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To try to better understand how long a TV should last, we're running 100 TVs through an accelerated longevity test for the next two years. We've just posted our 1-year video update with our latest findings on temporary image retention, burn-in, and more!

Samsung F8500 TV Review

Tested using Methodology v0.8
Reviewed Oct 25, 2013 at 12:00 am
8.9
Mixed Usage
Value for price beaten by
: Not at the latest test bench

The Samsung F8500 is the brightest plasma TV ever, and is even able to challenge some LEDs. While its blacks don't beat plasmas from Panasonic (like the ST60), they are still very good. The only downside is the anti-glare filter produces some slight horizontal dark lines.

Our Verdict

8.9 Mixed Usage

Without a doubt, Samsung has created the best plasma TV for use in bright rooms. The Samsung F8500 Plasma TV can get almost twice as bright as the competitors while still maintaining a respectable black. There is pretty much no downside to this TV. If it is within your budget, it is a no-brainer.

Pros
  • Brighter than any plasma. It is the only plasma that can be put in a bright room.
  • Good anti-glare filter with very few reflections.
  • Low input lag.
Cons
  • Although its blacks are good, they aren't as good as in equivalent models from Panasonic.
  • 8.9 Mixed Usage
  1. Updated Oct 25, 2013: Review published.
  2. Updated Oct 23, 2013: Our testers have started testing this product.
  3. Updated Apr 15, 2013: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.

Test Results

Design
Design
Borders

1.26" (3.2 cm)

Design
Thickness

1.69" (4.3 cm)

Picture Quality
8.3
Picture Quality
Dark scene
Black 0.032 cd/m²
White 103.5 cd/m²
Contrast 3,324 : 1

The F8500 has deep blacks and good detail in the shadows. However, it is about the same as the lower-end models from Samsung. Also, the Panasonic ST60 performs slightly better in a dark environment for a significantly lower price.

10
Picture Quality
Uniformity

The uniformity is perfect.

10
Picture Quality
Dark scene in a bright room
Reflection 0.9%

Not only does it have very few reflections thanks to its anti glare filter, but it can get very bright. This is definitely the best plasma to have in a bright room. It has a subtle blue tint and some minor horizontal bars visible, though.

6.5
Picture Quality
Bright scene in a bright room
Max white 185.2 cd/m²

The F8500 is capable in any type of room.

9.7
Picture Quality
Viewing angle
Viewing angle 70°

The horizontal viewing angle is really good, but its vertical one is limited by its anti glare filter to about 30°.

Picture Quality
Pixels
4k No
Motion
9.0
Motion
Motion blur

There is no noticeable motion blur or judder.

Inputs
8.4
Inputs
Input lag
Input lag 37.5 ms

When setting the input type to PC, the input lag of the F8500 is very low.

Additional Details.

Inputs
Side inputs

4 HDMI
3 USB
1 Digital Audio Out (Optical)

Inputs
Rear inputs

1 Ethernet
1 RF In
1 Composite In
1 Component In

Smart Features
Smart Features
Remote