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Samsung Frame Alternative: How to Choose One

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Samsung Frame Alternative: How to Choose One

This guide helps you pick a TV that looks like wall art when it’s off, just like the Samsung Frame, without paying the Frame’s premium. You’ll learn what to look for in a TV, a mount, and a frame or bezel, and how to match them to your room’s size, lighting, and decor. By the end, you’ll have a clear checklist to shop with confidence.

What You’ll Need

  • A tape measure (to measure your wall and viewing distance)
  • A notepad or phone to record measurements and model numbers
  • Access to a TV retailer’s website or a store to compare specs
  • A flashlight (to check wall reflections if you’re in a bright room)

Step-by-Step

  1. Decide on your budget and size. The Frame is priced at a premium, so set a realistic budget for a TV plus a frame kit. For size, measure the wall space where the TV will hang. A good rule: the TV’s diagonal should be about one-third to one-half the viewing distance. For example, if you sit 8 feet (2.4 m) away, a 55–65 inch TV works well.
  2. Choose the panel type: QLED vs. OLED. The Frame uses QLED (quantum dot LED) to avoid burn-in and keep bright colors. If your room has lots of natural light, a QLED or a Mini-LED TV will stay bright and vivid. If you watch in a dark room and want perfect blacks, an OLED is better, but be aware of potential burn-in with static images (like a clock or a photo on the wall).
  3. Look for a flush, slim design. The whole point of an art TV is that it hangs flat against the wall like a painting. Check the TV’s depth (in inches or mm) and whether it has a slim wall-mount option. Many TVs come with a standard VESA mount, but you may need a separate flush mount (like a slim wall mount) that brings the TV within 1–2 inches of the wall. Measure the TV’s thickness and compare with the mount’s minimum depth.
  4. Check for an art mode or ambient mode. The Frame has a dedicated art mode that shows paintings when the TV is off. Many other TVs have a screensaver or ambient mode that can display images. Look for a TV with a good ambient mode that lets you upload your own photos or choose from a gallery. Some TVs automatically dim the screen to save power when in ambient mode.
  5. Consider the bezel and frame options. The Frame’s bezel is magnetic and interchangeable. For alternatives, you can buy a custom frame or bezel kit that attaches to the TV’s edge. Some companies make wooden or metal frames that clip onto the TV. Measure the TV’s bezel width and look for a frame that fits. Alternatively, you can build a DIY frame using a picture frame molding and attach it with strong double-sided tape or a custom bracket.
  6. Evaluate the picture quality for your room. Think about your room’s lighting. If it’s bright, look for a TV with high peak brightness (800+ nits) and good anti-glare coating. If it’s a dark media room, focus on contrast and black levels. Check reviews for real-world performance, not just specs.
  7. Check the smart TV platform. The Frame runs Tizen. Alternatives may use webOS, Google TV, Roku, or Fire TV. Choose the one that fits your streaming habits. Make sure it supports your favorite apps and has a smooth interface.
  8. Measure the wall and plan the layout. Before you buy, measure the wall space and the TV’s footprint. Also consider the height: the center of the TV should be at eye level when you’re seated. Mark the spot with tape to visualize the size. Also check that there’s a power outlet nearby and that you can hide cables (use an in-wall cable kit or a cable cover).
  9. Compare prices and read reviews. Once you have a shortlist of 2-3 TVs, compare prices from different retailers. Read professional reviews and user reviews for any common issues like motion blur, input lag, or Wi-Fi problems.
  10. Purchase the TV and the frame separately. If you’re not buying a TV that comes with a frame, order a third-party frame or bezel kit that matches your TV’s size and VESA mount pattern. Some kits include a canvas-like cover that goes over the screen, but that’s rare. Usually, you just get a decorative trim.

Common Mistakes

  • Ignoring the TV’s depth. A TV that’s 2 inches thick won’t look like a painting even with a flush mount. Check the depth and choose a slim model (under 1.5 inches).
  • Buying a frame that doesn’t fit. Frames are made for specific TV models. Always check the frame’s compatibility list before buying.
  • Forgetting about cable management. A wall-hung TV with visible cables ruins the art effect. Plan for in-wall cable routing or a cable cover.
  • Choosing a TV with poor anti-glare. In a bright room, a glossy screen will reflect windows and lights, making the art mode unwatchable. Look for matte or anti-reflective coatings.
  • Not checking the ambient mode’s power consumption. Some TVs use a lot of power in ambient mode, which can be a surprise on your electric bill. Look for an eco mode that dims the screen.

Tips

  • Use a matte screen protector. If your TV has a glossy screen, a matte screen protector can reduce reflections and mimic the Frame’s matte finish. It’s a cheap fix.
  • Set a slideshow of your own photos. Instead of buying art, upload your own high-resolution photos to the TV’s ambient mode. This makes it feel personal.
  • Consider a used or refurbished TV. You can save a lot by buying a previous year’s model. Just check that it has an ambient mode and a slim design.
  • Hang the TV at the right height. For a painting effect, hang it a bit higher than a regular TV, but still comfortable for viewing. The center should be around 60 inches from the floor.
  • Use a smart plug to turn off ambient mode. If you want the TV to be completely off when you’re not watching, a smart plug can cut power, but that may reset some settings. Better to use the TV’s own sleep timer.

Troubleshooting

The TV doesn’t look flush on the wall. Check if your wall mount is actually a slim mount. Many standard mounts leave a 2-3 inch gap. You may need to buy a low-profile mount that sits close to the wall, but make sure it supports your TV’s VESA pattern and weight.

The frame doesn’t fit properly. Double-check the TV’s model number and the frame’s compatibility. Some frames are adjustable, but if it’s not, you may need to return it. Alternatively, you can make a custom frame using a picture frame molding and attach it with strong double-sided tape around the bezel.

The ambient mode is too bright or too dim. Adjust the ambient mode’s brightness settings. Some TVs have a “photo” or “art” mode that mimics the Frame’s look. If yours doesn’t, you can lower the backlight and set a screensaver with a black background.

Cables are visible. If you can’t hide cables in the wall, use a cable cover that matches your wall color. Or, run the cables behind a piece of furniture.

The TV’s screen reflects light. If you have a glossy screen, try repositioning the TV or adding a matte screen protector. Also, adjust the angle to avoid direct light.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any TV as an art TV? Yes, as long as it has an ambient or screensaver mode that can display images. You can also use a streaming stick to show a slideshow of photos.

What is the best alternative to the Samsung Frame? It depends on your budget and room. LG’s QNED series and TCL’s QLED models offer good picture quality with ambient modes. For a budget option, look at Hisense’s U6 series.

Do I need a special mount? Yes, a slim wall mount is essential to get the TV close to the wall. Look for a mount that supports your TV’s VESA pattern and weight, and that has a depth of under 2 inches.

Can I add a frame to any TV? Not all TVs have removable bezels, but you can buy a third-party frame that attaches to the TV’s edge. Some are magnetic, others use adhesive. Measure your TV’s bezel width to find a compatible one.

Will ambient mode burn in my TV? On OLED TVs, there is a risk of burn-in if you display the same image for many hours. QLED and LED TVs are less prone to burn-in. To be safe, set the ambient mode to change images periodically.

How much power does ambient mode use? It varies by TV. Some use as little as 30-50 watts, similar to a light bulb. Check the TV’s energy guide for standby power consumption.

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