Sony Inzone M3 Review

The launch of the Inzone M9 had helped Sony make an impact, as the 27-inch, 144Hz, 4K monitor was undoubtedly an impressive device. Now, the company has come forward with a more modest Inzone M3 that does not have the local dimming backlight feature found in the previous gaming monitor. The 27-inch device offers a refresh rate of 240Hz and 1080p, with the price lowered to $529.99.

Design

As compared to the InzoneM9, the Inzone M3 is less expensive, but you will not be able to determine this at first glance. This is because the two gaming monitors are nearly identical, including the attractive and unique tripod-style and you also get PlayStation 5 vibes from the black-and-white design. The side profile makes the monitor appear immensely attractive, while its back gives the impression as if it is able to resist gravity.

The monitor’s bezels are very thin and the material quality is undeniably top-notch. Below the surface of the display is a matte black plastic chin that seems generic, but there is no shortage of elegance. The stand offers only 70 millimeters of height adjustment, while competitors offer 100mm to 150mm. Plus, it does not rotate either.

Connectivity and features

One of the top reasons that the Inzone M3 is expensive is due to connectivity. It boasts a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode, a DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.1 ports. All of the inputs that you will find on the monitor support 1080p and 240Hz. But, there are a few issues. No matter how attractive the HDMI 2.1 ports may seem, it is a moot point due to the 1080p resolution and the other input options.

Moreover, the 240Hz refresh rate is only helpful with a PC because it is not supported by the Xbox Series, or the PlayStation 5. The right rear flank of the monitor has a large joystick that you can use for navigating the menus of the monitor. The menu-system of Sony is superior, as it has a relatively large font size, responds quickly to user input and the menus are sensibly arranged.

There are also two-watt speakers in the monitor, but they do not have a very great sound.

Gaming image quality

As opposed to the Inzone M9, the M3 does not have extra features for enhancing its image quality. It does not have a unique panel, local dimming, or quantum dots. It offers fine color performance. The image quality does not have any unexpected flaws and does well enough in most areas.

Motion Performance

While a 240Hz refresh rate is no longer the top option in the market, the Inzone M3 is able to deliver excellent motion performance. Blurring is minimal and the interface details are readable. No important information is obscured during the game and this is definitely an advantage.

There are three response time modes that you will find in the monitor, which are named Standard, Fast and Faster. The middle one is set as default.