Samsung TU690T: A Comprehensive Review of the Smart TV
The Samsung TU690T is a smart TV that combines affordability with advanced features, making it a strong contender in the budget-friendly TV market. As part of Samsung’s 2023 lineup, it delivers a solid viewing experience with notable smart capabilities, vibrant picture quality, and an intuitive design. Whether you’re upgrading your current setup or looking for a new TV for a secondary room, the TU690T might be just what you need.
1. Design and Build Quality
The Samsung TU690T has a sleek and modern design, with minimal bezels and a slim profile, making it aesthetically appealing for most living spaces. It features a sturdy stand that provides a solid base for the TV, while also being lightweight and easy to move. The finish is simple, with a matte black exterior that will blend well into any décor, whether you mount it on the wall or place it on a media console.
The build quality is excellent for a TV in this price range. While it doesn’t feature premium materials like high-end models, the overall construction is durable and solid, ensuring long-lasting use without compromising on design.
2. Picture Quality
One of the standout features of the Samsung TU690T is its picture quality. It is equipped with a Crystal Display that delivers clear, bright, and sharp images. Samsung’s Crystal Display technology enhances color accuracy, providing a vibrant and lifelike experience.
While the TU690T may not feature the more advanced QLED or OLED technologies found in higher-end models, it still offers 4K resolution support. This makes it a great option for viewers who want to enjoy ultra-clear, high-definition content without the premium price tag. HDR (High Dynamic Range) support is also present, which enhances the contrast and brightness levels, making scenes look more dynamic, especially in darker or brighter settings.
Although it doesn’t reach the level of contrast and black levels seen in higher-end Samsung models, the picture performance for the price is impressive.
3. Smart Features and Tizen OS
Samsung is known for its Tizen OS, and the TU690T is no exception. Tizen provides a smooth and user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate through apps and settings. The TV offers a wide range of popular streaming apps such as Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. The inclusion of Samsung’s Smart Hub means that users can quickly access their favorite apps, live TV, and even game streaming services.
For those who enjoy gaming, the TU690T supports low latency for smooth gaming sessions, although it doesn’t come with gaming-centric features like high refresh rates or HDMI 2.1 ports (common in more expensive models). The smart features also include voice control with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility, making it easy to control the TV using voice commands. However, it lacks Samsung’s own voice assistant, Bixby, which is a minor downside for users who prefer that option.
The TU690T also supports Apple AirPlay 2, allowing you to easily stream content from your Apple devices directly to the TV without any need for additional cables or adapters.
4. Sound Quality
When it comes to sound, the TU690T offers a decent audio experience, but it’s not as immersive as higher-end models. The TV comes with a 2.0 channel speaker system, offering a total output of 20 watts, which is sufficient for everyday viewing. However, if you’re looking for more cinematic sound quality or a deeper bass experience, you might want to invest in an external soundbar or a home theater system.
The TV does support Dolby Digital Plus and Adaptive Sound, which help enhance the overall audio performance, but it’s still a good idea to consider an upgrade if you want fuller, richer sound.
5. Connectivity and Ports
The Samsung TU690T offers a variety of ports, ensuring it can accommodate various devices, from game consoles to streaming devices. The TV is equipped with 3 HDMI ports, 1 USB port, and an Ethernet port, along with built-in Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity. The HDMI ports support HD content, but they don’t have HDMI 2.1 support, meaning they may not be ideal for gamers looking to experience higher frame rates and resolutions.
Additionally, the TU690T features Bluetooth connectivity, which is useful for pairing with wireless headphones or soundbars.
6. Energy Efficiency
The Samsung TU690T is relatively energy efficient, as it is certified with an Energy Star label. The TV’s low power consumption is especially notable for users who plan on keeping it running for extended hours.
7. Conclusion
The Samsung TU690T is a solid option for consumers who want a budget-friendly smart TV without sacrificing too much in terms of quality. With 4K resolution, HDR support, and Tizen OS, it offers excellent value for its price point, delivering a satisfying viewing experience for everyday entertainment, streaming, and casual gaming.
While it may not have the high-end features seen in premium models, the TU690T excels in its category by offering a balance between affordability and functionality. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a quality smart TV with modern features, whether for a living room, bedroom, or secondary space.
