This lower-res Inzone is a lesser playmate
PROS
- Sleek design
- Exclusive PS5 features
- High 240Hz maximum refresh rate
- G-Sync support
CONS
- Expensive for a full HD 1080p display
- Ho-hum color accuracy, gamut coverage
- Hollow-sounding onboard audio
SONY INZONE M3 SPECS
| Panel Size (Corner-to-Corner) | 27 inches |
| Native Resolution | 1,920 by 1,080 |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Sony made its initial foray into the gaming monitor market last year with the introduction of the Inzone M9. This 4K gaming monitor boasted an attractive design, minimal input lag, and an impressive array of features including HDMI 2.1 and USB Type-C ports. It was a solid offering that unfortunately isn’t replicated with the release of the Inzone M3, which we are reviewing here. Priced at $529, the M3 is positioned as the esports-focused alternative to the M9, offering a lower native resolution of 1080p but compensating with a blazing peak refresh rate of 240Hz. While it does retain some of the advantages of its older sibling, it falls short in terms of color coverage and input lag. In terms of value, price-competitive esports displays like the Dell 27 Gaming Monitor (G2723H) outperform the M3. While the M3 is visually appealing, it doesn’t offer the same level of performance for the price as the M9 does.
The M3 Feature Set: A Shift in Priorities
The M9 boasts a sturdy physical design that has been carried over to the M3, providing a sense of continuity between the two models. Both monitors share a similar appearance, including a tripod-like stand with a sliding rail in the middle for easy height adjustment. While the mount does not offer portrait-mode pivot functionality, users can opt for a VESA mount and enjoy a slight tilt range of around 20 degrees. Additionally, the M3 maintains the sleek black-and-white color scheme, reminiscent of the PlayStation 5’s design aesthetic.
The monitor has dimensions of 18.8 by 24.2 by 9.7 inches (HWD) and a weight of approximately 15 pounds with the stand, which is nearly identical to the M9. It is lighter than most of its rivals, such as the Dell 27 Gaming Monitor (G2723H), but around 4 pounds heavier than the similarly priced Gigabyte M27Q X.
Upon examining the rear side, you will notice an onscreen display (OSD) control stick and a power button situated on the right. In the middle, there is a cluster containing HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 inputs, along with three USB ports. The USB ports have been repositioned slightly from the right side to the left side, providing more space and reducing the likelihood of interference from accidental adjustments by curious hands using the control stick.
1. To calibrate the panel, you will receive the Inzone Hub, a downloadable software application that enables profile customization. These profiles can be tailored for individual games and applications through this tool. In general, it is straightforward, practical, and user-friendly, particularly if you prefer not to tinker with the OSD control.
The primary distinction between the M3 and the M9 lies in their native resolutions and top refresh rates, as well as a variance in backlight technology. The M3 utilizes edge-lit LEDs, whereas the M9 employs full-array local dimming (FALD) technology. With 96 backlights that can adjust independently across the screen, the M9 offers superior depth perception, sharper highlights, and richer blacks compared to the M3’s edge-lit panels with horizontal LEDs along the sides. Consequently, the absence of local dimming zones in the M3 results in a decrease in resolution and price when compared to the M9. The impact of this trade-off on performance will be assessed further in the review.
The M3 maintains the exclusive features of the M9 for PlayStation 5, including Auto HDR Tone Mapping, which automatically detects the Inzone during initial setup and enhances the HDR settings. Additionally, it includes Auto Genre Picture Mode, which enhances the gaming and movie experience. While you have the option to manually adjust the settings, it’s convenient to have a decent level of optimization right from the start. The display also boasts VESA DisplayHDR 400 and G-Sync compatibility, adding to its impressive features.
Testing the Inzone M3: Color Could Be Better
1. In order to evaluate the performance of the M3, we conducted real-world testing which involved benchmark measurements utilizing Datacolor’s SpyderX Elite and HDFury’s 4K Diva input lag tester. Additionally, we engaged in gaming sessions on both the PC and the PS5 to further assess its capabilities.
In our initial examination, we employed the SpyderX Elite to assess the brightness, contrast ratio, and color-gamut coverage of the default picture mode using an SDR signal. In this case, the Inzone M3 achieved a brightness of 267 nits at 50% brightness and 443 nits at 100%. It recorded a black level of 0.29, resulting in a contrast ratio of 1,080:1, which is characteristic of a gaming monitor based on an IPS panel.
Monitor Testing: Sony Inzone M3
Sony InZone M3Dell 27 Gaming Monitor -G2723HGigabyte M27QXMSI Optix MAG274R2NZXT Canvas02004006008001,000443491181210408374348176Nits (HIGHER IS BETTER)
Media and Gaming Tests
The primary factor to consider when evaluating a gaming monitor is its input lag. In order to assess this, we utilize the HDFury 4K Diva HDMI matrix, which yielded a result of 4.3 milliseconds (ms) for the M3 model. Why is input lag significant? While it may not be noticeable for casual gaming, it is a major drawback for esports enthusiasts. Despite 4.3ms being relatively low in a broader context, it may not meet the expectations of the truly dedicated gamers, especially when compared to models we have tested that boast input lag under 2ms or even 1ms.
The monitor boasts a 240Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for handling high frame rates in compatible games (and with a powerful video card, in the case of PC gaming). Although the HDMI 2.1 port enables the M3 to achieve frame rates above 60fps when connected to a PS5, my personal preference for experiencing higher frame rates lies in fast-paced first-person shooters like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on the PC. However, considering that this monitor is marketed as a console companion by Sony, I also tested it with recent blockbuster PS5 titles such as God of War: Ragnarok, Horizon: Forbidden West, and The Last of Us Part I.
These three PS5 games, which require a lot of resources, provide performance modes that limit the game to 60 frames per second in order to achieve the smoothest gameplay at 1080p resolution. As a result, using these modes on the M3 became the preferred way to play, and I believe they could easily become a favorite for PlayStation owners who are interested in the M3. During my time playing on the PC, I didn’t experience any noticeable ghosting or screen tearing. However, the color inaccuracies and narrower gamut did diminish some of the enjoyment.
Version 1: The presence of two built-in 2-watt speakers was also apparent to me. While I appreciated their inclusion, I found that the sound they produced lacked bass and had a somewhat tinny quality at higher volumes, reminiscent of the speakers typically found on a lower-end laptop.
Verdict: Not Quite in the Zone’
The Inzone M3 primarily caters to console gamers. Its standout features are the exclusive PlayStation capabilities, and if you prefer using pre-set performance modes, you’ll appreciate the options available. However, the monitor falls short in terms of color accuracy, and its price is higher than other esports monitors. Additionally, the HDR performance is inconsistent, making it less than ideal for PC gamers who can fully utilize its impressive refresh rate.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective high-refresh panel, the G2723H is a superior choice. Although it doesn’t have HDR or speakers, it compensates for these absences by offering a wider color range and a more affordable price. On the other hand, if you have a larger budget, the Gigabyte M27QX is an excellent option as it offers a higher resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and significantly lower input lag.