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Samsung’s new monitor looks to combine a sleek design with impressive functionality
At first glance, the Samsung Smart Monitor M8 (M80D) is sleek and has a large screen that appeals to many. What makes the M8 so impressive is not only how nice it looks but rather what it’s able to do. Featuring a bright, crisp 4K display, integrated smart TV capabilities and a built-in webcam, the M8 was Samsung’s attempt to bridge the gap between work, entertainment and gaming, so the BestReviews Testing Lab set out to see if they had done it.
In this article: Samsung M8 (M80D), Samsung Odyssey G9 (G95SD) and Samsung Viewfinity S9 5K Smart Monitor
Unboxing
Unboxing the M8 was easy. There were two screws that attached to the stand, which was nice because it took just under 10 minutes to set up completely. The components had a white finish, making them feel just a bit more premium than your average monitor. Adjusting the height and viewing angle were both super easy, allowing you to get the exact setup you’re looking for.
Display
When it came to the display, the performance did not disappoint. The 4K panel was vivid, the text was crisp and easy to read, and the contrast was top-notch. Streaming on this display was beautiful, as the 4K options on Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video and others popped with HDR10+ support. The monitor advertises AI upscaling from 1440p resolution to 4K, and we thought the difference wasn’t super noticeable.
Smart TV Capability
Tizen OS, Samsung’s integrated smart TV interface, makes this monitor more impressive than your run-of-the-mill display. Switching between apps and inputs was a breeze, made even more simple with the included remote that features voice control. There are also two smart assistants built-in with Amazon Alexa and Samsung’s assistant, Bixby.
Connectivity
Connectivity is where things got a bit tricky. There is one HDMI-in port, two USB-A ports, a USB-C upstream port and then the power slot. These are great most of the time, but not having DisplayPort or AUX input options was a bit of a bummer. These could be a dealbreaker if you’re someone with several monitors or an external audio setup. One huge pro was that the USB-C port will charge your personal devices at an impressive 65W.
Audio & Video
Since there is no AUX port to have speakers, you’ll have to rely on the built-in speakers, which are totally fine for streaming and watching YouTube videos. If you’re a hardcore gamer or want to have high-fidelity audio though, this won’t compare to some other audio options you may be familiar with.
A really cool feature that is useful to so many is the integrated “SlimFit Camera”. This allows you to stay in touch with family and friends or to take work video calls using their impressive built-in camera.
Gaming
When it came to gaming, the M8 was good, not great. The display was limited by a 60Hz refresh rate and a 4ms response time, which are both totally fine for casual games. If you’re playing faster-paced FPS games, you may notice some motion blur and input lag during play. One thing that is nice is the built-in Samsung Gaming Hub, which gives you the opportunity to play some of the most popular games directly on the monitor, with no console required.
Overall
The M8 shines as an all-purpose monitor for both work and entertainment. It’s perfect for those who want a highly functional monitor that has a premium feel to it. Whether this is for important work or just to use when you unwind, the M8 is a great option. The design, versatility and smart features make this a must-see when shopping for your next monitor.
Other great options
Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 (G95SD)
Best for: The professional gamer
The Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 is a game-changer for avid gamers, featuring a huge 49-inch curved display with incredibly vibrant OLED colors, deep blacks and a smooth 240Hz refresh rate. Its 32:9 aspect ratio provides an ultrawide FOV, perfect for competitive gamers and open-world explorers. With low input lag and support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, it ensures seamless gameplay even in the most fast-paced moments.
Samsung Viewfinity S9 5K Smart Monitor
Best for: The creative seeking incredibly clarity
The Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K offers impressive visual clarity with its 27-inch 5K resolution that features a color-accurate, matte display which is ideal for creative professionals. It’s equipped with Thunderbolt 4, which ensures fast data transfer and seamless multi-device connectivity. Its smart features and built-in apps also make it versatile for both productivity and entertainment.
Samsung ViewFinity S8 4K UHD Monitor
Best for: Someone wanting performance without breaking the bank
The Samsung ViewFinity S8 4K delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors with HDR10 support, great for those doing intensive design work or those unwinding watching streaming services. Its 27-inch screen is crisp and the ergonomic stand allows for great customization, while the high resolution ensures exceptional clarity. This monitor balances performance and versatility, ideal for both professionals and everyday users.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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