Samsung has launched the second-generation Odyssey Ark (G97NC) gaming monitor in the US. This new model costs $3,000, similar to the first-generation Odyssey Ark, and brings small but meaningful upgrades that some consumers demanded. First and foremost, the new gaming monitor removes one HDMI 2.1 port and replaces it with a DisplayPort. Moreover, it brings enhanced Multi-View connectivity that can display video feeds from four source inputs simultaneously.
The second-generation Odyssey Ark monitor is already available in the US from Samsung's own website.
2nd Gen Odyssey Ark gaming monitor features
The new Odyssey Ark (G97NC) is a 55-inch curved gaming monitor with a VA Mini-LED panel, 4K resolution, a 165Hz variable refresh rate, matte finish, and a 1000R curvature. It also features AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for tear-free gaming and HDR10+ certification for a wider dynamic range with compatible media and gaming titles. It reaches up to 600 nits peak brightness and has full-array local dimming. It also supports Dolby Atmos and a six-speaker 60W audio setup with four corner tweeters and two woofers. It also has a built-in KVM switch, letting you switch between multiple keyboard and mouse, depending on the source you're using.
While the previous model let you have four video streams, it only allowed one video stream from its HDMI inputs (two HDMI 2.1 and one HDMI 2.0), and other video streams needed to be apps. However, the new model allows you to watch four video streams from its four video input sources simultaneously. So, it will be possible to play PS5 games on the first quarter of the screen, watch a football match in the second quarter, and have your PC and laptop screens on the two remaining quarters.
The Cockpit Mode lets you rotate the screen and use it vertically. This is where you can show up to three screens simultaneously. It comes with an Ark Dial that lets you control the monitor. It runs Tizen and comes with all the bells and whistles that modern smart TVs have, including all the popular audio and video streaming apps, Samsung TV Plus, Samsung Health, SmartThings Hub, and Samsung Gaming Hub. Other gaming features include the Game Bar, Game Mode, Super Ultrawide GameView, and Virtual Aim Point.
Connectivity features of the second-generation Odyssey Ark include Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, two HDMI 2.1 ports, one HDMI 2.0 port, one DisplayPort 1.4, two USB 2.0 ports, 1 USB 2.0 upstream port, one Ethernet port, and one 3.5mm headphone jack. It also features Smart View, AirPlay 2, and Tap View.
