The Samsung U28E590D is one of those big-screen (28-inch) Ultra-High Definition monitor that can be had affordably, and like the ASUS MG28UQ and ViewSonic XG2700-4K, it delivers a sharp, clearly-detailed 4K image. At ARS Guide, we’ve tested a number of monitors, and this particular one stands out for its good gray-scale performance and very responsive pixels, but it isn’t feature-savvy as our Editors’ Choice, the ASUS MG28UQ; but still a prime choice for bargain-hunters.
Well Designed, Crisp Screen
The Samsung U28E590D features a 3,480-by-2,169-resolution Twisted Nematic (TN) panel set in a black cabinet, framed into 0.75-inch glossy black bezels. The screen has a matte coating which addresses the common issue with screen glare, especially on TN displays. Instead of function buttons, it gets a jog button at the rear of the cabinet, that suffices for changing settings and turning the monitor on and off.
The cabinet weighs 11.5 pounds, and is supported by an easel-type stand with a brushed aluminum finish. On the downside, it lacks VESA mounting capabilities so it can’t be hooked up to a wall or stand. However, the panel can tilt the panel upto 16 degrees (1 degree forward, 15 degrees backward), but it’s a bit sturdy so you must use both hands as it needs some pressure. Adjustability is quite limited, as it doesn’t support height, swivel, or pivot adjustments.
For connectivity, there are two HDMI inputs, a DispalyPort 1.2 input that lets you view UHD content at 60Hz, and a headphone jack. It’s, rather, surprising that such a well-designed monitor skimps on high-speed USB 3.0 ports and a DVI port that you get on the ASUS MG28UQ monitor. The jog button at the back lets you navigate the various menus, including Magic Angle feature that calibrates the panel for optimal picture depending on the viewing angle.
Samsung U28E590D – Performance
The Samsung U28E590D delivers crisp 4K images on the 3,480-by-2,160 resolution panel. During testing, the shadow detail was impressive, with good color output. As with TN-based UHD monitors, viewing angles tend to suffer, whilst In-Plane Switching (IPS) panels deliver stellar viewing angles. Viewed from around 56 degrees, you might notice some color shifting (from the center to the sides), and the same happens when viewed from a top angle.
As expected, the 28-inch Samsung U28D’s color accuracy was at par with every other TN-based UHD panel we’ve had on our desk previously. For individual colors, red and blue are well aligned with their ideal coordinates, in testing, though green is slightly off its box, though not prohibitively so. While streaming Prison Break: Resurrection, the skin tones looked natural, so it will deliver quality pictures, whether you’re streaming or on Blu-ray.
The panel ‘s input lag (time the monitor takes to pick a command from an input controller) of 36.1 milliseconds is pretty quick, though we’ve some monitors in the same category with speedy 9.9 millisecond lag. Power consumption stands at 45 watts, though you can get slightly more in Standard mode, and even better in Eco mode.
Worth the Buck
The 28-inch Samsung LU28E570DS/ZA (U28E590D) is among the few monitors that let you view 4K content without spending a bundle. Its 3,480-by-2,160 resolution TN panel does deliver very sharp, accurate images and renders light and dark shades without issue.
On the downside, you don’t get an USB ports or height and swivel adjustments with this monitor, and we think viewing-angles would be better. But, it does make up for those flaws with three digital inputs and Fast pixel response.
Recommended Configuration
Samsung U28E590D 28-Inch 4k UHD LED-Lit Monitor
If you need a feature-rich monitor, our Editor’s Choice, the ASUS MG28UQ is worth checking out. They aren’t far much apart in cost, but the Asus offers a highly adjustable stand, a high-speed USB hub and better video inputs. In 2019, Samsung released a 49-inch monitor, the LC49RG90SSNXZA (CRG9) that is also worth a look if you need a super ultrawide gaming monitor.
