Sony introduces two latest InZone monitors, one priced at $1,100 for professional gaming display
The gaming world is abuzz with the arrival of Sony's new InZone M10S and M9 II monitors, showcasing significant improvements in panel technology, refresh rates, resolution, and HDR capabilities compared to previous models and other high-end gaming displays.
### Key Features and Improvements
#### Sony InZone M10S
The M10S boasts a 27-inch W-OLED panel with a resolution of 2560x1440, an ultra-high 480Hz refresh rate catering to extremely fast and competitive gaming, a response time of 0.03ms GtG, representing near-instant pixel transition typical of OLED technology, and certification for DisplayHDR 400 True Black, which enhances contrast and black levels beyond typical HDR400 screens. Additionally, it supports FreeSync Premium for smoother gameplay without tearing and features a matte anti-glare coating to reduce reflections during intense gaming.
#### Sony InZone M9 II
The M9 II offers a 27-inch 4K UHD (3840x2160) IPS panel, a significantly higher refresh rate of 160Hz compared to standard 60Hz or 120Hz UHD panels, HDR-600 and HLG support providing better luminance and color performance, FreeSync Premium for variable refresh rate support, and a more affordable suggested retail price of $799.99, $100 cheaper than the original M9's $899 launch price.
### Comparison to Previous Models and Other High-End Gaming Displays
| Feature | Sony InZone M10S | Sony InZone M9 II | High-End Comparison (e.g., LG 27GX790A, Samsung Odyssey G9) | |-------------------------|------------------------------|------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------| | **Panel Type** | W-OLED | IPS | WOLED (LG 27GX790A), VA (Samsung G9) | | **Resolution** | 2560x1440 | 3840x2160 (4K UHD) | 2560x1440 (LG 27GX790A), 5120x1440 (Samsung G9 ultra-wide) | | **Refresh Rate** | 480Hz | 160Hz | Up to 480Hz for LG, 240Hz for Samsung G9 | | **Response Time** | ~0.03ms GtG | Typically 1ms IPS | 0.03ms GtG OLED (LG), 1ms GtG VA (Samsung G9) | | **HDR Certification** | DisplayHDR 400 True Black | HDR-600, HLG | DisplayHDR 400 True Black (LG), DisplayHDR 1000 (Samsung G9) | | **Adaptive Sync** | FreeSync Premium | FreeSync Premium | AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible | | **Brightness (Peak)** | ~275 nits (SDR typical) | Higher (~600 nits typical HDR) | LG up to 1300 nits in low APL; Samsung 1000 nits HDR |
The M10S stands out with an extremely high 480Hz refresh rate OLED panel, ideal for esports and ultra-fast competitive gaming, while delivering the superior contrast and response times inherent in OLED technology. This is an improvement over many prior Sony and competitor models that rarely combine such a high refresh rate with OLED.
The M9 II moves towards 4K IPS with a still very competitive 160Hz refresh, offering detailed visuals and solid HDR (HDR-600), broadening the appeal for gamers who want both resolution and speed.
Compared to the LG 27GX790A, which also has a 480Hz 1440p OLED, the InZone M10S is on par in terms of refresh and response but may differ in specific HDR peak brightness and software calibration options.
Compared to the Samsung Odyssey G9 ultra-wide, which targets immersive, large-format experiences with a VA panel and 240Hz refresh, the Sony monitors focus more on pixel response speed and color fidelity (especially the OLED M10S) with more standard form factors.
### Summary
Both Sony InZone monitors reflect a clear focus on ultra-fast, high-quality gaming experiences:
- **M10S:** For esports and fast-paced gaming with OLED clarity and 480Hz speed. - **M9 II:** For gamers seeking 4K detail and solid HDR at very high 160Hz refresh.
These represent significant improvements over earlier generation Sony monitors and hold their own against leading high-end gaming displays, especially in combining refresh rate, resolution, and panel technology tailored for different gaming needs.
The Sony InZone M10S is VESA Certified DisplayHDR 600, and the suggested retail price for the M10S is $1,099.99. The M10S is meant for competitive PC gamers, while the M9 II is more for those who prioritize image quality and immersion while gaming.
Sony has partnered with Electronic Arts to provide the M10S for the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) Year 4 Championships in Japan. The M10S also features two new picture modes co-developed with the Fnatic Valorant team, covers 98.5% of DCI-P3 for near-perfect color accuracy, and is compatible with both Nvidia G-Sync and DisplayPort 2.1. The expected arrival of the PS5 Pro in November could make both the M10S and M9 II compatible with it.
Smartphone users looking for technology integration might appreciate the compatibility of both Sony InZone monitors with Smartphones, with a USB-C operating system, and smart home devices through Bluetooth capabilities. Meanwhile, gadget enthusiasts can pair their wearables with the monitors, allowing them to stay connected and focused during their gaming sessions.
