I appreciate your quick and to the point review; I just pulled the trigger at the current price of $1999. My main use will be to have both my work laptop and gaming desktop going at the same time. I have read some concerning comments regarding text blurriness, so I hope that's not too much of an issue.
Awesome, Loving the monitor myself. If you want windows has a built in system i used to fine tune my text. Just type in ClearType Text in the windows search in the bottom left, and it works almost like going to the optometrist. Itll show you different sets of text and you pick which one looks best, itll run you through about 10 sets. I do feel mine looks much better after using this, most notably the text on my desktop. Hope this helps.
"Sounds" like it still has a little ways to go (....I'll let myself out) but it's getting better and better. This is a very unique monitor that I hope Samsung continues to update. At least long enough for me to buy the thing. lol
Yeah its not quite there, I think sooner or later they`ll get it right. Id like to see a mix of the 57" G9 and the Ark. Id be ok with 2 split screens 240hz, with just a little more height
Yea it looks like they fixed the bigg issue with gen1 which was only 1 computer input at once. This one solves that problem well and its great for people use many pcs at once for work like me. Im sure the next edition will be even better. I have the neo g9 which is great but man this one looks great too.
Every menu can be accessed by both remotes. The slim remote needs to have the play/pause button held for loke 3 seconds to get the game menu up. Will not pop up if game mode is not enabled.
There are work arounds of course. Its just as a flagship product sold as in all in one entertainment behemoth, it just aint the greatest that you have to supply some extra audio devices yourself. For some it will never matter, but there are some use cases where this does suck though.
One Question I can't find an answer for. When the screen is in cockpit mode with a single source or when you use flex mode to shrink the screen size does the image still run at 120hz or does it drop to 60hz?
I'm afraid nothing at the moment. The Gen 3 is not confirmed its more so a speculation on my part. They may move to a whole new model but I think they will milk a third ten before changing everything up.
I'm using LG 42C4 atm, just put an order on the G97. Everything about the Arc is fine just the miniLED.. Im not sure if the color is too bad compare to oled panel
Thanks for the review. I have 2 PCs set up for gaming/streaming, can I play on 165hz while my streaming software is on a split screen with no issues or will it limit the fps?
I just got my gen 2 last week. When I switch to multi view flex mode. Ps5, youtube & clock. The screen dim making it hard to game. Is this normal? I can't find a way to adjust the brightness during multiview gaming.
Can you confirm the resolution and refresh rate when in pilot mode? Is it 2160x1440 @ 120hz? I'd like to be able to run the 3 screens between 2 systems.
Great review! Thank you! Looking at doing a split screen mostly with just two different inputs with the HDMI 2.1. Does the Ark Gen 2 get really hot? What resolutions and frame rate does it drop to with two connections playing if using split screen? Thanks!
It does put out some heat but nothing crazy it's just that its so big that it puts off a bit after a long session. If you are running multiview you will be capped at 120hz and it depends how many screens but I think it'll be 1080 resolution
Honestly I feel like Samsung knew what they were doing with the audio. I say that because I feel like they know that you will absolutely lose your mind listening to all 4 audio inputs at once. So I’m thinking they played it smart but that’s just me
i mean an "option" to mute or utilize any number of channels would be nice. Depending on your media consumption running all 4 full blast could be ugly as well.
I was going to buy gen 1, but it had way too many caveats. I was going to by gen 2, but it had too many caveats. Here's to gen 3 🤞🏽. In the meantime, I'll be getting the 57" Neo G9.
If the ark gen3 is made to be an OLED its going to be a no brainer for me, doesn't mater what it costs. The one thing holding me back from buying the ark years ago is the fact that both gen1 and gen2 use VA panels, probably the worst panel type for gaming
It's more like multiple screens with multiple devices, if I am understanding your question correctly. Elaborate if not and I'll see if I can provide a better answer
I am really disappointed that Gen 2 did not include: 1.) Display port 2.1 2.) it’s 165Hz and not 240Hz 3.) Performance is still 1ms and not .4ms Question: if HDMI 2.1 a or b is limited to 120Hz at 4K, how are we supposed to get this Gen 2 to perform to 165Hz @4K? Thanks!
Display Port 1.4. Its like HDMI but slightly different plug. DP is typically the optimal choice for PC users. You will more than likely need to use the Display Port from your card to the One connec to achieve 165hz @ 4k @@IG_WindischP
Ok I multiplied their length and breath so the 57 inch came to 883 and 55 inch ark came to 1287 I think It's Maybe larger. I am not sure how It's such a huge difference in area.
I believe the 57" is larger. It's wider than the usual 49" g9 and they also added 2" ontop and bottom of the monitor. I hope I shed a little light on your question.
I use the secret lab desk with a Harmon miller embody....at 6 feet I'm about dead center with it. The desk is adjustable and goes low enough while still comfortable For my wrists
@@Manchild_Gaming I tried VA panels with several ARPGs. It was basically impossible to read item names on the ground while moving around. That’s why I am a bit wary about VA panels.
I am getting an Ark this Friday. I am hoping if I set the PC to 3840x1080 it will let me have that display across the bottom while having other inputs on top. I however also feel it wont due to Samsung's lack of effort when it has come to features controls and usability. I will find out Friday which it is unless I find a post of someone attempting to do the same thing I am wanting to do.
It won't be 4k plus 2 other inputs it'll still be 4k total cause it only has so many pixels. It'll be 1440 +1080+1080 if I'm understanding the configuration you want correctly
I personally suspect its a bandwidth issue which is why its not a software fix but a hardware upgrade is needed. But its still a mark against Samsung since you should be able to basically use the screen as 4 separate monitors with no issues. And why Samsung is their still two controllers for one monitor thats insane literally put a few more buttons on the remote and get rid of the dial. Plus is still only 165. You mentioned a 3rd generation do you have any information on that as this is a monitor i would like to get but sounds like their is still some issues.
All speculation at third point on gen 3. But if there's money to be made I'm sure they'll do it. I will update if the audio setup.ever gets fixed via firm/software updates
I've heard that Samsung are actively blocking anyone with the Gen 1 Ark from upgrading to the Gen 2 One Connect Box to enable multiple inputs. If this is true then they are beyond reprehensible! The monitors themselves are identical, it's only the One Connect Box that's changed really and I bet it's just a software upgrade. If it wasn't for us all purchasing the Gen 1 Ark then they wouldn't be selling the Gen 2's!!! Have you heard anything similar about any of this?
I cannot confirm they are blocking anyone, but I do think gen 1 was a blunder, and they shoulda just upgraded gen 1 users to where gen 2 users are now for free.
@@Manchild_Gaming Yeah I heard they are making the Gen2 Connect box incompatible with the Gen1 monitor! Which if true, completely sucks. If the Gen2 Box allows 4 HDMI inputs then at least give us Gen1 users the option of upgrading to the Gen2 Box, at a reduced price of course for the hassle! haha
@@Manchild_Gaming Which Samsung have done on purpose. They could have easily made them so they were compatible with the Gen 1 Monitor because it's exactly the same, they've only updated the Connect Box, that's it, there's no update to the actual Monitor. For me, it shows Samsung do not care one bit about their customers and I for one will not purchase anything ever again from Samsung if they don't sort it out. About 20 years ago TomTom screwed me over with a Satnav. I've spent that 20 years telling anyone and everyone on many forums etc my story and why they shouldn't buy TomTom SatNav's. I reckon I have put off hundreds of potential buyers of TomTom products and must have cost them thousands. I still continue to do so until this very day and will continue forever and I'll do the same with Samsung if they don't sort it.
I don't understand why you have an issue with having one audio source at a time. Are you trying to tell me you can listen to two audio sources simultaneously? What is the real-world scenario? Watch two movies at the same time? Would you really listen to two audio sources effectively at the same time especially as a man?🤔
Best Case example is i am listening to my video game waiting for a que to pop, meanwhile im playing streetfighter on my playstation, but you never heard the que pop, and you waited 26 minutes to get into that dungeon.
Whew I mean....I literally complained to them about my screen blacking out randomly for over 6 months straight. I have no idea how they decide this stuff internally but I just kept asking for the managers manager. It's worth a shot
@@Darkknight39 Yeah if its under warranty keep pushing repair tickets, eventually they just gave me a samsung credit, and the Gen 2 was like $700 bucks cheaper, so i ended up with a Galaxy watch and a 2TB portable storage at the same time. But if its out of warranty range im not sure there is much you can do.
@@Manchild_Gaming I was going to say please tell me what I could upgrade to. It is the 7,900 XTX but realistically it can't run the games at that frame rate anyways. I ended up getting the neo G9 dual 4K. I have not picked it up yet but mostly for video production and the GPU market is super confusing.
@@Manchild_Gaming all the tech reviewers are raving about qd OLED. I'm scared of burn in. It's going to be tough to find a suitable upgrade for that arc. I really wanted to spend the extra $100 and get it but it seemed like I'd be losing
I'm not a fan of oled for the same reasons sometimes I leave my computer on for hours idle in a game or just don't wanna deal with turning it off and on all the time.
DO NOT BUY THIS FOR GAMING! You can run only at 60Hz because HDMI to the Samsung One box supports only 60hz. It is a fucking scam. I bought this monitor and am so disappointed
I haven't tested mac myself but I hear it works but with some limitations ie 60hz refresh, lowered aspect ratio etc. Also take note that if you run playstation or anything in multiview it'll be reduced so it won't be 4k but probably 1080p or possibly 1440p depending how you split it
@OreosDad1985 I've never used the 57". It does look like a sweet monitor but so few video cards can utilize the 2.1 DP at this time. If you aren't planning on upgrading your system anytime soon I'd say go ark. And if you are gonna upgrade with the next generation of video cards, the 57" may be better for you. But that's just personal opinion. Proceed with caution
Very good thorough straight to the point review. Mine arrives tomorrow.
Thanks and awesome. Let me know how it works out for you!
I appreciate your quick and to the point review; I just pulled the trigger at the current price of $1999. My main use will be to have both my work laptop and gaming desktop going at the same time. I have read some concerning comments regarding text blurriness, so I hope that's not too much of an issue.
Awesome, Loving the monitor myself. If you want windows has a built in system i used to fine tune my text. Just type in ClearType Text in the windows search in the bottom left, and it works almost like going to the optometrist. Itll show you different sets of text and you pick which one looks best, itll run you through about 10 sets. I do feel mine looks much better after using this, most notably the text on my desktop. Hope this helps.
@@Manchild_Gaming oh wow, didn’t even know about that option; thanks for the advice!
"Sounds" like it still has a little ways to go (....I'll let myself out) but it's getting better and better. This is a very unique monitor that I hope Samsung continues to update. At least long enough for me to buy the thing. lol
Yeah its not quite there, I think sooner or later they`ll get it right. Id like to see a mix of the 57" G9 and the Ark. Id be ok with 2 split screens 240hz, with just a little more height
Yea it looks like they fixed the bigg issue with gen1 which was only 1 computer input at once. This one solves that problem well and its great for people use many pcs at once for work like me. Im sure the next edition will be even better. I have the neo g9 which is great but man this one looks great too.
Every menu can be accessed by both remotes. The slim remote needs to have the play/pause button held for loke 3 seconds to get the game menu up. Will not pop up if game mode is not enabled.
Can you shrink and expand the screen without the dial?
@Manchild_Gaming yes you can but you need to be on the multiview window that you want to make the change to.
The audio issue really isn't a big problem. Likely there are other ways you can send the audio to other outputs.
There are work arounds of course. Its just as a flagship product sold as in all in one entertainment behemoth, it just aint the greatest that you have to supply some extra audio devices yourself.
For some it will never matter, but there are some use cases where this does suck though.
One Question I can't find an answer for. When the screen is in cockpit mode with a single source or when you use flex mode to shrink the screen size does the image still run at 120hz or does it drop to 60hz?
Thank you for the review, do you have any news or links about the Gen 3 model being released?
I'm afraid nothing at the moment. The Gen 3 is not confirmed its more so a speculation on my part. They may move to a whole new model but I think they will milk a third ten before changing everything up.
great review. thank you
Glad you liked it. Thanks for the kind words
I'm using LG 42C4 atm, just put an order on the G97. Everything about the Arc is fine just the miniLED.. Im not sure if the color is too bad compare to oled panel
For me I don't care much for ultra-wides, I don't have the space...
But the ultra-HEIGHT really sells me 🤩
Just make sure you got a head rest
Thanks for the review. I have 2 PCs set up for gaming/streaming, can I play on 165hz while my streaming software is on a split screen with no issues or will it limit the fps?
I believe anytime you go into multiview it will cap you @120hz, gaming mode is not usable in multiview, and you need gaming mode on to achieve 165hz
Am i right the new one gen2 is capable of replacing 4 monitors at once? From one pc because the 1st. gen couldn't.
Well....sorta the real problem is it's 4k so if you divide 4k by 4 it'll be 1080p each. Just something to consider.
I just got my gen 2 last week. When I switch to multi view flex mode. Ps5, youtube & clock. The screen dim making it hard to game. Is this normal? I can't find a way to adjust the brightness during multiview gaming.
I don't have that issue but what it could be is your HDR. Might wanna check those settings as HDR won't apply to those other inputs.
Can you confirm the resolution and refresh rate when in pilot mode? Is it 2160x1440 @ 120hz? I'd like to be able to run the 3 screens between 2 systems.
As i Understand its actually 1280p. Taking 3840/3 = 1280p
Which isnt the worst but depending on your needs, it could be good or bad
I doubt the audio thing is as easy as you think, but good review nonetheless
I'm sure it has its difficulties. This is also the most expensive monitor on the market (or at least was). And thank you
Great review! Thank you!
Looking at doing a split screen mostly with just two different inputs with the HDMI 2.1.
Does the Ark Gen 2 get really hot?
What resolutions and frame rate does it drop to with two connections playing if using split screen?
Thanks!
It does put out some heat but nothing crazy it's just that its so big that it puts off a bit after a long session. If you are running multiview you will be capped at 120hz and it depends how many screens but I think it'll be 1080 resolution
Honestly I feel like Samsung knew what they were doing with the audio. I say that because I feel like they know that you will absolutely lose your mind listening to all 4 audio inputs at once. So I’m thinking they played it smart but that’s just me
i mean an "option" to mute or utilize any number of channels would be nice. Depending on your media consumption running all 4 full blast could be ugly as well.
@@Manchild_Gaming yea agreed
I can see why the sound limitation is an issue for you. If I had that cool spinny zero-G headphone stand, I wouldn’t wear my headphones either!
Haha yeah it dont help, in all honesty I only use the stand when im going to not be using my computer at all.
I was going to buy gen 1, but it had way too many caveats.
I was going to by gen 2, but it had too many caveats.
Here's to gen 3 🤞🏽.
In the meantime, I'll be getting the 57" Neo G9.
If the ark gen3 is made to be an OLED its going to be a no brainer for me, doesn't mater what it costs. The one thing holding me back from buying the ark years ago is the fact that both gen1 and gen2 use VA panels, probably the worst panel type for gaming
So are you able to use it as if it is multiple screens on a single device?
It's more like multiple screens with multiple devices, if I am understanding your question correctly. Elaborate if not and I'll see if I can provide a better answer
I am really disappointed that Gen 2 did not include:
1.) Display port 2.1
2.) it’s 165Hz and not 240Hz
3.) Performance is still 1ms and not .4ms
Question: if HDMI 2.1 a or b is limited to 120Hz at 4K, how are we supposed to get this Gen 2 to perform to 165Hz @4K? Thanks!
Gen 2 has a DP 1.4. For PC DP 1.4 runs 165hz @4k with no issue so far, where as Gen 1 HDMI 2.1 did fail. Hope that answers it.
What is DP 1.4? I have the Gen 2 ARK, and a RTX 3060 Laptop, still cant seen to get 165hz on the ARK even with an USB-C Adapter
Display Port 1.4. Its like HDMI but slightly different plug. DP is typically the optimal choice for PC users. You will more than likely need to use the Display Port from your card to the One connec to achieve 165hz @ 4k @@IG_WindischP
My question is it larger comparatively to the 57 inch. Or they both are the same size with different aspect ratios 2 inches apart?
Ok I multiplied their length and breath so the 57 inch came to 883 and 55 inch ark came to 1287
I think It's Maybe larger. I am not sure how It's such a huge difference in area.
I believe the 57" is larger. It's wider than the usual 49" g9 and they also added 2" ontop and bottom of the monitor. I hope I shed a little light on your question.
I just wish it could slide lower on the horizontal position, its too high and give me neck pain..
I use the secret lab desk with a Harmon miller embody....at 6 feet I'm about dead center with it. The desk is adjustable and goes low enough while still comfortable For my wrists
Since it's a VA panel, how is the ghosting?
I don't see any issues with it. Text had to be touched up but everything looks good
@@Manchild_Gaming I tried VA panels with several ARPGs. It was basically impossible to read item names on the ground while moving around. That’s why I am a bit wary about VA panels.
@@Azrael-xl3jl I play FFXIV all the time I dont really notice any problems at all.
@@Manchild_Gaming Cool, might consider it then, thanks!
What is the head phones holder?
It's in the description it's actually a shoe holder but works just as well for headphones
@@Manchild_Gaming Thank you
@@cpluse2 very welcome
I am getting an Ark this Friday. I am hoping if I set the PC to 3840x1080 it will let me have that display across the bottom while having other inputs on top. I however also feel it wont due to Samsung's lack of effort when it has come to features controls and usability. I will find out Friday which it is unless I find a post of someone attempting to do the same thing I am wanting to do.
It won't be 4k plus 2 other inputs it'll still be 4k total cause it only has so many pixels. It'll be 1440 +1080+1080 if I'm understanding the configuration you want correctly
What is the name of the headphone stand?
Floating Shoe Display Magnetic Levitation - amzn.to/3SguJc6
I personally suspect its a bandwidth issue which is why its not a software fix but a hardware upgrade is needed. But its still a mark against Samsung since you should be able to basically use the screen as 4 separate monitors with no issues. And why Samsung is their still two controllers for one monitor thats insane literally put a few more buttons on the remote and get rid of the dial. Plus is still only 165. You mentioned a 3rd generation do you have any information on that as this is a monitor i would like to get but sounds like their is still some issues.
All speculation at third point on gen 3. But if there's money to be made I'm sure they'll do it. I will update if the audio setup.ever gets fixed via firm/software updates
Is there actually a leak or release date for a gen 3?
Nothing yet
I've heard that Samsung are actively blocking anyone with the Gen 1 Ark from upgrading to the Gen 2 One Connect Box to enable multiple inputs. If this is true then they are beyond reprehensible!
The monitors themselves are identical, it's only the One Connect Box that's changed really and I bet it's just a software upgrade. If it wasn't for us all purchasing the Gen 1 Ark then they wouldn't be selling the Gen 2's!!!
Have you heard anything similar about any of this?
I cannot confirm they are blocking anyone, but I do think gen 1 was a blunder, and they shoulda just upgraded gen 1 users to where gen 2 users are now for free.
@@Manchild_Gaming Yeah I heard they are making the Gen2 Connect box incompatible with the Gen1 monitor! Which if true, completely sucks. If the Gen2 Box allows 4 HDMI inputs then at least give us Gen1 users the option of upgrading to the Gen2 Box, at a reduced price of course for the hassle! haha
That is true. Gen 1 monitors do no work with gen 2 one connect boxes
@@Manchild_Gaming Which Samsung have done on purpose. They could have easily made them so they were compatible with the Gen 1 Monitor because it's exactly the same, they've only updated the Connect Box, that's it, there's no update to the actual Monitor.
For me, it shows Samsung do not care one bit about their customers and I for one will not purchase anything ever again from Samsung if they don't sort it out.
About 20 years ago TomTom screwed me over with a Satnav. I've spent that 20 years telling anyone and everyone on many forums etc my story and why they shouldn't buy TomTom SatNav's. I reckon I have put off hundreds of potential buyers of TomTom products and must have cost them thousands. I still continue to do so until this very day and will continue forever and I'll do the same with Samsung if they don't sort it.
I also feel like samsung did people wrong. I had somewhat of a lemon gen 1 and was able to return it got store credit to samsung
I don't understand why you have an issue with having one audio source at a time. Are you trying to tell me you can listen to two audio sources simultaneously? What is the real-world scenario? Watch two movies at the same time? Would you really listen to two audio sources effectively at the same time especially as a man?🤔
Best Case example is i am listening to my video game waiting for a que to pop, meanwhile im playing streetfighter on my playstation, but you never heard the que pop, and you waited 26 minutes to get into that dungeon.
Samsung is still before the invention of the CROSSFADER OVER ALL SOUND SOURCES…
Gsync flicker??
Since using DP 1.4 instead of HDMI 2.1 I dont have flicker, if thats what you are asking.
i paid 4k for mine can i update mine?
Whew I mean....I literally complained to them about my screen blacking out randomly for over 6 months straight. I have no idea how they decide this stuff internally but I just kept asking for the managers manager. It's worth a shot
@@Manchild_Gaming mine does the same thing
@@Darkknight39 Yeah if its under warranty keep pushing repair tickets, eventually they just gave me a samsung credit, and the Gen 2 was like $700 bucks cheaper, so i ended up with a Galaxy watch and a 2TB portable storage at the same time. But if its out of warranty range im not sure there is much you can do.
@@Manchild_Gaming just left micro center it’s under warranty! lessgo!!
@@Darkknight39 Best of luck! Never Surrender!
I will only buy this if they do 240 hertz
240 would be nice. It's hard to push 240hz 4k max settings on a 4090.at this point though. Displays are ahead of cards
Did you just say I only have a 4090 lol?
Well it's the best sorta. It doesn't support dp 2.1 while the 9800xtx I think it's called, does. But yeah I shouldn't say only 😂
@@Manchild_Gaming I was going to say please tell me what I could upgrade to. It is the 7,900 XTX but realistically it can't run the games at that frame rate anyways. I ended up getting the neo G9 dual 4K. I have not picked it up yet but mostly for video production and the GPU market is super confusing.
Very nice monitor! When I upgrade someday I may go for something like that hopefully a few generations down the road.
@@Manchild_Gaming all the tech reviewers are raving about qd OLED. I'm scared of burn in. It's going to be tough to find a suitable upgrade for that arc. I really wanted to spend the extra $100 and get it but it seemed like I'd be losing
I'm not a fan of oled for the same reasons sometimes I leave my computer on for hours idle in a game or just don't wanna deal with turning it off and on all the time.
DO NOT BUY THIS FOR GAMING! You can run only at 60Hz because HDMI to the Samsung One box supports only 60hz. It is a fucking scam. I bought this monitor and am so disappointed
Run display port......running 165hz right now....
Also even with hdmi you should be able to run 120 with hdmi at least. Make sure you are running in "game mode"
Can u play PS5 and work on an Mac at the same time? Is it compatible with Mac? Looking forward for a reply bro 😎🫡
I haven't tested mac myself but I hear it works but with some limitations ie 60hz refresh, lowered aspect ratio etc. Also take note that if you run playstation or anything in multiview it'll be reduced so it won't be 4k but probably 1080p or possibly 1440p depending how you split it
@@Manchild_Gaming but in single mode screen it will be shown in the highest resolution?
@OreosDad1985 yes of course. Mac still has the refresh and aspect ratio issues but ps5 will be shown at max
@@Manchild_GamingFor Productivity and light gaming would you recommend me the Ark55 Gen2 or the 57 Odyssey?
@OreosDad1985 I've never used the 57". It does look like a sweet monitor but so few video cards can utilize the 2.1 DP at this time. If you aren't planning on upgrading your system anytime soon I'd say go ark. And if you are gonna upgrade with the next generation of video cards, the 57" may be better for you. But that's just personal opinion. Proceed with caution