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It can be a good budget gaming monitor, but only if you mean the 27-inch Samsung Odyssey G55A (S27AG55) and value contrast and low input lag more than clear fast motion or convincing HDR. Independent testing finds strong native contrast and QHD sharpness, but also noticeable motion blur, VRR flicker, low brightness, and a stand with limited adjustment. “Odyssey G5” covers multiple models, so those findings do not apply to every G5.
Which Samsung Odyssey G5 is this review about?
This review focuses on the 27-inch Odyssey G55A, model S27AG55, which RTINGS tested as a 1440p VA monitor with a 165Hz refresh rate. Its findings apply to that tested version, not every monitor sold under the Odyssey G5 name. RTINGS also identifies a 32-inch G55A and a separate G50A sibling with a different panel type. RTINGS’ G55A review describes the model-specific results.
Samsung’s 2021 lineup announcement describes the 27-inch G50A as a QHD, 165Hz monitor with a manufacturer-stated 1ms response time, HDR10, G-SYNC Compatible, and AMD FreeSync Premium. Those are Samsung-published specifications for the G50A, not independent measurements of the G55A’s pixel response. Samsung’s 2021 announcement covers that model.
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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The G55T is another distinct model. Samsung’s US product page identifies the 34-inch LC34G55TWWNXZA as a curved 21:9 UWQHD display with 3440×1440 resolution, a VA panel, a 1000R curve, and up to 165Hz refresh. Its size, resolution, and curve should not be attributed to the flat 27-inch G55A. Samsung’s US G55T page showed delivery unavailable when accessed.
#1 Best Overall
- QHD Resolution (2560 x 1440) has 1.7 times the pixel density of Full HD for incredibly detailed pinsharp images
- HDR10 provides brighter highlights and nuanced shadow for added depth - making every scene feel more vivid and realistic
- The 180Hz refresh rate minimizes lag for gameplay with ultra-smooth action. Plus, the 1ms response time helps capture your moves in real-time, allowing you to react fast for gaming precision
- AMD FreeSync reduces choppiness, screen lag and image tearing, ensuring that your fast-paced, complex in-game action is stable with minimal stutter
- Ergonomic stand allows for tilt, pivot and height adjustments to maximize gaming comfort
Is the 27-inch G55A good for gaming?
It is a mixed choice. RTINGS reports low input lag, which helps the screen respond quickly to a player’s controls, but also slow response at any refresh rate and noticeable blur. A 165Hz refresh rate does not by itself guarantee sharp moving objects: the panel’s pixels must also transition quickly enough to keep up, and RTINGS found the G55A’s motion handling wanting.
Variable refresh rate (VRR) can help synchronize the display with a game’s changing frame rate, but RTINGS reports both worse motion handling with VRR and noticeable VRR flicker as frame rates change. That makes the G55A less appealing for fast shooters or games where frame rates fluctuate often. For slower-paced games, its QHD resolution, contrast, and low input lag may matter more than motion clarity.
Rank #2
- Samsung’s 27” Odyssey G5 QHD Gaming Monitor delivers brilliant visuals for exhilarating gameplay that’s more immersive than ever before.
- QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) boasts incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images.
- With a wide 178° viewing angle, the IPS panel consistently delivers crisp, clear hues from various viewpoints.
- 180Hz Refresh Rate and 1ms response time (GtG) allow fast reactions for ultra-smooth gaming, plus G-Sync compatibility syncs the GPU and panel to reduce choppiness, screen lag, and image tearing.
- HDR10 provides brighter highlights and nuanced shadows for added depth.
Samsung’s stated “1ms” response-time specification should not be read as evidence of clean 1ms pixel transitions in real use. RTINGS’ independent assessment describes slow response and visible blur; the manufacturer’s figure and the review’s motion findings measure different things.
Is the Odyssey G5 good for PS5 or Xbox?
RTINGS says the tested G55A supports most signals from PS5 and Xbox Series X|S and has low input lag. That makes it compatible with many console setups, but it does not mean the monitor uses the consoles’ full capabilities: the G55A lacks HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, and its motion blur and limited HDR highlights remain constraints. Check the console’s output settings and the exact monitor SKU before buying if a particular resolution, refresh rate, or feature is essential.
Rank #3
- Samsung’s 32” Odyssey G5 QHD Gaming Monitor delivers brilliant visuals for exhilarating gameplay that’s more immersive than ever before.
- QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) boasts incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images.
- With a wide 178° viewing angle, the IPS panel consistently delivers crisp, clear hues from various viewpoints.
- 180Hz Refresh Rate and 1ms response time (GtG) allow fast reactions for ultra-smooth gaming, plus G-Sync compatibility syncs the GPU and panel to reduce choppiness, screen lag, and image tearing.
- HDR10 provides brighter highlights and nuanced shadows for added depth.
Is the Samsung Odyssey G5 good for HDR?
No, not if strong HDR is a priority. RTINGS reports low peak brightness, no local dimming, and an inability to display a wide HDR color gamut on the tested G55A. Those limitations restrict bright highlights and the contrast effects that make HDR stand out. An HDR10 label indicates signal support, not that the screen can deliver compelling HDR image quality.
For SDR, RTINGS describes decent image quality and good native contrast, which produces fairly deep blacks. It also notes backlight bleed in dark scenes. The contrast is a meaningful strength for darker content, but it does not compensate for the G55A’s HDR limitations.
Rank #4
- QHD resolution: Your gaming world, more lifelike than ever before. Packing in 1.7 times the pixel density of Full HD, QHD resolution boasts incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images. Experience a fuller view with more space to take in all the action.
- 1000R curvature: Vivid scenes wrap even more tightly around you. Experience the next level of heart-pounding gaming that's superior to anything you've seen before. The 1000R display fills your peripheral vision and draws you into the character's shoes.
- 165Hz refresh rate 1ms response time(MPRT): Speed through scenes. 165Hz refresh rate eliminates lag for exhilarating gameplay with ultra-smooth action. Jump on enemies right when you see them with a 1ms response time(MPRT) for frames with minimal blur.
- AMD FreeSync: Superfluid entertainment experience. AMD Radeon FreeSync" keeps your monitor and graphics card refresh rate in sync to reduce image tearing. Watch movies and play games without interruptions. Even fast scenes look seamless and smooth
- HDR10: Awe-inspiring graphics with HDR10. A kaleidoscope of shades brings game scenes to life with incredible vibrancy. Uncover the secrets hiding in the shadows with deep dark blacks, luminous whites, and outstandingly detailed resolution.
How does it work for office use?
The G55A can be reasonable for text and general work in controlled lighting. RTINGS reports good text clarity and reflection handling, but also narrow viewing angles and poor ergonomics. It is best suited to a desk where you sit directly in front of it and can live with the stand’s limited adjustment; it is less convenient when several people need to view the screen from different positions.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesLow peak brightness is also a drawback in bright rooms. If your workspace gets strong ambient light or you need flexible screen positioning, those practical limits may outweigh the monitor’s contrast.
What should you check before buying?
- Match the full model code and size. Confirm whether the listing is for the G55A/S27AG55, G50A, G55T, or another variant. The G55A’s 27-inch review results should not be assumed to describe a 32-inch or 34-inch model.
- Confirm the form factor and panel you want. Do not infer flat versus curved design or VA versus IPS panel from the G5 name alone; check the exact product listing.
- Weigh motion performance against contrast. If you play fast shooters or use VRR with variable frame rates, RTINGS’ reports of blur and flicker are important trade-offs.
- Be realistic about lighting and HDR. The tested G55A’s low brightness and lack of local dimming make it a poor fit for HDR-first viewing or especially bright rooms.
- Check the desk setup. Make sure its limited stand adjustment and narrower viewing angles work for your seating position and workspace.
- Verify the live listing details. Check the exact regional SKU, seller, return terms, and local availability; stock and listings can change.
How does the G5 compare with other gaming monitors?
RTINGS points to the Dell G2724D as a budget gaming option with better motion handling than the G55A, but that alone does not establish current pricing or an overall ranking. Compare exact models on response and motion clarity, refresh rate, VRR behavior, console inputs, contrast, HDR capability, viewing angles, and stand adjustment rather than relying on a shared price category or brand family.
A separate RTINGS comparison between the Samsung G55T and ASUS TUF VG27AQ found the ASUS better for fast movement because of higher refresh and faster response, while its IPS panel offered wider viewing angles. The G55T’s VA panel produced deeper blacks and suited dark rooms. That comparison concerns the curved G55T and VG27AQ, not the tested G55A, so it should not be treated as a direct G55A head-to-head result. RTINGS’ G55T and VG27AQ comparison provides those model-specific findings.
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