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Introduction
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01.Tour & Design
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02.Blacks & Whites
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03.Color Accuracy
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04.Motion
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05.Viewing Effects
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06.Calibration
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07.Remote Control
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08.Connectivity
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09.Audio & Menus
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10.Formats & Media
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11.Power Consumption
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12.Vs Panasonic TC P50U1
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13.Vs LG 47LH90
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14.Vs Sony KDL 52XBR9
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15.Conclusion
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16.Series Comparison
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17.Ratings & Specs
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18.Comments
Samsung UN46B8500
Previous: Page 6
CalibrationNext: Page 8
Connectivity
Remote Control Summary
Editorial Note: This is a review of the Samsung UN46B8500. Test results are for this model, but should indicate the general performance of other sizes in the UNxxB8500 series. The UNxxB8500 series includes the following models: UN46B8500 and UN55B8500. Read here for more details on series differences.
• Almost perfect remote
• The scroll wheel in the center is terrible
• Not universally programmable
Ergonomics & Durability (7.0)
The remote control for the Samsung UN46B8500 is mostly good, save for one bad feature. Let's explore it. To begin with, it's a large remote control, measuring nearly 10 inches long. As we've seen with other Samsung remotes, there's a weird, skinny dovetail at the base that adds nothing to ergonomics or functionality. But it doesn't hurt, either.
The buttons on the remote are backlit. To make it even more convenient, there's a motion sensor that auto-illuminates the buttons when your hand is groping to find the remote. After a few seconds, the lights dim. It's a great feature that adds to the premium feel of the television.
The problem with the remote is the big scroll wheel in the center. A scroll wheel, by definition, is not a bad thing, but this is quite poorly designed. First of all, the wheel has almost no friction when it spins, so you have no tactile feedback that indicates how far you have to spin it to get an effect. It's easy to undershoot or overshoot your selection. In addition to spinning, the area is also supposed to double as a 4-directional touch pad (in other words, up, down, left, right – like a Nintendo pad). But the wheel spins so freely, you sometimes attempt to push 'left,' only to have the wheel spin around underneath you.
Button Layout & Use (5.5)
All the other buttons on the remote control are great. We like Samsung's design approach, generally. The volume and channel up/down buttons are easy to reach and distinguish without looking. The Menu button is clearly marked and easy to find. The wheel/directional pad, discussed above, may function poorly, but at least it's well-placed in the overall layout.
Programming & Flexibility (1.0)
The remote control cannot be programmed for universal compatibility. However, you can use it to control other Samsung devices that are connected via the proprietary Anynet+ network.
| Other Models in the UNxxB8500 Series | |||
| This is a review of the Samsung UN46B8500. The other sizes of HDTVs in this series should be similar in terms of performance and usability. For details about any differences, click on the image to jump to the Series Comparison page. | |||
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| Panasonic UN46B8500 46 inches |
Panasonic UN55B8500 55 inches |
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Shop for the Samsung UN46B8500
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