Samsung CF396
Score: 72/100
ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE with USB-C Gray
Score: 64/100Rankings
The Samsung CF396 is a 23.5-inch curved VA monitor praised for its high contrast and FreeSync support. Its 60 Hz refresh ceiling and limited ergonomics are notable trade-offs. Best suited for budget-conscious casual gamers and home-office users who value immersion over high-speed performance.
The ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE is a 15.6-inch portable IPS monitor notable for its ultra-thin 8 mm profile and hybrid USB-C/A connectivity. Its modest brightness, lack of speakers and driver-dependent USB-A input limit its suitability for demanding tasks. Best suited for mobile professionals needing a lightweight secondary screen with auto-rotate capability.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
23.5 inchesbest | 15.6 inches | |
60 Hzbest | 60 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 4 msbest | 5 ms |
250 nitsbest | 220 nits | |
3,000best | — | |
1best | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 3.1 kg | 0.9 kgbest |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Display(6) | ||
Screen Size (inches) | 23.5 inches | 15.6 inches |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920x1080 |
Panel Type | VA | IPS |
Response Time (ms) | 4 ms | 5 ms |
Brightness (nits) | 250 nits | 220 nits |
Contrast Ratio | 3000 | 800:1 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (with stand) (kg) | 3.1 kg | 0.9 kg |
Dimensions (W×H×D) (mm) | 548 x 424 x 219 mm mm | 359.7×7.9×226.3 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the CF396 for its impressive 3000:1 contrast, effective AMD FreeSync implementation and low input lag, making it a solid choice for casual gaming and media consumption. However, they note the 60 Hz refresh ceiling, modest 1800R curvature on a small panel, and limited ergonomic adjustments as drawbacks for more demanding or office-centric use.
Everyday users praise the monitor's vivid colors, deep blacks and the immersive feel of the curve, especially given its low price. Common praise centers on eye-comfort features that lessen fatigue, while recurring complaints focus on the lack of height adjustment, occasional dark-scene smearing, a wobbling stand, and the outdated VGA input.
Professional reviewers and editors commend the ZenScreen MB16ACE for its unmatched portability, thin profile, and convenient single-cable USB hybrid-signal operation. They also value the auto-rotation and eye-care features, though they point out the modest brightness, lack of speakers, and the need for a DisplayLink driver on USB-A as notable drawbacks.
Everyday users consistently praise the monitor's ultra-slim, lightweight build and the hassle-free USB-C connection that eliminates extra adapters. The foldable case stand and broad OS support receive frequent positive mentions, while the requirement for a driver on USB-A, absence of speakers, and limited brightness are common sources of mild disappointment.
