Samsung TV Model Number Lookup: Complete 2025 Decoder Guide

Quick Reference: Samsung TV Model Number Decoder

That cryptic string of letters and numbers on your Samsung TV isn't random—it's a blueprint containing everything from your TV's screen size to its manufacturing year. Here's how to read it at a glance.

Example Model Number: QN65QN90FAFXZA

Quick Year Code Reference (2020-2025)

Jump to detailed sections:

• How to Find Your Model Number

• Decode by TV Type

• Complete Year Codes

• Troubleshooting

What Is a Samsung TV Model Number? Why It Matters

A Samsung TV model number is an alphanumeric code that identifies your television's exact specifications. It encodes the TV type (LED, QLED, OLED), screen size, manufacturing year, series tier, resolution, region, and country of origin. For example, QN65QN90FAFXZA identifies a 65-inch 2025 Neo QLED for the US market.

Think of it as your TV's DNA. Every Samsung TV rolling off the assembly line receives this unique identifier, and understanding it unlocks practical benefits you'll actually use.

Why Your Model Number Matters

Warranty claims and registration. Samsung requires your exact model number to verify coverage. That "QN90F" matters just as much as the full string when you're filing a claim for a dead pixel or backlight issue.

Finding compatible accessories. Replacement remotes, wall mounts, and soundbars all depend on model compatibility. The wrong VESA pattern on a wall mount means your 65-inch TV won't fit—and that's a frustrating discovery halfway through installation.

Downloading correct firmware updates. Samsung releases firmware by specific model number. Installing the wrong update can cause features to malfunction or, in rare cases, brick your TV entirely.

Looking up detailed specifications. Wondering if your TV supports 4K@120Hz for gaming? The model number tells you instantly whether you have the hardware capability.

Resale or trade-in valuation. The difference between a 2023 C-series and a 2024 D-series can mean hundreds of dollars in resale value. Buyers want to know exactly what they're getting.

What's Actually Encoded

Samsung packs seven or more pieces of information into those 11-14 characters:

• TV type (LED, QLED, Neo QLED, OLED, Lifestyle)

• Region or continent (North America, Europe, Asia)

• Screen size in inches

• Manufacturing year

• Series tier and features

• Tuner type for your country

• Manufacturing country code

The format has evolved significantly over the years. Pre-2008 models used hyphens (like LN-T2342HX/XA), while 2008-2016 TVs followed a different structure. The current format, standardized in 2017, applies to everything from budget Crystal UHD sets to flagship 8K Neo QLEDs.

Understanding the difference between model and serial numbers prevents confusion when you're on the phone with Samsung support—they need different numbers for different purposes.

How to Find Your Samsung TV Model Number (3 Methods)

Three reliable methods exist for locating your Samsung TV model number. The settings menu works fastest for most situations—it takes under two minutes and doesn't require moving furniture or removing wall mounts.

Method 1: Settings Menu (2017-2025 Smart TVs)

This approach works on any Samsung Smart TV manufactured after 2017 and doesn't require physical access to the back panel.

1. Press the Home or Menu button on your Samsung remote

2. Navigate to Settings (gear icon) or select All Settings

3. Scroll down and select Support

4. Choose About This TV (labeled "About This TV/Projector" on some models)

5. View your Model Code displayed on screen

The complete model number appears alongside your serial number and software version. Screenshot or write it down—you'll need the full string for warranty claims.

For older Smart TVs (2015-2017): The path might be Menu → Support → Contact Samsung instead. The model code appears in the same information panel.

Quick shortcut: On most Samsung remotes, pressing and holding the Play/Pause button for 10 seconds brings up the "About This TV" screen directly. This works even if you're in the middle of watching something.

Method 2: Physical Label on Back Panel

Every Samsung TV ships with a silver or white sticker containing the model number, serial number, and power specifications. The label location varies by model year:

• 2020-2025 models: Center-right of the back panel, typically near connection ports

• 2017-2019 models: Lower portion of back panel, sometimes on the right edge

• Pre-2017 models: Center back panel, often near the power cord connection

The label displays multiple pieces of information. Look for the line starting with "Model Code" or simply "Model." The serial number (longer, starting with a letter-number combination like "07K") appears nearby but serves a different purpose.

Method 3: Original Packaging & Documentation

When the TV won't power on or you can't access the physical label, check:

• Original box: Model number printed on the shipping label and product sticker

• Purchase receipt: Retailers include model numbers for warranty purposes

• Samsung account: If you registered the TV, check SmartThings app or samsung.com account

• User manual cover: The model number appears on the front page of printed manuals

Troubleshooting: Wall-Mounted & Missing Labels

Wall-mounted TVs present the most common challenge. Removing a 65-inch TV from the wall just to read a sticker seems excessive—and it is.

Wall-mounted solution: Use the settings menu method. Navigate to Settings → Support → About This TV without touching the mount. The on-screen display shows everything you need.

Label worn or damaged: UV exposure and heat cause labels to fade over time. If you can read even partial characters, combine them with the settings menu information. When both sources fail, Samsung support can often look up your TV using the serial number alone.

TV won't turn on: Check your Samsung account registration first. If you ever connected the TV to WiFi, it may have auto-registered. Otherwise, the original box or receipt remains your best option.

Main board replaced: Service repairs sometimes reset the settings menu data. If "About This TV" shows blank or incorrect information after a repair, the physical label (which wasn't replaced) contains the original model number.

Pro tip: Before wall mounting any TV, photograph the back panel label. Store it with your home documentation—you'll thank yourself three years later when you need the model number.

Samsung TV Model Number Structure Explained

Samsung TV model numbers contain 11-14 characters, with each position encoding specific information about your television. Understanding this structure lets you decode any Samsung TV at a glance.

The format has evolved through three distinct eras:

Pre-2008 Format: Older models used hyphens and looked like LN-T2342HX/XA. The hyphen separated the product line from specifications.

2008-2016 Format: Models like UN55KU6300FXZA introduced the modern alphanumeric structure without hyphens. Resolution indicators (K for UHD, H for Full HD) appeared in the fifth position.

2017-Present Format: Current models like QN65QN90FAFXZA standardized the structure across all product lines. This format accommodates QLED, Neo QLED, OLED, and Lifestyle series with consistent character positions.

Master Character Position Reference

Here's how each position functions in modern Samsung TV model numbers:

Model number length varies by TV type. LED/Crystal UHD models typically run 14 characters, while QLED and OLED models often use 13 characters. The position of certain codes (especially year codes) shifts slightly between product lines.

The following sections break down each TV type specifically, showing exactly where to find each piece of information for your particular Samsung television.

How to Decode Samsung TV Model Numbers by Type

Samsung's TV lineup spans five major categories, each with slight variations in model number structure. Find your TV type below for a character-by-character breakdown.

Crystal UHD & LED TV Model Numbers (2017-2025)

Crystal UHD represents Samsung's entry-to-mid-range 4K television line. These models offer solid picture quality at accessible price points, making them the most common Samsung TVs in households.

All LED and Crystal UHD model numbers start with "U" for LED/UHD.

Example: UN65DU8000FXZA (2024 Crystal UHD)

2025 Crystal UHD Example: UN65FU8000FXZA follows the same structure with "F" in the 5th position indicating 2025 production.

Series hierarchy matters. The 6000, 7000, and 8000 series indicate feature tiers:

• 6000 series: Entry-level, basic features

• 7000 series: Mid-range, improved processing

• 8000 series: Premium LED, enhanced motion handling

Costco "D" suffix: Models ending in "D" before the tuner code (like CU7000D or DU8000D) are manufactured exclusively for Costco. These are functionally identical to standard models but sold only through Costco retail channels.

QLED & Neo QLED TV Model Numbers (2017-2025)

QLED televisions use Quantum Dot technology for enhanced color and brightness, while Neo QLED adds Mini-LED backlighting for superior contrast control. Samsung introduced QLED in 2017 and Neo QLED in 2021.

What does QN mean on Samsung TV? The answer depends on position. At the start of a model number (QN65...), "Q" indicates QLED technology and "N" indicates North American market. Within the series code (QN90), "QN" identifies Neo QLED with Mini-LED backlight—standard QLED models show just "Q" (like Q60, Q80).

Example: QN65QN90FAFXZA (2025 Neo QLED)

4K vs 8K distinction: Count the digits in the series code.

• 3-digit series (Q60, Q80, QN90) = 4K resolution

• 4-digit series (Q800, Q900, Q950) = 8K resolution

QLED series hierarchy:

• Standard QLED: Q60 < Q70 < Q80 (increasing features and performance)

• Neo QLED: QN85 < QN90 < QN95 (Mini-LED with varying zone counts)

The generation letter (A, B, C after the year code) indicates revision releases within the same model year. An "A" model is the first production run; "B" indicates hardware or feature updates.

Samsung OLED TV Model Numbers (2022-2025)

Samsung returned to the OLED market in 2022 using QD-OLED (Quantum Dot OLED) technology. These televisions combine the perfect blacks of OLED with quantum dot color enhancement for exceptional picture quality.

OLED models use an "S" designation in the series code instead of "Q."

Example: QN65S95FAFXZA (2025 OLED)

2025 OLED lineup: Samsung offers three tiers:

• S85F: Entry OLED, 20W audio system

• S90F: Mid-tier, 40W 2.1 channel audio, 144Hz gaming

• S95F: Premium flagship, 70W 4.2.2 channel audio, 165Hz gaming

Available sizes: Samsung OLEDs come in 42", 48", 55", 65", 77", and 83" configurations, though not all sizes are available in every tier.

S90 vs S95: The S95 commands premium pricing for brighter panels, enhanced anti-glare coating, and superior audio systems. For most viewers, the S90 delivers exceptional quality at a more accessible price point.

Note the year code position: On OLED models, it appears as the 8th character (after the 3-character series code), which differs slightly from QLED positioning.

Lifestyle Series: The Frame, Serif, Sero, Terrace

Samsung's Lifestyle series prioritizes design alongside performance. These televisions blend into home décor, transforming from entertainment centers into art displays or furniture pieces.

All Lifestyle models include "LS" in their model numbers, standing for "Lifestyle."

Example: QN65LS03FAFXZA (2025 The Frame)

Lifestyle Type Codes:

The Terrace (LST7) deserves special mention—it's the only Samsung TV designed for outdoor installation, featuring IP55 weather resistance and enhanced brightness for daylight viewing. It carries a significant price premium over indoor models of equivalent size.

The Frame remains Samsung's most popular Lifestyle model. It displays artwork when not in use, mounts flush against walls, and accepts customizable bezels to match room décor. The 2025 version (LS03F) adds improved matte display coating and AI-enhanced art curation.

Samsung TV Year Codes: Complete 2002-2025 Chart

The manufacturing year appears as a single letter in Samsung model numbers. This code reveals when your TV was produced and helps determine warranty coverage, firmware compatibility, and resale value.

The year code position varies by TV type:

• LED/Crystal UHD: 5th character (after screen size)

• QLED/Neo QLED: 9th character (after series code)

• OLED: 8th character (after S-series code)

• Lifestyle: 9th character (after LS## code)

Current Year Codes (2017-2025)

Samsung skipped "E" in 2025, jumping from D (2024) to F (2025). This likely avoids confusion with European region codes.

Legacy Year Codes (2008-2016)

The 2008-2016 era marked Samsung's transition from plasma to LED dominance. These models used slightly different position schemes, with the year code typically appearing as the 5th character regardless of TV type.

Historical Year Codes (2002-2007)

Pre-2008 Samsung TVs used a hyphenated format (LN-T2342HX/XA) with different coding conventions:

These older models included CRT, DLP, and early plasma televisions. If you're identifying a pre-2008 Samsung TV, the year letter appears immediately after the hyphen.

Samsung TV Region & Country Codes Explained

Samsung model numbers contain two location identifiers: the region code (2nd character) and the country code (last 2 characters). These codes determine tuner compatibility, warranty coverage, and available features.

Region Codes (2nd Character)

When you see "QN" at the start of a model, you're looking at a QLED (Q) for North America (N). European models start with "QE" (QLED Europe), while German models use "GQ" (Germany QLED).

Country Codes (Last 2 Characters)

Why country codes matter: Importing televisions from other regions can cause compatibility issues. A European TV (XU suffix) includes DVB tuners that won't receive ATSC broadcasts in the United States. You'll still get picture from streaming apps and HDMI sources, but over-the-air channels won't work.

Warranty coverage also varies by region. A TV purchased in Europe may not qualify for Samsung USA warranty service, even if you're willing to pay for repairs.

Resolution & Display Technology Codes

Samsung model numbers reveal both resolution capability and underlying display technology. Understanding these codes helps you verify whether your TV supports 4K gaming, HDR content, or 8K resolution.

4K vs 8K Identification

The simplest rule: count the digits in the series code.

This rule applies to QLED and Neo QLED models. An 8K television like the QN900 costs significantly more than its 4K counterpart (QN90), and the series code length immediately distinguishes them.

Resolution Letters (LED TVs)

For Crystal UHD and standard LED models, resolution appears in the 6th position:

HD models (720p) have largely disappeared from Samsung's current lineup, but you'll encounter them when looking at used televisions or older stock.

Display Technology Identification

The first letter reveals fundamental display technology:

Practical application: If someone asks whether their Samsung TV is "real OLED," check the series code. Models with "S" series codes (S90, S95) are OLED. Models starting with "Q" but using Q-series codes (Q60, Q80) are QLED—quantum dot enhanced but still LCD-based.

Tuner Type & Design Codes Decoded

The final characters before the country code specify your TV's broadcast tuner and physical design. These codes matter most when verifying regional compatibility.

Tuner Codes

Most US and Canadian viewers need an "F" tuner for over-the-air reception. If you've imported a TV with a European "U" tuner, local broadcast channels won't tune properly—though streaming services and HDMI inputs function normally.

Design Codes

Samsung discontinued curved television production after 2020, so you'll only see "L" codes on older models. Current production uses "X" exclusively.

Generation Codes

The letter immediately before the tuner code (typically A, B, or C) indicates the production generation within a model year:

• A: First production release

• B: Second generation (may include hardware revisions)

• C: Third generation (less common)

Generation updates rarely change major specifications but may address manufacturing improvements or component sourcing changes.

Samsung TV Series Quick Reference Guide

Samsung's current television lineup spans multiple price tiers and technology types. Understanding where your TV fits helps set appropriate expectations for features and performance.

Series Number Hierarchy

Higher numbers consistently indicate more features:

• Q60 < Q70 < Q80: Standard QLED progression

• QN85 < QN90 < QN95: Neo QLED with increasing dimming zones

• S85 < S90 < S95: OLED tiers with enhanced audio and processing

Gaming Features by Series

If gaming performance matters, the QN90 and S95 series offer the most complete feature sets with minimal input lag and full HDMI 2.1 support.

Practical Uses for Your Samsung TV Model Number

Now that you've decoded your model number, here's how to apply that knowledge.

Warranty Claims and Registration

Samsung's warranty portal requires your exact model number for coverage verification. Navigate to samsung.com/support and enter the complete model code (example: QN65QN90FAFXZA) to check warranty status, find service centers, or initiate a claim.

Keep both your model number and serial number accessible. Samsung support may request either depending on the issue type.

Finding Compatible Accessories

Replacement remotes: Samsung remotes vary by TV generation. Searching your model number ensures compatibility—a 2020 remote may lack buttons for 2025 features.

Wall mounts (VESA patterns): VESA specifications vary by screen size and model year. A 65-inch 2024 model may use different hole patterns than a 65-inch 2022 model. Search "[your model number] VESA" to find the exact specifications.

Soundbars: Q-Symphony compatibility (synchronized TV + soundbar audio) requires specific model pairings. Samsung's compatibility checker uses model numbers to verify support.

Downloading Firmware Updates

Samsung's Download Center (samsung.com/support) organizes firmware by model number. Enter your exact model code to find the correct update file.

Installing wrong firmware causes problems ranging from minor feature issues to complete television failure. Always verify the model number matches exactly before proceeding with any firmware update.

Looking Up Full Specifications

Samsung's product pages provide basic specifications, but for detailed measurements and test data:

• Samsung Support: Official specifications and documentation

• DisplaySpecifications.com: Comprehensive technical data

• RTings.com: Independent testing with objective measurements

Enter your model number directly into these sites' search functions for accurate results.

Resale and Trade-In Valuation

Model year significantly impacts resale value. A 2023 model (C-series) versus a 2024 model (D-series) may represent 20-30% value difference even for otherwise identical specifications.

Accurate model numbers prevent disputes when selling. Buyers increasingly verify model numbers before purchase to ensure they're getting the advertised year and specifications.

Model Number vs Serial Number: Key Differences

Confusion between model numbers and serial numbers creates support headaches. Here's the distinction:

Model number: Identifies what your TV is. Every QN65QN90FAFXZA shares identical specifications.

Serial number: Identifies which specific TV you have. Only one television carries the serial number 07K03XFNC00234H.

When to Use Each

Use model number for:

• Looking up specifications

• Finding compatible remotes and accessories

• Downloading firmware updates

• Comparing features between models

Use serial number for:

• Registering warranty

• Filing service claims

• Verifying authenticity

• Tracking repair history

Both numbers appear together in Settings → Support → About This TV, making simultaneous verification straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my Samsung TV model number?

To find your Samsung TV model number:

1. Press Home or Menu on your remote

2. Go to Settings → Support → About This TV

3. View the Model Code displayed on screen

Alternatively, check the silver sticker on the back panel of your TV. For wall-mounted TVs, the settings menu method works without accessing the back.

What do the letters and numbers in Samsung TV model numbers mean?

Each character in a Samsung TV model number encodes specific information. In QN65QN90FAFXZA: Q=QLED type, N=North America, 65=screen size, QN90=Neo QLED series, F=2025 year, A=first generation, F=ATSC tuner, X=flat design, ZA=USA manufacturing. The model number contains TV type, region, size, year, series, tuner, and country codes.

How can I tell what year my Samsung TV was made?

Locate the year code letter in your model number. For 2017-2025 models: F=2025, D=2024, C=2023, B=2022, A=2021, T=2020, R=2019, N=2018, M=2017. The position varies by TV type—typically 5th character for LED models and 9th character for QLED/OLED.

What does QN mean on Samsung TV?

QN in Samsung TV model numbers has two meanings depending on position. At the start (QN65...), Q=QLED TV and N=North America market. Within the series code (Q65QN90...), QN indicates Neo QLED technology with Mini-LED backlight. Standard QLED models show just Q in the series (Q60, Q80), while Neo QLED shows QN (QN85, QN90, QN95).

What is the difference between Samsung TV model number and serial number?

A Samsung TV model number identifies the TV type and specifications (shared across all units of that model), while the serial number uniquely identifies your specific TV unit. Model numbers like QN65QN90FAFXZA reveal screen size, technology, and year. Serial numbers are 15+ character unique codes used for warranty registration and service. Both appear in Settings → Support → About This TV.

How do I find my Samsung TV model number if it's wall mounted?

For wall-mounted Samsung TVs:

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings → Support → About This TV

3. Read the Model Code from the on-screen display

This method works without removing the TV from the wall or accessing the back panel.

What does the "D" at the end of some Samsung TV model numbers mean?

The "D" suffix at the end of some Samsung TV model numbers (like CU7000D or DU8000D) indicates the TV is manufactured specifically for Costco retail stores. These are typically identical to standard models but sold exclusively through Costco. The D appears before the tuner code.

How do I know if my Samsung TV is 4K or 8K from the model number?

To determine if your Samsung TV is 4K or 8K, check the series code in the model number. A 3-digit series code (Q60, Q80, QN90) indicates 4K resolution. A 4-digit series code (Q700, Q800, Q900, Q950) indicates 8K resolution. For example, QN65QN90FAFXZA (3-digit QN90) is 4K, while QN75QN900FAFXZA (4-digit QN900) is 8K.

What does LS mean in Samsung TV model numbers?

LS in Samsung TV model numbers stands for "Lifestyle" and identifies Samsung's design-focused TV series. The code after LS indicates the specific model: LS01=The Serif, LS03=The Frame, LS05=The Sero, and LST7=The Terrace (outdoor TV). For example, QN65LS03FAFXZA is a 65-inch The Frame from 2025.

Where can I find my Samsung TV's user manual using the model number?

To find your Samsung TV user manual:

1. Visit samsung.com/support

2. Enter your model number in the search bar

3. Select your TV from results

4. Click "Manuals & Downloads"

5. Download the PDF user manual

You can also access the digital e-Manual directly on your TV via Settings → Support → Open e-Manual.

Conclusion

You now have everything needed to find and decode any Samsung TV model number—from 2002 plasma displays to 2025 QD-OLED flagships.

The essentials to remember:

Your model number lives in two places: the settings menu (Settings → Support → About This TV) and the physical label on your TV's back panel. The settings menu works best for wall-mounted TVs.

Each character encodes specific information. The first letters indicate TV type and region, middle digits reveal screen size and series, and the embedded year code (F for 2025, D for 2024, C for 2023) tells you exactly when your television was manufactured.

Current year codes for quick reference: F=2025, D=2024, C=2023, B=2022, A=2021, T=2020.

Understanding your model number saves real time with warranty claims, accessory purchases, firmware updates, and technical support calls. Bookmark this guide for reference—you'll need it eventually.

For edge cases this guide doesn't cover, Samsung support can look up detailed specifications using either your model number or serial number. But for 95% of situations, the information above tells you everything you need to know about your Samsung television.

This guide is independently maintained and updated for accuracy. Information verified against Samsung's official documentation and current 2025 product lineup.