If you've owned a Samsung 55-inch NU6900 Series 4K TV for several years, you might have noticed a decline in its performance over time. After five years of solid picture quality, decent sound, and a plethora of smart features, including apps and screen mirroring, my TV began to lag in its efficiency. Faced with the dilemma of replacing my beloved TV, I decided to take matters into my own hands instead. By treating my Samsung NU6900 as a tech in need of care, I successfully restored its original performance. Here’s how you can do the same for your smart TV, regardless of brand.
Much like smartphones and tablets, smart TVs can become cluttered with apps and features that we seldom use. While some apps are embedded and cannot be removed, many brands, including Samsung, allow users to delete unnecessary applications. The more apps your TV has to manage, the slower its performance will be. After carefully reviewing the installed software on my Samsung TV, I identified several apps that I could delete, which resulted in a noticeable boost in performance post-deletion. Be aware that if the delete option is grayed out, it indicates that the app cannot be removed.
For those smart TVs that allow it, clearing cached app data can significantly enhance performance. Although my Samsung model doesn’t provide this option, it does have a soft reboot feature. To perform this, simply turn off your TV and press and hold the power button on the remote until the boot logo appears. If an app is causing issues, consider deleting and reinstalling it to see if that resolves the slow performance. Regular updates are essential too, as they keep your TV running smoothly and securely. Always check for the latest software updates by navigating to Settings > Support > Software Update.
When it comes to internet connectivity, nothing surpasses a hardwired Ethernet connection. Most modern smart TVs can connect to Wi-Fi, but those with an Ethernet port should be prioritized for a more stable and faster connection. If your Samsung NU6900 has this port, run an Ethernet cable from your TV to your modem or router to enhance your streaming experience. If an Ethernet connection is unavailable, consider repositioning your router or switching your TV to a different wireless band for better signal strength.
While enjoying the stunning picture quality of your smart TV, consider turning off some default settings that can hinder performance. Features like Auto Motion Plus (Samsung), MotionFlow (Sony), and TruMotion (LG) can create artificial motion effects that may slow down your TV’s user interface and app launches. Additionally, disabling Eco mode can improve responsiveness, as it prevents the TV from constantly adjusting brightness levels based on ambient light, which can drain resources. Turning off auto-HDMI switching can also help eliminate lag.
If you've tried all the above methods without seeing improvements, a factory reset might be necessary. This should be your last option, as it wipes all system data, requiring you to re-download apps and adjust settings again. Before proceeding, jot down your current settings and apps. Alternatively, you can perform a hard reset by unplugging your TV for about 30 seconds to reset the RAM and clear any glitches.
Improving the performance of your smart TV, particularly an older model like the Samsung NU6900, doesn’t require significant time or effort. These DIY methods can also apply to other smart devices, including streaming devices and gaming consoles. Remember to keep your login information handy before performing any resets or updates to ensure a smooth transition back to a fully functional smart TV.
