SAMSUNG Q60C vs SAMSUNG 8 Series: Is the 2023 QLED Technology Worth the Upgrade Over 2018's UHD Experience?

Competitive_Tax

New member
When it comes to choosing a TV, many buyers are faced with a crucial decision: stick with the reliable SAMSUNG Q60C or step it up to the more premium SAMSUNG 8 Series? Both promise immersive viewing experiences, but how do they stack up in the real world?

The Q60C touts its cutting-edge Quantum Dot technology, claiming to deliver 100% color volume and vibrant images at any brightness. It sounds appealing, especially for those who watch in brighter rooms. On the other hand, the 8 Series leans heavily on HDR Plus and its Ultra Slim Array, aiming to provide that cinematic experience with deep blacks and bright whites—perfect for movie nights in the dark.

But what about color accuracy? While the Q60C offers a billion shades, the 8 Series emphasizes its Dynamic Crystal Color, suggesting that it can capture hues that the Q60C might miss.

In this comparison, we’ll dive into whether the Q60C's broad color volume truly stands up against the 8 Series' precise HDR capabilities, and if the extra investment in the 8 Series translates to a significantly better viewing experience. Let’s find out which TV deserves a spot in your living room.

Specs Comparison​

Basic​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
Picture​
SAMSUNGQ60CTV.jpg
SAMSUNG8SeriesTV.jpg
Screen Size​
55 Inches​
81.5 Inches​
Reference Price​
$687.95​
-​
Model Year​
2023​
2018​
Operating System​
Tizen​
Tizen​
Internet Applications​
Apple TV+, Samsung TV Plus, Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, Xbox, Nvidia GeForce NOW, ESPN and Max​
netflix, Amazon Instant Video​
Remote Control​
-​
Bluetooth​
Controller Type​
Remote Control​
smartthings​
Control Method​
Remote​
Voice​
Highlight​
100% COLOR VOLUME W/ QUANTUM DOT: Take in a billion shades of unwavering color and enjoy vivid, lifelike color at any brightness level as Quantum Dot technology works to create every shade you see on screen*
QUANTUM PROCESSOR LITE W/ 4K UPSCALING: See shows and movies in a whole new light with 4K optimization; Enjoy enhanced clarity and depth in every scene as our Quantum Processor Lite with 4K Upscaling automatically transforms everything you
DUAL LED: Don’t call it temperamental; You’ll enjoy beautifully balanced colors with dedicated warm and cool Dual LED backlights. Get stronger and accurate contrast with innovative technology that adapts automatically to match your content
HDR Plus: See movies and shows just as the director intended in stunning high dynamic range.
Ultra Slim Array: The Ultra Slim Array dynamically fine tunes the deepness of the blacks, to the brightness of the whites, for a picture with sensational contrast.
Dynamic Crystal Color: Discover an expanded world of colors where millions of shades HDTVs can’t replicate make all the difference.*

Display​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
Aspect Ratio​
16:9​
16:9​
Display Technology​
QLED​
LED​
Screen Finish​
Flat​
Flat​
Has Color Screen​
-​
Yes​
Resolution​
4K​
4K​
Refresh Rate​
60 Hz​
240 Hz​
HDR Format​
Quantum HDR​
HDR10​
Picture Enhancement​
HDR10+, Quantum HDR​
Advanced HDR, Wide Color Gamut, Motion Handling​
Motion Enhancement​
Motion Xcelerator​
Motion Rate 240​
Video Encoding​
HEVC (H.265)​
H.264 or H.265 (HEVC)​
Signal Format​
digital (HDMI, Wi-Fi)​
digital, analog​

Features​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
Audio Channels​
2​
2.0​
Audio Output​
Surround​
-​
Audio Input​
HDMI, USB​
HDMI, USB​
Speaker Description​
Object Tracking Sound Lite, Q-Symphony 3.0​
40 watts (per speaker, assuming two speakers)​
Surround Sound​
-​
Dolby Digital Plus​
Tuner Type​
ATSC​
Analog Tuner, DTV Tuner​
Voltage​
120 Volts​
-​
Line Voltage​
100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz​
100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz​
Connectivity Technology​
wired, wireless​
Wi-Fi, HDMI
Wireless Technology​
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi​
Wi-Fi::Wi-Fi Direct::Bluetooth​
Usb Ports​
2​
2​
HDMI Ports​
3​
4​
Connector Type​
USB, HDMI
-​
Other Features​
100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot; Quantum Processor Lite 4K; Dual LED; Quantum HDR, Contrast Enhancer; HDR10+; Works with Google Assistant and Alexa​
Flat​
D x W x H​
8.8"D x 48.5"W x 29.4"H​
15.2"D x 72"W x 45.1"H​

Side-by-Side Comparison​

System Experience​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
System ExperienceSetting up the SAMSUNG Q60C TV was a breeze, which is something I really appreciated. I managed to get everything hooked up quickly without any unnecessary hassles. The TV connected flawlessly with my gaming consoles and other devices, making it a convenient addition to my home entertainment setup. I did consider wall mounting it since I have a large window that can create glare, but the initial placement was a quick and easy process.Setting up the Samsung 8 Series TV was a breeze for me. I appreciate when technology is intuitive, and this TV delivered. It took me about 30 minutes to get everything set up, from unboxing to connecting it to my Wi-Fi. I love that it has cable management tunnels on the back, which kept everything looking clean and organized. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it identified my network and connected to the apps I frequently use, making the entire process feel seamless.

Viewing Experience​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
Viewing ExperienceThe picture quality of this TV blew me away right from the start. The colors are vibrant and the contrast is impressive, creating an immersive viewing experience whether I'm binge-watching my favorite series or playing video games. I’ve noticed how the Quantum HDR feature really enhances the clarity, especially during darker scenes. It's like experiencing my shows and movies in a whole new light!The picture quality is genuinely impressive. I’ve been able to enjoy both 4K content and older HD videos, and the difference is noticeable. The colors are vibrant, and even in a bright room, the picture holds up nicely. I find myself captivated when watching my favorite movies or shows, especially those in 4K. The clarity and detail are striking, and it feels like a worthwhile investment for my entertainment setup.

Audio Experience​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
Audio ExperienceWhile I find the sound quality to be decent for a TV, it’s not necessarily my favorite aspect. It lacks a bit in the mid-range, which is something I've come to expect from many flat-screen televisions. I’ve decided to pair it with a soundbar to elevate the audio experience, and that really makes a difference, allowing me to enjoy my movies with a more cinematic feel.While I was impressed with the picture quality, I have to admit that the sound could have been better. I’ve opted to run the audio through my AV receiver, so I can’t comment too much on the TV’s built-in speakers. However, I did give them a test run, and they seemed decent for casual viewing. I can see how having a dedicated soundbar would elevate the experience, especially for those intense action scenes.

Other Experience​

Parameter
SAMSUNG Q60C TV​
SAMSUNG 8 Series TV​
Other ExperienceI really enjoy the smart features of the Q60C. The interface is intuitive enough, allowing me to navigate through apps and settings without feeling overwhelmed. It includes some cool features like voice control with Alexa, which adds a layer of convenience when I’m multitasking. However, I have experienced some minor frustrations with the remote; it’s compact and can be a bit finicky to use, especially in low-light situations.Navigating the smart features has been generally pleasant. I primarily stream through an external box, so I don’t use the TV’s smart functionalities as much. However, when I do, they are easy to access, and I appreciate having options like YouTube and other apps readily available. The remote, although minimalistic, is easy to use once I got the hang of it. I prefer fewer buttons; it simplifies the experience.

Our Verdict​

SAMSUNG Q60C TV:​

Pros:
One of the biggest pros for me is the exceptional picture quality, which truly enhances my viewing experiences, whether I'm watching shows or gaming. The ease of setup and the smart features are also big wins. Plus, the inclusion of Samsung TV Plus with so many free channels is a fantastic bonus that helps me cut down on my cable costs.

Cons:
On the downside, I’m not a fan of the remote control. It’s small and sometimes hard to read, making it frustrating to use in dim lighting. Additionally, I’ve noticed that the sound quality could be better, so having to invest in a soundbar feels like a necessary step. Also, I occasionally face some glitches with specific apps, which can be annoying during critical viewing moments.

Overall Evaluation:
Overall, I’m genuinely pleased with the SAMSUNG Q60C TV. It has significantly upgraded my home entertainment experience, especially considering the price point. While there are a few quirks, particularly with the remote and sound, the stunning picture quality and user-friendly features more than make up for them. I believe this TV represents a great value for anyone looking to enhance their viewing setup without breaking the bank.

SAMSUNG 8 Series TV:​

Pros:
One of the standout features for me is the value for money. The combination of excellent picture quality, stylish design, and decent performance at this price point is remarkable. The setup process was straightforward, and I love the cable management design. Also, I appreciate the variety of ports available for connecting external devices.

Cons:
There are a few minor drawbacks. The remote control is a bit too minimal for my liking; I sometimes miss having a few more buttons. Additionally, I’ve noticed that the interface can be a bit cluttered with ads, which detracts from the overall experience. While I can navigate it, I wish it were less promotional and more user-friendly.

Overall Evaluation:
Overall, I am very satisfied with the Samsung 8 Series TV. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of picture quality and ease of setup. While the sound could be improved, I’ve found ways to enhance my listening experience through my existing setup. Despite a few minor complaints about the remote and interface, I feel this TV offers tremendous value and has become a fantastic centerpiece in my living room. I would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a solid mid-range television.
 

GreatKangaroo

New member
Alright, let’s break down the SAMSUNG 8 Series TV in a way that feels a little more real, yeah?

**The Good Stuff:**

If you’re all about that immersive movie experience, especially when it comes to Marvel flicks, and you’ve got a sweet spot right in front of the screen, this TV can totally deliver that hyper-realistic vibe—think of it like playing your favorite video games on a big, high-def screen. Now, it does come with some settings to tone things down, like a 'movie' mode, but honestly, that can make everything look kinda lifeless. So, fair warning there! On the plus side, the sound is pretty solid, so at least you’ll have that going for you.

**The Not-So-Great Stuff:**

- **Viewing Angle:** Here’s the kicker—if you’re not sitting smack dab in front of it, the picture quality takes a nosedive. Like, if you lean just a bit to the side, you might as well be watching a different show because the brightness and colors drop like 50%. This is a common issue with VA type LED panels, which is a bummer I wish I’d known before dropping the cash. If your setup has a couch off to the side, you might want to look for an IPS panel or splurge on an OLED (but watch out for burn-in!).

- **Ads Galore:** The interface is a total ad circus. Seriously, it’s like they’re shoving ads down your throat the moment you turn it on. Remember when watching TV was chill? Yeah, me neither. You just spent nearly a grand, and now you gotta deal with ads you can’t even turn off. Sigh.

- **Privacy Concerns:** Buckle up because this part’s a doozy. When you first fire up the TV, it practically begs you to download an app for your phone—like, really? You’ll also need to create a Samsung account and agree to a bunch of EULAs (those lengthy agreements nobody reads). Spoiler alert: they can record your voice when you use voice control, track everything you watch, and even capture video clips of your screen. Not to mention, if you don’t agree to all this, a ton of features won’t work. Fun, right?

- **Features Galore (or Lack Thereof):** Just to hammer this home, if you’re not down with their privacy agreements, you’re pretty much locked out of using most of the TV’s features. Yay.

- **Remote Control Woes:** The remote is super minimal, with hardly any buttons. It's all arrows and a couple of basics, making it a hassle to control other devices like your DVD player. Plus, it seems to be Bluetooth, so good luck using a universal remote with it.

- **Design Flaws:** Oh, and that big chrome stripe on the stand? Super distracting while you’re trying to watch your shows. It’s a bit of an eyesore.

So there you have it—some solid highs and some pretty annoying lows. If you’re okay with the trade-offs, it might still be the TV for you, but just go in with your eyes wide open!
 
So, we grabbed two of these Samsung Q60C TVs for some laid-back watching. Honestly, our biggest worry was whether they’d show up in one piece. But, lucky us! Since they're not super huge, they came through Amazon on different days, and both boxes were in perfect shape. The packaging is pretty basic, just some styrofoam on the top and bottom with a good amount of cushioning around the screen.

Now, this TV is a smart one, packed with all sorts of tech. But we’re all about those Firesticks, so we basically treat it like a big monitor and tucked the remote away. As for the picture, it’s just alright. I’m still messing with the settings, but it definitely looks a bit washed out compared to our OLED that's about the same size. The sound? It’s decent for a TV.

What I do like is how light it is and that the frame around the screen is super slim. We mounted one up on the wall and kept the other on a stand—no issues at all. I didn’t check too closely, but I think the remote runs on one of those button cell batteries instead of the usual AAA. Overall, we’re pretty pleased with the quality for the price!
 

Charger196904

New member
Alright, so check it out! I’ve got the Samsung Q60C TV, and I’m using it with a newer Roku and an HDMI 2.1 cable. This combo lets the TV do this cool thing called "Auto HDR." Basically, it switches between color modes depending on what you’re watching. If the video isn’t super high quality, it runs in normal color mode, but when it finds HDR content, it kicks into gear like a champ.

Now, here’s the thing: when it flips from HDR back to regular, you can totally see a difference—like a solid 20% drop in image quality. It’s especially obvious when I’m using Plex on Roku. You know those trailers that pop up from IMDB or YouTube? They start looking kinda meh, but then when you hit play, BAM! The colors just pop and everything looks way better. But you gotta be using HDMI 2.1 the whole way through. HDMI 2.0 can handle HDR, but it’s not as dynamic and definitely won’t give you that sweet 4K.

Honestly, for the price, I think this TV is the best you can get for under a grand. I snagged the 55-inch version for just under $500 on sale, and it fits my space perfectly. I paired it with Samsung’s B series soundbar, and let me tell you, for less than $800 total, I couldn’t be happier!
 
So, let me tell you about my new Samsung 8 Series TV! We've had a couple of Samsung 4Ks before – a 6 Series and a 7 Series – and honestly, each upgrade just keeps getting better. This new 8 Series is a total game-changer! The picture is brighter, the colors pop more, and the contrast is on point. Plus, the menu's way easier to navigate and it recognizes more devices.

Now, about the build quality – it feels solid overall, though there are a few spots that seem a bit flexible at the seams, but nothing major. It’s heavy for how sleek it looks, and I love the silver trim on the bottom. It definitely beats the all-black frame of our old 6 Series.

The remote? Oh man, the "OneRemote" is a lifesaver! I’m never going back to those cluttered remotes with a million buttons. Seriously, Samsung nailed it with this design. It's super intuitive, just a wheel and a couple of buttons, and I can easily find everything. If you’re a fan of the Apple TV or Firestick remotes, you’ll love this one. Plus, it can take over other remotes too! My Firestick remote learned how to control the TV, so it’s all-in-one now. Hey Apple, take a note – your remote’s getting way too fancy.

This 8 Series TV recognizes more devices and names them right, which is a big upgrade from the 6 Series. Picture quality is sharp and bright, although some streaming content can look a bit fuzzy, but that’s on the source. When my internet’s good, this TV really shines!

I did have a hiccup with the Netflix app at first – I messed up the password and it was a bit stubborn about getting me back to the main menu. But it’s all good now, and it’s running smoothly.

Setting it up was a breeze. I swear, it took less than 5 minutes to get it out of the box and connected to my Wi-Fi. Just had to log into my Samsung account, and boom, we were watching TV!

I haven’t messed with the picture settings yet, but I’m guessing it’ll be easy since the 7 Series was similar. There are tons of guides online if you want to get the most out of your TV.

Overall, I’m super happy with this purchase. It’s for the master bedroom, but I’m thinking the living room needs an upgrade too – maybe a Samsung QLED or LG OLED next!

Oh, and shoutout to Amazon for the speedy shipping! I ordered it on a Friday and it showed up on Monday morning, even though it was a holiday. The box was in great shape, and everything inside was packed perfectly.

Keep an eye out for deals on Amazon too. Sometimes they offer zero-interest payment plans on certain items. I went for a 5-payment option, and it barely cost me a couple bucks more. Totally worth it!

Big thumbs up to Amazon for quick delivery, UPS for handling it with care, and of course, Samsung for this awesome 8 Series TV!
 

Charger196904

New member
Alright, let me break it down for you. So, I’m a total audio nerd—like, my living room looks like a mini movie theater with my 5.2.4 Atmos setup. That’s five main speakers (two in the front, two in the back, and one center), two subs, and four overhead speakers. I could go for a 7.2.2 setup, but honestly, this setup just sounds way better in my space.

Now, here’s the thing: whenever I get a new TV or sound gear, it’s not just a plug-and-play situation. I have to get all fancy and calibrate everything. I use DIRAC Live on my laptop for audio calibration and the Spears & Munsil 4K calibration BluRay for video. Over the years, I’ve set up a ton of TVs and monitors, and I’ve made every single one look incredible—except for this Samsung.

I got this TV to sit next to my main monitor. I do all my gaming and work on that, but I wanted something to pull up extra info or just listen to while I’m at it. I was swapping out a TCL that I never really liked for this Samsung. My main living room TV is a Samsung QN65QN90BA, and I’m obsessed with it. But this 32” TV? No matter what I do, the picture looks terrible. I’ve tried all sorts of tweaks and calibrations, and nothing seems to work.

So I’m giving this bad boy 3 stars, mainly because I love the Samsung features I’m used to. But man, the picture quality? Total flop—big fat zero. 😕
 
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