Samsung SyncMaster S27A850 Pro Reviews

The MSI X79A-GD65 (8D) is a solid motherboard that’s easy to overclock and sports a number of useful features, such as on-board power and overclocking buttons, and it recovered well from failed overclocks. However, it’s lacking in a couple of key areas; the superior EFI and tweaking software provided with the Asus boards on test are enough to make them better value for money.

We have a habit of relentlessly banging the TN-vs-the-rest drum. But we do it because we care. Both about technology and your very fine elves. Sorry, selves. Samsung's all-new S27A850D has us at something of a disadvantage. Many of its on-paper specs are thoroughly familiar. A 27-inch diagonal and 2,560 x 1,440 native resolution puts it firmly in the premium, high resolution camp.

The S27A850D's adjustable stand, USB3 hub and 2,560x1,440 resolution are all very good, but it's the new PLS panel, with its amazing contrast and colours, that steals the show

The Samsung SyncMaster SA850 with its Super PLS matrix is not an ideal monitor, but it’s good. Samsung has indeed begun to manufacture LCD matrixes which are similar to IPS and capable of competing with e-IPS in price and beating them in specs, especially in terms of viewing angles. PLS matrixes do not have the annoying effect of e-IPS ones which show a brighter black when viewed from a side. Considering the comparable price, PLS makes a more appealing option. On the other hand, it is yet too early to talk about any competition with e-IPS on the market of desktop monitors. PLS is only going to be available in a single product so far. And while the 27-inch SA850 (S27A850) is interesting due to its high resolution, it can hardly challenge mainstream 21.5- and 23-inch e-IPS based monitors.

The Samsung SyncMaster S27A850D is a well-designed, stylish, professional monitor with great options and performance.

A highly adjustable, good quality monitor at a reasonable price – a successful début for Samsung’s fledgling PLS panel technology/

Though it’s not quite the perfect evolution we were hoping for, we’re still impressed by Samsung’s brand-new 27in PLS-based monitor. It’s slim and fairly well-built, and has generous connectivity, class-leading adjustability and innovative features galore. On that all-important image quality front its 2,560 x 1,440 panel holds up very well indeed against rival IPS, with only increased contrast shift tarnishing an otherwise excellent showing.