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Samsung F5500 Plasma TV Review

Tested using Methodology v0.8
Reviewed Aug 30, 2013 at 12:00 am
7.6
Mixed Usage
Value for price beaten by
: Not at the latest test bench
This TV has been discontinued.

The Samsung F5500 Plasma TV has the same panel as the F5300, but comes packed with more features. It adds 3D and Samsung's Smart TV interface. The screen still reflects a lot of light, so you will need a dark viewing environment to enjoy it.

Our Verdict

7.6 Mixed Usage

The Samsung F5500 Plasma TV has the same picture quality as the lower F5300 model. This means very good picture quality in a dark environment, but a washed out picture when the lights are turned on. Unlike the F5300, though, this TV has a smart TV interface, as well as 3D.

Pros
  • Good contrast ratio.
  • Good motion handling.
Cons
  • Reflects a lot of light. The screen appears grayish when the lights are on.
  • Average input lag.
  • 7.6 Mixed Usage
  1. Updated Aug 30, 2013: Review published.
  2. Updated Aug 28, 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

1.3" (3.3 cm)

Design
Thickness

2.05" (5.2 cm)

Picture Quality
7.8
Picture Quality
Dark scene
Black 0.039 cd/m²
White 93.3 cd/m²
Contrast 2,392 : 1

When you turn off the lights, the Samsung F5500 plasma is a solid performer.

10
Picture Quality
Uniformity

The screen uniformity is perfect.

5.5
Picture Quality
Dark scene in a bright room
Reflection 4.2%

As with the F5300, you can't really watch this TV in a bright room. It reflects too much light. You will be better off with the Samsung F8500 if your viewing environment is bright.

5.1
Picture Quality
Bright scene in a bright room
Max white 93.3 cd/m²

Though it can get brighter than the Panasonic S60, it also has more reflections.

9.7
Picture Quality
Viewing angle
Viewing angle 70°

It has a great viewing angle.

Picture Quality
Pixels
4k No
Motion
8.0
Motion
Motion blur

The F5500 handles motion well and also supports 24p playback.

Inputs
7.1
Inputs
Input lag
Input lag 54.2 ms

The input lag is average.

Inputs
Side inputs

3 HDMI
2 USB

Inputs
Rear inputs

1 Component In
1 Composite In
1 RF In
1 Ethernet
1 Digital Audio Out (Optical)

Smart Features
Smart Features
Remote