It’s probably time to upgrade your monitor, and you’re torn between the two premium brands LG and Samsung. Both brands are great and offer a great range of monitors for different needs, but which brand is better for you?
In this article, I’ll walk you through all the technologies these monitors have to help you decide which brand is better for you.
Display Technology: IPS vs. VA
The competition between these two brands has always been about the differences between their panels. LG uses IPS panels for most of its models while Samsung uses VA panels.
And there is always a debate about which panel is better. I have written separate articles for both of these panels and shown what the differences are between them.
IPS Panels (LG)
IPS is a type of LCD panel technology that is celebrated for its outstanding color accuracy, wide viewing angles, and reliable image quality. Unlike older TN (Twisted Nematic) panels, which often suffer from substandard color reproduction and limited viewing angles, IPS panels provide a noticeably better visual experience.
This improvement is made possible by the horizontal alignment of liquid crystals, which move seamlessly to produce vivid colors and maintain clarity from different angles.
VA Panels (Samsung)
Vertical Alignment, or VA for short, is a type of LED display commonly used in monitors. Its liquid crystals are arranged vertically and tilt when voltage is applied, allowing light to pass through and create colors.
VA panels are best known for their deep blacks, making them great for consistent black levels. They also offer high brightness and contrast, resulting in vivid, clear images.
| Feature | LG Monitors (IPS) | Samsung Monitors (VA) |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing Angle | 178°/178° with minimal color shift | More limited, with possible color shift |
| Best For | Creative work, color accuracy | Gaming, movies, high contrast environments |
Color Technology: Quantum Dots vs. Nano IPS
When it comes to color, both brands have their own technologies, with Samsung boasting quantum dots and LG boasting nano IPS. So, we’ll cover these two technologies separately below.
Samsung’s Quantum Dot (QLED) Technology
Quantum dots are tiny semiconductor crystals that produce different colors of light based on their size. Larger particles emit red light, while smaller ones emit blue light.
These quantum dots can create precise colors because their sizes change at very fast, quantum-level speeds, leading to accurate and efficient light emissions.
This is why QLED technology is known for significantly improving picture quality. This results in exceptionally vivid colors and improved brightness, making QLED monitors ideal for users who want high-definition visuals.
LG’s Nano IPS Technology
LG’s Nano IPS™ is a cutting-edge display technology that combines nanometer-sized particles with IPS technology. These nanoparticles are applied to the display’s LED, where they absorb excess light wavelengths, enhancing the richness of colors.
| Feature | LG Nano IPS | Samsung QLED (Quantum Dots) |
|---|---|---|
| Color Accuracy | Excellent for design and creative work | Brilliant colors, ideal for media |
| Color Gamut | Enhanced color volume and spectrum | Wider color gamut, high brightness |
Performance and Features
When it comes to performance, the two brands can vary, especially in terms of refresh rate, response time, and support for adaptive sync.
Below, I will show you two monitors, the Samsung 34′ Odyssey G85SB Series and the LG 34GS95QE 34-inch. Both of these monitors are the same price and screen size, and let’s compare them to see what each one offers.
Refresh Rate
In this case, with these two monitors, LG is ahead with a refresh rate of 240Hz, while Samsung has 175Hz.
LG used an OLED panel for this monitor, while Samsung used QD-OLED. By the way, QD-OLED is an advanced version of OLED.
Response Time
When it comes to response speed, these two monitors are identical, both monitors have a response speed of 0.03ms. These monitors also have DisplayHDR True Black 400 support.
Which will give a better brightness of the image on the screens. Enjoy smoother scenes with less lag or ghosting thanks to near-instantaneous response time.
Adaptive Sync Support
Both of these brands have G-Sync and FreeSync support. When it comes to the models we compared, Samsung has AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support while LG 34GS95QE boasts AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-Sync support.
These technologies will give you a better connection between the monitor itself and the graphics card to play as smoothly as possible.
Design and Ergonomics
Both LG and Samsung monitors have distinctive designs, with each brand focusing on different aesthetic and ergonomic aspects. Both brands offer slim monitors with or without bezels. It’s up to you to choose the best performance and the design of each monitor is premium.
LG Design
LG is known for its sleek designs that blend well with any workspace.
This brand’s monitors also come with ergonomic stands that offer height, tilt, and swivel adjustments, making them comfortable for long hours of use.
When it comes to the model in comparison, it has an 800R curvature that makes you lose yourself in the game with an ultra-thin design that virtually seamlessly optimizes the space inside your battle station. Speaking of curvature, check out our article on the 1500R vs 1800R comparison.
Samsung Design
Samsung, on the other hand, embraces modern aesthetics and a range of curved monitors. Samsung’s curved displays provide an immersive experience that enhances viewing depth.
Curved monitors are generally more expensive, but they offer a unique experience, especially on larger screens. The models Odyssey G85SB we’re comparing have a curvature of 1800R.
| Feature | LG Monitors | Samsung Monitors |
|---|---|---|
| Ergonomics | Height, tilt, and swivel adjustable stands | Curved designs for immersion, mainly in gaming |
| Aesthetic | Sleek, professional look | Modern, immersive, and visually appealing |
Price and Value
As far as prices are concerned, they are premium brands and always have higher prices and they vary between the two brands. These two brands have similar prices.
| Feature | LG Monitors | Samsung Monitors |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | More budget-friendly options | Slightly pricier, still versatile |
| Premium Models | Affordable, even in higher-end IPS | Higher cost, especially for curved/QLED |
LG Monitors
LG offers a wide range of options, and their 27- to 31-inch monitors tend to be less expensive, especially for general use. This makes LG a solid choice for those looking for high-quality, affordable monitors.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent Color Accuracy
- Wide Viewing Angles
- Affordable Options
Cons
- Limited Curved Display Options
Samsung Monitors
Samsung monitors often command higher prices due to advanced features like curved screens and QLED technology. This makes this brand ideal for users who want high-end gaming displays.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High Contrast and Deeper Blacks
- Immersive Curved Designs
- Higher Refresh Rates
Cons
- Higher Price on QLED and Curved Models
Conclusion
Choosing between these two brands ultimately comes down to your individual needs. If you prioritize color accuracy and wide viewing angles, LG’s IPS monitors are ideal.
On the other hand, if you’re a gamer or multimedia enthusiast looking for high contrast, impressive curved designs, and fast refresh rates, Samsung’s VA and QLED monitors are a better fit. Consider your primary use, budget, and personal preferences to make the best choice.
FAQs
Are LG monitors good for gaming?
Yes, LG offers gaming models with higher refresh rates and support for G-Sync and FreeSync.
Do Samsung monitors support G-Sync?
Yes, many Samsung monitors are compatible with G-Sync.
Which brand offers better value for money?
LG generally offers better value in the budget and mid-range segments, while Samsung’s premium monitors come with advanced features like QLED and curved screens.
Are curved monitors better for gaming?
Curved monitors, like those from Samsung, provide a more immersive gaming experience.
Do LG monitors have good build quality?
Yes, LG is known for reliable build quality and ergonomic design.
Reference:
- https://www.samsung.com/uk/tvs/tv-buying-guide/what-is-qled-tv/?srsltid=AfmBOoqd0-nvLcGB1nXb0o–y9dFsuZ92cXuZS09gtOTEpj8OGyVQaNm
- https://www.lg.com/us/business/desktop-monitors/Nano_IPS_for_Computer_Monitors
- https://www.samsung.com/us/computing/monitors/oled-monitor/34-odyssey-oled-g8-g85sd-ultra-wqhd-175hz-0-03ms-curved-gaming-monitor-ls34dg856snxza/
- https://www.lg.com/us/monitors/lg-34gs95qe-b-gaming-monitor