In this Samsung Odyssey G90XF quick review, we explore a monitor that can display 3D content without the need for special glasses, thanks to Samsung’s proprietary software and hardware. Although it is not the first 3D monitor no glasses, it still has its interesting features.
The Odyssey G90XF can display glasses-free 3D content by combining lenticular lenses and eye-tracking technology. The display creates the 3D effect using lenticular lenses, while eye-tracking technology dynamically adjusts the 3D image based on the user’s viewing position. To fully experience it, you need to install some software before you can use it.
Samsung Odyssey G90XF Quick Review
Why the Odyssey G90XF Doesn’t Need 3D Glasses
As mentioned, Samsung utilizes a combination of lenticular lenses and eye-tracking sensors. Imagine a transparent film on the screen’s surface, with thousands of tiny lenses placed side by side. The screen will then show two slightly different images of the same scene simultaneously (one for the left eye and one for the right eye).
Each of these tiny lenses bends light from the pixels below it. The lenses direct the image meant for your left eye to your left eye and the image meant for your right eye to your right eye. When your brain receives these two slightly different images from both eyes, it automatically combines them to create the illusion of depth, making you feel as though objects are rising off the screen, similar to how we perceive the real world.
However, to ensure maximum stability and precision, the Odyssey G90XF uses a dual-camera system that continuously tracks your eye position in real time.
The camera data tells the display where your eyes are, and it instantly adjusts how the lenticular lenses direct the image to your eyes. Whether you move your head left, right, closer, or farther away, the system ensures that each eye always gets the right image.
Compared to using traditional 3D glasses, the task of these glasses is to ensure that each eye sees only the image assigned to it. Therefore, with content that requires conventional 3D glasses, the glasses will act as a tool to “classify” the image.
How to Properly Set Up 3D on the Odyssey G90XF
Samsung offers two software options for the Odyssey G90XF, and users need to install them before use. The first is Reality Hub, and the second is the driver for using the camera placed on the Odyssey G90XF.
First, you need to install the camera driver. Then, connect the computer and the monitor using the USB cable included with the monitor purchase. Open the Device Manager and enable the Odyssey G90XF camera.
Using the Odyssey G90XF camera to identify eyes and faces is crucial for accurately displaying 3D content.
After you install the camera driver, proceed to install Reality Hub, the software that manages content for the G90XF.
Reality Hub is also a 3D display software itself. If you install the camera driver and then install Reality Hub, and it runs as shown, you have successfully set it up.
Reality Hub will manage the content optimized for the Odyssey G90XF. Currently, according to Samsung, there is only one game that supports the Odyssey G90XF, which is The First Berserker: Khazan. Soon, Samsung plans to add more games for users to enjoy with the Odyssey G90XF.
When you play games that support 3D technology, the content displayed will be significantly different from that of regular 2D games or when working. Everything will appear more prominent and have greater depth.
2D to 3D Content with Built-in AI
Yes, with a normal 2D video on YouTube, Samsung can also convert its content into 3D using AI. Every time you watch a video, a notification will appear in the lower right corner, similar to this. Select the video type (2D or side-by-side), and AI will automatically adjust and display it in 3D for you to watch.
In this Samsung Odyssey G90XF quick review, it’s truly magical. It turns 2D content into 3D, which is cool; you can feel it very clearly. However, it also has certain disadvantages, as it is a software solution, and errors are inevitable.
2D content converted to 3D will never be completely accurate. Even if the content is optimized for 3D from the beginning, the Odyssey G90XF still exhibits slight ghosting, with outlines around characters that can be seen with the naked eye. The depth effect of 3D content is demonstrated, but its disadvantages persist.
Additionally, the eye tracking system requires you to sit in the correct position, maintain proper posture, and limit head movements. If you turn your head too quickly, the content also blurs because the machine doesn’t have enough time to adjust.
However, this is still an enjoyable experience for the user.
Using the Odyssey G90XF for Regular Viewing
If you use the G90XF as a regular monitor, it’s still a decent option for work and entertainment, except for one characteristic of 3D monitors: you’ll find it quite grainy.
The G90XF’s resolution remains UHD 165Hz, but it won’t be as smooth as other standard 4K monitors. The Odyssey G90XF measures 27 inches in size, boasts a brightness of 350 cd/m², a contrast ratio of 1000:1, supports HDR10 and HDR10+ Gaming, and covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut.
The Odyssey G90XF’s panel features IPS technology with a GTG response time of 1 ms and a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees.
The G90XF will not come with Tizen OS, unlike other Odyssey Gaming lines from Samsung. This makes the monitor boot up and connect to the computer extremely quickly. The Odyssey G90XF also supports AMD FreeSync Premium.
3D Monitor, No Glasses Has Its Limits
3D content or 3D content display solutions are not suitable for everyone. Personally, when I first came into contact with the Odyssey G90XF, it took me about 15-30 minutes to get used to the new display style, especially when you watch 3D content.
If you’re not used to it, the 3D effect can cause nausea, dizziness, or even a headache. It’s a common reaction as your brain adjusts to the visual depth.
Even if you use it for normal purposes, such as watching 2D content, working, or entertaining yourself with movies, you’ll usually prefer a 4K screen. However, the Odyssey G90XF may make you feel uncomfortable because it will be pitted on the screen. You will always think that the screen will have many layers of display on top of each other.
This monitor is built for users who work with or enjoy 3D content.
Hardware You Can’t Ignore
That’s right; to display and experience 3D content well, you need powerful computer hardware. According to Samsung’s recommendation, you need to have a discrete GPU from the RTX 3080 or higher or an RTX 4070 (for AMD, Radeon RX 6900 XT or higher) to display the best parallel conversion content. The CPU must also be from a Core i7 or Ryzen 7 1700X or higher. The RAM capacity must be at least 32 GB of DDR5-5600.
Therefore, when you have spent approximately $2,000 on Amazon.com or £1,299 on Amazon.co.uk to purchase the G90XF, you also need to consider whether the computer configuration you are using is sufficient to take advantage of the 3D technology that Samsung offers. During this Samsung Odyssey G90XF quick review, I used a laptop with a standard configuration: Intel Core 5 210H and RTX 4050. Just opening 3D content or converting 2D to 3D, the fan of the machine was already spinning very loudly.
The I/O ports on the Odyssey G90XF will include 2 HDMI 2.1 ports, 1 DisplayPort 1.4 port, 1 USB-B port, 1 USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port, and a DC power port. The Odyssey G90XF also integrates speakers with a total output of 10W. Read full specifications here.
Final Line
This Samsung Odyssey G90XF quick review shows that the monitor isn’t made for everyone—but it’s not trying to be. As a 3D monitor no glasses, it introduces a rare feature set that pushes display tech into new territory. The 3D effect works, the hardware is ambitious, and the software holds up well.
But the experience has limits. You’ll need powerful specs, a steady posture, and some patience with early quirks. For users who work with 3D content or enjoy exploring new technology, the G90XF offers a unique experience—just be prepared for its demands.
