Maciej Koper
This year's CES trade show in Las Vegas has become a stage for Samsung to flex its muscles in two radically different directions when it comes to monitors. On one hand, the manufacturer has focused on extreme racing in hertz and resurrecting 3D technology, while on the other, it has aimed at pushing resolution standards to 5K and 6K in more consumer-oriented models. We had the opportunity to see the entire new Odyssey line for 2026 live, and it must be acknowledged that it is an impressive showcase of technological capabilities, although not every presented novelty makes equal sense for the typical user.
Odyssey 3D G90X
The most controversial and eye-catching point at the stand was the Odyssey 3D (G90X) model. It is a 32-inch IPS monitor with a powerful 6K resolution that promises a depth effect without the need for uncomfortable glasses. We checked how it works in practice – a special coating on the screen combined with a real-time eye-tracking system ensures that slightly different images reach each eye, creating a natural stereoscopy. The impression, when objects on the screen seem to literally fly in front of the panel, is amazing and captivates the imagination. However, this technology has its limitations, as the best effect is achieved only by one person sitting directly in front of the screen. In our opinion, this is a fascinating display of technology that will, for now, remain rather a niche curiosity for enthusiasts of specific titles prepared for 3D.
Does anyone need 1040 Hz? Yes? Then welcome to ChooseTV G60H
A similarly loud premiere was the ChooseTV G60H model, with which Samsung decided to compete for the attention of the most demanding e-sports players. From a marketing perspective, it sounds powerful, as the manufacturer boasts a refresh rate of as much as 1040 Hz. However, it is worth noting that this astronomical value is achieved in "Dual Mode" when reducing to HD resolution (the monitor natively offers 600 Hz in QHD). In our opinion, such high values are merely a numbers race that only a fraction of professional players with equipment capable of generating over a thousand frames per second will appreciate. For most players, the limitation will still be the response time of the IPS panel itself, which is why we believe this equipment is strictly for competition, rather than for admiring graphics in AAA hits.
Two Faces of the G8 LCD Series: 5K and 6K Monitors for Work and Play
The new Odyssey G8 series presents itself in a much more sensible and versatile manner, having been divided into several variants this year. Samsung has shown that traditional LCD IPS technology still has a lot to offer, especially for those looking for a single screen for everything. The first option is the G80HS model, a 32-inch monster with a resolution of 6K and a refresh rate of 165 Hz. This solution targets those who require a huge workspace and immaculate text clarity during the day. Thanks to the Dual Mode feature, the monitor can be switched to 3K mode with a single click in the evening, which automatically boosts the smoothness up to e-sports level of 330 Hz.
An alternative for those who prefer smaller screens is the G80HF model. This is a 27-inch display with a resolution of 5K, which, with a smaller diagonal, provides an even higher pixel density. Here, the base refresh rate is 180 Hz, but again we can take advantage of the dual-action mode. When switching to QHD resolution, the monitor speeds up to an impressive 360 Hz. Both of these models are excellent examples of hybrid monitors that are suitable for both work and gaming.
The most complete Samsung monitor? Odyssey OLED G8.
For most users seeking top-notch experiences, the most interesting highlight of the programme was the new Odyssey OLED G8 (G80 SH). This 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel, in our opinion, constitutes the most complete and sensible package in this year's offering. This monitor not only offers excellent contrast and blacks at a refresh rate of 240 Hz, but it also features a new matte coating that reduces glare. Importantly from a practical standpoint, it is equipped with modern DisplayPort 2.1 (UHBR20) and USB-C connections with laptop charging up to 98W.
At the closed showing, we also saw something that could be the most important change for OLED technology in general. Samsung Display showcased a prototype of a next-generation matrix with a vertical subpixel arrangement (V-stripe). This is a direct response to one of the biggest problems with previous OLEDs, namely blurry fonts and coloured halos around text during office work. We examined it up close and the new structure does indeed significantly improve readability, eliminating annoying artifacts. Although this particular panel (34 inches ultrawide, 360 Hz) is likely to first appear in partner brand monitors such as Asus or MSI, it heralds the beginning of the end of text problems on OLEDs.
Source: own study
