Samsung SyncMaster S27B970D Pro Reviews

The Samsung SyncMaster S27B970's $1,200 price will definitely give some pause. And at that price, the S27B970 should have included Samsung's Smart Hub, which provides streaming video, games, and apps, including Netflix, Hulu, Facebook, and Twitter. This would have been a great way to usher in the company's first consumer PLS display. People looking for incredible performance and beautiful design, and don't mind taking out a second mortgage to get it, will not be disappointed with the S27B970. If the monitor's XHD resolution appeals to you, but the features and design (and price) don't, the HP ZR2740w is a great, much cheaper alternative.

The Samsung Series 9 S27B970D is an aesthetically stunning 27-inch monitor that delivers an equally stunning picture. You?ll pay a premium for this PLS display, however.

The Samsung 27inch Series 9 LED monitor looks excellent with gorgeous colour reproduction and a high resolution screen, however with the gloss reflective screen (which helps photos pop) you do need to be careful about where you place the monitor to avoid distracting reflections, these are particularly noticeable with black backgrounds. Performance out of the box is very good, and even without calibrating the monitor manually, the screen gives very good results. If you work in a standard office with bright lights and large windows, the reflective screen may not be ideal, but if you're in control of your environment and work in a less bright office, then this screen should be very high on your wish list.

The Series 9's biggest problem involves image quality. That's not a result of a flawed LCD panel - it's lovely. The problem is that it's behind a so-called Crystal Clear Glass panel, so you can't actually see that lovely panel very well at all. It's a shame, because Samsung's PLS technology is lovely. You get all the benefits of IPS technology, including superb viewing angles and colour accuracy, along with what certainly seems likes improved contrast and definitely involves a smoother, less sparkly anti-glare coating. Still, the good news is that you can buy the Series 8, which has the same PLS tech, in a more unassuming but actually more ergonomic enclosure, minus the stupid panel cover. Okay, you miss out on the MHL, but it's £300 cheaper, so it's a no-brainer.

A gorgeous-looking 27in monitor from Samsung, but there’s plenty of room for improvement

Stunning to look at, either on or off, with a price to match. The Series 9 is superb