Introduction

After spending several weeks with the Samsung 65 Inch Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV 2023 (model number UA65CU7000), I’m ready to share my comprehensive review. This international version promises a compelling blend of features and performance at a competitive price point. Let’s dive into the details.

Features

The UA65CU7000 boasts a 65-inch Crystal UHD 4K display, promising vibrant colors and sharp detail. The Tizen operating system provides a user-friendly interface, offering easy access to a wide array of streaming services including Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV+, and many more. The inclusion of Gaming Hub is a welcome addition for gamers, streamlining access to cloud gaming and console titles. The 3D surround sound with virtual top channel audio enhances the immersive viewing experience.

Performance

Picture quality is generally excellent. The 4K resolution delivers crisp images, and the Crystal UHD technology enhances color reproduction significantly. While the 50Hz refresh rate isn’t the highest on the market, it’s sufficient for most viewing scenarios. Motion handling is acceptable, but some minor judder is noticeable during fast-paced scenes. The smart TV interface is responsive and intuitive, making navigation a breeze. Sound quality is surprisingly good for a built-in speaker system, offering clear dialogue and decent bass response. However, for a truly immersive audio experience, an external soundbar is recommended.

Gaming performance is satisfactory. While not designed for competitive esports, casual gamers will find the Gaming Hub a valuable addition. Input lag is minimal, making gameplay smooth and responsive.

Brightness levels are adequate for most lighting conditions, but direct sunlight can wash out the image slightly. Black levels are decent, but not as deep as those found on higher-end models. Viewing angles are acceptable, though some color shift is apparent at extreme angles.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Excellent picture quality for the price
• User-friendly Tizen OS
• Convenient Gaming Hub
• Decent sound quality for integrated speakers
• Wide selection of streaming services

Cons:

• 50Hz refresh rate may limit motion clarity
• Brightness could be improved
• Black levels are not as deep as higher-end models
• Only one USB port

Final Verdict

The Samsung UA65CU7000 offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a large-screen 4K smart TV with a good feature set. While it has some limitations, such as the 50Hz refresh rate and limited USB ports, its strengths in picture quality, smart features, and overall user experience make it a worthwhile purchase. I would recommend this TV to users who prioritize picture quality and features over the absolute highest refresh rates and perfect black levels. It’s a great option for casual gamers and those who enjoy streaming content.