Refine search for Displays

Samsung Pebble SyncMaster 2232BW

Author	Ardjuna Seghers
Published	28th Apr 2008
Manufacturer	Samsung
Price	£182.42 (Exc VAT)
as reviewed	£214.34 (Inc VAT)
Latest Price	Click here

Design & Features
Image Quality
Value
Overall

Discuss this article

Email this to a friend

TrustedReviews Newsletters

Samsung has been employing MagicColor in its screens for a while now. In movies and games especially, it really does make a lot of difference, adding vibrancy and depth to colours and in some cases actually having a greater perceived effect on contrast than the Dynamic backlighting. Only if your movie material is predominantly dark with few bright colours, like for example Donnie Darko, is it better left off.

It's essentially the software equivalent of glossy coating: a gimmick that actually works. Unlike coating though, it can be turned on or off at will. In addition, Samsung is one of a growing number of manufacturers that offers split-screen adjustments, allowing you to see the effects of MagicColor as you apply it.

However, all the processing in the world isn't going to solve a few basic problems that afflict the 2232BW. Despite its 3000:1 claimed contrast ratio, blacks aren't the deepest, and you lose some detail in dark areas no matter how you configure it. White-differentiation isn't the best either, and despite offering better viewing angles and less backlight bleed than many others in its class, there's a slight red cast to blacks that is difficult to compensate for.

Don't get me wrong, the Pebble SyncMaster 2232BW doesn't offer bad image quality by any means. As a matter of fact, for a TN panel it's above average - but for the money, it simply isn't good enough. Never mind the Pebble's minimal inputs, complete lack of physical adjustability, or even a cable-tidy system; the truth is you can get similarly-specified brand-name screens for two thirds of the price. Or for the same amount, the 22in HP w2207 offers far superior adjustability, more connections, and better image quality.

Verdict

Samsung's SyncMaster 2232BW Pebble draws you in with its great looks and smooth curves, but from the moment you assemble it to the instant you install it on your desk, you realise it's a case of style over substance. It still manages to entice with its picture quality, but for the money there are better alternatives out there. If you are willing to sacrifice two inches, you can even get LG's DisplayLink-enabled Flatron L206WU for your money, which apart from the design is superior in every respect.