If you’re searching for a 4K PC monitor with real, full HDR capabilities, there are at the moment some glorious decisions out there. Nonetheless, earlier than we delve into our prime choose on this class, it is value noting that 32-inch 4K OLED gaming displays 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 would possibly contemplate 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 displays. So, it is value retaining this in your radar for subsequent 12 months.
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 mixture of this superior backlight and high-contrast VA know-how means the Neo G7 offers an genuine HDR expertise that, in our view, comes closest to OLED amongst LCD displays we have reviewed. Whereas it does not fairly rival OLED by way of depth, shadow particulars, or viewing angles, the HDR high quality is undeniably excellent.
Efficiency-wise, the Neo G7 ranks among the many swiftest LCD displays we have assessed on the subject of response occasions. Whereas its movement readability could not match OLED shows, it delivers a strong gaming expertise, significantly at 4K. Its HDR prowess is additional enhanced by the excessive zone depend backlight and spectacular native distinction, making certain 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 isn’t exceedingly so.
Being a extra “conventional” gaming show, the Neo G7 presents a number of different advantages. Using VA LCD tech means there is not any danger of burn-in, and its normal subpixel construction performs properly with desktop functions and textual content. Furthermore, its 32-inch measurement paired with such a decision is incredible 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 glorious for desktop gaming, its suitability for productiveness or artistic duties is questionable resulting from 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 usually been discounted to $1,100 and on some events even to a putting $900. We might advise in search of out such offers moderately than paying the complete value. Within the $900 to $1,100 bracket, this monitor affords strong 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 fee from 165Hz to 240Hz, it comes with vital setbacks, resembling scanlines at its peak refresh. We might advocate choosing the Neo G7, which delivers constant and dependable efficiency.