Samsung CF396
Score: 68/100
Sceptre E255B
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Sceptre 24.5-inch E255B-1658A offers a fast 165 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response on a TN panel with FreeSync Premium, delivering competitive eSports performance. However, its TN panel's narrow viewing angles, modest 300 cd/m² brightness, and stand wobble affect color accuracy and comfort. Suited for budget gamers focused on high frame rates rather than color fidelity.
The Samsung CF396 is a 23.5-inch curved VA monitor delivering Full HD resolution, 3000:1 static contrast and AMD FreeSync for smooth casual gaming. Its limited 60 Hz refresh rate and lack of height adjustment restrict its suitability for competitive play. Best suited for budget-conscious users seeking an immersive yet affordable experience.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
23.5 inches | 24.5 inchesbest | |
60 Hz | 165 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 4 ms | 1 msbest |
250 nits | 300 nitsbest | |
3,000best | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 3.1 kgbest | 3.402 kg |
— | 1best | |
1 | 2best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
HDMI Ports | 1 | 2 |
Display(6) | ||
Panel Type | VA | TN |
Screen Size (inches) | 23.5 inches | 24.5 inches |
Refresh Rate (Hz) | 60 Hz | 165 Hz |
Response Time (ms) | 4 ms | 1 ms |
Brightness (nits) | 250 nits | 300 nits |
Static Contrast Ratio | 3000 | 1000:1 |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Weight (with stand) (kg) | 3.1 kg | 3.402 kg |
Width (with stand) (mm) | 548 mm | 558 mm |
Height (with stand) (mm) | 424 mm | 405 mm |
Tilt Range (degrees) | 24 degrees | -5 to 15 degrees |
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recurring complaints focus on the lack of height adjustment, occasional dark-scene smearing, a wobbling stand, and the outdated VGA input.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 praise the Sceptre E255B-1658A for its high 165 Hz refresh rate, 1 ms response time, and broad FreeSync range, calling it a solid budget eSports monitor, but they note the TN panel's limited color fidelity and lower brightness compared to pricier rivals.
Consumers consistently highlight the smooth, tear-free gameplay and excellent value for money, while repeatedly mentioning drawbacks such as narrow viewing angles, modest brightness, and occasional stand wobble.
