Samsung UN40F5000 Review (UN40F5000AFXZA)

40 inch 1080p 60Hz LED TV

by Jack Burden, Reviewer

The UN40F5000 is a step down from the F5500 series, but not by much. The only difference is the lack of Samsung's Smart Hub. The strong LED backlight, 1080p display, and 60Hz refresh rate are still in tact. That makes this a highly attractive value model for those not interested in the extra features the Smart Hub brings. The F5000 is available in the 46 and 50 inch sizes as well. It is aimed at budget TV shopper, but does not forfeit performance.

Picture Quality

LED Backlighting

Strong LED backlighting is one of the best features of the UN40F5000. Overall viewing quality is enhanced due to the light throughput although the picture is much dimmer than some of the larger top end LED TVs in Samsung's lineup. Areas of the screen where content sunlight hits a picture background or image are brighter and more saturated than with LCD CCFL TVs. The black levels are also quite good on this value model and another thing to be impressed with. Color is an area in which this backlight does not excel. Saturation compared to plasma and other LED manufacturers is lacking. The backlight can wash them out so we recommend a moderated backlight setting which can be found in the picture controls menu.

1080p Resolution and 60Hz Refresh Rate

The 1080p resolution is an important feature for many buying a new TV. It serves as a sort of future proofing. Most broadcasts and video games are still 720p, but that will change down the line. Native 1080p content is found few and far in-between, but it looks fantastic on this display. The 1080p spec also makes this a nice TV to hook a computer or laptop up to to take advantage of the resolution. It would even be a nice big screen monitor.

The 60Hz refresh rate seems a little low, but it surely keeps the cost down on this one. Motion blur and judder are not going to be highly noticeable on a screen this size as well. Those who are looking will see it, but only the most sensitive to the issue will be bothered by it.

Side Viewing Angles

Side viewing angles on the UN40F5000 are fairly good. Contrast and color begin to degrade at about 30 degree. This is typical for LCD/LED TVs and this one is not plagued by terrible viewing angles.

Appearance

The F5000 looks just like the F5500. For a value model like this one, the look is pretty good. Bezels measure in at .75 inches thin to give the TV an updated appearance. The square stand is nothing new. Everything is a glossy black plastic. It's nice to see the low end TVs looking so good.

Jack Burden has been reviewing and writing reviews in the consumer electronics category for 7 years with CEAG. He considers grayscale gradation, film patterned retarders, and focus field drives to be fun topics. Read more about Jack