For years, I was stuck in a familiar cycle. I’d invest in a powerful new graphics card, meticulously tune my in-game settings for maximum performance, and still feel like I was leaving speed on the table. My old 60Hz monitor, a trusty workhorse for daily tasks, simply couldn’t keep up with the frame rates my PC was pushing out in fast-paced titles like Valorant and Apex Legends. The screen tearing was distracting, the motion blur was a constant annoyance, and I knew my reaction time was being handicapped by what I could see, not just how fast I could click. The world of high-refresh-rate gaming seemed like an exclusive club with a steep entry fee. The choice was either to shell out a small fortune for a premium display or settle for subpar performance. That frustrating compromise is precisely the problem the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz aims to solve, promising blistering speed and essential gaming features at a price point that feels refreshingly accessible. But does it deliver on that promise?
![Samsung 24 inch Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor FHD 180 Hz Refresh Rate (LS24DG302ENXZA) -[Canada Version]...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51XEW43TVIL.jpg)
- 180HZ REFRESH RATE & 1MS RESPONSE TIME(MPRT): Speed through scenes. 180Hz refresh rate eliminates lag for exhilarating gameplay with ultra-smooth action. Jump on enemies right when you see them with a...
- 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...
What to Consider Before Buying a Gaming Monitor
A gaming monitor is more than just a screen; it’s a critical component that translates your PC or console’s power into a tangible visual experience. It’s the window into your virtual worlds, and its capabilities directly impact your immersion and competitive performance. The primary benefit of a dedicated gaming monitor is its focus on speed—high refresh rates for smoother motion and low response times to eliminate ghosting. This is crucial in competitive games where a split-second advantage can determine the outcome of a match. Furthermore, features like adaptive sync technology (like AMD FreeSync) prevent jarring screen tearing, while ergonomic stands ensure you can maintain a comfortable posture during long gaming sessions.
The ideal customer for a product like the Samsung Odyssey G3 is a gamer who prioritizes fluid gameplay and high frame rates above all else, especially in esports and competitive titles. They are likely building a new PC on a reasonable budget or upgrading from an older 60Hz or 75Hz display to gain a competitive edge. It’s also a fantastic choice for console players with a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S looking to take advantage of their 120Hz performance modes. However, this type of monitor might not be the best fit for creative professionals like graphic designers or video editors who require absolute color accuracy and higher resolutions (like 4K). Similarly, a casual user who primarily browses the web and watches movies may not see the full benefit of a 180Hz refresh rate and could opt for a more general-purpose display.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Panel Type & Resolution: The G3 uses a VA (Vertical Alignment) panel, known for its excellent contrast ratios and deep blacks. While fantastic for immersion, VA panels can sometimes have slower pixel response times than IPS panels and more limited viewing angles. At 24 inches, the Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution provides a sharp image with a high pixel density, making it ideal for performance-focused gaming where high frame rates are easier to achieve than at 1440p or 4K.
- Performance (Refresh Rate & Response Time): This is the main event. A 180Hz refresh rate means the screen updates 180 times per second, resulting in incredibly smooth motion. The 1ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time) is a metric that uses backlight strobing to reduce perceived motion blur, making fast-moving objects appear clearer. Ensure your PC’s graphics card can consistently push frame rates high enough to take advantage of this speed.
- Ergonomics & Connectivity: A good stand is an underrated feature. The G3’s ability to tilt, swivel, and adjust its height is a massive ergonomic win, allowing you to find the perfect, neck-friendly viewing angle. For connectivity, check that it has the ports you need; this model includes both DisplayPort and HDMI, which is essential for connecting to modern PCs and consoles to achieve the highest refresh rates.
- Build Quality & Features: Consider the overall construction. The G3 has a modern, 3-sided borderless design that looks great and is practical for multi-monitor setups. Also, look for quality-of-life features like Eye Saver Mode and Flicker-Free technology, which reduce eye strain during extended use, a benefit you’ll truly appreciate after a multi-hour gaming session. Checking out the full feature list and current price can help you weigh these benefits against your budget.
While the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz is an excellent choice for its target audience, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Computer Monitors in Canada for Gaming, Work, and More
- IPS PANEL: Experience stunning colors across the entire display with the IPS panel. Colors remain bright and clear across the screen, even when you change angles. Tones and shades are represented...
- 1800R CURVED SCREEN: A more immersive viewing experience. The curved monitor wraps more closely around your field of vision to create a wider view which enhances depth perception and minimizes...
- The EK241Y 23.8" monitor with 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution in a 16:9 aspect ratio presents stunning, high quality images with excellent detail. The zero-frame design provides maximum visibility of...
First Impressions: A Masterclass in Practical Design
Unboxing the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz, the first thing we noticed was the thoughtful packaging; several users confirmed their units arrived well-protected with no damage or dead pixels, and our experience was the same. Assembly was refreshingly simple and tool-free. The stand clicks securely into the base, and the entire assembly then snaps firmly into the back of the monitor. From sealed box to a fully assembled monitor on my desk took less than three minutes, a detail echoed by users who praised the “vraiment facile et rapide” (really easy and fast) setup.
Once assembled, the monitor feels surprisingly sturdy and lightweight. The design is clean and modern, with the 3-sided borderless bezels giving it a premium look that belies its budget-friendly price point. The real star of the initial impression, however, is the stand. In a market segment where manufacturers often skimp on ergonomics, Samsung has included a fully adjustable stand offering height, tilt, and swivel adjustments. This is a game-changing feature for comfort and finding that perfect viewing angle. The package generously includes both an HDMI and a DisplayPort cable, ensuring you can connect to your system and achieve the maximum 180Hz refresh rate right out of the box without needing to make a separate purchase. It’s a small but significant touch that shows a focus on the user experience from the very start.
Key Benefits
- Blistering 180Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gameplay
- Excellent value for a high-performance gaming monitor
- Fully adjustable ergonomic stand (height, tilt, swivel)
- AMD FreeSync eliminates screen tearing and stuttering
- Includes both DisplayPort and HDMI cables
Potential Drawbacks
- No built-in speakers, despite some confusing product descriptions
- The screen surface can be prone to scratching with minimal contact
- Out-of-the-box color calibration may require user adjustment
Deep Dive: Deconstructing the G3’s Performance
A monitor’s spec sheet only tells half the story. To truly understand its capabilities, we put the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz through its paces in a series of demanding games and daily use scenarios. We focused on the core pillars of its performance: raw speed and fluidity, visual quality from its VA panel, and the overall design and user experience.
Raw Gaming Performance: The 180Hz Difference is Real
Let’s be clear: the single biggest reason to consider this monitor is its speed. The jump from a standard 60Hz display to 180Hz is not a subtle improvement; it’s a transformative one. Firing it up with the included DisplayPort cable, our PC immediately recognized the 180Hz capability. In fast-paced shooters like Counter-Strike 2 and Overwatch 2, the difference was night and day. Panning the camera quickly felt buttery smooth, tracking fast-moving targets became significantly easier, and the overall visual experience was free from the judder and blur that plagues lower-refresh-rate screens. This sentiment was strongly supported by users, one of whom simply stated, “I love this monitor it is really 180hz, smooth and affordable.”
The 1ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time) feature works in tandem with the high refresh rate to minimize ghosting. While enabling it does reduce brightness slightly (a common characteristic of backlight strobing), it sharpens up motion clarity noticeably, making it a worthy trade-off for highly competitive scenarios. We also tested the AMD FreeSync implementation extensively. Paired with our AMD graphics card, it worked flawlessly, synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate to our GPU’s frame output. This completely eliminated any screen tearing, resulting in a seamless and immersive visual experience, even when frame rates dipped below the 180 FPS cap. This technology is a must-have for modern gaming, and its inclusion here is a major plus. We did note some user confusion, with one reporting it could “only run 120Hz.” This is almost certainly a limitation of their connected device, as consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X top out at 120Hz, or an incorrect setup (e.g., using an older HDMI standard). For PC gamers with the right hardware and a DisplayPort connection, we can confirm the full 180Hz is readily available and is a feature that makes this monitor a standout in its class.
Image Quality and Visuals: The Strengths and Quirks of a VA Panel
The Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz uses a VA panel, which brings a distinct set of characteristics to the table. The most immediate advantage we noticed was the exceptional contrast ratio. The specified 3000:1 contrast is leaps and bounds ahead of what typical IPS or TN panels can offer. In dark, atmospheric games like Alan Wake 2 or cinematic titles like Cyberpunk 2077, this translated into deep, inky blacks rather than the washed-out grey you often see on other monitors. This lends a real sense of depth and immersion to the image. The FHD (1920 x 1080) resolution is the sweet spot for a 24-inch screen, providing a crisp, clear picture without demanding too much from your graphics card, making it easier to hit those high frame rates.
However, the color reproduction required some tweaking. Out of the box, we found the colors to be a bit muted and undersaturated. This aligns perfectly with a user’s feedback who noted, “The only thing is that the color is really off but thats nit a problem you can just go to the monitors settings and adjust the saturation and you are good to go.” We followed this advice, and after spending about five minutes in the on-screen display (OSD) adjusting the color, contrast, and saturation settings, we were able to achieve a much more vibrant and pleasing picture. While it won’t compete with a professional-grade IPS display for color accuracy, it is more than adequate for gaming and general use once calibrated. The other hallmark of a VA panel is its viewing angles. While perfectly fine for a single user sitting directly in front of it, we did observe some color and contrast shift when viewing the screen from extreme side angles, a point a French-speaking user astutely observed. For its intended use as a primary gaming display, this is a non-issue.
Ergonomics, Build, and User Experience
Beyond raw performance, the day-to-day usability of a monitor is paramount, and this is an area where the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz truly shines, especially for its price. The fully adjustable stand is, without a doubt, a standout feature. We were able to effortlessly raise, lower, tilt, and swivel the screen to achieve perfect alignment with our eye level, drastically improving comfort over long periods. This level of ergonomic flexibility is often reserved for more expensive models and adds tremendous value. The physical controls consist of a single, intuitive joystick button located front-and-center on the bottom bezel. We found this far superior to the confusing multi-button setups on many other monitors, making it easy to navigate menus and change settings quickly.
The build quality is generally solid and the monitor is lightweight, but we did find some credence in user reports regarding its durability. One user reported their screen sustained a “huge scratch” from a light touch from their laptop. While we didn’t perform a scratch test, the screen surface does not feel as robust as more premium displays, so we’d advise users to be careful. We also saw isolated reports of quality control issues, such as a “loose screw inside” or a “red streak on the side.” While our unit was flawless, these reports suggest that quality can vary, which is not uncommon in the budget monitor space. A major point of clarification is the absence of built-in speakers. Several users, and some online descriptions, mentioned this discrepancy. We can confirm: the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz has no internal speakers. You will need to use headphones or external speakers for audio, which is standard practice for most serious gamers anyway.
What Other Users Are Saying
After compiling our own findings, we looked at a wide range of user feedback to see how our experience compared. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, especially concerning the monitor’s core value proposition. Many users praise it as a “good monitor with good price” and confirm it “slaps” when found on sale. Gamers who upgraded from 60Hz displays are particularly impressed, with one user who bought it for Call of Duty stating, “Setup took 2 minutes, I played around with the colours and I’m impressed.”
However, the feedback also highlights a few recurring issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most common complaint, which we confirmed, is the lack of built-in speakers. Multiple users noted this discrepancy, stating “There is no sound from the monitor” and that they removed a star because the description was misleading. The other significant concern is the screen’s durability. The user who reported a deep scratch from a light bump provides a cautionary tale about the screen’s surface material. Finally, while most users report a flawless experience, there are isolated reports of defects like dead pixels or connection issues (“hdmi goes off and on”), underscoring the importance of buying from a retailer with a reliable return policy.
How Does the Samsung Odyssey G3 Compare to the Alternatives?
The Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz carves out a strong niche, but it’s important to understand how it fits into the broader market. Depending on your primary needs—be it screen size, resolution, or portability—one of these alternatives might be a better fit.
1. Samsung 34-inch QHD 100Hz LED Monitor
- 34 INCH MONITOR and 21:9 ULTRA WQHD: Do more on just one screen; Whether working on a project or enjoying a movie during downtime, see every detail on the wider display featuring a 21:9 aspect ratio....
- HDR10: Enjoy your content in stunning accuracy; With HDR10 that displays over 1 billion colours compared to 16.7 million for typical SDR technology, dark colours are darker and the brightest are...
If your focus is less on pure competitive speed and more on immersive single-player experiences or productivity, the Samsung 34-inch QHD monitor is a compelling alternative. Its key advantages are the ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio and the higher QHD (3440×1440) resolution, which provide significantly more screen real estate for multitasking and a more cinematic view in games and movies. However, its refresh rate is capped at 100Hz, and it has a slower 5ms response time. This makes it a better choice for RPGs, strategy games, and office work, while the Odyssey G3 remains the superior option for fast-paced FPS and esports titles.
2. ARZOPA S1 Table 15.6” 1080P Portable Monitor
- [Second Monitor] The ARZOPA portable monitor can very well act as your second monitor and improve your work efficiency. You can work and perform multiple tasks simultaneously while using this monitor.
- [FHD IPS Screen] Designed with a 15.6-inch display, the screen features 1080P, FHD,IPS and anti-glare display. The 60Hz high resolution brings excellent richness in color ofpictures, videos, work and...
The ARZOPA S1 represents a completely different category of display. This is not a primary desktop monitor but a portable solution for those on the go. Its 15.6-inch size and slim profile make it perfect for laptop users who need a second screen while traveling, for Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck gamers who want a larger screen than the built-in one, or even as a small, dedicated display for monitoring stats or chat. While it shares the 1080p resolution, its performance metrics (typically 60Hz) cannot compare to the Odyssey G3. Choose the ARZOPA for portability; choose the G3 for a high-performance stationary setup.
3. ForHelp 15.6″ FHD Portable Monitor
- Extensive Compatibility - Forhelp portable monitor features 2 full-featured Type-C ports and 1 MINI HDMI port. You can easily access your favorite devices with just one USB Type-C or MINI HDMI cable...
- Full HD Portable Monitor - 15.6inch portable laptop monitor with 1920*1080 resolution, advanced IPS glossy screen support 178° full viewing angle, it renders accurate and bright color, draws you into...
Similar to the ARZOPA, the ForHelp portable monitor caters to the mobile user. It offers a 15.6-inch FHD IPS panel, promising better viewing angles than a VA panel, and includes dual speakers, which the Odyssey G3 lacks. It’s an excellent choice for presentations, mobile work, or casual gaming with a laptop or console when away from your main desk. However, like the ARZOPA, it is not designed to be a primary gaming monitor. Its value lies in its flexibility and portability, whereas the Odyssey G3’s value is rooted in its raw speed and ergonomic design for a dedicated gaming station.
Final Verdict: An Unbeatable Value for Aspiring Competitors
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz is an outstanding value for any gamer looking to make the leap to high-refresh-rate gaming without emptying their wallet. It focuses on the features that matter most for competitive play—a blistering 180Hz refresh rate, a quick response time, and tear-free visuals thanks to AMD FreeSync. Samsung’s decision to include a superb, fully adjustable ergonomic stand at this price point is a massive victory for user comfort and elevates it above much of its budget competition.
Of course, it’s not without its compromises. You’ll need to provide your own audio solution, the screen surface requires careful handling, and you may need to spend a few minutes adjusting the colors for optimal vibrancy. But these are minor trade-offs for the sheer performance on offer. If you are a PC or console gamer who prioritizes fluid motion, quick response, and ergonomic comfort over pixel-perfect color accuracy or 4K resolution, this monitor is purpose-built for you. It delivers a tangible competitive advantage and a dramatically improved gameplay experience that is simply hard to beat for the price. For gamers on a budget who refuse to compromise on speed, the Samsung Odyssey G3 Gaming Monitor 180Hz is an enthusiastic and easy recommendation.
Last update on 2025-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API