The Samsung M8 smart monitor doubles as a smart TV
If you’ve ever wanted a display that could work for both computing and entertainment, look no further—the 32-inch 4K Samsung M8 smart monitor is a display that bundles both smart TV and computer monitor features. It’s not as large as a home theater TV, nor as small as a desktop computer screen. A perfect fit right down the middle, this multi-tooled display seems to be very well-rounded.
With an HDR10+ 60Hz VA panel and a native resolution of 3840×2160, the Samsung M8 smart monitor checks all the boxes for your ideal 32-inch 4K monitor. Then comes the extras. The display includes built-in camera and speakers, so it won’t be necessary to purchase a third-party webcam for video calls. Ports include USB-C, Micro-HDMI, DisplayPort, and it even has 65W charging.
The M8 also features Samsung’s Tizen operating system for streaming, or binging, your favorite shows, along with Samsung Bixby and Amazon Alexa support. Yes, that means you can use the M8 to control your home lights and audio, vacuum, and everything else that is compatible with SmartThings.
The Samsung Smart Remote that is packaged with the monitor is almost the exact same as the ones provided with Samsung TVs. The smart remote will simplify switching between applications with its helpful shortcut buttons for quickly accessing Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Samsung’s free TV Plus service.
Surprisingly, there’s even a feature on the M8 that’s not available on Apple’s own Apple Studio Display monitor. With just a few touches, you can send images and movies from an iPhone to the M8 thanks to the monitor’s compatibility for Apple AirPlay. Take that Apple!
Multiple pastel color options are available to choose from: White, Blue, Pink, and Green. The Samsung M8 smart monitor has slim bezels and looks premium, although the monitor’s plastics may end up feeling a bit flimsy. With height and tilt adjustment, it’s a little unfortunate that VESA mount compatibility has been excluded from the build. At least there is some good news, as the monitor stand is very slim and compact.
Starting at $699, the 32-inch 4K Samsung M8 smart monitor is a solid option for those looking for a display that can serve several purposes in a confined space. In essence, it combines a high-res computer display with a smart TV. The image quality is also superb. Hopefully in the future, Samsung will upgrade this product line to include higher refresh rates, G-SYNC, and possibly an IPS panel.