The Samsung Odyssey G65B S32BG65 is a premium 240Hz gaming monitor with an immersive curve and HDR 600 performance. It’s a VA-based device, so it’s capable of better contrast compared to IPS-equipped alternatives like the LG 32GQ850-B. Let’s check it out to see if it’s worth the investment for gamers who want upgraded visuals.
Samsung Odyssey G65B S32BG65 Specifications
- Screen Size: 32 Inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440p QHD
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Panel Technology: Vertical Alignment (VA)
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz
- Response Time: 1ms MPRT
- Contrast Ratio: 2500:1
- Brightness: 350 cd/m²
- Built-in Speakers: Yes
- Stand: Height – Yes
- Stand: Tilt – Yes
- Stand: Swivel – Yes
- Stand: Pivot – Yes
- VESA Compatibility: Yes (100 x 100)
- Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.4 x 1, HDMI 2.1 x 2, USB 3.0 x 2, RJ45 x1, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless, 3.5mm x 1
- Dimensions With Stand(WxHxD): 28.07″ x 23.87″ x 12.25″
- Weight: 16.31 lbs
Design and Features
The Samsung Odyssey G65B didn’t change much regarding aesthetics, but that’s okay since its performance is more critical. The monitor has a matte black finish with RGB lights at the back and the front’s bottom corners. The screen has reduced bezels, so they are not distracting with a screen of this size.
This is a large 32-inch model, but it’s also available in 27 inches if you prefer something smaller. His model has a large stand and a steep curve, so it needs more than a foot of depth from your desk. However, it’s lightweight for its size, so most users can move it even if they are alone.
The product’s build quality is excellent overall, but it’s not the same as what the higher-tier models have. The plastic panels are thinner, so they can flex if you apply moderate force. The stand can hold the screen up firmly, but it can wobble if you accidentally nudge it.
The Samsung Odyssey G65B has a D-pad for its OSD instead of a convenient joystick, but it also has a dedicated remote. The latter was included because this monitor has Samsung’s Tizen OS, which you usually find on their TVs and select monitors like the M8. This lets you use the monitor as a standalone device and allows easier access to its settings.
The stand allows you to tilt, swivel, pivot, and adjust the height of the display in an instant. It’s easy to get a comfortable viewing angle necessary for long gaming hours. You can use VESA mounts, but we don’t think it’s necessary unless your space is limited.
The Samsung Odyssey G65B has a unique connectivity layout, just like the G70B, due to its smart features. You get DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.1 slots, three USB 3.0 ports, and a 3.5mm jack like any other high-end gaming monitor. However, you also get an RJ45 LAN port with this model, along with WiFi5 and Bluetooth connectivity.
You will also get a decent pair of speakers with this model to be used as a standalone device. They aren’t the best out there, but their sound quality and volume capacity are better than what most monitors have. But headsets or dedicated speakers will still sound better in the end since they are more immersive and properly tuned for the product’s main purpose.
Display and Performance
The Samsung Odyssey G6 boasts a 32-inch 1000r curved VA panel with a 2560 x 1440 resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms boosted response time. The backlight has a 350 cd/m2 typical output and a 2500:1 contrast ratio. This model is rated for HDR 600 but only has a 32-zone edge-lit local dimming implementation.
Some think that 1440p monitors lose their edge if you go bigger, like in this case. The pixel density becomes comparable to a 1080p 24-inch model, but the higher pixel count is still there. Games and media will still look sharper and cleaner than an FHD monitor, so it’s not going to e an issue.
The Samsung Odyssey G65B covers 99% of the sRGB gamut and 90% of DCI-P3. It’s not as vibrant as the higher-tiered models, but it doesn’t look terribly watered down or washed out compared to them. What’s great about this model is its default accuracy since its deltaE average is only at 1.39.
Calibrating the monitor reduced that dE average to 0.81, which is excellent for a gaming variant. That result is usually seen on calibrated prosumer models for editing. The downside is that you will need a colorimeter to achieve something like it.
The Samsung Odyssey G65B’s backlight reached 421 cd/m2 in SDR, and it peaked at 679:1 when it’s HDR mode was active. Its contrast is also relatively healthy at 3449:1, but the limited local dimming couldn’t expand it properly. The monitor is great for night or dark scenes, but its HDR performance left something to be desired.
Panel uniformity for the test sample had minor issues due to backlight leaks on the top and bottom edges of the screen. They can show up as clouding in dark scenes, but it’s not as noticeable on white backgrounds or full-color images. This flaw is common on curved monitors, but not every unit made has them.
The Samsung Odyssey G65B has excellent pixel response time for a VA panel thanks to its naturally high 240Hz refresh rate. You only need to use the Standard level of its overdrive setting to reduce the little persistence. It’s not as fast as a TN panel, but most would be hard-pressed to notice the minimal trails and smudges in select instances.
The Samsung Odyssey G65B s compatible with both FreeSync and G-Sync. It is nice to have both now since the two video card companies have compelling releases each cycle. Input lag sits at 5ms at 240Hz, which is a little higher, but that’s probably because of its unique features.
Thoughts on the Samsung Odyssey G65B
The Samsung Odyssey G65B is a great pick if you want an immersive screen with an edge in speed and motion clarity. It’s not the most vibrant Odyssey monitor, but it’s excellently accurate out of the box. We like its design and build quality, especially since it has more connectivity options.
However, it is far from perfect since there are some things, like its dismal HDR performance. It also has slightly higher input lag times, so you really need to set it properly to get the least amount of latency. Overall, it’s an excellent buy for those who want a versatile gaming display.
Pros:
- Great Default and Calibrated Accuracy
- Extended Contrast
- Plenty of Features
Cons:
- Dismal HDR Performance
- Smart Features Add Input Lag
About the Author: Paolo has been a gaming veteran since the golden days of Doom and Warcraft and has been building gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues since junior high. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations; he believes that every citizen’s right to enjoy one. He has gone through several pieces of hardware in pursuit of every bit of performance gain, much to the dismay of his wallet. He now works with Monitornerds to scrutinize the latest gear to create reviews that accentuate the seldom explained aspects of a PC monitor.
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