Samsung Smart Monitor M9 Review: An OLED Monitor That Doubles as a Smart TV

The Samsung Smart Monitor M9 is more than just a monitor-it’s essentially a 32-inch smart OLED TV without a TV tuner. Designed for users who want both high-quality display performance and built-in entertainment features, it comes loaded with Samsung’s Tizen OS, allowing streaming, productivity apps, and even cloud gaming without a connected PC. While it shines in design and display quality, some quirks in usability and ergonomics may be deal-breakers for certain users.

Short Summary Table

Design and Build Quality

Samsung plays it safe with the M9’s design, opting for a sleek, minimalistic aesthetic that looks elegant in almost any setup. The panel is thin, with a small bump at the back housing the ports. The front is all screen except for a slightly thicker top bezel, which conceals the 4K webcam.

The L-shaped stand is compact, with a flat base to save desk space. However, it requires a screwdriver for assembly, unlike many monitors that use thumb screws. Ergonomic adjustments are limited to:

• 120mm height adjustment

• 90-degree pivot (though portrait mode is impractical due to low clearance)

• Tilt adjustment

• No swivel function

The stand design limits flexibility, especially for users who need portrait orientation or more versatile positioning.

Connectivity and Ports

The Smart Monitor M9 offers a fair selection of ports:

• 1x HDMI 2.1

• 1x DisplayPort 1.4

• 1x USB-C with 90W Power Delivery (upstream)

• 2x USB-A 2.0 downstream

While the USB-C port can power laptops, the downstream USB ports are only USB 2.0, limiting their use to basic peripherals like keyboards or mice. Notably, there’s no 3.5mm audio jack. Competing monitors such as the HP Omen Transcend 32 and LG UltraGear 32GS95UE-B offer faster USB ports, more inputs, or higher USB-C charging wattage.

Smart TV Features

The highlight of the M9 is its Tizen OS, the same platform found in Samsung smart TVs. This brings a full range of apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and cloud gaming services like Amazon Luna. It also supports Microsoft 365 apps and integrates with Samsung SmartThings for smart home control.

However, the smart features add complexity to setup Wi-Fi connection, Samsung account login, and multiple terms of service agreements are required before use. This may frustrate users seeking a simple plug-and-play monitor.

The included 4K webcam with dual microphones offers better-than-average quality for video calls, though it lacks a privacy shutter and has a wide default field of view.

Menu System and Settings

Samsung’s on-screen menu is a weak point. It uses a small, constrained layout that truncates menu text, requiring scrolling to read. Many advanced settings are hidden behind specific modes. Switching to Game Mode changes the menu layout entirely, adding to the confusion. Additionally, 165Hz refresh rate is only available in Game Mode.

Audio Performance

Built-in 10-watt stereo speakers deliver clear sound at low to moderate volumes but become harsh and muddy at higher levels. While not audiophile-grade, they outperform many competitors’ speakers. For casual media consumption, they’re adequate.

SDR Image Quality

Featuring a QD-OLED matte panel, the M9 offers outstanding SDR performance:

• Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)

• Brightness: 252 nits (average for OLED)

• Contrast Ratio: Infinite (true black)

• Color Accuracy: Slightly dark gamma at 2.3, but accurate color temperature (6500K)

• Pixel Density: ~140 PPI

The matte finish effectively reduces glare, making it suitable for brighter rooms, though it slightly reduces perceived contrast compared to glossy OLEDs.

HDR Performance

Certified for VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black, HDR performance is good but not exceptional. Brightness levels fail to match higher-tier HDR displays, making it less impactful in HDR-heavy games or films.

Motion and Gaming

With a 165Hz refresh rate and support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync Compatible, the M9 offers smooth motion for gaming. However, some competitors reach 240Hz, giving them an edge in competitive titles where clarity of fast-moving UI elements is critical.

FAQs

1. Does the Samsung Smart Monitor M9 have a TV tuner?

A. No, it cannot receive over-the-air or coaxial cable TV signals.

2. Can the M9 be used without a PC?

A. Yes, thanks to Tizen OS, you can stream media, use apps, and play cloud games without a PC.

3. Is it good for competitive gaming?

A. It offers smooth motion at 165Hz, but competitive gamers might prefer a 240Hz monitor.

4. How does the matte screen affect image quality?

A. It reduces glare but can slightly lower perceived contrast compared to glossy screens.

5. Does the webcam have a privacy shutter?

A. No, there is no physical shutter for the webcam.

Verdict

The Samsung Smart Monitor M9 is ideal for users who want both a premium 4K OLED monitor and smart TV functionality in one device. It’s perfect for streaming, casual gaming, and general productivity without always turning on a PC. That said, limited ergonomic adjustments, average HDR brightness, and a confusing menu system may push some buyers toward more gaming-focused or professional-grade alternatives

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