Dell UltraSharp 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) Review: The Best Looking LCD Monitor I've Tested

Dell's UltraSharp 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE): An LCD That Rivals OLED

For years, I've coveted OLED monitors. However, Dell's new UltraSharp 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) has changed my mind, exceeding expectations with its impressive contrast, integrated Thunderbolt 4 hub, and reasonable price.

##### Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE)

Rating: 9/10 The Dell UltraSharp 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) boasts a remarkable 3000:1 contrast ratio, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and a built-in Thunderbolt 4 hub. It's a top contender among versatile, high-quality professional monitors.

Pros & Cons:

• Pros: Exceptional contrast and color for an IPS panel; robust port selection with Thunderbolt 4 speeds; excellent functionality for multi-computer setups.
• Cons: No integrated speakers or webcam; included cables are too short.

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Price and Availability

The Dell UltraSharp 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) is currently priced at $700 on the Dell website. At the time of this review, it's not available through Amazon or other retailers.

Specifications

Screen Size

27 inches

Display Technology

IPS Black (3,000:1 contrast, DCI-P3 99% color)

HDR

VESA DisplayHDR 600

Resolution

4K (3840 x 2160)

Aspect Ratio

16:9

Refresh Rate

120Hz

Response Time

5ms

Ports

Thunderbolt 4 x1, USB-A x5, USB-C x4, Gigabit Ethernet x1, HDMI 2.1 x1, DisplayPort 1.4 upstream x1, DisplayPort 1.4 downstream x1

Weight

15.56 lbs (11.51 lbs without stand or cables)

Mounting Options

VESA

Speakers

None

Expand Beyond OLED: Exceptional Image Quality

The Dell U2725QE, like most professional monitors, uses an IPS panel—not OLED. I initially expected minimal improvement over my 2021 U2720QM. Both are 27-inch 4K IPS displays, lacking local dimming. However, the U2725QE delivers a significantly superior viewing experience. This is likely due to Dell's "IPS Black" technology, a modified IPS system with a reversed pixel activation for enhanced contrast. The 3,000:1 contrast ratio and purportedly 47% deeper blacks than standard IPS are impressive. The 99% DCI-P3 color gamut is also excellent. The semi-matte finish reduces glare, a boon in brightly lit spaces. The 120Hz refresh rate provides noticeably smoother visuals compared to my U2720QM's 60Hz. While not ideal for hardcore gaming (faster refresh rates and adaptive sync are available elsewhere), the 120Hz and 5ms response time are more than adequate for casual gaming.

The Thunderbolt 4 Hub: A Game Changer

Having used Dell monitors with integrated USB hubs, I'm familiar with their limitations. My U2720QM's port situation was chaotic. The U2725QE's integrated Thunderbolt 4 hub is a massive upgrade. Nine USB ports (four USB-C) and a Gigabit Ethernet port are incredibly convenient. The Thunderbolt 4 port (separate from the USB-C ports) provides video input and 140-watt passthrough charging. HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 inputs, along with a DP 1.4 downstream connector for daisy-chaining, add to its versatility. KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) functionality allows seamless switching between a laptop and desktop without cable swapping, even with PiP or PbP modes.

Build Quality and Minor Issues

Dell's build quality is consistently high, and the U2725QE is no exception. The redesigned stand is compact, and the pop-out USB module is surprisingly sturdy. The cable management system is helpful. The slim bezels are a welcome improvement over my older monitor. However, the lack of built-in speakers and a webcam, along with the short video cables, are drawbacks. The integrated power supply, while convenient, produces a subtle whine in certain electrical environments.

Should You Buy It?

##### Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE)

The Dell UltraSharp 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) is exceptional. The 4K "IPS Black" panel, 120Hz refresh rate, and color accuracy create a stunning image. The Thunderbolt 4 hub is incredibly convenient. While the $700 price tag is significant, the monitor's longevity and lack of OLED burn-in concerns make it a justifiable investment.

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