Samsung Smart Monitor M8: The Versatile 32 Inch Ultra HD Smart Monitor

If you see any similarities between the Samsung Smart Monitor M8 and Apple’s iMac M1, you’re not alone. Samsung’s display is clearly inspired by the clean lines of Apple’s all-in-one computer. The Korean manufacturer even goes so far as to take on color variations (white, blue, green or pink). And Samsung doesn’t stop there, as it offers an optional “SlimFit” webcam that’s magnetic on the back of the panel. This camera has a function to refocus the image on the user’s face similar to the “centre frame” that appeared on the Apple Studio Display. Another common point, the Samsung display can adjust the color temperature of the image according to the ambient light, a technology also found in Apple under the name True Tone.

For the rest, the Samsung Smart Monitor M8 features a 32-inch 60Hz VA panel that displays an Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels) panel, which should result in at least good contrast greater than 2000:1. This resolution is very comfortable in the office, especially with Increase its size by 150%. The advertised brightness at 400 cd / m² is not exceptional, but sufficient for conventional use. HDR content should struggle to express itself with such limited brightness, but it won’t be a problem for other content. Samsung does not neglect ergonomics, since the height of the screen is adjustable – we still have across the throat the absence of height adjustment, but also in the inclination on the Apple Studio Display. It also contains a microphone and two speakers. The latter disappointed us with the Smart Monitor M7 we tested in 2021. Let’s hope Samsung has corrected the situation with the new M8. Connectivity is limited to two USB-C ports and one Micro-HDMI port.

Of course, the originality of the Smart Monitor range is the integration of the Tizen system that allows the monitor – once connected to a wifi network – to operate independently. Thus the remote control provides the possibility of navigation through the system and access to applications. Similar to those of the manufacturer’s TVs, they are numerous: Netflix, Disney +, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Deezer, Spotify, MyCanal, OCS, Molotov, etc. The display also features AirPlay 2 compatibility and supports Bixby and Amazon Alexa assistants. The system also gives access to an Office 365 account and thus makes it possible to consult, edit and save documents directly from the screen, without a computer. Just connect keyboard and mouse. Along the same lines, Samsung’s Remote PC feature allows you to control your PC remotely.

The 32-inch Samsung Smart Monitor M8 is already available for pre-order for 750 euros. It will be delivered from April 14th. We especially hope that it corrects the flaws mentioned in the M7. It actually has a height adjustment, which is a very good point!