Samsung Odyssey G50D LS32DG502ENXZA 32" Black 2024

A big 32-inch 1440p IPS gaming monitor with a smooth 180Hz refresh rate and a great adjustable stand. Motion handling is top-tier for the price, but HDR is basically useless. Worth it if you can snag it around $250, but skip it at full price.

This monitor's motion handling is a standout. The 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time keep fast-paced shooters and racing games looking crisp, and our database puts its overall performance in the top 15% of monitors we've tracked. Input lag feels nonexistent, and G-Sync compatibility works as advertised with Nvidia cards. The weak spot is HDR. DisplayHDR 400 is basically a checkbox feature here. The 350-nit peak brightness and edge-lit backlight mean HDR games look washed out compared to a proper mini-LED or OLED display. Stick to SDR and you'll be much happier.

Stacked against the ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQDMG or the MSI MAG 271QPX QD-OLED E2, the Samsung gets outclassed in contrast and HDR performance. Those OLEDs deliver true blacks and punchy highlights the G50D can't touch. But they also cost more and come in smaller 27-inch sizes. The LG UltraGear 32GX850A-B is a closer rival with a similar 32-inch 1440p setup but often runs at a higher price. If you want a big screen for immersive single-player games and don't want to spend OLED money, the Samsung holds its own. Competitive gamers might prefer a smaller 27-inch 1440p panel for higher pixel density, but for mixed use, this 32-inch size feels just right.

Pricing on this thing is all over the map. We've seen it range from $250 to nearly $600 depending on the retailer. At the low end, around $250, it's an absolute steal for a 32-inch 180Hz IPS panel with a good stand. At $600, you're getting into OLED territory and should absolutely look elsewhere. If you're hunting for a deal, Amazon and Newegg tend to have the most competitive prices. Just don't pay full MSRP for it.

The Samsung Odyssey G50D is a 32-inch 1440p IPS panel that nails the basics for a midrange gaming monitor. You get a smooth 180Hz refresh rate, G-Sync and FreeSync support, and a fully adjustable stand right out of the box. It's not trying to be a flashy OLED or a 4K productivity beast, and that's fine. It knows what it is: a big, fast screen for people who want to game without overcomplicating things.

Samsung's Eye Saver Mode and flicker-free tech are here if you care about that stuff, and the matte coating keeps reflections at bay. The port selection is barebones with just one HDMI and one DisplayPort, so don't expect a built-in USB hub. At 350 nits, it's bright enough for most rooms but won't make HDR content pop the way a pricier panel would. For the money, though, it's a solid daily driver.

If you care about deep blacks and real HDR performance, skip this and save up for an OLED like the MSI MAG 271QPX. The IPS panel here can't compete with that contrast, and the HDR400 is just marketing fluff. Also, if you need a USB hub or multiple video inputs for a multi-device setup, the single HDMI and DisplayPort will frustrate you.

The Samsung Odyssey G50D is for the gamer who wants a big, fast screen without breaking the bank. It's perfect for someone moving up from an old 1080p 60Hz monitor who will immediately feel the difference in smoothness and screen real estate. If you mostly play in a well-lit room and don't obsess over perfect black levels, you'll be happy here. Just hunt for a sale price and don't expect HDR miracles.