It depends on which Odyssey G5 you mean. For the independently tested 27-inch Samsung Odyssey G55A (S27AG55), the answer is a qualified yes if you value QHD detail, deep blacks and low input lag more than crisp fast motion, strong HDR or flexible ergonomics. Its slow response and visible blur make it a less convincing choice for fast-paced gaming. “Odyssey G5” covers several different monitors, so check the full model number before applying this verdict.
Which Samsung Odyssey G5 is this review about?
This assessment focuses on the 27-inch flat Odyssey G55A, model S27AG55, as tested by RTINGS. RTINGS describes it as a 1440p VA monitor with a 165Hz refresh rate. Its findings apply to the tested 27-inch version, not every product sold under the G5 name.
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Samsung’s 2021 announcement covered the G50A, a related but distinct model, and listed QHD resolution, 165Hz refresh, a manufacturer-stated 1ms response time, HDR10, G-SYNC Compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium. Those are Samsung-published specifications for the G50A; they are not independent measurements of the G55A’s pixel response. The G50A also uses a different panel type. See Samsung’s 2021 Odyssey lineup announcement.
Other G5 variants differ substantially. For example, Samsung’s US product page identifies the G55T (LC34G55TWWNXZA) as a curved 34-inch VA ultrawide with 3440×1440 resolution, a 1000R curve and a maximum 165Hz refresh rate. Those specifications do not describe the flat 27-inch G55A. See Samsung’s G55T product page.
#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
How good is the tested 27-inch G55A for gaming?
It has two useful gaming strengths: a 165Hz refresh rate and low input lag, according to RTINGS. But refresh rate is only part of motion performance. RTINGS reports slow response at any refresh rate and noticeable blur, so moving objects may look less clear than the refresh-rate figure alone suggests. The manufacturer’s “1ms” claim for the G50A should not be read as proof of clean 1ms pixel transitions on the G55A.
Variable refresh rate (VRR) can help keep a game’s displayed frame rate synchronized with the monitor, but RTINGS reports that motion handling gets worse with VRR and that flicker is noticeable as frame rates change. That makes the G55A a conditional fit for gaming: it is more appealing if you prioritize responsive input and contrast than if you want especially clear movement or rely heavily on VRR.
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.
For fast shooters and other motion-heavy games
Visible blur is the main concern. Players who spend a lot of time tracking fast targets should weigh RTINGS’ response-time assessment more heavily than the 165Hz specification. RTINGS identifies the Dell G2724D as a budget gaming option with better motion handling than the G55A, but that observation alone does not establish current prices or a complete ranking.
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The VA panel’s good native contrast helps produce fairly deep blacks, which can make darker scenes more satisfying. RTINGS also notes some backlight bleed in dark scenes, so black areas may not look perfectly uniform.
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 Odyssey G5 good for PS5 or Xbox?
RTINGS says the G55A supports most signals from PS5 and Xbox Series X|S and has low input lag. It can therefore work as a console display, but compatibility is not the same as using the consoles’ full capabilities: the monitor lacks HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. Motion blur and limited HDR highlights also remain relevant when choosing it for console play.
Is the Samsung Odyssey G5 good for HDR?
No, not if compelling HDR is a priority. RTINGS says the tested G55A has low peak brightness, no local dimming and cannot display a wide HDR color gamut. These limits restrict highlight impact and overall HDR image quality. HDR10 support is a format specification—not a guarantee of bright, high-impact HDR—and Samsung’s cited HDR10 claim is for the G50A announcement, not a measurement of G55A performance.
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.
What is it like for everyday work and viewing?
RTINGS describes the G55A as having decent SDR image quality, good reflection handling and clear text. Those traits can make it reasonable for office work in controlled lighting, especially when you sit directly in front of it. Its narrow viewing angles mean the image is less suitable when people need to view the screen from the side.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsErgonomics are another trade-off: RTINGS rates the monitor’s ergonomics poorly, and its stand has limited adjustment. Check that its available positioning works for your desk, or whether your setup can accommodate a different mounting arrangement.
Who should buy the G55A—and who should look elsewhere?
- Consider it if you want a 27-inch 1440p display with high native contrast, a 165Hz refresh rate and low input lag, and can accept visible motion blur.
- Look elsewhere if clear fast motion, frequent VRR use without noticeable flicker, bright-room viewing, strong HDR, wide off-axis viewing or flexible stand adjustment is essential.
- Verify the model first if a listing says only “Odyssey G5.” Confirm the complete model code, screen size, panel type and whether the display is flat or curved; do not assume another G5 variant shares the G55A’s test results.
Before buying, check that the listing matches the exact SKU you want, along with the seller, return terms and local availability. Samsung’s G55T page showed delivery unavailable when accessed, illustrating that availability can vary; it is not a statement about the G55A’s current stock.
Verdict
The 27-inch Odyssey G55A is a budget-oriented, contrast-focused gaming monitor with useful refresh rate and input-lag characteristics, but its motion blur, VRR flicker, weak HDR and limited stand keep it from being an all-around recommendation. It is a reasonable conditional choice for buyers who value deep blacks and responsive input more than motion clarity or HDR performance. That judgment is specific to the tested G55A/S27AG55—not the entire Odyssey G5 family.
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