I recently had the opportunity to test Samsung’s latest gaming monitors, the Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD. Both models impressed me with their smooth, latency-free gameplay. They offer high refresh rates, quick response times, and numerous new features, all in a sleek design.
The glare-free technology and HDR 10 particularly excite me. These features are set to vastly enhance my gaming experience.
Pros:
- Beautiful colors and aesthetics
- Excellent specifications
- Numerous quality-of-life features
- HDR 10 for the G80SD model
Cons:
- Pricey
These monitors provide an exceptional gaming experience, despite their high price.
At the Samsung Wonders Unlocked event, several monitors were showcased. Two of these monitors were specifically gaming-oriented. In recent years, the manufacturer has improved its gaming monitors significantly. The Odyssey series is now known for its high display quality and performance, ranking among the best gaming monitors available.
I evaluated two recent models in the Odyssey series: the Odyssey OLED G60SD and the Odyssey OLED G80SD. My testing aimed to determine their performance and overall quality. The results were highly satisfactory. These monitors not only look impressive but also come with numerous upgrades and quality-of-life enhancements. Improved specifications, particularly HDR 10 support, make the high price justifiable. The HDR 10 feature was especially stunning to observe.
Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD: Price and Availability
The Odyssey OLED G series includes two models: the 27-inch Odyssey OLED G60SD and the 32-inch Odyssey OLED G80SD. The G60SD is available for preorder on Samsung’s online store for $899.99 / £799 / AU$1,499. Meanwhile, the G80SD is priced at $1,299.99 / £1,099.99 / AU$2,058. Additionally, purchasing either model comes with a $300 Samsung credit bonus.
Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD: Specs
Below is a quick overview of the specs for the Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD:
| Feature | Odyssey OLED G60SD | Odyssey OLED G80SD |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 27-inch | 32-inch |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Brightness | 250 nits (average) | 250 nits (average) |
| Viewing Angle | 178°(H)/178°(V) | 178°(H)/178°(V) |
| Contrast Ratio | 1,000,000:1 | 1,000,000:1 |
| Color Support | 99% DCI-P3 | 99% DCI-P3 |
| Webcam | None | None |
| Inputs | 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 3 x USB Type-C | 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 3 x USB Type-C |
| Weight | 15.2lbs | 18.5lbs |
These models offer impressive specs suitable for high-quality gaming and other demanding applications.
Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD: Design
Similar to other Odyssey-series gaming monitors, the Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD are visually stunning. They feature QHD+ and UHD 4K OLED displays, respectively. Both displays include glare-free technology that performs exceptionally well.
To test this, I placed the monitor near sunlight from an open window. The screen remained clear, unaffected by the light. This technology ensures the flat design works without needing a curved shape to block light.
Additionally, Samsung OLED Safeguard+ technology and the Dynamic Cooling System address overheating and OLED burn-in issues. These features help dissipate heat and maintain safe internal temperatures, preventing damage and static image burn-in.
The vibrant white color of these monitors stands out among the typical black monitors. The CoreSync and Core Lighting+ features add RGB light rings on the back, controllable through various settings. These aesthetic additions brighten up your gaming setup subtly and stylishly.
Despite their large screens, the monitors and stands are easy to move. Their thin displays also save desk space, which is a great advantage for gamers with limited space.
Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD: Performance
Both the Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD gaming monitors were tested extensively with top PC games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2. The G60SD boasts a higher refresh rate of 360Hz compared to the G80SD’s 240Hz, with both featuring a speedy 0.03ms response time.
With AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, gaming experiences are free from choppiness, screen lag, and image tears. Gameplay across various titles was consistently smooth, showcasing the QHD+ and UHD 4K resolution beautifully.
Notably, the G80SD maintains its 240Hz refresh rate at 4K without color shifting or added latency, thanks to the Samsung NQ8 AI Gen3 Processor. HDR10 support, available on the G80SD, enhances colors, whites, and blacks, resulting in sharper and cleaner visuals.
Early Verdict on Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD
The Samsung Odyssey OLED G60SD and G80SD stand out as top-tier gaming monitors. Not only do they offer impressive specs, but they also include several quality-of-life features and upgrades.
These enhancements range from a comprehensive ventilation system to prevent OLED burn-in to HDR 10 support, elevating gaming visuals to new heights. Moreover, the glare-free technology ensures uninterrupted gaming even in bright environments.
Samsung’s commitment to improving gaming experiences is evident in these monitors, leaving anticipation high for their future releases.