A good monitor is essential to your immersion and gaming enjoyment. This is so important that modern gaming monitors are packed full of technology and features aimed at enhancing your experience. Today I’m going to be reviewing a Samsung’s Odyssey G3, a Samsung Odyssey G5, and a Samsung Odyssey G7 gaming monitors. All three monitors were released recently. The Odyssey G3 is Samsung’s entry level monitor, while the G5 and G7 are the mid and high tier monitors. Because of their focus on the gaming experience, these monitors share a number of features in common. However, as we look more closely at each monitor you will see that Samsung has included specs and features that differentiate each model.
Samsung Odyssey monitor specs as tested
Before getting into my review of the Samsung Odyssey monitors, let’s review some of their key specs.
| Odyssey G3 | Odyssey G5 | Odyssey G7 | |
| Refresh rate | 144 Hz | 144 Hz | 144 Hz |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 2560 x 1440 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Panel type | VA, flat panel | VA, 1000R curved panel | IPS, flat panel |
| Response time | 1 ms | 1 ms | 1 ms |
| Adjustable stand | Height, tilt, swivel, portrait mode | – | Height, tilt, swivel, portrait mode |
| Features | FreeSync Premium | FreeSync Premium | FreeSync Premium, G-Sync |
| Video input | HDMI 1.4, Display port | HDMI 2.0, Display port | HDMI 2.1, Display port |
| HDR Support | – | HDR 10 | HDR 400 |
Features that the G3, G5, and G7 have in common
As these are gaming monitors, the G3, G5, and G7 share features that will satisfy all gamers. Across the Odyssey line, all three monitors come with FreeSync Premium, a fast 144 Hz refresh rate, and a 1 ms response time. These features are essential to competitive games that require fast reactions from players. A 144 Hz refresh rate means that the Odyssey monitors can display up to 144 frames per second (fps) to the user. In the case that a PC or console isn’t able to produce an output of 144 fps, FreeSync comes into play. FreeSync allows the Odyssey monitors to match the fps generated by the PC or console. The result of this is that users will not see any screen tearing or stutter. Finally, a fast 1ms response time means that the LCD pixels are able to more quickly change colours as images are displayed. Together these features give gamers a smooth viewing experience. During my tests, my visual experience of Call of Duty Warzone remained smooth even when my fps dropped below 144 fps.
Odyssey monitors ergonomics and adjustments
Stand adjustments on the Odyssey series varies depending on the model. The G7 and G3 have the most flexibility in their stand adjustments. With both of these monitors, you have height adjustment, tilt adjustment, a 15-degree swivel, and the ability to pivot into portrait mode. As someone that is picky about how my monitor sits, I appreciated the flexibility that the G3 and G7 monitor stands provided.
Strangely, the mid-tier G5 monitor stand does not have the adjustments of the G3 and G7. The only stand adjustment reported on the Samsung website is tilt adjustment. However, on my test unit tilt adjustment is not available and the entire stand is static.
Differences between the Odyssey G3, G5, and G7
The panel types of the Odyssey monitors are where you will find the biggest differences. The G3, G5, and G7 all use different panel types with different screen resolutions. The G3 has a resolution of 1080p, while the G5 is 1440p, finally the G7 has an incredible 4k resolution.
Both the Odyssey G3 and G5 use VA panels. These panels have good viewing angles and an excellent contrast ratio. If you’re looking for deep blacks these monitors would be your ideal candidates. The G3 has a 3000:1 ratio while the G5 has a 2500:1 ratio. Looking at them side by side the black levels of both monitors are great and create deep black levels.
The G5 stands out in the crowd with its curved screen. While the G3 and G7 have flat panels, the G5 has a 1000 radius curve that adds a new level of immersion. I loved the G5’s curved screen while playing games and watching movies. The curve made it easier for me to see what was happening around me. The curve also meant that I didn’t need to turn my head in order see the far corners of the screen.
A slightly different panel was used in the Odyssey G7. The G7 uses an IPS panel that has a slightly lower contrast ratio but has much wider viewing angles. In my testing I didn’t notice a big difference in the contrast ratio when comparing it to the G3 or G5.
Perfect monitors for gaming and media
Consuming media on any of the Odyssey series is fantastic. Both the Odyssey G5 and G7 come with the ability to display high dynamic range (HDR) content. The G5 has an HDR 10 certification while the G7 comes with an HDR 400 certification. HDR gives the monitor the ability to display a wider spectrum of colour and contrast. This means that the monitor has the ability to display content as intended by the creator. I enabled HDR while watching movies and the difference was stunning. I was able to see more details, the contrast was better, and the colours were more saturated.
One unique feature of the G7 is its RGB LEDs. The G7 has two RGB LEDs on the front and one RGB LED ring on the back. Samsung refers to the LED ring as the Core. In the monitor settings, you can adjust the G7’s LEDs to change colour to match what’s displayed on the screen. You can also have the LEDs cycle through colours with different behaviours. I’m a huge fan of LEDs and love the CoreSync feature. Having the LEDs change colour to match movies and gaming adds a whole new level of immersion.
While the G3 doesn’t have HDR or fancy LEDs it’s no slouch when it comes to gaming and media. The higher resolutions of the G5 and G7 also mean that the PC needs more powerful hardware. Older PCs will struggle with higher resolution monitors and may sacrifice crucial FPS. This is where the G3 shines, its resolution of 1080p means that older and newer hardware will have no issues producing high FPS. For anyone prioritizing high FPS gameplay, the G3 will be their go-to monitor.
Overall, when it comes to gaming and media the Odyssey series does not disappoint. Personally, I enjoy the higher resolutions of the G5 and G7 because I’m able to see finer details while gaming and watching movies.
Excellent real estate for productivity
If you’re like me, you use your PC for both gaming and productivity. With high contrast, wide viewing angles, and great colour reproduction Samsung’s Odyssey series is ideal for productivity. In my daily testing with the Odyssey monitors, I was happy with the performance of all monitors. I found myself spending more time with the G5 and G7 because of their higher resolution. For my work, I am constantly multitasking and always have two windows open at the same time. The higher resolution of the G5 and G7 meant that I had enough screen real estate to keep these windows open side by side. The same can also be done on the G3 however the lower 1080p resolution resulted in less real estate and squished text.
For those with multiple devices, the G7 has a Picture in Picture (PIP) feature. This allows you to simultaneously display images from two different sources. For me, this was an interesting feature that allowed me to use my work and personal laptops at the same time. I liked this feature since I no longer need to swap connections, and with a click of a button I’m able to use both laptops.
The Odyssey series is great for all users
Samsung’s Odyssey G3, G5, and G7 are fantastic monitors for your gaming, media, and productivity needs. All three monitors have a fast 144 Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, and support for FreeSync Premium. They’re bright, have excellent colour reproduction, and wide viewing angles. Samsung did a good job of creating unique features aimed at satisfying the needs of their gaming customers. Amongst the three monitors, the G7 is my favourite. I love the 4k resolution, the LEDs, the adjustable monitor stand, and its G-Sync compatibility.
Which Samsung Odyssey monitor would you choose for your gaming needs? Let me know in the comment section below.
Here are links to the selection of Samsung Odyssey monitors available at Best Buy:
My favourite is the Odyssey G7, mostly due to the physical size (28″) and higher resolution (3840 x 2160 px). Also the portrait mode is a nice touch. I could use this monitor and one of my children for their Blender and Krita animation classes.
Odyssey G7 because of the 4k resolution
The Samsung Odyssey G7 for its wider viewing angles and the picture in picture feature so I can display the images from two different sources.
For me it’s the Odyssey G7. The bigger the better!
Odyssey G7 for HDMI 2.1 – more future proof and works with latest consoles
The Odyssey G5 is the perfect size to fit my desk and for my aging eyes. The G5 has 1440p resolution and a curved screen, which is perfect for gaming. Lastly, the price is great!
The G7. That IPS panel is sweet.
the G7 is my favourite because I love the 4k resolution, the adjustable monitor stand, and its G-Sync compatibility.
The Odyssey G7 takes the cake here – It’s got the adjustable stand and a killer resolution on it!!
G7 for it’s 4k resolution
I would probably pick up the G3, because I usually pick up options close to my budget, and it is easily a good enough monitor to satisfy me.
While the G7 has a lot of features, the G5 is my pick. I agree with Marcus that a curved screen, such as on the G5, does provide a great deal of visual immersion when gaming or watching videos. The smaller size of the G5 would also allow it to fit on my desk.
The G7. Love that IPS panel!
All of these are great! I personally prefer at least 1440p refresh rate should be at least 75hz but all of these are 144hz which is awesome. The price should be good. response time should be 1ms and should not be curved. I like the g7 the most because of the big screen because the screen should always be at least 27 inches.
It should always ALWAYS be at least 1440p (2560×1440) refresh rate should be at least 75hz price should be around $200-350 cant go too expensive who could afford that. I don’t want to be that wide since it will ruin the experience for me. should be at least 90% colour correct. Less than 4ms response time. 4K I Don’t use too much but I’m thinking of having an Xbox so 4K is good but 2560x1440p is still great for me. it should support HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4a or higher. All I need is free-sync I don’t use G-sync even tho I have an Nvidia card. I don’t really like curved monitors too much but it’s not a con for me. Should be at least 27 inches. What is see should be sharp. I am not picky because when I’m getting anything like this for free I would accept anything. my current monitor is not garbage it’s pretty decent only thing I don’t like is the refresh rate being 60hz but it is 4k 27 inches. (Asus pb287). I will do a review with a youtube video. Any monitor from you guys will be awesome. Thanks for giving me the chance! P:S this is for the giveaway
I like the G5 because it has a 1000 radius curve. Cheers
G7 is my fav with the HDMI2.1
As much as I love the G7, my favorite would have to be the Odyssey G5. The combination of specs is perfect for my gaming needs and the curved screen is an added bonus. Having to upgrade my graphics card to support the 4k resolution of the G7 where as being able to immediately play on the G5 is the deciding factor for me.
Odyssey G7 because of the high resolution
I like the curved screen of the Odyssey G5.
my favorite is the odyssey G7 because it has a 4k resolution and it is perfect to use for my gaming
The G7 looks awesome with its 4K resolution and the possibility of portrait mode.
I like the G7 it would be amazing for my sons gaming with his x box
G7 because of the adjustable stand
Odyssey G7 for its 4k
The G7 is definitely my top choice, mainly for its high resolution and adjustable stand. I’m also a sucker for RBG lighting.
I like the G7 most because of the wider wider viewing angles
I like the G7 most. For its 4K resolution and portrait mode option.
The G7 is my favourite, for its 28″ size, and the adjustable stand.
The Odyssey G7 is my favourite because of its 4k resolution.
I love the G7 for the same reasons! The LEDs are so cool also!
Odyssey G7 for HDMI 2.1 – more future proof and works with latest consoles
The G7 is my favourite, for its 28″ size, and the adjustable stand.
I like the G7 most because of the wider wider viewing angles
I prefer the Odyssey G7 for is 4k resolution!
the G7 is my favourite because I love the 4k resolution, the adjustable monitor stand, and its G-Sync compatibility.
I have chosen the Odyssey G5 monitor, it’s the is right size, has 1440p resolution and a bargain price!
I’ll select the high end G7, because of the 4k resolution and adjustable monitor stand.
the G7 is my favourite because I love the 4k resolution, the adjustable monitor stand, and its G-Sync compatibility.
Hi, I like Odyssey G7 best because it has the highest resolution. Thank you
The G5 is the perfect balance for me
I like the Odyssey G5 because it has a curved screen
I’d go for the G5 and the curved screen!
The Odyssey G7 is my favourite because of its 4k resolution.
I like the G7 most. For its 4K resolution and portrait mode option.
The Odyssey G5 is the perfect size to fit my desk and for my aging eyes. The G5 has 1440p resolution and a curved screen, which is perfect for gaming. Lastly, the price is great!
The G7 is my favourite. I like the 4k resolution, the LEDs, the adjustable monitor stand, and its G-Sync compatibility.!
The G7 for the size
The Odyssey G5 for the curved monitor
The G5 for the curve!
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