Samsung’s 2026 Micro RGB TVs Are Affordable, But How Do They Perform?

As promised in December, Samsung's 2026 Micro RGB TVs have officially launched, bringing cutting-edge display technology downmarket with two new models that cost far less than the $30,000, 115-inch MR95F released last year. The lineup now features the R95H and R85H, starting at just $1,599.99 and $3,199.99 respectively, with sizes ranging from 55 inches to 85 inches and a massive 100-inch model arriving later this year. IGN's Jacqueline Thomas recently tested these new screens at a press briefing, noting that while the colors are "incredible," the overall brightness remains on the dim side compared to expectations for high-end gaming displays.

Hands-On Impressions: Vibrant Colors vs. Brightness Concerns

Jacqueline Thomas spent time streaming Cyberpunk 2077 via Xbox Cloud Gaming and testing various media, finding that while the gameplay suffered from lag, the visual fidelity was compelling for other uses. She observed that menu colors in Cyberpunk felt slightly oversaturated, yet this issue did not appear when playing FF3 Pixel Remaster. Watching Bad Batch revealed really nice blacks that allowed colors to pop, and the color performance in Alien Earth looked "genuinely amazing," despite the TV being on the dim side.

For those uninitiated, Micro RGB is the latest technology aimed at dethroning OLED as the king of color and contrast. Although Thomas found the sets a bit dim, one major advantage of this tech is its ability to achieve higher brightness levels without risking burn-in, a common concern with traditional OLED panels. In my own experience seeing the 115-inch model earlier this year at CES, I agree that Samsung's Micro RGB panels are vibrant as all-get-out, though smartphone pictures simply cannot capture their true potential.

Technical Deep Dive: Mini LED Roots and Color Precision

It is important to note that Micro RGB is not a perfect OLED replacement; it still utilizes zoned backlighting similar to Mini LED TVs, meaning you will still see blooming around edges in very high-contrast scenes. However, the technology distinguishes itself because its LEDs beam red, blue, and green light individually rather than white light, resulting in richer colors overall. To that end, Samsung claims all its Micro RGB TVs can cover 100% of the BT.2020 color space, a significant jump over competitors.

For context, various tech outlets have measured the Samsung S90F QD-OLED (a favorite for gaming) at covering between 80% and 90% of this same color space. Both new models support HDR10+ Advanced and feature Dolby Atmos sound systems. Connectivity is robust across the board, including:

  • Four HDMI ports
  • AirPlay and Google Cast support
  • Samsung's One UI OS
  • Wi-Fi 6E connectivity

Which Model Suits Your Needs? R95H vs. R85H

The primary differences between the two new lines come down to refresh rates, processing power, and build quality features. The R95H offers a robust 165Hz variable refresh rate, whereas the R85H is limited to a solid 144Hz variable refresh rate. While 144Hz might sound "piddly" compared to 165Hz, it remains an excellent standard for gaming and smooth motion handling.

Beyond refresh rates, the R95H benefits from Samsung's Micro RGB AI Engine Pro chip, whereas the R85H utilizes the standard Micro RGB AI Engine chip. The premium model also includes the company's fancy "Glare Free Technology" anti-glare coating, which the R85H lacks entirely. Additionally, the R95H comes with an adjustable stand, a feature that is absent on the more affordable R85H.

Pricing and Availability Breakdown

The final distinction lies in available sizes and price points for these new 2026 offerings. The R95H is available in three configurations:

  • 85-inch ($6,499.99)
  • 75-inch ($4,499.99)
  • 65-inch ($3,199.99)

The R85H offers those same three sizes at lower price points:

  • 85-inch ($3,999.99)
  • 75-inch ($2,799.99)
  • 65-inch ($2,099.99)

Crucially, the R85H adds a 55-inch model for just $1,599.99, making it the most accessible entry point into this technology yet. While none of these units are cheap, remember that you would need to buy four of the largest 85-inch models to match the price of last year's 115-inch MR95F. Samsung plans to release a 100-inch version of the S95H later this year, though pricing for that specific model has not been revealed yet.