What is Samsung Crystal UHD TV? A Complete Guide

Samsung’s Crystal UHD TVs deliver premium 4K picture quality and smart capabilities at an affordable price point. If you’re looking for an entry-level 4K LED TV with great performance, Crystal UHD models offer an excellent value.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what makes Crystal UHD TVs unique, how they compare to other Samsung 4K TVs, key features and technologies, and help you determine if a Crystal UHD model is right for your needs.

What is Crystal UHD Technology?

Crystal UHD is Samsung’s marketing name for its entry-level lineup of 4K Ultra HD TVs. The “Crystal” refers to the Crystal Processor built into these sets, which helps upscale lower resolution content to near-4K quality.

Key aspects of Samsung’s Crystal UHD technology include:

• 4K UHD Resolution – With over 8 million pixels (3840 x 2160 resolution), Crystal UHD TVs can display 4x the detail of Full HD. This makes images incredibly lifelike with extra clarity and sharpness.

• High Dynamic Range (HDR) – HDR allows Crystal UHD sets to produce a wider range of colors and brightness levels. This adds “pop” to HDR content from sources like 4K Blu-ray and streaming.

• Crystal Processor 4K – Samsung’s video processing chip helps upscale HD/Full HD video to near-4K quality by enhancing details and reducing visual noise.

• PurColor – This feature produces a wider spectrum of color for extra vibrancy and realism.

• HDR10+ Support – HDR10+ is an HDR format that adds dynamic metadata for optimal scene-by-scene picture adjustment.

So in short, Crystal UHD TVs deliver a premium 4K viewing experience with HDR support at affordable price points compared to higher-end QLED 4K or 8K sets.

How Does Crystal UHD Compare to Samsung QLED?

The main difference between Crystal UHD and Samsung QLED TVs comes down to the display technology used:

• Crystal UHD utilizes an LED backlit LCD panel with Samsung’s Crystal Processor doing the heavy lifting for upscaling, HDR enhancement, and boosting color vibrancy.

• QLED TVs add a quantum dot filter to precisely control color and brightness. QLED models also pack in a more advanced quantum processor for better upscaling and optimization.

In real-world viewing, QLED TVs deliver somewhat better black levels, contrast, HDR pop, and viewing angles. But Crystal UHD still provides excellent 4K picture quality – especially considering the lower prices.

Ultimately, QLED is considered a premium tier above Crystal UHD. But unless you’re a discerning videophile willing to pay extra, Crystal UHD offers tremendous value and performance that will satisfy most buyers.

Notable Features of Crystal UHD TVs

Beyond its core picture technologies, Crystal UHD TVs provide a robust set of features:

• Smart TV platform – Simple menus and access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, YouTube and more.

• Voice assistant support – Use voice commands with built-in Bixby, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant.

• Gaming features – Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh Rate provide smooth gaming performance.

• Smart remote – Easily control TV functions and access apps.

• Sleek design – Ultra slim profile and narrow bezels for an elegant aesthetic.

• Screen mirroring – Wirelessly cast content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV.

• SmartThings app – Allows TV control and connectivity with other smart devices.

For an entry-level 4K LED TV, Crystal UHD models pack in some great features that enhance usability and expand your entertainment options.

Samsung Crystal UHD TV Models and Sizes

Samsung offers Crystal UHD TVs in a range of display sizes to fit any room or budget. Here are the models currently available:

Samsung Crystal UHD TU7000 Series

• 43″ (UN43TU7000)
• 50″ (UN50TU7000)
• 55″ (UN55TU7000)
• 65″ (UN65TU7000)
• 75″ (UN75TU7000)
• 85″ (UN85TU7000)

Samsung Crystal UHD AU7000 Series

• 43″ (UN43AU7000)
• 50″ (UN50AU7000)
• 55″ (UN55AU7000)
• 65″ (UN65AU7000)
• 75″ (UN75AU7000)
• 85″ (UN85AU7000)

Samsung Crystal UHD BU8000 Series

• 55″ (UN55BU8000)
• 65″ (UN65BU8000)
• 75″ (UN75BU8000)
• 85″ (UN85BU8000)

The AU7000 and BU8000 models add support for HDR10+ high dynamic range content. But overall picture quality and core features are very similar across these Crystal UHD series.

Having a range of screen sizes lets you choose the right Crystal UHD TV based on your room size, preferred viewing distance, and budget. Typical pricing runs from around $400 for the 43″ up to $1500 for the massive 85″ model.

Should You Buy a Samsung Crystal UHD 4K TV?

Crystal UHD TVs provide an excellent viewing experience at a great value. Here are some key buyer considerations:

Pros of Crystal UHD TVs:

• High-quality 4K picture with HDR support
• Very affordable pricing for the performance
• Sleek, elegant design with slim bezels
• Robust smart TV features and connectivity

Cons to Consider:

• No quantum dot color like pricier QLED models
• Contrast and black levels not as deep as QLED or OLED
• Limited viewing angles compared to QLED

If you want good 4K performance but aren’t picky about deeper black levels and wide viewing angles, Crystal UHD is a smart choice. The series offers the core essentials like 4K resolution, vibrant color, HDR support, smart functions, and apps at budget-friendly prices.

But videophiles who prioritize the best picture quality should look at stepping up to QLED or OLED models. The quantum dot and self-emitting pixel technologies make a noticeable difference.

For most buyers who want an affordable entry-level 4K LED TV with all the key features, Samsung’s Crystal UHD line hits a sweet spot of price and performance. Overall crystal clear 4K viewing that won’t break the budget.

In Conclusion

Samsung Crystal UHD TVs deliver premium 4K Ultra HD resolution, High Dynamic Range support, smart capabilities, and sleek designs at very attractive pricing. Technologies like the Crystal Processor 4K and PurColor provide excellent picture quality that suits most entertainment needs.

While not quite as advanced in display specs as Samsung QLED TVs, Crystal UHD models offer tremendous value for buyers wanting an entry-level 4K LED television. Easy to recommend for home theater shoppers seeking great performance without a premium price tag.