The Sony InZone M9, originally intended as the ultimate gaming monitor for PlayStation 5, has now been succeeded by the Sony InZone M9 II. This new iteration takes everything that made the original M9 great for the PS5 and packages it in a more refined design that doesn’t scream ‘console companion.’
The Sony InZone M9 II is not just a monitor for the PS5; it’s a top-tier 4K gaming monitor overall, whether you’re using it with a PS5 or a gaming PC. With a 160Hz refresh rate, the InZone M9 II offers performance advantages that consoles simply can’t fully utilize.
Design and Features
Unlike its predecessor, the Sony InZone M9 II has moved away from heavily mirroring the PS5’s design. The monitor now sports a sleek matte black color scheme throughout and features a rotating stand that not only saves space but also makes it easier to adjust.
The rotating stand allows for effortless cable management during setup. By simply rotating the monitor, you can access the rear panel easily for cable connections, eliminating the typical struggles associated with setting up a monitor.
Thanks to the innovative design of the stand, the Sony InZone M9 II offers a hassle-free setup process. The stand attaches securely to the monitor without the need for tools, and it can be easily removed to accommodate alternative mounting options.
With its 27-inch display, the Sony InZone M9 II boasts a slim profile and minimal bezels that blend seamlessly into the background. The monitor’s design exudes a modern aesthetic, making it a stylish addition to any gaming setup.
Similar to other gaming monitors, the Sony InZone M9 II offers a range of customization options to enhance your gaming experience. Features like the 24.5-inch mode and gaming assist settings provide flexibility and personalization tailored to individual preferences.
In addition, the Sony InZone M9 II comes bundled with the InZone Hub software for convenient control of monitor settings. This software streamlines the adjustment process, offering a seamless alternative to traditional on-screen display menus.
Performance
Equipped with a 4K resolution and a 160Hz refresh rate, the Sony InZone M9 II rivals top gaming monitors like the Alienware AW2725QF. The monitor’s low latency of 0.1ms, combined with a full array LED IPS panel, delivers stunning visuals and exceptional speed.
Gaming experiences on the Sony InZone M9 II are vibrant and immersive, thanks to the full array LED technology that enhances brightness and color accuracy. The monitor’s display quality shines in games like The War Within and Star Wars: Outlaws, showcasing rich colors and crisp details.
While the high refresh rate may be overkill for consoles, PC users with high-end graphics cards will appreciate the monitor’s capabilities. Paired with a powerful PC setup, such as an Nvidia RTX 4090, the Sony InZone M9 II delivers exceptional performance at 4K resolution.
The Sony InZone M9 II’s HDR display, rated for DisplayHDR 600, offers bright and colorful visuals that enhance gaming experiences. HDR content shines on the monitor, especially when playing HDR-supported games on the PS5, showcasing the monitor’s HDR capabilities.
When connected to a PS5, the Sony InZone M9 II automatically adjusts display modes based on usage, transitioning between game mode and cinema mode seamlessly. While the monitor offers a variety of display presets, some users may find the preset options limited for specific gaming genres.
However, the built-in speakers on the Sony InZone M9 II leave much to be desired in terms of audio quality. With two 2W speakers located at the back of the display, the audio lacks depth and clarity, making external speakers or a headset a recommended addition for an enhanced gaming experience.