I have previously reviewed the Samsung Smart Monitor M8 (2024), the M5 (2023). This year, Samsung sent their flagship model, the 32-inch Smart Monitor M9 with 4K QD-OLED display, that retails in Singapore at S$2,488. For comparison, the 32-inch Smart Monitor M8 with VA display panel is at S$1,188. Is the OLED display worth double the price? If you really want a spectacular display, then my answer is yes, because it definitely delivers outstanding visuals during my review period.
This latest M90SF model with 4K QD-OLED display brings 4K imagery to life thanks to the vibrant colours, rich contrast, and ultra-fine detail. Since monitors are usually used at close proximity, the visual impact is unmissable. Black is blacker and white is brighter, allowing content to be viewed clearly even at lower brightness levels.
This new M9 smart monitor also comes with a higher refresh rate of 165Hz and response time of 0.03ms (not available in the M8), which makes it suitable also for demanding gameplay. Enable Game Mode and connect to a game console to bring your gaming experience to the next level with settings like Game Genre, Virtual Aim Point, Minimap Zoom.
There are several technologies that Samsung implements to protect the display, called “OLED Safeguard+”. For instance, static images are automatically reduced in brightness to prevent burn-in, the display dims when it detects inactivity after 10 minutes. The panel also runs at a lower temperature with built-in pulsating heatpipe and thermal modulation system to further prevent overheating.
The “smart” in the M9 Smart Monitor is more than just the TV apps. Yes, the M9 offers the same Tizen OS interface as a Samsung Smart TV, so you can watch Netflix, Disney+. It also supports several wireless display modes like Google Cast, Apple Airplay, Windows Wireless Display. It can detect shared network drives and browse content to be streamed to the M9 without a PC. Samsung also promises 7 years of OS updates. The new OS is refreshed and different from last year’s version, as you can see from the images below, the menu is at the bottom left and does not occupy across the length of the screen.
From the home screen, you can conveniently access SmartThings, Samsung Daily+, Games, and browse the Internet from the TV. Through the smartphone app, you can also remotely control the M9. Like previous models, the M9 supports USB-C DP mode and 90W charging, which lets you connect to a laptop via a single cable for display and to charge the laptop at the same time. The rear USB-A ports can also be extended to be used with the connected PC like a hub. The M9 also comes with HDMI and Display Port interfaces so you can use it with any device. With built-in 5MP camera and speakers, your laptop can detect these devices and use. The M9 supports picture-in-picture mode so you can select two inputs to show on the screen.
Verdict
Would I spend over S$2000 on a monitor? I am a rather frugal person, even my 55-inch Samsung Smart TV costs less than S$700. Spending this much on a computer monitor is extravagant, but I really enjoyed using it, the visuals are great where I can extend my laptop display to this 32-inch 4K bohemeth and read every single letter and enjoy the videos in full detail. Fortunately, there is a budget for everyone, and the M8 offers the same display size with a more affordable VA panel.
Whether you need a TV or a monitor for games, productivity or for watching streaming content without a PC, the Samsung Smart Monitor series does them all and with quality, smoothness and convenience. You pay a little more but you get a monitor that does more than just for computer use. This is one monitor that you can use for work, play games, and watch streaming content.
