Hey everyone! Let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Frame 2022 and the 2021 model. If you're thinking about upgrading or just curious about the changes, you're in the right place. We'll break down everything from the display tech to the smart features, so you can make an informed decision.

Design and Aesthetics

When it comes to design, Samsung has always nailed the art-inspired look with The Frame series. Both the 2021 and 2022 models are designed to blend seamlessly into your living space, masquerading as a piece of art when not in use. However, there are a few subtle but significant differences.

Slimmer Profile

One of the most noticeable upgrades in the 2022 Frame is its slimmer profile. Samsung has managed to shave off some depth, making the TV look even more like a real framed picture hanging on your wall. The 2021 model was already quite sleek, but the 2022 version takes it up a notch. This slimmer design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes it easier to mount flush against the wall. The reduced depth means it protrudes less, giving it a more integrated and less obtrusive appearance.

Bezels and Customization

Both models feature customizable bezels, which allow you to choose from a range of colors and styles to match your decor. This is a fantastic feature that really sets The Frame apart from other TVs. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or something more traditional, you can find a bezel that suits your taste. The ease of swapping out the bezels means you can update the look of your TV whenever you redecorate or simply want a change. The customization extends beyond just the color; you can also choose different materials and finishes, further tailoring the TV to your personal style.

Cable Management

Samsung's One Connect Box remains a key feature in both models, helping to keep your entertainment area clutter-free. This external box houses all the ports and connections, so you only have one thin cable running to the TV. This clever design minimizes cable clutter and makes for a cleaner, more organized setup. The One Connect Box can be tucked away in a cabinet or behind the TV, keeping it out of sight and maintaining the focus on the TV's art-like appearance. The length of the One Connect cable provides flexibility in terms of where you can place the box, allowing you to optimize your setup for both aesthetics and functionality.

Display Technology

The display is where we see some of the most important updates in the Samsung Frame 2022. While both models offer excellent picture quality, the 2022 version boasts improvements that enhance the viewing experience.

Matte Display

The standout feature of the 2022 Frame is its new matte display. This innovative screen technology significantly reduces reflections, making it easier to view the TV in bright rooms. The matte finish diffuses light, minimizing glare and ensuring that the picture remains clear and vibrant, even in direct sunlight. This is a game-changer for anyone who has struggled with reflections on their TV screen, especially during daytime viewing. The matte display not only improves visibility but also enhances the art mode, making digital artwork look more like real paintings. The texture of the matte screen gives the artwork a more natural and authentic appearance, blurring the line between digital and traditional art.

QLED Technology

Both the 2021 and 2022 Frame TVs use Samsung's QLED technology, which delivers vibrant colors and excellent contrast. QLED, or Quantum Dot LED, enhances the color volume and brightness, resulting in a more lifelike and immersive picture. The quantum dots emit different colors depending on their size, allowing for a wider color gamut and more accurate color reproduction. This technology ensures that the colors are rich and vibrant, and the contrast is deep and detailed, providing a visually stunning experience. Whether you're watching movies, playing games, or displaying artwork, the QLED technology ensures that everything looks its best.

Picture Quality Enhancements

While both models offer 4K resolution and HDR support, the 2022 Frame includes some additional picture processing enhancements. Samsung has refined its image processing algorithms to deliver even better clarity, detail, and color accuracy. These enhancements result in a more refined and lifelike picture, with smoother gradients and more natural skin tones. The 2022 model also boasts improved upscaling capabilities, making non-4K content look sharper and more detailed. Whether you're watching older movies or streaming lower-resolution content, the 2022 Frame does a better job of enhancing the picture quality, providing a more enjoyable viewing experience.

Art Mode and Features

The Art Mode is what truly sets The Frame apart, transforming it from a TV into a piece of art when it's not being used for entertainment. Both models offer this feature, but there are some notable improvements in the 2022 version.

Enhanced Art Store

Samsung has expanded its Art Store, offering an even wider selection of artwork to choose from. The Art Store is a subscription service that gives you access to a vast library of paintings, photographs, and digital art from renowned artists and galleries around the world. The expanded selection means you can find even more pieces that suit your taste and style. Samsung regularly updates the Art Store with new content, ensuring that there's always something fresh and interesting to discover. The ability to curate your own collection and schedule artwork to display at different times of the day adds a personal touch to your living space.

My Photo Plus

Both models allow you to display your own photos, but the 2022 Frame includes an improved version of the My Photo Plus feature. This feature allows you to easily upload and display your personal photos on the TV screen, turning it into a digital photo frame. The improved version offers enhanced customization options, such as the ability to add filters, adjust brightness and contrast, and create slideshows. You can also add digital mattes to your photos, giving them a more polished and professional look. The My Photo Plus feature is a great way to personalize your living space and showcase your favorite memories.

Ambient Mode

While technically not part of the Art Mode, the Ambient Mode on both models deserves a mention. This feature allows the TV to blend into its surroundings by mimicking the color and texture of the wall behind it. When the TV is not in use, it can display a subtle pattern or design that complements your decor, making it less obtrusive and more integrated into the room. The Ambient Mode can also display useful information, such as the weather, time, and news headlines. This feature adds an extra layer of functionality to The Frame, making it more than just a TV or a piece of art.

Smart Features and Performance

As with any modern TV, smart features are a crucial consideration. Both the Samsung Frame 2021 and 2022 models are equipped with Samsung's Tizen operating system, but there are some differences in performance and functionality.

Tizen OS

The 2022 Frame comes with the latest version of Tizen OS, which offers a more streamlined and intuitive user experience. Tizen is Samsung's proprietary operating system, designed specifically for its smart TVs. The latest version boasts faster performance, improved navigation, and a more user-friendly interface. The home screen is customizable, allowing you to arrange your favorite apps and content to your liking. The improved voice control functionality makes it easier to search for content, adjust settings, and control other smart devices in your home. The Tizen OS is regularly updated with new features and improvements, ensuring that your TV stays up-to-date with the latest technology.

Processor and Performance

The 2022 Frame features an upgraded processor, resulting in snappier performance and faster loading times. The processor is the brain of the TV, responsible for handling all the tasks and operations. The upgraded processor in the 2022 model allows for smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and more responsive navigation. This is particularly noticeable when switching between apps, streaming content, and using the smart features. The improved performance makes for a more enjoyable and seamless user experience.

Smart Home Integration

Both models offer excellent smart home integration, allowing you to control your TV and other smart devices using voice commands. Samsung's Bixby voice assistant is built-in, but you can also use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control the TV. The smart home integration allows you to do things like turn on the TV, change channels, adjust the volume, and control other smart devices in your home, all with just your voice. This feature is particularly useful for those who have a lot of smart devices in their home and want to control them from a central location.

Audio Quality

While the Samsung Frame is primarily known for its design and visual features, audio quality is also an important consideration. Both the 2021 and 2022 models offer decent sound, but there are some subtle differences.

Built-in Speakers

Both models feature built-in speakers that deliver adequate sound for everyday viewing. However, if you're a serious audiophile, you'll likely want to invest in a separate sound system. The built-in speakers are fine for watching TV shows and movies, but they may not provide the immersive audio experience that you're looking for. The sound quality is decent, but it lacks the depth and richness of a dedicated sound system. If you want to enhance the audio experience, consider adding a soundbar or a surround sound system.

Sound Technology

The 2022 Frame includes some enhanced sound processing technology, which improves the clarity and detail of the audio. Samsung has refined its audio processing algorithms to deliver clearer dialogue, more balanced sound, and a wider soundstage. These enhancements result in a more immersive and enjoyable audio experience. The 2022 model also supports Dolby Atmos, which provides a more three-dimensional and realistic sound experience. Whether you're watching movies, playing games, or listening to music, the enhanced sound technology ensures that everything sounds its best.

Price and Value

When it comes to price, the Samsung Frame 2022 typically commands a premium over the 2021 model. Whether the extra cost is worth it depends on your priorities and budget.

Cost Comparison

The 2022 Frame is generally more expensive than the 2021 model, reflecting the improvements in display technology, processing power, and smart features. The price difference can vary depending on the size of the TV and the retailer. Before making a decision, it's important to compare prices from different retailers and consider any available discounts or promotions. While the 2022 model offers some significant improvements, the 2021 model is still a great TV and may be a better value for those on a budget.

Is It Worth the Upgrade?

If you value the matte display, enhanced picture processing, and faster performance, the 2022 Frame is definitely worth considering. The matte display alone is a game-changer for anyone who struggles with reflections on their TV screen. The enhanced picture processing and faster performance also contribute to a more enjoyable and seamless user experience. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't need the latest and greatest features, the 2021 model is still an excellent choice. It offers great picture quality, a beautiful design, and all the essential smart features.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung Frame 2022 offers several notable improvements over the 2021 model, including a slimmer design, matte display, enhanced picture processing, and faster performance. However, the 2021 model remains a compelling option, especially for those on a budget. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what features are most important to you and how much you're willing to spend, and then make an informed decision.

Hopefully, this detailed comparison has helped you understand the key differences between the Samsung Frame 2022 and 2021 models. Happy viewing!