Smart monitors — monitors that work as standalone streaming devices — have gotten genuinely good. The Samsung M8 has a built-in webcam, Tizen with the same Netflix/Disney+ apps as Samsung TVs, and Dex wireless mode. The LG MyView runs webOS and brings LG's TV ecosystem to a monitor. Both are 4K 32" panels positioned as living room or bedroom screens that double as monitors.
Samsung Smart Monitor M8 32"
The Samsung Smart Monitor M8 is the better device for most buyers. The built-in webcam, better Smart Hub app selection, and Samsung Dex wireless make it more versatile. The LG MyView wins if you're already in the LG ThinQ ecosystem and prefer webOS.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Samsung Smart Monitor M8 32" | LG MyView 4K 32SR85U-W |
|---|---|---|
| Smart OS | Samsung Tizen | LG webOS |
| Built-in Camera | Yes (2MP SlimFit) | No |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
| Brightness | 400 nits | 400 nits |
| DeX Wireless | Yes (Samsung Galaxy) | No |
| Price | ~$700 | ~$600 |
Smart TV Features
Samsung's Tizen platform has the broadest app selection of any monitor-based smart OS — Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV, Prime Video, YouTube, and gaming platforms all work. The 2MP SlimFit Camera (included) handles video calls and gesture controls.
LG's webOS on the MyView also supports major streaming apps, but the selection is slightly narrower and some apps have less frequent updates than on LG's TV lineup. It's good but not quite at the Samsung M8 level for app breadth.
PC Monitor Performance
As a PC monitor, the Samsung M8's 4K IPS panel is adequate — 400 nits typical brightness, color accuracy around 98% sRGB. It's not a color-critical panel, but it's fine for general productivity.
The LG MyView performs similarly as a monitor. Neither is optimized for professional color work or high refresh rate gaming — both are primarily media consumption and general productivity screens.
Samsung DeX Wireless
The M8 supports Samsung DeX wirelessly from a compatible Samsung phone. Mirror your Galaxy phone or tablet and use the M8 as a desktop display. This is a genuinely useful feature for Samsung mobile users.
LG has a similar feature for LG phones, but with LG's exit from the phone market, this is less useful than it sounds.
Design and Placement
The Samsung M8 is available in multiple colors — white, black, and warm gold — which makes it more living-room friendly than a typical black monitor. The slim profile and minimal stand look deliberate in a home environment.
The LG MyView has a cleaner, more minimal design in white. Both are designed to look at home in a bedroom or living room rather than on a gaming desk. If this monitor is going to be visible in your living space, either is significantly nicer than a typical PC monitor.
Samsung Smart Monitor M8 32" Strengths
- Built-in 2MP webcam (SlimFit Camera)
- Tizen with broad streaming app selection
- Samsung DeX wireless for Galaxy devices
- Multiple connectivity options including USB-C
LG MyView 4K 32SR85U-W Strengths
- webOS is clean and user-friendly
- Available in white — better for bedroom/living room aesthetics
- LG ThinQ integration
- Slightly lower price
Samsung Smart Monitor M8 32" Weaknesses
- 400 nits typical brightness — dim for bright rooms
- 60 Hz only — not for gaming
- Standard IPS contrast
LG MyView 4K 32SR85U-W Weaknesses
- Slightly narrower app ecosystem than Samsung Tizen
- No built-in webcam
- 60 Hz only
Best For
- a: Samsung Galaxy users who want wireless Dex, a built-in webcam, and the broadest streaming app library
- b: LG ThinQ ecosystem users, buyers who prefer webOS and want a clean living room aesthetic
FAQ
Can I use these monitors without any PC connected?
Yes. Both function as complete standalone streaming devices. No PC or laptop required for Netflix, YouTube, or other streaming apps.
Is 400 nits bright enough for a bedroom or living room?
In a typical bedroom with controlled lighting, yes. In a bright room with windows behind you, both will look washed out. For bright environments, look for a monitor rated 600+ nits.