition, it includes the ALLM and eARC functions that improve the experience. It also includes two USB 2.0 ports that are used to play and record content.

Other useful physical connections include the Ethernet port , optical audio output , satellite input , and antenna . By the way, it presents compatibility with second-generation DVB-T2/C/S2 , television tuners that allow a more complete channel scan.

The wireless theme is well covered with options that are sometimes not even seen in the high range. Here we find a Wi-Fi Direct connection to connect to the internet from a distance. Without a doubt, the most interesting thing is its Bluetooth 5.2, which improves a lot due to the included version.

Image quality and functions in general of the Samsung BU8505

The Samsung UE43BU8505 offers a 4K resolution that provides four times more quality than Full HD, therefore, we will see more precise details, which seek to show realistic scenes, although due to the Edge LED backlighting the quality ends up going down in general.

This is because local dimming is low, which results in inaccurate lighting that suffers in very dark or bright environments. Also consider that the black level is a bit bad, therefore, there will not be as much purity as in superior panels.

The good thing is that it includes VA and IPS that together greatly improve the image, since there will be better levels in terms of contrast and brightness, in addition, light leaks from the sides are minimal. Another important benefit is that the viewing angles improve and the quality too.

To continue improving the image, they implement interesting enhancement technologies such as Contrast Enhancer , Dynamic Crystal Color and LED Clear Motion . There will be more options, but they usually do a similar job, so it’s not worth talking about them, but the quality improves a lot.

To everything already mentioned, add compatibility with HDR10 , HDR10+ and HLG , formats that work in essential parameters, yes, the content must be compatible otherwise we will not notice any improvement. For more fluid movements, it integrates Motion Xcelerator .

Sound

It only includes two speakers that provide a total power of 20W , something totally normal within the mid-range, yes, the content currently seems to require a little more quality so that there are no problems as it can happen with what this television offers .

The good thing is that they implement technologies such as Adaptive Sound , Dolby Digital Plus and Q-Symphony that provide an immersive and precise experience. However, there is still a bit left to owe, so the best option ends up being to buy an external sound system.

Analysis of the software / Smart TV and more notable features

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Thanks to the system that it includes we can enjoy a better experience in terms of entertainment

Another attraction of the Samsung BU8505 is that it works with Tizen, a Linux-based system that has the advantages of optimization and security, in addition, everything is organized so that navigation is more intuitive, so we can easily access the functions.

It has an extensive app store that has the most popular entertainment options, likewise, it allows voice control thanks to Google Assistant , Alexa and Bixby . Thanks to Apple AirPlay 2 we can transmit music, photos and videos from an iPhone, iPad or Mac.

It is a system that includes several exclusive functions that try to improve the user experience, as if that were not enough, it offers features for gaming, obviously the experience will not be incredible, but it does improve, especially if we compare it with some models.

Samsung BU8505: Pros and Cons

PROS:

  • Design
  • connectivity
  • acceptable image
  • enhancement features
  • System
  • voice control
  • Apple Air Play
  • Exclusive Features
  • Price

CONS:

  • Backlight
  • Frequency
  • Sound

Specifications:

Make model Samsung UE43BU8505
Size 43″ (108cm)
Resolution 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels)
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Frequency 2,200Hz PQI
Backlight EdgeLED
SmartTV yes tizen
Integrated Wi-Fi Yes
Bluetooth Yes
3D Nope
usb recorder Yes
tuners
  • Analog (NTSC/PAL/SECAM)
  • DVB-T2
  • DVB-C
  • DVB-S2
Sound
  • 2 x 10W (watts)
  • 2.0CH
  • Adaptive Sound
  • Dolby Digital Plus
  • OTS-Lite
  • Q Symphony
Dimensions without stand (Height x Width x Depth) 560.3 x 966.3 x 25.7mm
Dimensions with stand (Height x Width x Depth) 624.1 x 966.3 x 187.6mm
Weight (Without / With stand) 8.4kg / 9kg
VESA compatibility Yes, 200 x 200mm
HDMI ports 3
USB ports two
other connectors
  • dlna
  • EthernetRJ45
  • Satellite input (F-type female)
  • optical audio output
  • Antenna (RF) (female)
IC+ Integrated Yes, v1.4
energy class Category G
Content / Accessories
  • Remote control
  • batteries
  • current cable
  • user’s Guide

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