The Sony X95L and Samsung QN90D were the top non-OLED TVs of 2024, and both are still on the market in 2026 at reduced prices. They're genuine competitors and the choice between them reflects a wider debate: Sony's processing versus Samsung's brightness.
Sony X95L
The Sony X95L wins for movie content and processing; the QN90D edges ahead for brightness and gaming.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Sony X95L | Samsung QN90D |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Type | Mini-LED | Mini-LED |
| Peak HDR Brightness | ~1,700 nits | ~2,200 nits |
| Processor | Cognitive XR | Neo Quantum 8K |
| Max Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz |
| Full-BW HDMI 2.1 | 2 ports | 4 ports |
| Smart OS | Google TV | Tizen 7 |
Brightness and Local Dimming
Samsung's QN90D is extremely bright — RTINGS measured it at over 2,200 nits peak HDR. The Sony X95L is excellent at around 1,600-1,800 nits, but trails Samsung significantly on raw brightness.
Sony's Mini LED Backlight Master Drive on the X95L manages its dimming zones more intelligently. The QN90D has more zones and raw punch; the X95L handles dark-scene blooming more elegantly.
For HDR impact in a lit room, Samsung. For minimizing artifacts in dark scenes, Sony.
Picture Processing
Sony's Cognitive Processor XR remains the best TV processor you can buy for picture quality. Upscaling of 1080p and SDR content on the X95L is visibly superior to the QN90D.
The QN90D's Neo Quantum Processor 8K does solid work, but it's a tier below Sony's processing in controlled tests and real-world use with older content.
Movie nights and cable TV look noticeably better on the X95L. Sports and gaming with native 4K content narrow the gap considerably.
Gaming Performance
The QN90D supports 4K/144Hz across all its HDMI 2.1 inputs and has Samsung's Gaming Hub. Input lag is excellent at under 5ms in Game Mode.
The X95L supports 4K/120Hz on two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports. It's a capable gaming TV but not optimized for PC gaming at 144Hz.
For PC gamers specifically, the QN90D is the better choice. Console gamers at 4K/120Hz will be happy with either.
2024 Carryover Value in 2026
Both the X95L and QN90D are now carryover models selling at reduced prices as 2026 new stock clears channels. Expect to find 65" units of each in the $1,400-1,800 range.
At those prices, both TVs represent extraordinary value for mini-LED performance. The 2024 generation was excellent — the X95L and QN90D were among the best TVs tested that year.
If you can find either for $400-600 below their original launch price, both are compelling buys. The X95L at a discount wins on picture quality; the QN90D at a discount wins on gaming specs.
Sony X95L Strengths
- Cognitive Processor XR — best upscaling and processing available
- More refined local dimming with fewer blooming artifacts
- Excellent movie and streaming content performance
- Acoustic Surface Audio system
Samsung QN90D Strengths
- 2,200+ nits peak brightness — extremely vivid HDR
- 4K/144Hz across all HDMI 2.1 ports
- Samsung Gaming Hub for cloud gaming
- Better for bright-room and gaming use cases
Sony X95L Weaknesses
- Lower peak brightness (~1,700 nits vs 2,200 nits)
- Only two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports
- Costs similar to QN90D without matching it on brightness
Samsung QN90D Weaknesses
- More visible blooming in dark high-contrast scenes
- Neo Quantum processor trails Sony XR on upscaling
- Tizen 7 smart OS is one generation behind current
Best For
- a: Movie buffs, streaming enthusiasts, and mixed-use buyers who want the best processing
- b: Gamers, sports fans, and bright-room viewers who prioritize maximum brightness
FAQ
Is the X95L still worth buying in 2026 vs the newer Bravia 9?
If you find the X95L at a significant discount versus the Bravia 9's current price, yes. The Bravia 9 is brighter and has newer software, but the X95L's Cognitive XR processing is the same generation and still class-leading. Value hunt first.
Does the QN90D support Dolby Vision?
No — Samsung TVs don't support Dolby Vision, only HDR10+. If you watch a lot of Dolby Vision content (most Netflix 4K), this is a genuine consideration. HDR10+ is available on Amazon Prime and some other platforms.