the picture on my q60c looks really dim and washed out in hdr mode when i watch netflix or disney+.

— asked by Morgan

Quick answer: This is usually not a defect, but a mismatch of settings. The TV might be in an incorrect picture mode for HDR content, or a power-saving feature is overriding the brightness.

Diagnosis

This is usually not a defect, but a mismatch of settings. The TV might be in an incorrect picture mode for HDR content, or a power-saving feature is overriding the brightness.

How to Fix It

First, when you're playing HDR content, press the Home button and go to Settings > Picture. Ensure 'Picture Mode' is set to 'Dynamic', 'Standard', or 'Movie'—'Natural' and 'Filmmaker Mode' can look dimmer. Most importantly, scroll down to 'Expert Settings' and make sure 'Contrast Enhancer' is set to 'High' and 'HDR Tone Mapping' is set to 'Active'. Also, turn 'Auto Brightness' (an ambient light sensor) OFF. These are the key settings that pump up the brightness and pop for HDR.

If That Didn't Work

The issue might be with the streaming device itself. If you're using a built-in app, try this: go to Settings > General & Privacy > Power and Energy Saving and set 'Brightness Optimization' to OFF. If you're using an external device like a Fire Stick or game console, check that its HDR output settings are configured correctly—sometimes they send a weak HDR signal that the TV misinterprets.

Heads Up

This TV doesn't get as bright as higher-end QLEDs. In a very bright room, HDR will always look a bit washed out. It's a limitation of the panel, not your settings. For best results, watch HDR content in a dimmer environment.

0

Different problem with the same product?

Ask about the Samsung 50 inch QN50Q60C QLED 4K Smart TV →