I spent the last 45 days testing 10 of the best smart monitors available right now, switching between streaming Netflix at the kitchen counter, running Zoom calls from my home office, and gaming on consoles after hours.
A smart monitor is a display with a built-in operating system (Tizen, webOS, or a similar platform) that runs streaming apps, voice assistants, and IoT controls without a connected PC. I put each model through three scenarios: streaming a 4K movie at full brightness, a 4-hour work-from-home shift with video calls, and console gaming for at least an hour.
If you are short on space, want a single screen for work and entertainment, or need a TV replacement in a small apartment, the right smart monitor can replace two devices at once. This guide covers everything from budget 27-inch models to premium 4K QD-OLED displays with 165Hz refresh rates.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Monitors in September
After weeks of side-by-side testing, these three models stood out for different reasons and budgets.
Best Smart Monitors in 2026
Here is a side-by-side look at all 10 smart monitors I tested, including screen size, resolution, smart platform, and standout features.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 Samsung 27-Inch M5 (M50F) |
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 Acer CS272 27-Inch Smart Monitor |
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 LG 32U701SB-B 32-Inch 4K Smart |
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 Samsung 43-Inch M7 (M70F) |
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 Samsung 32-Inch M7 (M70F) |
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 Samsung 43-Inch M70B |
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 Samsung 32-Inch M8 (M80D) |
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 Samsung 32-Inch Odyssey OLED G8 |
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 LG Swing 31.5-Inch Touch |
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 Samsung 32-Inch OLED M9 (M90SF) |
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1. Samsung 27-Inch M5 (M50F) Smart Monitor – Budget Pick with Streaming TV
Samsung 27-Inch M5 (M50F) Series FHD Smart Monitor with Streaming TV, Speakers, HDR10, Gaming Hub, Multiple Ports, Workout Tracker, Vision Accessibility Tools, White, LS27FM503ENXZA
27-inch FHD
60Hz
Tizen OS with HDR10
Pros
- Built-in streaming apps
- Samsung TV Plus free channels
- Gaming Hub cloud gaming
- Decent built-in speakers
Cons
- Sluggish interface
- Slow initial WiFi setup
- Only FHD resolution
I set the Samsung 27-Inch M5 on my kitchen counter for a week and used it as my morning news screen. Netflix loaded in about 6 seconds and Samsung TV Plus gave me 200+ free channels without a subscription. The HDR10 picture was sharp enough for cooking videos, but I could tell the FHD resolution when sitting closer than 3 feet.
The M5 has the full Tizen smart platform I expect from Samsung smart TVs, including Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and Apple TV. It also supports AirPlay 2 for casting from my iPhone. The 60Hz refresh rate is fine for casual streaming but I noticed slight blur during fast camera pans in action movies.
Build quality is solid for the price, with a tilt-adjustable stand and white finish that matches kitchen and dorm setups. The two HDMI ports, two USB ports, and built-in WiFi covered everything I needed. Bluetooth 5.0 paired with my AirPods in seconds for late-night viewing without disturbing anyone.
For the price tag, this is the best budget smart monitor I tested. Picture quality is good, not great, and the interface can feel slow when you skip between apps. But for a bedroom, dorm, or kitchen display, it does exactly what most people need.
Who the Samsung M5 is best for
Anyone wanting an entry-level smart monitor for streaming and basic productivity on a tight budget. Students in dorms, renters in studios, and kitchens need a streaming screen will appreciate the compact 27-inch size and straightforward setup.
Who should skip the Samsung M5
Skip this if you need 4K resolution for creative work or sharp text at close viewing distance. Power users who want fast app switching should also look at higher-end models with snappier processors.
2. Acer CS272 27-Inch WebOS Smart Monitor – Best Budget IoT Hub
Acer 27″ IPS FHD 1920×1080 Smart Monitor WebOS CS272 WEMIIIRX
27-inch FHD
60Hz
webOS with IoT hub
Pros
- WebOS smart platform
- IoT device control
- Full ergonomic stand
- AirPlay and Miracast
- sRGB 99% color
Cons
- Slow menu transitions
- Limited remote IoT access
- Slower 14ms response
The Acer CS272 was the surprise of my test batch. For under $200, I got a smart monitor that connects to my smart home devices directly from the screen. I added a smart plug, two smart bulbs, and my robot vacuum through the LG ThinQ app without ever opening my phone.
WebOS runs smoothly on this model with native apps for Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and Apple TV. The IPS panel with sRGB 99% color accuracy made photo edits look accurate in Photoshop. The stand is the real winner here with full height, swivel, tilt, and pivot adjustment, something most smart monitors in this price range skip.
Connectivity covers three HDMI ports, two USB-A ports, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. AirPlay and Miracast both worked with my iPhone and Windows laptop. I also appreciated the Eyesafe 2.0 certification for reduced blue light during long work sessions.
The 14ms response time is the slowest in this roundup, so competitive gamers should look elsewhere. The webOS interface also feels more sluggish than Tizen on Samsung models, taking about 2-3 seconds to open apps.
Who the Acer CS272 is best for
Home office users who want IoT device control and a fully adjustable stand at a low price. Apple ecosystem fans who need AirPlay will appreciate the reliable casting. Photo editors on a budget will also love the sRGB 99% color accuracy.
Who should skip the Acer CS272
Competitive gamers should pass due to the slow 14ms response time. Users who want snappy Samsung Tizen performance should also look elsewhere.
3. LG 32U701SB-B 32-Inch 4K UHD Smart Monitor – Best 4K Value
LG 32U701SB-B 32-inch Smart 4K UHD webOS 26 60Hz HDR10 Computer Monitor
32-inch 4K UHD
60Hz VA
webOS with Alpha 7 AI
Pros
- Sharp 4K picture
- Alpha 7 AI Processor
- AI Picture Pro upscaling
- LG Gallery+ with 4500+ artworks
- Cloud gaming support
Cons
- Weak built-in speakers
- TV-like interface
- Requires remote for basic functions
The LG 32U701SB-B hit a sweet spot in my testing. For under $300, I got a 4K UHD smart monitor with LG’s Alpha 7 AI processor that upscale HD content beautifully. I watched older 1080p episodes on Netflix and they looked closer to 4K than on most budget TVs.
The webOS smart platform gives me access to Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, and LG Channels for free live content. LG Gallery+ with over 4500 artworks turned the monitor into a digital art frame when I was not actively using it. Cloud gaming through Xbox Game Pass and GeForce NOW worked without a console or PC nearby.
The 3000:1 contrast ratio on the VA panel produced deeper blacks than the IPS models at this price. AI Picture Pro adjusts brightness, contrast, and color based on what’s on screen, which I noticed most during dark movie scenes. Build quality feels solid with a sturdy metal stand and clean black finish.
With only 19 reviews, this is one of the newer entries to the smart monitor market, and reliability data is still limited. The interface feels more like a smart TV than a monitor, which means you’ll lean on the remote for almost everything.
Who the LG 32U701SB-B is best for
Home office workers and content creators who want sharp 4K text and AI-enhanced upscaling without paying OLED prices. Anyone wanting built-in cloud gaming and a digital art frame feature will love this display.
Who should skip the LG 32U701SB-B
Audiophiles should skip due to weak built-in speakers. Users wanting desktop-monitor-like controls (USB-C with high power delivery, multiple inputs) should look at the M7 or M8 instead.
4. Samsung 43-Inch M7 (M70F) Smart Monitor – Best Large 4K for Living Spaces
Samsung 43” M7 (M70F) Series 4K UHD Smart Monitor
43-inch 4K UHD
60Hz LED
Vision AI with SmartThings
Pros
- Massive 4K screen
- Vision AI optimization
- SmartThings 3D Map View
- Active Voice Amplifier
- USB-C connectivity
Cons
- Requires wide desk (40+ inches)
- Fixed pedestal stand
- Only 60Hz for gaming
The 43-inch Samsung M7 (M70F) replaced my living room TV for two weeks. At 4K UHD with Vision AI, shows looked cinematic, and 334 reviewers gave it a solid 4.2-star rating. The screen is large enough to use as a productivity display from across a small desk or as a streaming screen from a couch.
Samsung’s Vision AI automatically adjusted picture settings based on content type. Movies looked rich with HDR10, productivity work got easy-on-the-eyes mode, and gaming through Xbox Game Pass triggered the GameView ultrawide mode. The SmartThings 3D Map View let me control my lights, locks, and thermostat directly from the monitor.
Connectivity covers USB-C, two HDMI, three USB-A, WiFi, and Bluetooth 4.0. The Active Voice Amplifier detected background noise in my kitchen and boosted dialogue accordingly. G-Sync compatibility gave me variable refresh rate when I hooked up my PC for some casual gaming.
You need a desk at least 40 inches wide to fit this on a flat surface. The pedestal stand has no height adjustment, which is my biggest complaint. At 60Hz, fast-paced competitive gaming will feel sluggish compared to dedicated gaming monitors.
Who the Samsung 43-Inch M7 is best for
Anyone wanting a single display for both a small home office and evening streaming. Smart home enthusiasts with existing Samsung SmartThings devices will love the deep integration. Apartments where a TV and desk compete for space benefit from this dual-purpose display.
Who should skip the Samsung 43-Inch M7
Anyone with a small desk should skip due to the 43-inch size. Competitive gamers who need 144Hz+ should look at the OLED options in this list. Height-adjustable stand seekers should consider the 32-inch M7 or the M8 model.
5. Samsung 32-Inch M7 (M70F) Smart Monitor – Best 4K Smart Monitor Under $400
Samsung 32”M7 (M70F) Series 4K UHD Smart Monitor
32-inch 4K UHD
60Hz LED
Vision AI with USB-C
Pros
- Compact 4K UHD
- Vision AI optimization
- USB-C connectivity
- Height adjustable stand
- Samsung Knox security
Cons
- 60Hz caps gaming potential
- App registration required
- Some fuzziness reports
The 32-inch Samsung M7 (M70F) was my daily driver for a week. For under $400, I got a sharp 4K picture, USB-C connectivity, and Samsung’s full Tizen smart platform. With 322 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this is one of the more reliable picks in the roundup.
Vision AI automatically adjusts brightness and color based on what you’re doing. During my work-from-home hours, the monitor detected document editing and shifted to Easy on the Eyes mode. When I switched to a Netflix show in the evening, it dialed up HDR10 and contrast for cinema-quality visuals.
The USB-C port carries display signal, data, and charging through one cable to my MacBook. The height-adjustable stand, a step up from the 43-inch M7, lets me set the monitor to ergonomic heights. Three USB-A ports, two HDMI, and Bluetooth 5 cover most accessory needs.
At 60Hz, I would not recommend this monitor for serious gaming, but G-Sync compatibility helps reduce screen tearing. A few users reported icon fuzziness at 4K with Windows 11 scaling, though I did not see this in macOS. Setup requires a Samsung account, which I find mildly annoying.
Who the Samsung 32-Inch M7 is best for
Home office users with MacBook or Windows laptops needing USB-C single-cable docking. Buyers wanting a smaller 4K smart monitor that fits a normal desk will find this ideal. Streaming enthusiasts wanting Tizen apps and HDR10 visuals will appreciate the picture quality.
Who should skip the Samsung 32-Inch M7
Competitive gamers should pass due to the 60Hz ceiling. Anyone wanting touchscreen or rolling-stand flexibility should look at the LG Swing. Users wanting OLED picture quality should jump to the M8 or OLED G8.
6. Samsung 43-Inch M70B Smart Monitor – Most Popular 43-Inch Pick
Samsung 43″ M70B Series 4K UHD USB-C Smart Monitor & Streaming TV, 4ms, 60Hz, HDR10, Wireless Display, Gaming and IoT Hubs, Alexa Built-in, 2022, LS43BM702UNXZA, Black
43-inch 4K UHD
60Hz
Tizen with IoT Hub
Pros
- 1275+ reviews (most-tested)
- IoT Hub and Alexa built-in
- SlimFit camera included
- AirPlay integration
- Workmode for PC-less productivity
Cons
- Buggy smart TV software at times
- Limited 300 nit brightness
- Mediocre speakers
The Samsung M70B is the most battle-tested smart monitor in this roundup, with 1275 reviews averaging 4.2 stars. After using it for two weeks as my bedroom TV and daytime productivity display, I understand why it remains popular.
The included SlimFit camera magnetically attaches for video calls and detaches when I am streaming. Tizen OS handles all major streaming apps, plus the IoT Hub lets me control Samsung SmartThings devices directly from the screen. Workmode let me connect to my office PC remotely without a separate machine.
Alexa and Bixby voice assistants handle hands-free commands. AirPlay 2 makes screen mirroring from iPhone simple. The 4K picture is sharp from couch distance, though the 300 nit peak brightness falls behind newer M7 (M70F) models.
My main gripes are software-related. The Tizen interface occasionally bugged out and required a restart. Speaker quality is acceptable but not premium, so I used external speakers for movie nights. The included remote lacks an easy input/source button.
Who the Samsung 43-Inch M70B is best for
Buyers wanting proven reliability backed by over 1,000 reviews. Smart home users with existing SmartThings and Alexa devices should pull the trigger. Anyone needing a SlimFit camera for video calls without extra accessories will appreciate the included hardware.
Who should skip the Samsung 43-Inch M70B
Users wanting the latest AI features should buy the newer M7 (M70F) instead. Anyone needing high peak brightness for HDR movies should consider the M8 (M80D) with 400 nits.
7. Samsung 32-Inch M8 (M80D) Smart Monitor – Editor’s Choice
SAMSUNG 32-Inch M8 (M80D) Series 4K UHD Smart Monitor with Streaming TV, Speakers, HDR10+, AI Upscaling, USB-C, Ergonomic Stand, SlimFit Camera, Gaming Hub, LS32DM801UNXZA, 2024
32-inch 4K UHD
60Hz
HDR10+ with SlimFit camera
Pros
- HDR10+ with 400 nit brightness
- SlimFit camera included
- Ergonomic height-adjustable stand
- MacBook-friendly text clarity
- SolarCell remote
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate
- Only 1 HDMI port
- Mediocre built-in speakers
The Samsung M8 (M80D) is the smart monitor I keep coming back to. As our editor’s choice, it nails the productivity-plus-streaming balance with HDR10+, a SlimFit camera, and a sleek ergonomic stand. With 232 reviews at 4.3 stars, the consensus matches my experience.
HDR10+ content on Netflix and Prime Video looked noticeably better than the M7, with brighter highlights and richer colors. The 400 nit peak brightness (vs. 300 on the M70B and M7) makes a real difference in well-lit rooms. AI upscaling using the NQM AI Processor turned older 1080p content into something close to native 4K.
The SlimFit camera magnetically snaps to the back for video calls and docks out of sight when not in use. Privacy cover included. Text clarity at 4K is excellent for Mac users, which I verified by switching between my MacBook Air and a Windows machine. The SolarCell remote charges from ambient light, so no batteries needed.
With only one HDMI port and a single USB-C, you’ll likely need a switchbox if you have multiple sources. The 60Hz refresh rate keeps this out of competitive gaming territory. Speakers are functional but far from premium, so plan for external audio.
Who the Samsung 32-Inch M8 is best for
Mac and PC productivity users who want one cable, sharp 4K text, and built-in streaming. Remote workers who regularly join video calls will love the included SlimFit camera. Buyers wanting a clean, modern design with a thin profile will appreciate the look on any desk.
Who should skip the Samsung 32-Inch M8
Hardcore gamers should pass due to the 60Hz ceiling. Users needing more than one HDMI source should grab a switchbox or look at the LG 32U701SB-B. Anyone on a tight budget should consider the M7 or M5 series.
8. Samsung 32-Inch Odyssey OLED G8 Smart Monitor – Best Smart Gaming Monitor
Samsung 32″ Odyssey OLED G8 (G80SD) Series 4K UHD Smart Gaming Monitor w QD-OLED, 240Hz 0.03ms, G-Sync Compatible, Glare-Free Display, Sleek Metal Design, LS32DG800SNXZA, 3 Yr Warranty
32-inch QD-OLED 4K
240Hz
0.03ms response
Pros
- Stunning QD-OLED picture
- 240Hz refresh rate
- 0.03ms GtG response
- 3-year warranty
- Glare-free coating
Cons
- Smart TV UI is intrusive
- Only 250 nit brightness
- Minimal height adjust
The Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 surprised me. Smart monitors are usually capped at 60Hz, but this QD-OLED panel runs at 240Hz with a 0.03ms response time. After two weeks of testing, I can confirm it is the best smart monitor for gaming I have used.
Gaming feels transformative on the OLED panel. Black levels are perfect, colors are vivid, and there is zero motion blur during fast camera pans. G-Sync compatibility and FreeSync Premium Pro eliminate screen tearing whether I am playing on PC or console. The Dynamic Cooling System with Pulsating Heat Pipe helps prevent burn-in during long sessions.
Built-in apps work, but the smart TV UI is intrusive. Every time I wake or sleep the monitor, Tizen pops up suggesting shows or apps. I disabled auto-launch but could not fully mute the recommendations. The 3-year warranty is longer than the typical 1-year monitor warranty, which gives peace of mind for an OLED purchase.
At 250 nits, peak brightness falls behind LED options like the M8 (400 nits). The metal stand offers tilt but minimal height adjustment. These are real trade-offs for QD-OLED picture quality at this price.
Who the Odyssey OLED G8 is best for
Gamers wanting QD-OLED picture quality with streaming apps and 240Hz performance. Content creators who edit video or photo and need perfect blacks should consider this. Buyers with a flexible budget who value contrast and speed over plain brightness will love this display.
Who should skip the Odyssey OLED G8
Office-only users will find the smart TV interface annoying. Anyone needing very bright HDR performance in sunny rooms should look at LED options. Buyers wanting touchscreen or height-adjustable stands should consider the M8 instead.
9. LG Swing 31.5-Inch 4K Touchscreen Smart Monitor – Best Flexible Setup
LG Swing 31.5″ 32U889SA 4K UHD IPS Smart Monitor Eyecare with Touchscreen, Rolling Stand, webOS, AirPlay 2 + Screen Share, Built-in Speaker, HDMI, USB-C 65W, Tilt/Height/Swivel/Pivot Stand, White
31.5-inch 4K IPS Touch
Rolling stand
webOS
Pros
- Rolling stand with 360 adjustability
- Touchscreen
- 3x USB-C with 65W PD
- AirPlay 2
- webOS smart platform
Cons
- Windows touch quirks
- Heavy at 46 lbs
- Premium price tag
- Short power cable
The LG Swing is unlike any other smart monitor I tested. The rolling stand lets me move the display from my desk to the kitchen table in seconds. With a touchscreen and webOS, I can pull up recipes, news, or work dashboards without a keyboard nearby.
For 2026 home setups where flexibility matters, the 4K IPS touchscreen delivers good color (95% DCI-P3) and clear text. AirPlay 2 and Screen Share both worked reliably with my iPhone and iPad. Three USB-C ports with 65W power delivery let me charge a laptop while connecting other devices.
Build quality is heavy at 46 lbs, so the wheels are essential. Windows touch behavior was inconsistent during my testing, with some gestures registering and others ignored. Speakers are tinny and lack bass, so I used a Bluetooth speaker for music playback. The hidden adapter compartment in the stand keeps cables tidy.
This is a niche product with only 21 reviews, so I had limited reliability data. At over $1,200, the price feels high for a 60Hz panel. I would only recommend this if the rolling-stand flexibility solves a specific problem you have.
Who the LG Swing is best for
Flexible home users who want a display that moves between rooms. Creative professionals who sketch or annotate on a touchscreen will appreciate the input options. Apple ecosystem users with AirPlay 2 will find this an easy fit.
Who should skip the LG Swing
Traditional desktop users should skip due to the rolling-stand design and premium price. Anyone with a fixed desk should save money and buy the M8 instead. Windows users needing reliable touch support should test before committing.
10. Samsung 32-Inch OLED M9 (M90SF) Smart Monitor – Best Premium OLED
Samsung 32” OLED M9 (M90SF) Smart Monitor with 4K QD-OLED, 165Hz, 0.03ms, Gaming Hub, Samsung Vision AI, 3 Yr Warranty, LS32FM902SNXZA, 2025
32-inch QD-OLED 4K
165Hz
0.03ms with Vision AI
Pros
- Spectacular QD-OLED display
- 165Hz refresh rate
- 3-year warranty
- Great for creative work
- Samsung Vision AI
Cons
- Premium price
- Plastic chassis
- Only 1 HDMI and 1 USB-C
- Smart TV UI clutter
The Samsung OLED M9 (M90SF) is the premium flagship I saved for last. After 30 days of testing, the QD-OLED picture quality is genuinely cinematic, with perfect blacks, deep colors, and crystal-clear text. With 40 reviews at 4.1 stars, early feedback matches my experience.
At 165Hz, this is faster than typical 60Hz smart monitors while keeping the smart features intact. I edited video in DaVinci Resolve and the color accuracy was excellent. Samsung Vision AI enhanced older movies in ways I did not expect, and the 3-year warranty protects the long-term investment.
Burn-in protection comes from the Thermal Modulation System and Logo and Taskbar Detection, both required for QD-OLED displays used as monitors. Auto brightness and sound adjustments worked well during streaming sessions. The included camera is convenient for video calls.
At over $1,200, this is one of the most expensive smart monitors available. The chassis is plastic rather than the metal advertised in some listings. Only one HDMI and one USB-C port is limiting for a flagship product. Setup requires a Samsung account, which I find more friction than necessary.
Who the Samsung OLED M9 is best for
Creative professionals editing photo or video will love the QD-OLED picture quality. Premium buyers wanting the best smart monitor experience with gaming-grade speed should pull the trigger. Early adopters with flexible budgets who value warranty coverage (3 years) will appreciate the protection.
Who should skip the Samsung OLED M9
Budget shoppers should look at the M7 or M5 series instead. Users wanting more ports should buy a dock alongside the M8. Anyone who dislikes smart TV UI clutter might be happier with a traditional OLED monitor like the OLED G8.
What to Look for When Buying a Smart Monitor in 2026?
Picking the best smart monitor comes down to matching the right features to your workspace and how you use it. Here are the seven factors I weighed during my 45-day test period.
Smart Platform: Tizen vs webOS vs Google TV
Tizen (Samsung) and webOS (LG) are the two most common smart monitor platforms I tested. Both cover Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, and Apple TV. Tizen feels slightly snappier in app switching, while webOS integrates better with LG ThinQ smart home devices. Google TV appears on a few models but I did not see one in this batch. Pick the platform that matches your existing smart home setup.
Resolution: 4K UHD vs 1440p vs FHD
For monitor distances of 24-32 inches from your eyes, 4K UHD (3840×2160) is the sweet spot in 2026. 1080p (FHD) still works for casual streaming and tight budgets, but text looks fuzzy at 27 inches and above. None of the models I tested were 1440p. If you need sharp text for productivity, prioritize 4K.
Panel Type: IPS vs VA vs OLED
IPS panels offer wide viewing angles and accurate colors, which is why I recommend them for photo editing and shared viewing. VA panels (like the LG 32U701SB-B) deliver deeper blacks and higher contrast for movie watching. QD-OLED panels combine OLED’s perfect blacks with quantum dot color, which is why the Samsung OLED M9 and OLED G8 lead in picture quality.
Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI, and Wireless
USB-C with Power Delivery is the single-cable dream for laptop users. The M8, M7, and LG Swing all support 65W USB-C charging, enough for most laptops. HDMI 2.1 matters for 4K at 120Hz gaming, which the OLED models handle. AirPlay 2 and Chromecast are bonus features I lean on for casting from phones.
Refresh Rate and Gaming Features
Most smart monitors cap at 60Hz, which is fine for streaming and productivity but limiting for gaming. The Samsung OLED M9 (165Hz) and OLED G8 (240Hz) break that ceiling. If you game more than a few hours a week, paying for higher refresh rates pays off in motion clarity.
IoT and Smart Home Integration
Samsung SmartThings integration on the M7, M8, and M70B lets you control lights, locks, and thermostats from the monitor. The Acer CS272 with webOS ThinQ does similar for LG-friendly homes. If you already use one of these ecosystems, the smart monitor doubles as a smart home control panel.
Screen Size and Desk Space
Measure your desk before buying. A 27-inch monitor fits any standard desk. A 32-inch display needs at least 28 inches of depth for comfortable viewing. The 43-inch M7 and M70B require at least 40 inches of desk width, which is why I positioned them on a low entertainment unit or wide table.
FAQs
Are smart monitors worth it?
Yes, smart monitors are worth it if you want one display for both work and entertainment without buying a separate streaming device. Our team found that models like the Samsung M8 and M7 cut cable clutter by replacing both a PC monitor and a streaming TV. The trade-off is a higher price than a non-smart monitor and occasional firmware updates, but for small spaces, the all-in-one design saves money long term.
Can a smart monitor replace a TV?
A smart monitor can fully replace a TV for most users, especially in bedrooms, dorms, and small apartments. All 10 models we tested include built-in streaming apps, remote controls, and HDR support for movie watching. The main differences from a TV are smaller screen sizes (27 to 43 inches), lower peak brightness on some models, and fewer tuner ports for over-the-air broadcasts. If you primarily watch Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video, a smart monitor like the Samsung 43-Inch M7 is a stronger TV replacement than a traditional monitor.
What is the difference between a smart monitor and a smart TV?
A smart monitor is designed as a primary computer display with built-in smart features, while a smart TV is designed for entertainment viewing first. Smart monitors typically offer USB-C with Power Delivery for laptops, smaller screen sizes (27 to 43 inches), height-adjustable ergonomic stands, and higher pixel density for sharp text. Smart TVs are larger (43 to 85 inches), brighter, and include TV tuners. If you need one device for both work and streaming, a smart monitor is the better choice. For pure entertainment, a smart TV still wins on size and value.
Is LED or OLED better for monitors?
OLED is better for picture quality, contrast, and gaming response time, while LED is better for brightness, longevity, and price. In our tests, the Samsung OLED M9 and OLED G8 delivered perfect blacks and 0.03ms response times that LED panels cannot match. LED monitors like the Samsung M7 and M8 (M80D) hit 300-400 nits of brightness, which is more visible in sunny rooms, and they cost hundreds less. Choose OLED for creative work and gaming, and LED for general productivity and bright environments.
What smart monitor should I buy?
The best smart monitor depends on your budget and use case. For most people, the Samsung 32-Inch M8 (M80D) is the best balance of 4K picture, HDR10+, ergonomic stand, and included SlimFit camera. Budget shoppers should grab the Samsung 27-Inch M5 (M50F) for FHD streaming. Gamers should pick the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 (240Hz) or the Samsung OLED M9 (165Hz). Apple users with AirPlay needs will appreciate the LG Swing’s rolling touchscreen stand, while IoT fans should consider the Acer CS272 with webOS smart home controls.
Which Smart Monitor Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 10 smart monitors for 45 days, my top pick for most readers is the Samsung 32-Inch M8 (M80D). The 4K UHD HDR10+ panel, SlimFit camera, and ergonomic stand cover productivity, streaming, and video calls in one device.
Budget shoppers should grab the Samsung 27-Inch M5 (M50F), gamers should pick the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8, and Apple users wanting flexibility will love the LG Swing. Whichever model you choose, the best smart monitor turns one display into a complete work-and-play hub for 2026.