Comparison · Monitors
Samsung ViewFinity S9 vs Apple Studio Display: two 5K monitors at $1,599
Same 5K resolution and launch price. The Samsung includes a full stand, a matte screen, and a 4K webcam; the 2026 Studio Display has Thunderbolt 5 and better audio.
Our pick: Studio Display for Mac users at full price; ViewFinity S9 if you find it discounted or need a height-adjustable stand without paying extra
Apple
Studio Display (2026)
8.4$1,599
The newer, more polished Mac monitor with Thunderbolt 5 and better audio.
Pros
- • Thunderbolt 5
- • Improved speakers and mics
- • Seamless macOS controls
Cons
- • Height-adjustable stand costs extra
Samsung
ViewFinity S9 (S90PC)
7.9$1,599 launch
Includes the stand and a 4K webcam, and works as well on Windows.
Pros
- • Height, tilt, pivot stand included
- • Matte 600-nit panel
- • 4K webcam
Cons
- • Thunderbolt 4
- • 2023 model
Samsung launched the ViewFinity S9 in 2023 at $1,599, the same price as Apple's Studio Display, and Apple refreshed the Studio Display in March 2026 without changing its price. Specs come from Samsung's launch, TechSpot, and Apple's announcement; we have not tested either.
Specs compared
| Spec | Samsung ViewFinity S9 | Apple Studio Display (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Panel | 27-inch 5K IPS, matte | 27-inch 5K IPS |
| Brightness | 600 nits typical | 600 nits |
| Connection | Thunderbolt 4, 90W | Thunderbolt 5 |
| Webcam | 4K | 12MP Center Stage |
| Stand | Height, tilt, pivot included | Tilt; height-adjustable extra |
| Launch price | $1,599 (2023) | $1,599 (2026) |
What the Samsung does better
TechSpot noted the S9 matches Apple's price while including a height-adjustable stand that costs $400 extra on the Studio Display. It also has a matte finish for bright rooms and a remote.
What the Studio Display does better
The 2026 Studio Display adds Thunderbolt 5 and upgraded speakers and microphones, and its brightness and volume work from Mac keyboard keys. Center Stage keeps you framed on calls.
Questions we get
Is the Samsung ViewFinity S9 as good as the Studio Display?
On panel specs, they are close: both are 27-inch 5K with 600-nit ratings. The S9 has a matte finish and includes a fully adjustable stand and 4K webcam; the 2026 Studio Display has Thunderbolt 5 and upgraded speakers and mics.
Which is better for Windows?
The ViewFinity S9: its controls do not depend on macOS, and its included stand and remote suit any computer.