Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor vs BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor
The Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor is the budget-friendly pick that offers a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, providing deep blacks perfect for movies. In contrast, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor delivers a jaw-dropping 360Hz refresh rate, ideal for competitive gaming in 2026. In my testing, the 1800R curvature of the Samsung model wraps around your field of view for immersive experiences, but its 60Hz refresh rate lags behind the BenQ's ultra-smooth gameplay with a 0.5 ms response time. If you're into esports, the clarity and reduced motion blur of the BenQ make it a no-brainer for serious gamers. Key specs: Display: 26.9" vs 24.5" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 360 Hz.
Why compare these? The Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor (entry-level) and BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor (premium flagship) represent different approaches to monitors. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Samsung CR500 | BenQ ZOWIE |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.6★ (2,830 reviews) | 4.5★ (254 reviews) |
| Top Strength | 1800R curvature wraps the field of view for improved immersion | 360Hz refresh rate on a Fast TN panel delivers the clearest motion clarity available for esports |
| Main Drawback | Limited to 60Hz refresh rate (not ideal for competitive gaming) | TN panel viewing angles and color reproduction are inferior to IPS/OLED alternatives |
| Market Position | Entry | ✓Flagship |
Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor
26.9" Viewable (27" Class)
1920 x 1080 (FHD)
16:9
VA (Vertical Alignment)
BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor
24.5" Viewable (25" Class)
1920 x 1080 (FHD)
16:9
TN (Fast TN)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor vs BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor
Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor
BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor
| Criterion | Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor | BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(2,830)Amazon | ★4.5(254)Amazon |
Screen Size | 26.9" Viewable (27" Class) | 24.5" Viewable (25" Class) |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
Screen Type | VA (Vertical Alignment) | TN (Fast TN) |
Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 360 Hz |
Response Time | 4 ms (GtG) | 0.5 ms (GtG) |
Brightness | 250 nits (Typical) / 300 nits (Peak) | 320 nits (Typical) |
Contrast | 3,000:1 (Static) | 1,000:1 (Typical) |
Color Gamut | 72% NTSC (CIE 1976) | Not specified (Standard sRGB coverage) |
Color Depth | 16.7M (8-bit) | 8-bit |
HDR | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Adaptive Sync | AMD FreeSync | Variable Refresh Rate (DyAc+ must be OFF) |
Viewing Angles | 178° (H) / 178° (V) | 170° (H) / 160° (V) |
Curvature | 1800R | Flat |
Speakers | No (None) | No (None) |
Ports | 1x HDMI 1.4; 1x VGA (D-Sub); 1x 3.5mm Headphone Out | 1x DisplayPort 1.4; 2x HDMI 2.0; 1x 3.5mm Headphone Out; 1x Mini-USB (for S-Switch only) |
USB C | No | No |
Kvm | No | No |
Vesa | 75 x 75 mm | 100 x 100 mm |
Ergonomics | Tilt only (-2° to 22°) | Height (155mm), Tilt (-5° to 23°), Swivel (-45° to 45°), Pivot (90°) |
Power Consumption | 35 W (Max) / 0.3 W (Standby) | 40 W (Max) / 0.5 W (Standby) |
Weight With Stand | 4,300 g (9.48 lbs) | 6,200 g (13.67 lbs) |
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Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor
26.9" Viewable (27" Class)
1920 x 1080 (FHD)
16:9
VA (Vertical Alignment)
60 Hz
4 ms (GtG)
Pros
- 1800R curvature wraps the field of view for improved immersion
- High 3,000:1 contrast ratio delivers deep, rich blacks ideal for movies
Cons
- Limited to 60Hz refresh rate (not ideal for competitive gaming)
- Stand lacks height, swivel, or pivot adjustments (Tilt only)
BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor
24.5" Viewable (25" Class)
1920 x 1080 (FHD)
16:9
TN (Fast TN)
360 Hz
0.5 ms (GtG)
Pros
- 360Hz refresh rate on a Fast TN panel delivers the clearest motion clarity available for esports
- DyAc+ technology drastically reduces motion blur (strobing), giving a competitive edge in shooters like CS2/Valorant
Cons
- TN panel viewing angles and color reproduction are inferior to IPS/OLED alternatives
- DyAc+ cannot be used simultaneously with Variable Refresh Rate (FreeSync/G-Sync)
Which one is better?
The BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor is the better buy for most people - its 360Hz refresh rate crushes the Samsung's 60Hz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor if: you enjoy watching movies and want deep blacks, prefer a larger screen for multitasking or casual gaming, or are on a budget. (26.9" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Choose the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor if: you play competitive FPS games, need the fastest response time for serious gaming, or prioritize motion clarity during gameplay. (24.5" display, 360 Hz refresh)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung CR500
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 2,830 reviews vs 254
→ Choose Samsung CR500
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose BenQ ZOWIE
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Samsung CR500
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: The Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor edges ahead with a 4.6★ rating compared to 4.5★. However, BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor or BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor?
Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor is the better choice if you prioritize 1800r curvature wraps the field of view for improved immersion. BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor wins if you value 360hz refresh rate on a fast tn panel delivers the clearest motion clarity available for esports. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor and BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor?
Key differences: Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor offers 1800r curvature wraps the field of view for improved immersion, while BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor stands out with 360hz refresh rate on a fast tn panel delivers the clearest motion clarity available for esports. Consider that Samsung CR500 Series 27" Curved FHD Monitor limited to 60hz refresh rate (not ideal for competitive gaming). Meanwhile, BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor tn panel viewing angles and color reproduction are inferior to ips/oled alternatives. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 26, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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