TV Comparisons

Samsung CU7000 vs Samsung TU690T: Which One Should You Buy?

The Samsung CU7000 is the stronger overall budget TV in this comparison. Tech Steve ranked it 7/10 versus 6/10 for the TU690T after seeing richer color, better shadow detail and a slightly brighter-looking image from the CU7000 in his side-by-side viewing. It also provides three HDMI inputs, Samsung Gaming Hub, a rechargeable SolarCell remote and newer audio-integration features. The TU690T remains a practical alternative when it costs less or when its exclusive 60-inch size is the best fit. Both televisions are native 60 Hz models without VRR, local dimming or Dolby Vision.

Model-by-model comparison

Samsung CU7000 vs. TU690T: Which Budget 4K TV Is Better?

The Samsung CU7000 is the stronger overall budget TV in this comparison. Tech Steve ranked it 7/10 versus 6/10 for the TU690T after seeing richer color, better shadow detail and a slightly brighter-looking image from the CU7000 in his side-by-side viewing. It also provides three HDMI inputs, Samsung Gaming Hub, a rechargeable SolarCell remote and newer audio-integration features. The TU690T remains a practical alternative when it costs less or when its exclusive 60-inch size is the best fit. Both televisions are native 60 Hz models without VRR, local dimming or Dolby Vision.

FeatureCU7000TU690TWhat it means
Tech Steve overall ranking CU7000: 7/10 TU690T: 6/10 Tech Steve preferred its picture, connectivity, smart features and remote, assuming a panel without the edge defect seen on his sample.
Picture impression Richer color, better shadow detail and slightly brighter-looking image Serviceable picture but less impressive in the side-by-side viewing The CU7000 was preferred with everyday television and Disney+ movie content under factory Cinema-mode settings.
Native resolution 3840 x 2160 3840 x 2160 Both use native 4K panels.
Native and maximum refresh at 4K 60 Hz 60 Hz Neither model supports native 4K/120; motion-processing labels do not change the physical refresh rate.
HDR formats HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG; no Dolby Vision HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG; no Dolby Vision The verified HDR format support is the same.
Local dimming No No Neither series has local-dimming zones.
HDMI inputs 3 2 The third HDMI input makes it easier to keep a console, streaming device and audio system connected.
Gaming connectivity ALLM; no VRR; no native 4K/120 ALLM; no VRR; no native 4K/120 Core console signal support is effectively the same.
Gaming platform Samsung Gaming Hub Game Enhancer Gaming Hub adds direct access to supported cloud-gaming services.
Built-in audio 20 W, 2-channel, Object Tracking Sound Lite and Q-Symphony 20 W, 2-channel with Dolby Digital Plus Rated power is equal, but the CU7000 adds positional processing and compatible Samsung soundbar integration.
Remote control TM2240A rechargeable SolarCell Remote TM1240A battery-powered standard remote The rechargeable SolarCell design reduces reliance on disposable batteries.
Wireless connectivity Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 Bluetooth 5.2 is a newer connection standard for compatible wireless accessories.
US size selection 43, 50, 55, 58, 65, 70, 75 and 85 inches 43, 50, 55, 58, 60, 65, 70, 75 and 85 inches Both cover a wide range, while the TU690T uniquely offers a 60-inch model.
Samsung

CU7000 Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV

A native 60 Hz 4K Tizen TV with three HDMI inputs, HDR10+, ALLM, Gaming Hub and a SolarCell remote.

Key technology

PurColorSamsung color-processing technology intended to reproduce a broader-looking range of colors than a basic RGB-only adjustment.
Crystal Processor 4KProcesses incoming video and upscales lower-resolution material for the television's 4K panel.
Motion XceleratorSamsung motion processing intended to improve clarity in moving images; it does not increase the physical panel beyond 60 Hz.
Object Tracking Sound LiteVirtual audio processing that attempts to make sound effects appear to follow on-screen movement using the built-in two-channel speakers.
Q-SymphonyAllows the TV speakers to operate alongside a compatible Samsung soundbar rather than automatically muting the television speakers.
Samsung Gaming HubTizen interface that provides access to supported cloud-gaming services without a connected console.
Samsung Smart HubTizen home interface that organizes streaming applications, live television and connected sources.

Buyer advantages

  • CU7000 delivered richer color, better shadow detail and a slightly brighter-looking image in Tech Steve's comparison.
  • CU7000 has three HDMI inputs versus two on the TU690T.
  • CU7000 includes Samsung Gaming Hub and a rechargeable SolarCell remote.
  • Both televisions support HDR10+, ALLM, eARC and Apple AirPlay.
  • TU690T offers a 60-inch version not found in the CU7000 US lineup.
  • Both series cover a broad range from 43 to 85 inches.

Things to consider

  • Both TVs are limited to 60 Hz at native 4K and lack VRR.
  • Neither model has local dimming or Dolby Vision.
  • Built-in sound is limited to 20-watt, two-channel audio.
  • TU690T has only two HDMI inputs and uses an older battery-powered remote.
  • Tech Steve's CU7000 sample displayed a faint white line or light bleed near one edge.
  • The picture comparison involved different screen sizes rather than matching-size panels.

Sizes, mounting and buying details

Size / modelPeak HDRVESAFeet widthViewing distanceBuy
43"UN43CU7000FXZA 200 x 200 33.1 in 4.9–6.7 ft
50"UN50CU7000FXZA 200 x 200 39.8 in 5.7–7.8 ft
55"UN55CU7000FXZA 200 x 200 40.6 in 6.3–8.6 ft
58"UN58CU7000FXZA 400 x 300 42.9 in 6.6–9.0 ft
65"UN65CU7000FXZA 400 x 300 46.7 in 7.4–10.1 ft
70"UN70CU7000FXZA 400 x 300 53.4 in 8.0–10.9 ft
75"UN75CU7000FXZA 400 x 400 56.2 in 8.6–11.7 ft
85"UN85CU7000FXZA 600 x 400 67.1 in 9.7–13.2 ft

Complete specifications

Audio

Speaker System2-channel
Speaker Count2
Woofer Count0
Included SubwooferNo
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts20 W
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Digital Plus
Sound ModesAdaptive Sound
Voice AssistantsAmazon Alexa built in, Works with Google Assistant
Optional AccessoriesSamsung SlimFit Cam, Compatible Logitech webcam

Connectivity

HDMI Ports3
HDMI Inputs3
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs0
AirPlayYes
ChromecastNo

Gaming

Native Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
VRRNo
ALLMYes

Picture

Display TechnologyLED-backlit LCD marketed as Crystal UHD
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingNo
Local Dimming Zones By Size43": 0, 50": 0, 55": 0, 58": 0, 65": 0, 70": 0, 75": 0, 85": 0
HDR FormatsHDR10, HDR10+, HLG

Size Details

Dimensions Without Stand Inches37.9 x 22.0 x 2.3 in
Weight Without Stand lb17.9 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches44.0 x 25.4 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb25.1 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.4 x 27.8 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb30.6 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches50.8 x 29.5 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb33.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches57.1 x 32.7 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb45.4 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches61.3 x 35.4 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb54.7 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.9 x 37.7 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb67 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.6 x 42.7 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb88.6 lb

Smart Features

Operating SystemTizen
ProcessorCrystal Processor 4K with 4K upscaling

Specifications

Screen Sizes43, 50, 55, 58, 65, 70, 75, 85
VESA By Size43": 200 x 200 mm, 50": 200 x 200 mm, 55": 200 x 200 mm, 58": 400 x 300 mm, 65": 400 x 300 mm, 70": 400 x 300 mm, 75": 400 x 400 mm, 85": 600 x 400 mm
Stand Width By Size43": 33.1, 50": 39.8, 55": 40.6, 58": 42.9, 65": 46.7, 70": 53.4, 75": 56.2, 85": 67.1 inches wide position or 55.2 inches narrow position
Stand Depth By Size43": 7.6, 50": 9.9, 55": 9.9, 58": 9.9, 65": 11.1, 70": 13.4, 75": 13.4, 85": 15.4
Picture Modes SDRDynamic, Standard, Eco, Movie, FILMMAKER MODE
Samsung

TU690T Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV

A native 60 Hz 4K Tizen TV with two HDMI inputs, HDR10+, ALLM, eARC and sizes from 43 to 85 inches.

Key technology

PurColorSamsung color processing intended to optimize color reproduction for different content.
Crystal Processor 4KProcesses incoming video and upscales lower-resolution sources for the 4K display.
Game EnhancerAutomatically changes selected television settings when compatible game content is detected.
Motion Rate 120Samsung motion-processing label for this 60 Hz television; it is not a 120 Hz physical panel specification.
Universal GuideTizen content guide that organizes live television and supported streaming recommendations.
Samsung TV PlusSamsung's internet-delivered linear channel service built into the Tizen interface.

Buyer advantages

  • The 60-inch model fills a size gap in the CU7000 lineup and may fit rooms where 58 inches is too small and 65 inches is too large.
  • HDR10+ support provides dynamic-metadata HDR playback from compatible sources.
  • ALLM can automatically engage the television's low-latency gaming settings with compatible consoles.
  • eARC on HDMI 2 supports connection to a compatible soundbar or receiver.
  • Apple AirPlay allows wireless playback from compatible Apple devices.
  • Nine documented US sizes span 43 through 85 inches.
  • The basic 20-watt audio output matches the CU7000's rated power.

Things to consider

  • Only two HDMI inputs can become restrictive when connecting a console, streaming player and external audio system.
  • The native 60 Hz panel cannot display native 4K/120 gaming.
  • Motion Rate 120 is processing terminology and should not be mistaken for a native 120 Hz panel.
  • No VRR support means the display cannot match its refresh cycle to changing game frame rates.
  • No local dimming limits HDR contrast control.
  • Dolby Vision is not supported.
  • The battery-powered TM1240A remote lacks the rechargeable SolarCell design included with the CU7000.
  • Bluetooth 4.2 is older than the CU7000's Bluetooth 5.2 implementation.
  • Samsung Gaming Hub, Object Tracking Sound Lite and Q-Symphony are not listed for this model.
  • Backlight construction is size-dependent and should not be generalized across the entire series.

Sizes, mounting and buying details

Size / modelPeak HDRVESAFeet widthViewing distanceBuy
43"UN43TU690TFXZA 200 x 200 4.9–6.7 ft
50"UN50TU690TFXZA 200 x 200 5.7–7.8 ft
55"UN55TU690TFXZA 200 x 200 37.5 in 6.3–8.6 ft
58"UN58TU690TFXZA 400 x 300 6.6–9.0 ft
60"UN60TU690TFXZA 400 x 300 6.9–9.3 ft
65"UN65TU690TFXZA 400 x 300 44.6 in 7.4–10.1 ft
70"UN70TU690TFXZA 400 x 300 44.6 in 8.0–10.9 ft
75"UN75TU690TFXZA 400 x 400 8.6–11.7 ft
85"UN85TU690TFXZA 600 x 400 9.7–13.2 ft

Complete specifications

Audio

Speaker System2-channel
Speaker Count2
Woofer Count0
Included SubwooferNo
Included Rear SpeakersNo
Audio Output Watts20 W
Dolby Audio FormatsDolby Digital Plus
Sound ModesAdaptive Sound
Dialogue EnhancementYes
Voice AssistantsWorks with Amazon Alexa, Works with Google Assistant

Connectivity

HDMI Ports2
HDMI Inputs2
HDMI Outputs0
HDMI eARCYes
Optical Inputs0
AirPlayYes
ChromecastNo

Design & Installation

Wall Mount IncludedNo

Gaming

Native Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
Maximum Refresh Rate Hz60 Hz
VRRNo
ALLMYes

Picture

Display TechnologyLED-backlit LCD marketed as Crystal UHD
Resolution3840 x 2160
Local DimmingNo
Local Dimming Zones By Size43": 0, 50": 0, 55": 0, 58": 0, 60": 0, 65": 0, 70": 0, 75": 0, 85": 0
HDR FormatsHDR10, HDR10+, HLG

Size Details

Dimensions Without Stand Inches37.9 x 22.0 x 2.3 in
Weight Without Stand lb17.9 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches44.0 x 25.4 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb25.1 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches48.4 x 27.8 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb30.6 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches50.8 x 29.5 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb33.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches53.2 x 30.5 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb37.9 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches57.1 x 32.7 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb45.4 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches61.3 x 35.4 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb54.5 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches65.9 x 37.7 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb67 lb
Dimensions Without Stand Inches74.6 x 42.7 x 2.4 in
Weight Without Stand lb88.6 lb

Smart Features

Operating SystemTizen
ProcessorCrystal Processor 4K

Specifications

Screen Sizes43, 50, 55, 58, 60, 65, 70, 75, 85
VESA By Size43": 200 x 200 mm, 50": 200 x 200 mm, 55": 200 x 200 mm, 58": 400 x 300 mm, 60": 400 x 300 mm, 65": 400 x 300 mm, 70": 400 x 300 mm, 75": 400 x 400 mm, 85": 600 x 400 mm
Stand Width By Size55": 37.5, 65": 44.6, 70": 44.6
Stand Depth By Size43": 7.9, 50": 9.8, 55": 9.8, 58": 9.8, 60": 11.2, 65": 11.2, 70": 13.4, 75": 13.4, 85": 15.5

Which one should you buy?

The CU7000 is the better all-around choice for most shoppers. It combines the stronger picture impression with three HDMI inputs, Samsung Gaming Hub, a SolarCell remote, Bluetooth 5.2, Object Tracking Sound Lite and Q-Symphony. Its tradeoffs are the same core limitations found on many entry-level TVs—60 Hz operation, no VRR, no local dimming and no Dolby Vision—and Tech Steve's sample had a faint edge-uniformity defect. The TU690T produces a serviceable 4K picture and retains HDR10+, ALLM, eARC and the same 20-watt speaker output, but its two HDMI inputs, older remote and more limited smart experience make it less convenient. Buy the CU7000 when prices are close; buy the TU690T when the discount is substantial or its 60-inch size uniquely suits the room.

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