The Samsung F8500 is the brightest plasma TV ever, and is even able to challenge some LEDs. While its blacks don't beat plasmas from Panasonic (like the ST60), they are still very good. The only downside is the anti-glare filter produces some slight horizontal dark lines.
Our Verdict
Without a doubt, Samsung has created the best plasma TV for use in bright rooms. The Samsung F8500 Plasma TV can get almost twice as bright as the competitors while still maintaining a respectable black. There is pretty much no downside to this TV. If it is within your budget, it is a no-brainer.
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Brighter than any plasma. It is the only plasma that can be put in a bright room.
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Good anti-glare filter with very few reflections.
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Low input lag.
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Although its blacks are good, they aren't as good as in equivalent models from Panasonic.
- 8.9 Mixed Usage
- Updated Oct 25, 2013: Review published.
- Updated Oct 23, 2013: Our testers have started testing this product.
- Updated Apr 15, 2013: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.
Test Results
The F8500 has deep blacks and good detail in the shadows. However, it is about the same as the lower-end models from Samsung. Also, the Panasonic ST60 performs slightly better in a dark environment for a significantly lower price.
Not only does it have very few reflections thanks to its anti glare filter, but it can get very bright. This is definitely the best plasma to have in a bright room. It has a subtle blue tint and some minor horizontal bars visible, though.
The F8500 is capable in any type of room.
The horizontal viewing angle is really good, but its vertical one is limited by its anti glare filter to about 30°.
