Imagine switching your gaming monitor for a huge OLED TV and feeling like you’ve stepped directly into the game. That’s the experience I had with the Samsung S90D. As a tech journalist of 25 years, I’ve seen it all, but this TV truly changed my perspective on console gaming. It offers a cinematic experience that most monitors just can’t match, blending stunning visuals with high-end performance. But is it the right choice for every gamer?
The Visual Leap from a Monitor to an OLED TV
The first thing you notice is the picture quality. The jump from a standard 4K monitor to the Samsung S90D OLED TV is genuinely shocking. This 2024 model uses its OLED panel to create perfect blacks and incredibly vibrant colors, which makes every game world feel more alive and immersive.
When I played Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the game’s unique, painted art style popped off the screen. The deep shadows and bright hues created a level of depth my old monitor couldn’t replicate. While my monitor was great for fast-paced action, it lacked the visual punch that makes you feel fully absorbed in the game. The S90D makes colors explode and waves crash with breathtaking realism.
This isn’t just my opinion. Tech review sites like RTINGS have praised the TV’s capabilities, measuring its peak brightness at an impressive 1,187 nits in HDR mode. This means you get a brilliant picture even in a well-lit room.
Another fantastic feature is the anti-glare coating. My living room gets a lot of sunlight, but reflections were almost non-existent. This allowed me to stay focused on the game without any annoying distractions, a common problem with glossy screens.
Why the Samsung S90D is a Gamer’s Dream
Beyond its beautiful display, the S90D is packed with features specifically for gamers. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about playing well. The TV supports a 4K resolution at up to a 144Hz refresh rate, resulting in incredibly smooth motion that is perfect for fast-paced games.
The input lag is also remarkably low. Lab tests show an input lag of just 9.2 milliseconds, which means the time between pressing a button and seeing the action on screen is almost instant. This responsiveness is crucial for any serious gamer. I felt this immediately in games like Returnal, where dodging a storm of colorful bullets felt fluid and precise. The TV’s quick response times and infinite contrast ratio also made horror games like Alan Wake 2 feel much more intense and terrifying.
Here is a quick look at the key gaming specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
| Refresh Rate | Up to 144Hz |
| Peak Brightness | 1,187 nits (HDR) |
| Ports | 4x HDMI 2.1 |
| Input Lag | 9.2ms |
These features make it an ideal companion for modern consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, which can take full advantage of the high refresh rates and HDR capabilities.
Is a Bigger Screen Always Better for Gaming?
Switching to a 55-inch screen fundamentally changed my gaming habits for the better. I moved from hunching over a desk to lounging comfortably on my couch. This created a more relaxed and cozy gaming environment in my bedroom, making long sessions much more enjoyable.
The larger screen also enhances social gaming. When friends came over to play co-op games like It Takes Two, the experience felt more like a shared movie night. One friend even commented that it was like playing in a private theater. The TV also includes Samsung’s Gaming Hub, which allows you to stream games from services like Xbox Cloud Gaming without needing a console.
This trend is growing. A 2024 survey from the Consumer Technology Association found that 40% of households now use their TVs for gaming. However, a large screen isn’t for everyone. If you have a small room, a 55-inch TV might feel overwhelming, so it’s important to measure your space before buying.
When a Gaming Monitor Still Has the Edge
Despite my love for the S90D, I have to admit that gaming monitors still reign supreme in certain situations. For highly competitive esports titles, a dedicated monitor often provides a slight advantage that can make all the difference.
My BenQ Mobiuz monitor, for example, is my go-to for games like Counter-Strike 2. Monitors often offer features tailored to competitive play that TVs lack.
- Higher Refresh Rates: Top-tier monitors can reach refresh rates of 360Hz or more, offering even smoother motion than the S90D’s 144Hz.
- Faster Response Times: The best gaming monitors boast response times as low as 0.03ms, while the S90D ranges from 1ms to 5ms. This can make a difference in fighting games like Street Fighter 6, where precise combos are key.
- Smaller Size for Focus: A 2023 report from Esports Insider noted that 70% of professional players prefer monitors under 32 inches to keep the entire screen within their field of view.
For players who need every possible millisecond of advantage, a high-end gaming monitor is still the best choice. But for immersive, story-driven single-player games, the cinematic scale of the S90D is unbeatable.
Breaking Down the Cost and Value
Price is always a factor, and the 55-inch Samsung S90D typically starts around $1,300. While this is a significant investment, it’s important to consider the value it provides. You are getting premium OLED technology and top-tier gaming features for what is considered a mid-range price in the OLED market.
Furthermore, frequent sales can often bring the price down, making it an even more attractive deal. When you consider that this TV can also serve as the central hub for all your entertainment, from streaming movies to playing games, its value becomes even clearer. It bridges the gap between a high-performance gaming display and a high-quality entertainment device.
Final Thoughts: Is the S90D Worth It for You?
After spending weeks gaming on the Samsung S90D, I can confidently say it has transformed my playing experience. It combines the stunning visual fidelity of an OLED panel with the speed and responsiveness required for modern gaming. It proves that a TV can deliver a premium gaming experience that rivals even high-end monitors.
The choice ultimately depends on your priorities. If you are a competitive esports player, a specialized monitor might still be the way to go. But if you primarily play story-driven adventures and want to feel completely immersed in new worlds, the Samsung S90D is an absolutely fantastic choice that brings joy and cinematic flair to every gaming session.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gaming on an OLED TV
Is the Samsung S90D good for PS5 and Xbox Series X?
Yes, it’s an excellent choice. With four HDMI 2.1 ports, it supports 4K gaming at high refresh rates (up to 144Hz), which is perfect for getting the most out of the latest consoles.
Can an OLED TV replace a gaming monitor for competitive gaming?
For most players, yes. However, professional and highly competitive gamers may still prefer monitors for their slightly faster response times and higher refresh rate options.
What is the input lag on the Samsung S90D?
The input lag is extremely low, measured at around 9.2 milliseconds in Game Mode. This ensures a very responsive feel, where your controller inputs feel instant.
How does the S90D handle reflections in a bright room?
It handles them very well. The TV features an effective anti-glare coating that significantly reduces reflections, making it great for gaming in rooms with a lot of natural light.
Is a 55-inch TV too big for gaming?
This depends on your room size and viewing distance. For an average-sized living room or bedroom, a 55-inch screen provides a wonderfully immersive experience without being overwhelming.
