Monitor for Mixed Use. (Low/High Spec Gaming, Graphics, WFH) ~ $500

watts on 21/06/2023 - 13:31
Last edited 22/06/2023 - 16:13

UPDATE: went for the DELL G3223D. https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/782634

New monitor for the WFH 'office' (aka living room) and the boy can use the old 27" 1080p monitor (BENQ EW2750) in his room. I'm sure it's not great for gaming but that's fine as it might prompt him to get out of his bedroom to use the good screen.

I'm thinking about a new monitor for some mixed home use, but know SFA about monitors, gaming, colours etc so after a bit of guidance.

Uses include:

  • My WFH. Office stuff. Lenovo T480s. Occasional.
  • Mrs WFH. Office stuff and graphic design. via 14" Macbook pro. Semi regular
  • Kids gaming. Currently basic (roblox etc) with same Lenovo T480s. Better PC will come in a few years and mrs might let them use her M1 macbook and M1 ipad occasionally.

My current thinking:

  • max 27" (physical space available, and T480s limitations)
  • QHD min
  • USB-C, PD (65w min), nice to have anyway since it's use with laptops.
  • 60Hz+
  • response <5ms Or should i be looking for better?
  • Good colours for graphics work.
  • ~$500 or so. I'll look at claiming some on my tax, some on mrs tax and some for personnel use

Or, maybe I'll just scrap the mixed use fancy monitor idea a grab a basic ~24" 1080P monitor for my kids to use for gaming for the time being.

Thanks in advance for any input. Either specific models/deals available now or just general advice.

Computing Computer Peripheral LCD Monitor

Comments

  • Ema000 on 21/06/2023 - 14:08
    +1

    If it wasn't for your size limitation, the Dell 32 USB-C Gaming Monitor - G3223D ticks most of your boxes

    • watts on 21/06/2023 - 16:12

      its very tempting. I could probably squeeze it in so more worried about the crappy laptop only handing low res on a big screen I think..

      • Mechz on 21/06/2023 - 17:01

        The T480s should output 4k 60Hz via USB-C (Thunderbolt).

        Or do you mean the gaming resolution?

        • watts on 21/06/2023 - 17:11

          Yeah, the gaming. I figure it’ll be low res for reasonable response.

    • watts on 21/06/2023 - 22:11

      I think the MacBook use case might be an issue too

      https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/dell-g3223d-resolution-…

      So very tempting though.

      • Ema000 on 22/06/2023 - 11:14
        +1

        I don't think that person used the "optimise for" option on the display settings - https://support.apple.com/en-au/guide/mac-help/mh40768/mac#:….

        Also the Dell is currently on sale for $349.80 on the Dell website.

        https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-32-usb-c-gaming-monitor…

        But also please note and be aware that the USB-C port on the monitor only provides 15W of power according to the User Guide - https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-au/product-support/prod…

        • watts on 22/06/2023 - 11:46
          +1

          yeah I find it hard to believe that it wouldn't be possible to get a good picture, but I've also seen a few things around suggesting 1440p displays aren't the best option for macs for whatever reason. Other stuff suggesting it's fine. Getting a bit confused by it all to be honest. .

          $331 with promo code. Really tempted to just get it and see how it goes.

          https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/782634

          • Ema000 on 22/06/2023 - 11:55
            +1

            @watts: Yeah choosing a monitor is definitely a bit confusing, that's why you have to focus on what your needs are and also your budget.

            • watts on 22/06/2023 - 12:23
              +1

              @Ema000: yep really need to focus and not get carried away.

              I started out looking for a ~$100 24" 1080p monitor for my 10yo, but figured our WFH setup needs an update and tax time is coming hence the current mixed use thinking and higher budget.

              Seems too hard with multi platform, multi use, low spec PC etc. so re-evaluating.

              Might grab the G3223D for WFH and give the boy my old monitor (BENQ EW2750) for now and then hand down the dell once once he's got a better PC.

    • watts on 22/06/2023 - 14:23
      +1

      Just bit the bullet and ordered the G3223D.

      A touch of FOMO in that quick decision but also re-evaluating the plan/priorities and also realised my currently monitor is 27" (not 24") so 32" will fit better than I thoughtm and I was keen on a size bump.

      If I hadn't gone for this I could see me creeping up to 32" 4K and spending quite a lot more.

  • iamherenow on 21/06/2023 - 15:43
    +1

    I'd increase your minimum refresh rate. 60hz doesn't cut it for fast paced gaming. Not that roblox is fast paced, but it sounds like you are looking to get something that will accommodate more demanding games in future.

    • watts on 21/06/2023 - 16:40

      cheers. Am I right to think that pretty much limits me to 'Gaming Monitor' options. ??

      Also, that I wouldn't be able to take advantage of >60hz with the T480s laptop (Intel UHD 620)? specs 4096x2304@60Hz (usbc) , and I assume still 60hz at lower resolution but ???

      yeah the idea is to accommodate more demanding games, either in the future when there's a better PC in the house or maybe now using the Macbook.

      • scrimshaw on 21/06/2023 - 17:05

        Gaming monitors aren't all that different from work monitors, at least not anymore. The latest models now even have KVM and USB-C, which are typically only found in "work monitors"

        Gigabyte M27Q for example, has a KVM. The Dell G3223D has USB-C, and both are high ref rate lcd's.

  • kekw on 21/06/2023 - 15:51
    +2

    The unbeatable Dell 2721DGF. Color out of the box is shet but plenty of tune out there to fix it. Also 165hz makes everything smoother.

    OR

    the S2721QS is good for office use. Cheaper than DGF also ticks all of the boxes for you.

    • djl4 on 21/06/2023 - 16:00

      I don't think 2721DGF is sold anymore - can't find on Dell's site nor any other retailers in Aus.

      • kekw on 21/06/2023 - 16:10

        Stock may have exhausted in the last 2 ozb deal xd

        • djl4 on 21/06/2023 - 16:11

          can only hope so, looking to get my hands on this monitor - best option from what ive seen

    • watts on 21/06/2023 - 16:55

      unbeatable and unobtainium it seems. does look good though.

      27" 1080p for ~$250. bad idea?

      https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-27-gaming-monitor-g2722…

      I use a 27" 1080p for work and don't think it's too bad, but I don't have anything better to compare it to so don't know what I'm missing.

      • Mechz on 21/06/2023 - 17:02
        +1

        Nah, you want at least 1440p for 27.

        • watts on 21/06/2023 - 17:14

          Cheers. That’s what I’d figured judging by comments on 27” 1080p deals posted.

      • kekw on 21/06/2023 - 17:03
        +1

        na, IMO 27" 1080p the pixels will be noticeable hence will not provide good viewing experience. 21-24" 1080p might be okay.

    • Ema000 on 22/06/2023 - 11:44

      The S2721QS doesn't have USB-C though

  • ihfree on 21/06/2023 - 18:47
    +1

    Maybe the Dell P2723DE with USB-C - had a USB hub, 90W PD. Should be about $350 refurb or ~500 new. You could also look at the U series.

  • Ema000 on 22/06/2023 - 11:38
    +1

    You can also check out the Dell 27 4K UHD USB-C Monitor - S2722QC, it ticks all your boxes and $456.50 - https://www.dell.com/en-au/shop/dell-27-4k-uhd-usb-c-monitor…

    Actually a bit cheaper if you use the "AUAFFILIATES5%" code - $432.67

    • watts on 22/06/2023 - 11:58

      Looks good and doesn't tick all the boxes mentioned in OP, but not if I heed to advice above to go higher than 60hz.

      wish it was a bit cheaper too. refurb would be great

      • watts on 22/06/2023 - 13:32

        woops..meant to say DOES tick all the boxes…..

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