Samsung S90F OLED 4K Smart TV in 2026: Prices, panel types, and performance explained

The headline

Samsung’s mid-range OLED from 2025, the S90F, is still dominating deal roundups and buyer shortlists in 2026. With aggressive pricing, a fast 144Hz panel, and Samsung’s NQ4 AI Gen3 processor, it remains a timely pick as new S90H models roll in. Here’s what’s new, what to watch out for with panel types, and where prices stand as of May 18, 2026. (rtings.com )

Key specs at a glance

• 4K OLED panel (QD‑OLED or WOLED depending on size/region); native 144Hz; four HDMI 2.1 ports with VRR/ALLM and FreeSync Premium Pro. (rtings.com )
• HDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG; no Dolby Vision. Dolby Atmos supported. (rtings.com )
• Processor: NQ4 AI Gen3 with 4K AI Upscaling Pro; Tizen 2025 (Tizen 9.0 UI). (images.samsung.com )
• Audio: built‑in 2.1‑channel system with eARC; Q‑Symphony with compatible Samsung soundbars. (bhphotovideo.com )

What’s new versus S90D

The S90F replaces 2024’s S90D, adding the NQ4 AI Gen3 processor and a 144Hz ceiling for gaming across all four HDMI 2.1 inputs. Reviewers also noted refinements to HDR accuracy and overall punch compared with S90D, alongside the same Samsung stance of omitting Dolby Vision in favor of HDR10+. (rtings.com )

The panel‑type twist: QD‑OLED vs WOLED by size

A key storyline around the S90F is the “panel lottery.” In North America, the 55‑, 65‑ and 77‑inch models (short code FXZA) use QD‑OLED, while the 42‑, 48‑ and 83‑inch variants (EXZA) use WOLED. Warehouse‑club versions (often labeled S90FD) mainly change the code and warranty, not the core spec. Internationally, availability of QD‑OLED vs WOLED varies by region and size; the 65‑inch is the most consistently QD‑OLED in the UK. If you want QD‑OLED’s typically higher color volume and gaming brightness, double‑check the model code before you buy. (rtings.com )

For shoppers eyeing a smaller screen, What Hi‑Fi’s 48‑inch review confirms that size uses a WOLED panel, with full gaming frills intact. (whathifi.com )

Picture performance

On a QD‑OLED S90F, blacks are inky and highlight detail pops, with vibrant, lifelike color. Reflection handling is solid, though in very bright rooms black levels can lift a touch, and the set lacks the flagship S95F’s advanced anti‑reflection treatment. As with all Samsung TVs, you won’t get Dolby Vision; HDR10+ dynamic metadata is the brand’s answer. (rtings.com )

WOLED sizes still deliver a punchy, enjoyable image for movies and sports, though they won’t match QD‑OLED’s color brightness. What Hi‑Fi’s 48‑inch test calls out rich, fun color with only mild over‑saturation and average audio. (whathifi.com )

Gaming chops

This is where the S90F really leans in. All four HDMI ports are 48Gbps 2.1 with 4K up to 144Hz, full VRR support, and ultra‑low input lag. Reviewers consistently praise its response time and gaming toolkit, including Samsung’s Gaming Hub. If you’re chasing 165Hz at 4K for PC, that remains a differentiator for the S95F—not the S90F—but 144Hz will satisfy nearly everyone. (techradar.com )

Smart platform and Vision AI

Samsung’s 2025 Tizen interface (Tizen 9.0) layers in the company’s Vision AI branding—AI‑enhanced upscaling, motion handling, and a redesigned remote with a dedicated Vision AI button for contextual search in Samsung TV Plus and live TV. Retail listings also highlight up to seven years of OS updates on 2025 sets, a notable longevity pledge for a TV platform. (techradar.com )

Sound and connectivity

Out of the box, the S90F’s 2.1‑channel speakers are serviceable but not standout; eARC is on board for a proper soundbar or AVR, and Samsung’s Q‑Symphony pairs the TV’s speakers with compatible bars. Expect Dolby Atmos support and HDR10/HDR10+/HLG video formats, but no Dolby Vision or DTS audio support. Also note the omission of an ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) tuner. (bhphotovideo.com )

Price and availability in 2026

• Launch: April 2025 in multiple sizes from 42 to 83 inches; positioned below the S95F and above the S85F. (techradar.com )
• Current listing: As of May 18, 2026, Samsung US lists the 55‑inch S90F at $1,099.99 (model QN55S90FAFXZA). Street prices fluctuate widely. (samsung.com )
• Big‑game deal context: Ahead of Super Bowl LVIII in January 2026, the 65‑inch S90F dropped to $1,399.99 at Samsung—matching its record low and underscoring persistent discounting through early 2026 as S90H arrives. (techradar.com )

How it compares

• Versus Samsung S95F: The S95F is brighter in SDR/HDR, supports 4K 165Hz for PC and has superior anti‑reflection, but it costs more. The S90F retains most gaming features and picture strengths for less. (rtings.com )
• Versus LG C5: These trade blows. LG’s mid‑ranger brings Dolby Vision (great for Xbox gamers) and higher SDR brightness in bright rooms, while the S90F’s QD‑OLED sizes offer richer color volume and excellent HDR gaming punch. Pricing often decides it. (rtings.com )

Buying advice in one minute

• Want QD‑OLED? In the US, choose 55, 65, or 77 inches (FXZA code). The 42, 48, and 83‑inch models (EXZA) are WOLED. Check the long model code and retailer listing before purchase. (rtings.com )
• Bright room? Consider the S95F for its stronger anti‑reflection; if you stick with S90F, plan controlled lighting. (rtings.com )
• Gamers: You get four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K/144Hz, VRR, and excellent response. Pair it with a next‑gen console or a high‑end PC and a capable soundbar via eARC. (techradar.com )
• Streamers: Tizen 2025 is fast and feature‑rich. The new Vision AI touches and the promise of long OS support are meaningful if you keep TVs for years. (techradar.com )

The bottom line

The Samsung S90F remains one of 2025’s best‑value OLEDs and a compelling buy in mid‑2026—especially at current sale prices. Just make sure you understand the panel type by size, accept Samsung’s no‑Dolby‑Vision stance, and budget for a soundbar. With those caveats, the S90F still looks like the sweet spot in Samsung’s OLED range as new S90H units begin replacing it on shelves. (rtings.com )