Hi there! If you‘re looking to upgrade to a 32-inch 4K monitor for work or entertainment, two models you should consider are the Samsung M80B and LG 32UN880-B. Both displays pack sharp Ultra HD resolution into compact, minimalist designs. But deciding between these premium monitors ultimately depends on your needs and budget.
As an avid tech reviewer, I‘ve taken an in-depth look at the capabilities of both monitors to help you determine which is the better fit. In this guide, we‘ll compare the Samsung M80B and LG UltraFine across over a dozen categories – from image quality and gaming performance to connectivity and value. Let‘s dive in!
At a Glance: Samsung M80B vs. LG 32UN880-B
First, here‘s a high-level overview of specs for both 4K models:
| Specs | Samsung M80B | LG 32UN880-B |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 32" | 32" |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 4ms | 5ms |
| Panel Type | VA | IPS |
| Contrast Ratio | 2500:1 | 1000:1 |
| HDR | HDR10 | HDR10 |
| Nits | 300 cd/m2 | 350 cd/m2 |
| Color Gamut | 95% sRGB | 95% DCI-P3 |
| Ports | Mini HDMI, USB-C | 2x HDMI, DP, USB-C |
| Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Platform | Tizen OS | None |
With matching 32-inch 4K resolutions and integrated speakers, the Samsung and LG monitors share plenty of similarities up front. Digging deeper, however, reveals advantages to each display based on the underlying technology.
The M80B utilizes a VA panel known for higher contrast, while the 32UN880-B leverages LG‘s advanced IPS panel for optimal color reproduction. Only Samsung‘s model contains a built-in smart platform as well.
Now let‘s analyze those distinctions in greater detail across the two monitors‘ overall performance and capabilities.
Display Quality Face-Off
Arguably the most critical element of any monitor is the image quality it produces. Here‘s how the M80B and 32UN880-B compare based on extensive lab testing from reviewers:
Black Levels & Contrast Ratio
Thanks to its VA panel, the M80B delivers impressively dark blacks at 0.18 nits based on Hardware Unboxed‘s measurements. This helps it reach a high 2500:1 contrast ratio that outshines average IPS monitors. Consequently, content appears more dynamic with highlighted elements truly standing out.
By comparison, the LG monitor only managed 0.37 nits black level and a 1000:1 contrast ratio – fairly standard results for an IPS display. Details in dark scenes usually won‘t look quite as distinct.
Winner: Samsung M80B
Color Accuracy
According to testing by both RTINGS and Hardware Unboxed using color calibration meters, the 32UN880-B produces more accurate, lifelike colors out of the box. It covers 95% of the wider DCI-P3 color gamut used in digital cinema. Hues are more vivid and true-to-life thanks to LG‘s advanced IPS nano panel.
The M80B still produces solid color accuracy at 95% sRGB coverage. But for color-sensitive work where hue precision is vital, the LG monitor pulls ahead noticeably.
Winner: LG 32UN880-B
Viewing Angles
IPS panels also excel when it comes to off-center visibility. While the M80B loses fidelity at around 15-20° viewing angles, the 32UN880-B maintained consistent color and brightness up to 40+° angles in testing.
So if you‘ll be viewing the display from a variety of positions, LG‘s UltraFine model better retains image accuracy.
Winner: LG 32UN880-B
Responsiveness
With quick 5ms gray-to-gray response times, both monitors offer decent responsiveness for 60Hz displays. The M80B does have a slightly faster 4ms GTG speed, but the difference is ultimately negligible. Fast-paced motion will appear smooth enough on both.
Winner: Tie
HDR Support
On paper, both displays feature HDR10 support. Unfortunately, their peak brightness caps out under 400 nits – far from ideal HDR standards. HDR content won‘t have much highlight pop or expanded contrast.
If you‘ll be streaming HDR movies, the M80B‘s higher contrast VA panel at least somewhat salvages the format‘s intended effect. But serious cinephiles will want to seek out a true HDR display with 1,000+ nit capability.
Winner: Samsung M80B
Gaming Performance Results
Given their 60Hz refresh rates and lack of variable refresh rate (VRR) technology, the M80B and 32UN880-B aren‘t ideal picks for fast-paced competitive gaming. However, here is how they compare for casual gaming usages based on extensive input lag testing:
Input Lag
- Samsung M80B input lag: 14ms
- LG 32UN880-B input lag: 10ms
Both input lag measurements are impressively low for 60Hz monitors without any gaming features. During Pixel Response Time testing, the 32UN880-B demonstrated a hair snappier latency of around 10ms compared to 14ms for the M80B.
Winner: LG 32UN880-B
Response Time
To gauge motion clarity, outlets like RTINGS use specialized tools to determine the optimal overdrive settings. Here are the best calibrated response times achieved:
- Samsung M80B response time: 16.7ms
- LG 32UN880-B response time: 14.9ms
Once again, while the Samsung monitor is plenty responsive for 60Hz gaming, LG‘s UltraFine model ultimately wins out by a couple milliseconds for optimal motion fluidity.
Winner: LG 32UN880-B
The 32UN880-B‘s faster response metrics give it an edge for keeping up with quick gameplay reactions. But both 4K models work well enough for more cinematic, graphics-focused single-player gaming. M80B owners can even directly launch titles from Samsung‘s smart app portal.
Connectivity for Compatibility
To function as intended, monitors require enough ports and inputs to connect your gaming consoles, laptops, and PCs. Here‘s how connectivity shakes out:
Ports
The Samsung M80B contains just two ports – a Mini HDMI input and USB-C port. This allows compatibility with most computers and mobile devices, but limits overall input versatility.
By comparison, the LG 32UN880-B is much better equipped to function as an external hub for multiple sources. You get two HDMI ports, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C with 60 watts charging support to power a notebook or tablet.
Winner: LG 32UN880-B
Wireless Connectivity
Since Samsung‘s display features the Tizen smart platform, you can stream content and cast screens wirelessly over WiFi and Bluetooth. It essentially provides full smart TV capabilities without any wires needed for set-top boxes or streaming sticks.
The LG monitor lacks integrated wireless functionality out of the box. You‘ll need to connect a WiFi adapter to enable wireless casting of iOS/Android screens from mobile devices.
Winner: Samsung M80B
Thanks to its built-in Tizen OS, the M80B offers the convenience of wireless streaming and casting. The LG monitor compensates with a full array of physical ports for connecting multiple devices simultaneously. Which approach fits your needs best?
Minimalist Design & Ergonomics
Both monitors share a minimal design aesthetic highlighted by slim bezels surrounding the display. Here is how they compare based on physical form factors and adjustments:
Stand & Frame
Each monitor has a circular base stand blending seamlessly with modern decor. While they offer tilt functionality up to 15° and -2°, neither provides adjustable height. You‘ll need to VESA mount them for more ergonomic flexibility.
With sleek profile dimensions up to 2.4 inches thin, both the M80B and 32UN880-B cut striking silhouettes on a workspace. Slim 0.2-inch bezels practically erase boundaries between the screen and walls for boundless immersion.
Winner: Tie
Cabinet Color & Finish
While both brands opt for high-gloss rear casings, the M80B utilizes a silvery white plastic compared to a matte black finish for the 32UN880-B. Which shade you prefer ultimately comes down to personal taste.
I do find the darker LG monitor melts away more easily into home theater setups. But Samsung‘s lighter finish can help reflect ambient room lighting to prevent excessive eye strain when working long hours.
Winner: Toss-up
Smart Platform vs. Monitor Focus
One clear upside the Samsung M80B holds over competitors lies with its Tizen operating system. Out of the box, you can instantly access built-in apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video for smart TV-like functionality.
Meanwhile, the LG 32UN880-B works best as an external monitor for laptops rather than a standalone entertainment display. Without any integrated smart features, you‘ll need to connect an Android/iOS mobile device or computer to access media apps and streaming content.
Just keep in mind – you can always plug in streaming sticks like the Fire TV Stick 4K or Chromecast to enable smart capabilities on standard monitors like the 32UN880-B. But the M80B‘s convenience may better suit users wanting responsive voice controls or quick access to apps.
Pricing Showdown
As flagship 4K models filled with premium technology, neither the M80B or 32UN880-B come cheap. However, street prices fluctuate noticeably between both displays:
| Monitor | Launch Price | Current Price |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung M80B | $699 | ~$550 |
| LG 32UN880-B | $999 | ~$650 |
The M80B launched around $300 cheaper than LG‘s equivalent display. And while the 32UN880-B has seen steeper price cuts in recent months, Samsung‘s model still sells for $100+ less at most retailers.
Considering their comparable performance in areas like responsiveness and color quality, the greater value lies with the more affordable M80B. But if you can find the LG UltraFine model on sale under $600, it becomes a very compelling option.
The Final Verdict: Which Monitor Wins?
So when all‘s said and done, should you choose the Samsung M80B or LG UltraFine 32UN880-B as your next 4K monitor?
For General Mixed Usage: Samsung M80B
If you plan on using this monitor for both work and entertainment purposes, I recommend going with Samsung‘s more versatile M80B display. Its Tizen platform provides smart streaming convenience perfect for unwinding with shows after projects. And while colors aren‘t as wide for creative tasks, everyday image quality remains stellar thanks to inky VA panel contrast.
Given you can save well over $100 compared to LG‘s option, while benefiting from integrated smarts, the M80B strikes an ideal balance for mixed home/office settings. Wireless casting from your phone is simply effortless as well compared to the UltraFine model.
For Color-Critical Work: LG 32UN880-B
On the other hand, professionals seeking a color-accurate monitor for editing, design, and content creation should choose the LG 32UN880-B instead. You‘ll benefit from remarkably vibrant and precise colors covering 95% of DCI-P3 for lifelike accuracy.
What‘s more, LG‘s IPS panel technology maintains that rich color fidelity from wider off-center angles as you share your screen during collaborations. And with a higher density of pixels per inch compared to the M80B, fine details in documents and media stay pin sharp.
So if producing your best creative work depends on color precision, splurging on the well-calibrated UltraFine monitor pays dividends.
Hopefully this guide has helped clarify similarities and differences between the Samsung M80B and LG UltraFine 32UN880-B displays. Let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m happy to offer personal monitor recommendations based on your intended usage models and setup.
