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Trying out the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA 34’ QHD Ultra Wide Monitor (2024)
Introduction
For one of the offices at work I recently purchased the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA ultra-wide monitor. Its expansive display significantly enhances my multitasking abilities by keeping multiple projects in view without requiring tab flipping. The benefits also extend beyond work; movies and games become more engaging on this screen.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 34 Inches | Display Resolution Maximum | 3440X1440 Pixels |
| Brand | SAMSUNG | Special Feature | Wide screen |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
Photos
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Prices
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Ultra-Wide Display Advantages
The introduction of ultra-wide displays, particularly Samsung’s LS34J550WQNXZA monitor, is a game-changer for multitasking enthusiasts like myself. The 3440x1440 WQHD resolution offers a massive workspace that successfully substitutes dual-monitor setups without the distracting bezels in between. A highlight in my day-to-day activities is the convenience brought by the Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) features, complemented by user-friendly screen split software.
Here’s a quick rundown of my thoughts on the ultra-wide advantages:
Enhanced Productivity: The extra screen real estate allows me to have multiple applications open side-by-side without the need to alt-tab constantly.
Immersive Entertainment: Watching movies shot in a 21:9 aspect ratio is a treat. It fills the screen without any letterboxing, providing a cinematic experience right at my desk.
Better Gaming Experience: For PC gaming, the ultra-wide format is incredibly immersive, giving a competitive edge by expanding my field of view.
However, it’s important to mention that these monitors might not be for everyone. Console gamers, for instance, may not enjoy the experience fully, as current generation consoles don’t support the ultra-wide ratio, resulting in a stretched image or black bars.
The VA panel’s 3000:1 contrast ratio ensures that the blacks are deep and the whites are crisp, which is ideal for both work and leisure. The addition of AMD FreeSync technology is a nice touch, minimizing screen tearing and stuttering in high-action scenarios.
One can’t dismiss the design aspect – the slim panel and sophisticated stand add a level of elegance to any setup, making it less of a device and more of a centerpiece. That said, having a 75Hz refresh rate over the standard 60Hz is appreciated, even though it’s not the top spec for hardcore gaming, its smoothness is evident in daily tasks.
In terms of drawbacks, limited viewing angles can sometimes detract from the visual experience, and color saturation may be too intense out of the box, necessitating calibration for optimal image quality.
Working with this ultra-wide Samsung monitor has been largely positive, though I’ve had to adjust settings to reach a comfortable middle ground between performance and aesthetic appeal. For those who work remotely and deal with numerous applications, it’s a valuable tool. The lack of a remote control is a negligible trade-off for the benefits gained.
Admittedly, I experienced some issues with colors disappearing and pixelation, which required a few resets. Therefore, while it generally enhances productivity and immersion, potential buyers should be aware of such possible inconveniences.
Performance and Compatibility Notes
Navigating the dynamic world of monitors, I’ve found the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA to be a fascinating piece of technology that has its ups and downs. Armed with a VA panel, this monitor impressively delivers darker blacks and a strong 3000:1 contrast ratio, which is especially noticeable in dark scenes whether you’re gaming or watching movies.
On the other hand, let’s talk about its performance and compatibility:
Ultra-Wide WQHD Resolution (3440 x 1440): The expansive screen estate provides an immersive experience for watching films and multitasking. With native 21:9 content, it’s a treat, and productivity-wise, being able to have multiple windows side by side is invaluable.
PIP/PBP Functions and Screen Split Software: These are great for streamlining workflow, allowing me to juggle different projects without constantly switching tabs.
AMD FreeSync: This technology syncs well with a compatible AMD graphics card, reducing image tearing and providing a smoother experience. However, it’s not as versatile as NVIDIA’s G-Sync.
Aesthetic Design: The slim panel and elegant stand are sleek, though they won’t necessarily revolutionize your desk setup.
Despite these strong features, there are a few points to consider:
Screen Refresh Rate: The default 60 Hz can be a drawback for hardcore gamers. However, I managed to push it up a bit by using a DisplayPort cable, which I recommend over the HDMI for this reason.
Console Compatibility: For console gamers, this monitor might not be the best fit since current-gen consoles don’t support the ultrawide aspect ratio well, leading to stretching issues.
Viewing Angles and Color Saturation: While the colors are vibrant, they might feel overly saturated for some users, and the viewing angles are narrow, which isn’t ideal in all setups.
I had to do some tweaking with the settings right out of the box to get the display to my liking, and that joystick control is not the most user-friendly. It’s a once-and-done kind of deal, though, so not a dealbreaker.
Overall, in terms of value for money and the balance between quality and functionality, the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA is a strong contender. It’s not perfect—the refresh rate could be higher, and it isn’t the best pick for console gaming—but for PC users looking for an affordable ultra-wide monitor for multitasking, media consumption, and even casual gaming, it’s quite a compelling option.
Design and Aesthetics Review
In my search for the optimal ultra-wide monitor, the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA caught my attention with its blend of sleek design and performance features that promise a substantial boost to everyday computing and entertainment. Here’s my take on its design and aesthetics:
Slim Panel: The slim profile of the LS34J550WQNXZA is a major plus. It doesn’t overwhelm my desk space, and its lightweight design makes it an easy fit wherever I need it to be, be it on a standard stand or mounted high up.
Elegant Y-Stand and Metallic Bezel: These design choices give the monitor a modern and professional look that enhances the space it occupies. Whether it’s in a home office or a corporate environment, it adds a touch of class.
VA Panel with Deep Blacks: The display boasts darker blacks and a 3000:1 contrast ratio, thanks to its VA panel. This enhances the visual depth and makes for a more immersive viewing experience, be it while working or enjoying media.
While it’s easy to be drawn in by the esthetic appeal, some functional aspects of design deserve mention:
The elegant y-stand not only contributes to its aesthetic value but also ensures stability on my desk.
The thin metallic bezel maximizes screen space and minimizes visual distractions. This seamless design is what I look for since I can’t stand chunky frames eating into my view.
I appreciate Samsung’s attention to detail in the overall build quality. It feels sturdy despite its sleekness.
However, it isn’t without its drawbacks. The monitor’s stand isn’t the most ergonomic; it lacks swivel and height adjustments, which means I had to find the perfect desk or an alternative monitor stand to get my ideal viewing angle.
The hidden joystick control on the back right side is a mixed bag. While it preserves the monitor’s sleek front appearance, it can be clunky to use when adjusting settings. Once everything is dialed in to my liking, though, it’s not a problem.
To sum it up, the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA strikes an elegant balance between form and function. It complements my workspace without compromising on display quality. Although a more flexible stand and a user-friendly control scheme would enhance its user experience, these are minor sticking points in what is an otherwise well-rounded design proposition. The monitor’s sleekness, coupled with the immersive viewing provided by its high contrast VA panel, makes it not only a visually appealing tech piece but also a joy to use for various tasks.
Final Verdict and Considerations
After spending a notable amount of time with the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA monitor, my overall impression is positive, with a few caveats worth mentioning. To distill my thoughts more clearly:
Pros:
The 3000:1 contrast ratio delivers deep blacks and bright whites, which is a standout feature for a VA panel of this caliber.
A 3440x1440 resolution on an ultrawide display offers ample screen real estate, making it ideal for productivity tasks.
PBP/PIP functions and intuitive screen split software make multitasking a breeze.
Amd Free Sync compatibility ensures smooth gameplay by decreasing screen tearing and stuttering.
Samsung’s design is sleek, fitting well into most setups without being overly flashy.
Value for money: This monitor is a budget-friendly option in the ultrawide category.
Cons:
A 60 Hz refresh rate could hold back gaming performance to some extent, although it can be increased with a DisplayPort cable.
The monitor’s narrow viewing angles may impact visual performance at the edges, an inherent downside of many VA panels.
The control system, based on the Samsung joystick, can be cumbersome to get used to.
With these points in mind, let’s delve deeper into my final verdict. The ultrawide aspect, coupled with the crisp WQHD resolution, really transforms the desktop experience, allowing me to work with multiple applications side-by-side effortlessly. There’s no denying the productivity gains from such a setup.
Speaking from a gamer’s perspective, I would not recommend this monitor for console gaming; the lack of aspect ratio support and limited refresh rate could be deal-breakers. However, for PC gaming, the Amd Free Sync and potential for a 75 Hz refresh rate with a DisplayPort cable are solid features, especially considering the monitor’s price point.
For those like me, who aren’t solely focused on gaming, the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA monitor serves as a versatile display for both work and entertainment, striking a good balance between quality and budget. The image quality, with Samsung’s reputation for vibrant colors and contrasts, stands up in everyday use, though individuals more sensitive to refresh rates or those requiring wider viewing angles might want to consider other options.
As a monitor intended primarily for desktop work and casual entertainment, my experience is that the LS34J550WQNXZA hits the mark. Keep in mind, though, that no monitor is without its flaws, and this Samsung model does have some limitations which may affect its suitability depending on the personal or professional needs.
In conclusion, the Samsung LS34J550WQNXZA serves well for users seeking an affordable ultrawide monitor with strong multitasking capabilities and decent gaming performance within its refresh rate constraints. However, for those requiring pristine image quality from all angles or high-end gaming specs, investing in a higher-tier monitor might be a better choice.