Samsung M50D 27-Inch Smart Monitor review featuring FHD display, HDR10, and Gaming Hub

Description

Design and Build Quality

I’ve got to say, the SAMSUNG 27-Inch M5 Series Smart Monitor (M50D) is sleek and modern in appearance. The thin bezels immediately caught my eye, making it a perfect fit for my minimalist desk setup. The 27-inch Full HD screen is just the right size for productivity and entertainment without feeling overwhelming. The matte finish on the display does a decent job of reducing glare, which is a big plus for me since I work near a window. It’s not exactly featherlight, but moving it around wasn’t a hassle either. The build feels sturdy, and while the stand is functional, it doesn’t scream premium. Adjustable height or swivel options would have been a welcome addition, but it does tilt slightly, which helps in finding a comfortable viewing angle.

Key Benefits

Using this smart monitor daily has truly shown me its versatility. There are several standout features that make this device a joy to use in various scenarios:

• Built-in OTT apps for streaming platforms save time and make it feel like a hybrid between a monitor and a TV.
• The Samsung Gaming Hub turns it into an all-in-one entertainment station; I didn’t even need to hook up a console to enjoy some casual gaming.
• Remote PC access and apps like Microsoft 365 turned it into an unexpected workhorse for quick tasks without booting up my laptop.
• One mouse and keyboard across multiple devices? Absolute game-changer for multitasking. I could control my Galaxy Tab and phone seamlessly while working on the monitor.

Performance and Display

The 1920×1080 resolution delivers crisp visuals, especially for streaming shows and movies. Watching HDR10 content on it was enjoyable, as the colors popped nicely without feeling oversaturated. It’s not a 4K display, so if you’re hunting for ultra-sharp resolutions, this might not hit the mark, but for Full HD, it performs admirably.

Gaming was another area I tested thoroughly. With the Samsung Gaming Hub, I could stream games directly without needing a console or PC. While the refresh rate isn’t designed for hardcore gaming enthusiasts, casual players like me will find the experience more than adequate. The speakers built into the monitor are surprisingly decent; they won’t replace a dedicated sound system, but for casual use, they’re more than sufficient.

Favorable Aspects

There’s a lot to like about this product, especially for someone needing a do-it-all device. Here are a few standout points that made my experience enjoyable:

• Versatility as both a monitor and a second TV.
• Built-in speakers save desk space and work well for everyday use.
• The streamlined multitasking with Samsung devices makes it feel like part of an ecosystem.

Areas for Improvement

That said, no product is perfect, and the M50D has its fair share of quirks. While I’ve enjoyed using it, there are a couple of things that could definitely be better:

• The stand lacks adjustability, which makes it harder to tailor your setup ergonomically.
• It doesn’t support higher refresh rates, which might disappoint gamers who want smoother gameplay.
• The HDR10 implementation isn’t as impactful as I’d hoped; colors are good, but they don’t quite match higher-end displays.

Competing Products

When comparing the M50D to its competitors, there are a few noteworthy options worth considering. The Dell UltraSharp U2722D, for example, offers better color accuracy and a premium build, but it lacks the smart features and built-in streaming apps that the M50D provides. Similarly, the LG 27UN850-W delivers 4K resolution and a higher-quality HDR experience, but it comes at a significantly higher price point and doesn’t double as a TV. What I liked most about the M50D is that it’s a jack-of-all-trades, appealing to a wide range of users.

Value for Money

From a price-performance perspective, this smart monitor delivers excellent value. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for the features it packs—streaming capabilities, gaming hub, productivity tools, and solid display quality—it feels like a great deal. If you’re someone who needs a multipurpose screen for work, entertainment, and light gaming, this is a solid investment. You’d be hard-pressed to find another monitor that can double as a smart TV in this price range without compromising too much on performance.

Using it every day has shown me that it’s not just a monitor but an all-in-one solution for modern living. While it’s not without its flaws, I think the SAMSUNG 27-Inch M5 Series Smart Monitor (M50D) is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to streamline their workstation or add a versatile screen to their setup.

Additional information