Samsung Odyssey OLED G80SD in review: Two devices for the price of one

To describe the Samsung Odyssey OLED G80SD as just a monitor is too simplistic. The 32-inch quantum dot OLED screen is an all-rounder that combines gaming and TV features.

On top of that, the manufacturer packs the NQ8 AI Gen3 processor also includes genuine AI features in its monitor. The CPU first used in Samsung’s 8K TVs takes over the task of Upscale streaming content to the native 4K image formatso that even older TV series that are available in a lower resolution automatically look better.

Another advantage is the matte OLED-Panelwhich minimizes light reflections. The G80SD also uses Samsung’s OLED burn-in protection Safeguard+, which, among other things, uses an integrated heat pipe to dissipate heat and automatically dims the brightness of static content such as logos and taskbars.

Samsung OLED G80SD: Smart TV with Tizen OS

The multimedia focus of the G80SD is already apparent when unpacking. The scope of delivery includes a Remote controlwhich would be completely out of place on a standard monitor.

The next surprise awaits users after switching on, because the monitor boots the familiar Samsung TV Tizen OS. The Smart TV operating system supports the smart home ecosystem alongside the voice assistants Bixby and Alexa Samsung Smart Thingshas its own app store and supports all common streaming apps such as Apple TV, Joyn and YouTube. The remote control also has buttons for Netflix, Samsung TV+, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+.

The Tizen OS integrated Gaming Hub streams cloud games from providers such as GeForce Now, Steam and Xbox. It also gives you access to game aids such as a virtual aiming point, blur reduction and a black equalizer that makes enemies easier to spot in dark areas of the image.

In addition to a Keyboard and a mouse can also be a Gamepad to the G80SD. The 4K monitor also offers console gamers a full gaming experience with ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and VRR.

Samsung OLED G80SD: Smooth gaming guaranteed

The G80SD delivers games from next-gen consoles such as the Xbox Series X via two HDMI 2.1 ports with up to 120 Hz and takes over HDMI ARC also external audio devices such as soundbars in operation.

On the PC The monitor increases via HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 to a maximum refresh rate of 240 Hz at 4KThe G80SD impresses with excellent response times – at 240 Hz we measured a very low Input Lag von 4 msIn combination with AMD’s FreeSync Premium Pro and G-Sync compatibility, annoying ghosting or motion blur effects are virtually eliminated when gaming.

The G80SD combines its rapid switching times with very good image quality and excellent contrastsAll image modes are well tuned at the factory, so that no further fine adjustment is normally required, although this is possible at any time by adjusting image parameters such as color tone, white balance and gamma. DisplayHDR 400 True Black certified OLED panel scores with a sharp text display, increases from maximum 250 cd/m² for SDR content to 440 cd/m² for HDRA slightly higher HDR brightness would have been desirable given the ambitious purchase price.

Other small disadvantages: The Odyssey OLED G80SD is not suitable as a docking monitor for notebooks due to the lack of a USB-C port. The monitor also does not have a dedicated audio output. However, audio output via USB is supported, so you can use a USB to 3.5 mm jack adapter, for example.