If you’re researching new TVs, you’ve likely narrowed down to two top brands – Philips and Samsung. As industry stalwarts, both companies make stellar smart TVs packed with features. But there are some key differences to factor in before deciding which is better suited for your viewing preferences and budget.
This comprehensive guide will compare Philips and Samsung televisions across 10 critical categories to determine the superior brand in key areas like:
- Picture quality
- Sound quality
- Smart TV platform
- Design
- Unique features
- Durability
- Price
- Brand reputation
We’ll also provide specific data-backed recommendations to help you purchase the ideal model tailored for your household.
Let’s dive in for an in-depth exploration of how Philips and Samsung smart TVs stack up in 2024.
Philips vs Samsung TVs Overview
Philips and Samsung have been at the pinnacle of the television industry for decades, battling to implement the latest display technology and smart platforms.
As 2024 models roll out, many shoppers find themselves torn deciding between:
- Philips – a pioneering brand focused on bold innovations to enhance the viewing experience through unique integrations like Ambilight mood lighting. Philips TVs excel at upscaling lower quality content through proprietary processors like P5. They aim to compete through proprietary features you can’t find anywhere else.
- Samsung – an industry juggernaut obsessing over premium display quality through industry-leading QLED/OLED panels with near infinite contrast and brightness optimization. Samsung dominates global market share by competitively pricing its flagship televisions compared to rivals.
While no consensus winner emerges in every category, our detailed analysis helps identify ideal scenarios when one brand outshines the other – leading to custom recommendations based on viewing habits and budget.
Let’s analyse how Philips and Samsung smart TVs compare across 10 major factors:
Picture Quality Comparison
Most buyers prioritize visual performance above all else when evaluating a new television. Samsung and Philips leverage state-of-the-art display technology to push picture quality boundaries through:
Philips TV Picture Technology
- OLED – Self-illuminating pixels with near infinite contrast perfect for dark room viewing
- Ambilight – LEDs around TV synchronize colors/brightness with on-screen content for immersive experience
- P5 AI Processor – Upscales lower quality content close to 4K through machine learning algorithms
Samsung TV Display Technology
- QLED – Quantum dot filters in LED TVs enable over a billion color variations with 100% DCI-P3 for vibrant images
- Neo QLED – Mini-LED backlight optimization pushes brightness up to 4,000 nits with nearly infinite contrast ratios
Experts assessing picture quality consider color vibrancy, contrast, brightness, motion handling, upscaling and more. Based on these metrics:
- Samsung QLED TVs beat Philips hands down. Quantum dot and mini-LED innovations allow Samsung panels to deliver far more vivid images with better contrast – especially in bright viewing environments like garages.
- Philips OLED TVs rival Samsung thanks to self-illuminating pixels producing ‘perfect’ blacks. But they sometimes fall behind processing fast motion scenes.
If analyzing picture quality in isolation, Samsung wins this category through industry-leading QLED and premium OLED options catering to every budget.
But Philips counters through unique ambiance enhancing features like Ambilight exclusive to its models.
Sound Quality Comparison
While audio often gets overlooked behind flashy display spec sheets, it remains crucial for an immersive experience when enjoying movies, sports and Xbox/PS5 gaming.
Both Philips and Samsung integrate leading sound technologies like Dolby Atmos across premium models. But key differences emerge:
Philips TV Audio Technologies
- Bowers & Wilkins – Partnership with premier British speaker company to tune and certify audio
- DTS Play-Fi – Stream sound wirelessly from TV to compatible speakers/soundbars
- AI Sound – Leverages machine learning to optimize audio settings based on content
Samsung TV Audio Innovations
- Object Tracking Sound – Sounds effects pan between left and right channels matching on-screen action
- Q-Symphony – Syncs Samsung soundbar audio with TV speakers for amplified surround effect
- Active Voice Amplifier – Enhances dialogue clarity so viewers never miss key lines
Analyzing the integrated sound systems:
- Philips TVs tend to offer superior built-in audio through collaborations with sound experts like Bowers & Wilkinses even without a soundbar.
- Samsung TVs focus innovation through surround soundbars rather than onboard speakers. They provide deeper integration for owners buying into the Samsung audio ecosystem.
For buyers unwilling to purchase a premium surround sound system, Philips provides better sound out-of-the-box. But Samsung offers smarter expansion options through innovative soundbars like the Q990B.
For the absolute best audio experience, you might want to consider investing in a soundbar or a home theater system.
Smart TV Platform Comparison
Smart platforms power critical integrated apps like Netflix/Disney+ and voice assistants to control TVs handsfree. They can make or break the experience through clumsy interfaces.
Here’s how the Philips and Samsung smart systems compare:
Philips Smart TV OS
- Android TV – Simple rows of apps/recommendations. Integrates Chromecast built-in for easy casting
- Google Assistant – Effective far-field voice assistant to open apps, search for content and control smart home devices
- Apps – Simple interface provides access to most popular apps and games
Samsung Smart TV OS
- Tizen – Custom OS with tabs connecting to external devices, apps, streaming services and ambient modes
- Bixby – Proprietary voice assistant solution to interact with the TV and other Samsung devices. Accuracy lags behind Google Assistant.
- Apps – Contains all critical streaming platforms. Selection isn’t as vast as Android TV.
Analyzing smart functionality:
- Samsung Tizen platform offers better device integration, gaming and ambient modes. The interface feels quicker and more responsive.
- Philips Android TV provides wider app selection and far better voice control via Google Assistant. Chromecast built-in enables effortless streaming from phones.
For most buyers, Philips leveraging Android TV provides the smarter pick through universal compatibility and Google Assistant. But Samsung ambient modes appeal to design conscious viewers wanting TVs blending into living spaces when turned off.
Design Comparison
While picture quality resection remains paramount, aesthetics still play an integral role showcasing televisions as centerpieces across contemporary living rooms.
Here’s how Philips and Samsung TV design philosophies differ:
Philips TV Design
- Premium Styling – High-end models feature minimalist aluminum stand and ultra-thin bezels perfect for wall mounting
- Ambilight – LEDs around the TV synchronize colors with on-screen video for unique ambient effect
- Durable Construction – Many models use hard plastics across borders and back panel for rigidity
Samsung TV Design
- Ultra-Thin Bezels – Virtually invisible bezels transform latest QLEDs into stunning monoliths, especially while wall mounted
- 360-Degree Design – ‘Boundless’ aesthetic with near bezel-free screen and minimized ports/stand for upscale simplicity
- Luxury Frame TV – Customizable bezels when wall mounted to display artwork or family photos while turned off
Analyzing aesthetics:
- Samsung TVs flaunt noticeably sleeker contemporary designs optimized for wall mounting, with 2021/2022 models taking minimalism to new extremes through virtually invisible bezels.
- Philips TVs counter through unique Ambilight features projecting kaleidoscopic colors onto surrounding walls – unavailable in any Samsung television.
For buyers viewing TVs as centerpiece interior decor items, Samsung sets the bar for minimalist, frame-like aesthetics. But Ambilight gives certain Philips models unmatched wow-factor lighting effects.
Unique Features Comparison
Beyond core performance metrics, proprietary innovations help tilt buyers towards one brand or another.
Here are some of the most intriguing Philips and Samsung TV unique features:
Standout Philips Features
- Ambilight – LEDs around TV synchronize colors/brightness with on-screen video for immersive experience
- P5 AI Processor – Upscales lower quality content close to 4K quality through machine learning
- Android TV – Play games on TV with Bluetooth controllers. Cast from Android/Chrome devices.
Notable Samsung Innovations
- Ambient Mode+ – Display artwork or photos when idle. Mimics wall textures/patterns for seamless blending
- Quantum HDR – Optimizes contrast across the entire picture for specular highlights standing out vividly
- Tap View – Instantly mirror phone or tablet screens by simply tapping devices against TV
Analyzing proprietary assets:
- Philips Ambilight stands above every other unique feature between these brands – an aesthetic marvel syncing display colors onto surrounding walls.
- Samsung Ambient Mode+ deserves applause for seamlessly disguising premium TVs as artwork when not being actively viewed.
Both companies innovated admirably to enhance user experiences beyond just streaming shows. Ambilight in particular sways many buyers towards Philips for strong lifestyle appeal.
Durability Comparison
While flatscreens rarely enjoy the longevity of old CRT televisions, modern models still last 6-10 years with proper care.
Evaluating physical construction:
- Philips TVs tend to use thicker plastic casings across the back panel and borders for enhanced durability. The pronounced lips protect displays from edge-on impacts.
- Samsung TVs flaunt ultra-thin metal/plastic composite bodies that dent easier when accidentally bumped. But front and side micro-bezels stay sturdy unless suffering catastrophic damage.
So Philips televisions take the edge for ruggedness and resilience against children/pet damage. Though Samsung metal-accented models appear more damage-resistant than fully plastic Philips builds.
Price Comparison
With 4K and smart capabilities standardizing across entry-level options, price plays an integral role selecting the right television.
- Philips TVs are generally more affordable – particularly 32-43″ screen sizes best suited for secondary rooms. Competing Samsung models often cost $100+ extra.
- Mid-range price parity – Samsung QLED models offer far better picture but similar 50-65″ costs as higher-end Philips Ambilight OLED TVs.
- Samsung leads premium range – 75″+ Samsung 8K Neo QLEDs (unavailable from Philips) push flexibility with proportionate high-end pricing.
For buyers on strict budgets, Philips provides better value through cheaper introductory 4K LED options. But feature-for-feature Samsung QLED TVs hold up better at middle ground price points.
Brand Reputation Comparison
Both companies established sterling reputations through cutting-edge display achievements spanning over a century.
Let’s compare overall brand perception:
Philips Brand Reputation
- 100+ years pioneering visual innovation – first commercial TV broadcaster
- Ranked #5 TV manufacturer globally based on unit shipments
- Known for bold innovations – Ambilight mood lighting – unavailable elsewhere
- Excellent marks for reliability from consumer surveys and expert media outlets
Samsung Brand Reputation
- 50+ years driving display technology forward – first mass produced OLED panels
- Ranked #1 top-selling global TV brand with over 30% unit share
- Sets industry standard partnering with content creators to optimize picture quality
- Renowned by reviewers for best-in-class image quality across midrange and premium price points
Analyzing brand prestige:
- Samsung stands firmly among the most respected television manufacturers. Continually pushing boundaries through industry-first partnerships and display breakthroughs (QLED, Neo QLED etc).
- Philips holds its own through Ambilight – a genuinely unique mood enhancing feature unavailable from any competitor. Plus over a century pioneering broadcast television keeps the brand esteemed even if annual shipments trail Samsung.
While both companies stand mightily behind globally adored television model lines, Samsung claims the reputation crown on continually driving benchmark display quality enhancements year after year.
Key Takeaways – Samsung vs Philips TV Comparison
Drawing from extensive evaluation across 10 categories:
Philips TVs | Samsung TVs | |
---|---|---|
Picture Quality | Strong but edge colors/contrast behind Samsung | Industry leading through QLED/Neo QLED mini-LED contrast/brightness optimizations |
Sound Quality | Superior built-in audio through collaborations with prestige speaker brands | Excellent expansion through surround soundbars. Onboard speakers often lacking without addition |
Smart Platform | Android TV brings better voice control and casting | Custom OS enables deeper integrations. Sleeker ambient modes |
Design | Unique Ambilight mood projection unmatched by rivals | Ultra-thin bezels for near frameless aesthetic – ideal for wall mounting |
Unique Features | Ambilight synchronization mesmerizing effect | Ambient Mode+ nicely conceals TV into backgrounds. Tap View mirroring provides seamless casting. |
Durability | Thicker plastic builds more resistant to damage | Slim profiles dent easier but partial metal builds offer protection from side damage |
Price | More affordable options, especially 32-43″ models | QLED models better value at middle ground price bands. Premium Neo QLEDs in larger sizes unavailable from Philips |
Brand Reputation | Pioneering Ambilight demonstrates constant innovation | Unmatched industry prestige through continual display breakthroughs – QLED, OLED etc |
In summary – Samsung triumphs driving best-in-class picture quality through QLED quantum dot technology and advanced mini-LED backlighting unavailable to Philips models.
But Philips counters with unique Ambilight immersion and integrated Android TV providing the smarter overall experience out the box through Google Assistant, Chromecast-enabled casting features and more universal compatibility.
Use this guide to gauge ideal fits based on personal preferences. Now let’s explore tailored recommendations across viewing and budget scenarios.
TV Recommendations
With an ocean of model choices on the market meeting every preference and price point, use the advice below to zone in on perfect Philips/Samsung fits:
For Viewers Wanting the Best Picture Quality
If flashier images hold the highest priority for sports, video games and blockbuster movies, Samsung QLED Televisions should top your rankings through unmatched brightness, contrast and color. Mini-LED powered Neo QLEDs in particular outclass every Philips television.
Try – Samsung QN90CD Neo QLED 4K TV
For Viewers Wanting Superior Audio Built-In
Those unwilling to purchase a separate surround sound system will appreciate the integrated speakers inside Philips TVs tuned by renowned audio experts like Bowers & Wilkins – providing pearlier sound effects out the box.
Try – Philips 9636 Premium 4K OLED TV
For Viewers Wanting the Smartest Platform
Philips Android TVs take the crown for smart home compatibility and casting versatility through built-in Chromecast control and Google Assistant voice commands. For tech-savvy buyers, they provide better expandability.
Try – Philips PUS7506 Performance 4K LED TV
For Viewers Wanting Striking Ambiance Effects
Philips Ambilight Televisions project uniquely captivating, color hue synchronized lighting effects onto surrounding walls – creating the most stunning integrated ambiance option unmatched by any Samsung model.
Try – Philips 65OLED935 Ambilight 4K OLED TV
For Viewers Prizing Minimalist Modern Styling
Samsung’s 2022 Frame and Neo QLED models achieve the most contemporary sleek designs through virtually invisible micro-bezels and streamlined pedestals that seem to float screen panels effortlessly in space.
Try – Samsung QN90CD Neo QLED 4K TV or The Frame 4K QLED TV
For Viewers Wanting Lower Cost HD/4K Options
Philips Tvs shine brightest providing cheaper 32″ HD and 43″ 4K smart models often costing over $100+ less than the lowest priced Samsung alternatives while retaining smart streaming capabilities.
Try – Philips 4304 Performance Series HD LED TV
For Viewers Wanting Immense 75″+ Screens
Samsung’s 8K QLED lineup claims the giant screen crown through stunning 75″+ – 85″+ Neo QLEDs showcasing 33 million pixels for the ultimate cinema experience at home. Competition from Philips starts and ends at 70 inches.
Try – Samsung QN900C Neo QLED 8K TV
Use the curated recommendations above to narrow selection towards perfect model fits based on personal viewing priorities.
Through cross analyzing Philips and Samsung Televisions across 10 head-to-head categories – UHD 8K QLED panels help Samsung claim picture quality superiority. But Ambilight synchronization stands as a genuinely unique Philips marvel unmatched by any competitor brand.