Samsung has a well-earned reputation for high prices for its electronics, especially anything having to do with PC gaming. So it’s a rare day indeed when I get to post about a Samsung monitor that’s not just a good deal “for a Samsung,” but unqualified, all on its own. This 27-inch, QHD gaming monitor with 180Hz of refresh definitely counts, as it’s going for $149.99 on Amazon right now.
The Odyssey G5 G51F has a list price of $250, making this a 40 percent discount. 27 inches and 2560×1440 resolution is the current “sweet spot” for PC gaming, offering a nice upgrade over 1080p without the taxing hit to framerates of 4K. 180Hz isn’t the fastest panel out there, but it should be enough for all but the speediest multiplayer gamers.
This is still a pretty basic design. A VA panel is speedy, but lacks the color accuracy of IPS (not that most PC games really need it), and though you get DisplayPort and double HDMI inputs, there are no USB-C ports to be seen. At least you get FreeSync for smooth motion in high-end games, and a VESA mount for adding a monitor arm.
Amazon is showing this as a “limited time deal,” so there’s no telling how long it’ll stick around. Other retailers don’t seem to be matching it, at least at the moment.