The Samsung Odyssey Neo G8, which was first revealed at CES 2022, as well as the Odyssey Neo G7 are now available for purchase.
According to Samsung (opens in new tab), the Neo G8 is “the world’s first 4K 240Hz gaming monitor” as well as being one of the best gaming monitors on the market. The 32-inch screen is a 4K 1000R curved VA panel with Quantum Matrix technology, with a 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It uses Samsung’s Quantum Mini-LED (QLED) technology and its Quantum HDR 2000 features a peak brightness of 2,000 nit and a static contrast ratio of one million to one. Matte Display uses anti-glare and anti-glare, so being in a bright environment shouldn’t be a problem.
The Neo G7 is also a 32-inch 4K monitor with a 1000R curved VA panel, although it has a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. Most of its other specs and technologies are similar to the G8, including the Quantum Mini LED and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits with a static contrast ratio of one million to one.
The Samsung Odyssey Neo G8 is priced at $1,499.99 (about £1,200 / AU$2,100) while the Odyssey Neo G7 is priced at $1,299.99 (about £1,050 / AU$1,800).
Analysis: Is the high price worth it?
Although not as decadent as Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G9a monster of an ultra-wide gaming monitor that measured 49 inches and reached an HDR 2000 rating, both the Neo G8 and G7 are still quite powerful in their own right and as such command a hefty price tag.
However, the question remains: are these extremely expensive monitors worth the money? The answer is surprisingly complicated.
Prices of $1,499.99 and $1,299.99 aren’t cheap and many gamers would have a hard time justifying this purchase, no matter what the monitors are, but for PC enthusiasts with that kind of money out there, anyone of these two can be a wise investment.
For example, these types of premium monitors would be an excellent investment for professional gamers whose livelihood revolves around ensuring their PC maintains its best performance. The G8’s 4K resolution and 240Hz refresh rate and the G7’s 4K resolution 165Hz refresh rate, coupled with the ultra-low 1ms response time, is an absolute dream.
And even for those who want them for more casual use, this boost to your overall gaming experience could be worth it, as you’ll see a noticeable performance improvement if you’re jumping from an older $k screen running at 60Hz.
In short, no matter the niche, there is definitely a market for this type of product. As long as Samsung lives up to its promises, this market will likely remain loyal.
