In case you are in search of a 4K PC monitor with real, full HDR capabilities, there are at present some wonderful selections out there. Nonetheless, earlier than we delve into our prime choose on this class, it is price noting that 32-inch 4K OLED gaming screens are anticipated to make their debut in 2024. As a result of that is not too far off, these in search of a top-tier, high-resolution HDR expertise and intrigued by OLED know-how may take into account ready for these upcoming releases.
One monitor to observe is the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM, which was unveiled final month at Gamescom and is about to launch within the first half of 2024. As soon as this panel turns into out there, we anticipate different manufacturers to launch their very own 4K OLED gaming screens. So, it is price holding this in your radar for subsequent yr.
Within the meantime, our prime 4K HDR choose stays the Samsung Odyssey Neo G7. This 32-inch, 4K 165Hz gaming show makes use of VA LCD know-how, backed by a 1,196-zone full array native dimming backlight. The mix of this superior backlight and high-contrast VA know-how means the Neo G7 supplies an genuine HDR expertise that, in our view, comes closest to OLED amongst LCD screens we have reviewed. Whereas it does not fairly rival OLED when it comes to depth, shadow particulars, or viewing angles, the HDR high quality is undeniably excellent.
Efficiency-wise, the Neo G7 ranks among the many swiftest LCD screens we have assessed in the case of response instances. Whereas its movement readability could not match OLED shows, it delivers a sturdy gaming expertise, significantly at 4K. Its HDR prowess is additional enhanced by the excessive zone rely backlight and spectacular native distinction, guaranteeing minimal blooming in HDR content material and retaining the vibrancy you anticipate from such shows. With a peak brightness surpassing 1,200 nits, this monitor tends to be brighter than typical OLEDs, although it is not exceedingly so.
Being a extra “conventional” gaming show, the Neo G7 presents a number of different advantages. Using VA LCD tech means there isn’t any threat of burn-in, and its customary subpixel construction performs properly with desktop functions and textual content. Furthermore, its 32-inch dimension paired with such a decision is implausible for desktop use.
Nonetheless, there are some drawbacks. The 1000R curvature is pronounced and does not essentially improve the viewing expertise. Whereas this show could be wonderful for desktop gaming, its suitability for productiveness or inventive duties is questionable attributable to this curve. Moreover, the subpar viewing angles require a head-on perspective to maximise the HDR high quality. And whereas the enter latency with dimming enabled is lower than stellar, these points are comparatively minor and do not detract considerably from an in any other case stellar HDR gaming expertise.
The Samsung Neo G7 carries a hefty $1,300 MSRP, but it surely’s typically been discounted to $1,100 and on some events even to a hanging $900. We would advise in search of out such offers slightly than paying the total value. Within the $900 to $1,100 bracket, this monitor gives stable worth, and we would advocate it at that value.
We would not advocate its pricier counterpart although, the Neo G8. Though this mannequin ups the refresh price from 165Hz to 240Hz, it comes with important setbacks, comparable to scanlines at its peak refresh. We would advocate choosing the Neo G7, which delivers constant and dependable efficiency.
