Last year Samsung launched something of a game changer, in our opinion. It has nothing to do with gaming, or entertainment, to be fair. It has more to do with work than anything else.
In November of 2020, Samsung introduced the world to their first ever desktop monitor that is also outfitted with Tizen OS. Effectively also, the particular monitor is Samsung’s first smart monitor. They introduced the world to what is effectively a 4K smart TV in a 32-inch desktop monitor form factor. They called it the Samsung Smart Monitor M7. They also introduced two Full HD variants called the M5 series.
To be fair, there is not that much in terms of choice with Samsung’s Smart Monitors at launch. You get to choose between two sizes for the Full HD variant and no choice at all if you want the 4K UHD variant. That has changed this year though.
Samsung Smart Monitor M7 43-inch
Samsung has just introduced a 43-inch variant of the 4K UHD M7 series Smart Monitor and 24-inch variant of the Full HD M5 series Smart Monitor for 2021. On top of that, they are also introducing a new white colour option for the existing M7 and M5 models. Now you can really spice up your workspace at home.
The 43-inch Smart Monitor M7 (43M70A) is technically similar to the 32-inch model. It features a 4K UHD resolution for starters. It also supports HDR10, not exactly HDR10+ of their high-end TVs to be fair, but good enough for you to enjoy a variety of contents. Like the 32-inch variant, the 43-inch M7 is also a VA panel desktop monitor, which also means you are not necessarily getting a premium OLED experience.
Still, VA panels are bright and vibrant enough for a high colour accuracy, especially for making quick work of simple video and photo editing work. While it only boasts 60Hz in refresh rate, that is good enough for something like a PS4 Pro. Even the new gaming consoles can easily take advantage of the 4K resolution.
Samsung Smart Monitor M5 24-inch
On the smaller scale end, the M5 now comes in a 24-inch variant (24M50A). Unlike the 4K UHD 43-incher it launches with, you get an IPS panel with the 24-incher though. Even its bigger 27-inch and 32-inch M5 siblings are fitted with VA display panels. That also means that the Full HD 1080p panel should display images with great colour contrast and highly accurate colours. It is also an HDR10 display to ensure you get the best out of Tizen OS. It only refreshes at 60hz though. Then again, it is not a gaming monitor.
The new Smart Monitors M7 and M5 both are Wireless DeX enabled too. That also means that if you have modern Samsung Galaxy device with wireless DeX enabled, you do not even need to get extra cable to connect to the display. You do not even need to get your PC to connect to your smartphone for it. The Tizen OS fitted monitors are also Apple AirPlay 2 enabled, so even if you are on an iOS device, it will work for you too.
Like a Smaller, More Productive Smart TV
Samsung’s Smart Monitor M7 and M5 also comes with a modern SolarCell solar powered remote. The smart remote is very much like your Samsung Smart TV remotes and functions with Voice command like one too. Additionally, you do not have to replace any batteries, just leave it under the sun near the window to keep it charged.
Tizen OS also means that you get access to Netflix, Prime Video, and the upcoming Disney+ app without even needing to connect to a PC, or smartphone. In that case, your enjoyment is also not limited to your supporting hardware. With TV Plus, you get access to selected live and on-demand contents for free. This technically can be your TV if you have limited space.
You can plug your PC in via USB Type-C Thunderbolt connection (43M70A). If not, you have the benefit of HDMI 2.0. DisplayPort is not technically necessary for this display. The 43-inch monitor can also double as your USB hub as well with 3 additional USB ports. The 24-inch has one additional USB port for an added working flexibility.
What makes the Samsung Smart Monitor M7 and M5 though is the fact that you can work with Microsoft 365’s PC on screen. It is technically a remote PC technology that allows you to access your Microsoft 365 suite from the display, even if your PC is not necessarily plugged into your monitor. All you need is a Microsoft 365 account and internet connection.
Price and Availability
The Samsung Smart Monitor M7 and M5 is already available in select regions. Malaysia is not part of those select regions though. Currently, the 32-inch M7, 32-inch M5, and 27-inch M5 are available in Malaysia from MYR 1,188 (RRP) onward. For more information for the newly released Samsung Smart Monitor M7 and M5, do head over to Samsung’s website.
