LG 27UP850-W Monitor Review 27” UHD Display with USB-C and HDR Features

Description

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

Testing out the LG 27UP850-W Monitor was an exciting experience right from the start. Its 27-inch UHD IPS display, boasting a resolution of 3840 x 2160, immediately stood out. The sleek 3-side virtually borderless design added a modern touch, making it blend seamlessly with my workspace. The monitor’s silver color and its sturdy height, pivot, and tilt-adjustable stand showed thoughtful design choices that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality. I could already tell that this device was designed with versatility in mind.

One aspect that caught my attention was its VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification. It promised vibrant colors and deep contrasts, which made me eager to test it with high-resolution content. The inclusion of USB-C with 96W power delivery was a game-changer for me. It allowed me to connect my laptop and charge it simultaneously, eliminating the need for additional cables.

Picture Quality and Color Accuracy

The real magic of this monitor lies in its DCI-P3 95% color gamut. Whether I was watching 4K content, editing photos, or working on graphic design projects, the colors were incredibly vibrant and accurate. The HDR 400 support enhanced the highlights and shadows, giving the visuals a lifelike depth.

I appreciated the 16:9 aspect ratio, which provided ample screen real estate for multitasking. Splitting the screen between spreadsheets, emails, and video content was seamless. Additionally, the 178° viewing angle ensured that the picture quality remained consistent regardless of where I was sitting.

However, I noticed the brightness, rated at 400cd/m², could feel slightly dim in rooms with excessive natural light. While it’s not a dealbreaker, I had to reposition my desk to get the best experience during daytime use.

Design and Build Quality

The adjustable stand was a standout feature for me. I frequently adjusted the height and tilted the screen to accommodate different tasks throughout the day. The pivot feature was particularly useful when I switched to reading long documents or coding.

Its 13-pound weight made it sturdy but not too difficult to move when reorganizing my desk. I also appreciated how compact the 22.4 x 24.2 x 11.5-inch dimensions were, leaving enough room for other peripherals.

One small gripe I had was the lack of cable management options. With the USB 3.0 ports and USB-C connectivity, I found myself juggling a lot of cords. A cleaner cable management system would have been a nice touch.

Performance with Gaming and Multimedia

As someone who enjoys casual gaming, I was impressed by the inclusion of AMD FreeSync. It reduced screen tearing and stuttering during gameplay, especially in fast-paced action games. While this monitor isn’t marketed specifically as a gaming monitor, the 4K resolution combined with FreeSync made for an enjoyable experience.

Streaming 4K movies or shows was equally satisfying. Watching HDR content on platforms like Netflix or YouTube highlighted the monitor’s capability to handle dynamic colors and contrasts.

That said, the 60Hz refresh rate might not appeal to hardcore gamers who prioritize ultra-smooth motion for competitive gameplay.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 4K UHD resolution with sharp details and vibrant colors.
• USB-C with 96W power delivery simplifies cable management and charges devices.
• Adjustable stand provides ergonomic flexibility for various tasks.
• AMD FreeSync support improves casual gaming experiences.

Areas of Concern

• Brightness might not be sufficient for brightly lit environments.
• Limited cable management could lead to a cluttered workspace.

Competitive Options

Comparing this product to alternatives like the Dell UltraSharp U2723QE or the ASUS ProArt PA32UCX, some differences stood out. The Dell monitor, for instance, offers slightly better brightness levels and advanced color accuracy, which might appeal to professional photographers or video editors. However, it lacks the USB-C 96W power delivery, which is a huge convenience factor for multitasking setups.

Meanwhile, the ASUS ProArt monitor excels in HDR content with its 1000-nit brightness, but its higher price point makes it less suitable for budget-conscious buyers. The LG 27UP850-W, with its balanced performance and feature set, provides a middle ground that caters to both casual users and professionals.

Price Performance

Considering the features packed into this monitor, it’s a strong contender for those seeking affordable quality. The inclusion of HDR support, USB-C connectivity, and an ergonomic stand ensures you’re getting your money’s worth. While there are monitors with higher refresh rates or slightly better brightness, they often come at a much steeper price.

For anyone looking for an all-in-one solution that balances work, multimedia, and casual gaming, this monitor delivers excellent value for money without breaking the bank.

Additional information