In the world of standalone monitors, Apple’s Studio Display and Samsung’s View Finity S9 5K are making waves. Both 27-inch monitors come with impressive specifications and features, but they have distinct differences that could influence your buying decision. In this detailed comparison, we’ll highlight 20 key differences to help you make an informed choice.
Table Comparison:
| Feature | Apple Studio Display | Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,599-$2,299 | $1,599 |
| Size | 27-inch | 27-inch |
| Resolution | 5120 x 2880 (5K) | 5120 x 2880 (5K) |
| Panel | LCD with IPS | LCD with IPS |
| Color range | P3 | P3 |
| Peak brightness | 600 nits | 600 nits |
| Aspect ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| PPI | 218 | 218 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Webcam | 12MP ultra-wide | 4K |
| Audio | 6-speaker system | 2-speaker system |
| Microphone | 3-mic array | Far-field mic |
| Display finish | Anti-reflective with optional nano-texture | Anti-glare with matte finish |
| Stand | Tilt, optional height+tilt stand +$400 | Tilt, height, and pivot |
| Weight | 13.9 pounds or 16.9 pounds with optional stand | 16.3 pounds |
| Display Technology | True Tone | Intelligent Eye Care |
| Stand Material | Aluminum | Aluminum (stand) and plastic (back panel) |
| Connectivity | Thunderbolt 3 and 3 USB-C ports | Thunderbolt 4 and unspecified USB-C ports |
| Power Delivery | 96W | 90W |
| Special Features | A13 processor for Apple-specific features | Smart Hub TV features |
1. Price:
- Apple Studio Display offers a price range from $1,599 to $2,299, with additional features.
- Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K comes at a fixed price of $1,599.
2. Size:
- Both monitors feature a 27-inch screen, ideal for work and entertainment.
3. Resolution:
- Both monitors offer a stunning 5K resolution of 5120 x 2880 pixels.
4. Panel:
- They both use LCD with IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology, ensuring vibrant colors and wide viewing angles.
5. Color Range:
- Both monitors support the P3 color range, ensuring accurate and rich colors for content creation.
6. Peak Brightness:
- Both monitors share a peak brightness of 600 nits, perfect for HDR content.
7. Aspect Ratio:
- With a 16:9 aspect ratio, they are versatile for various tasks, from video editing to gaming.
8. PPI (Pixels Per Inch):
- Both monitors have a pixel density of 218 PPI, ensuring sharp text and images.
9. Refresh Rate:
- They both feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate, suitable for most tasks but not optimized for gaming.
10. Webcam:
The Apple Studio Display boasts a 12MP ultra-wide webcam, while the Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K features a 4K webcam.
11. Audio
Apple’s monitor excels with a 6-speaker system, compared to Samsung’s 2-speaker setup.
12. Microphone:
The Apple Studio Display features a 3-mic array, while Samsung’s display offers a far-field microphone.
13. Display Finish:
Apple offers an anti-reflective screen with an optional nano-texture glass, while Samsung uses an anti-glare matte finish.
14. Stand:
Samsung’s monitor includes a stand with tilt, height, and pivot adjustments, while Apple’s stand with similar features costs an additional $400.
15. Weight:
The Apple Studio Display is lighter, weighing 13.9 pounds, while the Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K weighs 16.3 pounds.
16. Display Technology:
The Studio Display features True Tone, while the ViewFinity S9 5K has Intelligent Eye Care to reduce blue light.
17. Stand Material:
The Apple Studio Display’s stand and back panel are made of aluminum, whereas the Samsung’s back panel is plastic.
18. Connectivity:
Apple’s monitor features Thunderbolt 3 and three USB-C ports, while Samsung’s has Thunderbolt 4 and unspecified USB-C ports.
19. Power Delivery:
The Studio Display provides 96W of power delivery, whereas the ViewFinity S9 5K offers 90W.
20. Special Features:
The Apple Studio Display is equipped with an A13 processor for Apple-specific features like Center Stage, Spatial Audio, “Hey Siri,” and reference modes. Samsung’s monitor offers Smart Hub TV features.
Apple Studio Display is the Best Choice for:
- Apple Ecosystem Enthusiasts: If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem, with an Apple computer and other Apple devices, the Studio Display is designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing setup. It’s optimized for Apple-specific features like Center Stage, Spatial Audio, “Hey Siri,” and various reference modes.
- Content Creators: The Studio Display’s True Tone technology and anti-reflective screen, along with its superior webcam, microphone array, and six-speaker system, make it an excellent choice for content creators who demand high-quality visuals and audio.
- Users Who Prefer Premium Build Quality: Apple’s design and build quality are well-known, and the Studio Display is no exception. It boasts an aluminum build throughout, including the stand, providing a premium and durable feel.
- Those Willing to Invest More: If you’re willing to spend more for enhanced features like nano-texture glass or the optional stand with height and tilt adjustments, the Studio Display offers these premium options.
Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K is the Best Choice for:
- Versatile Workstation Setup: If you need a monitor with a versatile stand that includes tilt, height, and pivot adjustments, the Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K comes with these features without additional costs. It’s ideal for users who require precise positioning of their monitor.
- Value-Conscious Buyers: The ViewFinity S9 5K offers similar core specifications as the Studio Display but at a lower price point. If you’re looking for excellent value for your investment, this monitor is a strong choice.
- PC Users and Non-Apple Devices: While it’s compatible with Apple computers, the Samsung monitor is not limited to the Apple ecosystem. It can be a great choice for PC users or those who use a variety of devices.
- Users Who Need Additional Ports: If you require additional ports, the ViewFinity S9 5K features a Thunderbolt 4 port, USB-C ports, and a mini DisplayPort, making it a more versatile option for connecting various devices.
In summary, the choice between the Apple Studio Display and Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Studio Display is tailored for Apple users and content creators, while the ViewFinity S9 5K offers versatility, a competitive price point, and compatibility with a range of devices.
