Dell - S2721DGF 27" Gaming IPS QHD FreeSync and G-SYNC compatible monitor with HDR (DisplayPort, HDMI)

I am an avid gamer and build my own rigs, and for too long I ignored the value of updating my monitors as often as I did my components. While my current gaming computer isn’t earth shattering by any means, in terms of specs at its core it is an Intel i7 8700K with 32 gigs RAM and a Nvidia RTX 2070 Super video card that outputs to a Dell S2716DG as my main monitor and a Dell SE2717H as my side monitor (for web surfing, watching videos while I play, etc). Somewhat of an aged setup, but I note it because you really want to make sure you have the right horsepower under the hood (primarily in your graphics card) to make this type of investment in technology. If you are plugging it into that Gateway computer you inherited from your grandparents, or connecting a mid-level laptop into it using an HDMI cable, you probably want to look at a less expensive display as you aren’t going to access most of what this monitor has to offer (you can’t achieve full 165mhz unless you use a DP cable). The Dell monitor I am replacing/updating was nothing to sniff at, it gave me 144mhz refresh and 1ms response times, all while keeping my gaming experiences tear-free and artifact-free for the last few years via Nvidia’s G-Sync technology. Back when I started to study and understand monitors more as a gamer, I personally put a higher value on speed, refresh rate and minimal input lag, as it generates higher frames per second (fps). This newer monitor maintains the 1ms speed- there is zero input lag, and consequently no motion blur hindering the action. It is a true-to-life gaming experience, if you’re playing titles with high-end scene design and graphic engines. The jump to 165 mhz refresh rate doesn’t seem like a lot coming off of a 144mhz capable screen, but I actually saw a noticeable increase in framerate across a few games I bench tested it on (Shadow of the Tomb Raider, COD Warzone and Metro Exodus). I was running anywhere between high 80s to low hundreds consistently, but jumped up to the 120 at peak. With the continuity for me of having the G-Sync experience, I couldn’t tell you what an artifact or screen tear looks like for the last few years, gameplay is stunning and immersive, my only wish is that my gaming library had more titles that explored the broader universe of capabilities this newer technology opens the door to. My only single gripe about this new monitor is that, while advertised as G-Sync compatible, my Nvidia software did not pick it up as such, and only noted that “Selected Display is not validated as G-Sync Compatible’. After doing some research, it appears this problem isn’t uncommon, and Nvidia has a few great G-Sync demo programs you can use to benchmark and see that the technology is in fact working properly. This monitor boasts an in-plane switching (IPS) screen, which is new for me as my older monitor was a twisted nematic (TN) type, and what I thought was more closely associated to gaming (TN technology leveraged speed and refresh rates, but were generally lacking in color depth and diminished viewing angles). IPS screens generally cater more to color accuracy and color consistency (think graphic design, photo or video production or editing, etc.) with phenomenal view range. To be able to game with this type of tear-free and lag-free speed, and jump from 16.7 million colors to 1.07 billion (yes…billion) is absolutely insane. I’m was the furthest thing from a color ‘snob’ when it came to gaming monitors, thanks Dell, you just made me one. This is an outstanding gaming monitor that combines fluid speed with a new universe of color. Physically, as I had with the previous generation I owned, I love the look and feel of this screen. Very tight side and top bezels, and hidden buttons and a knob control on the back is a really clean look. I will admit, it was also a really low concern on what the back of the monitor looks like, but the innovative venting design is pretty slick looking, and as my monitor sits in a corner, the ambient LED lighting is pretty awesome. One small wish on a future model would to have those be addressable LEDs, since the rest of my setup is a synchronized breathing of random colors. Setup took literally two minutes, it is tool-less, and my biggest problem now is deciding whether to use the older unit as my side-monitor, or pass it along to my son who also games and plays himself on a 7 year old 1080p HD monitor. I think he’s going to become a screen snob soon as well.

Incredible monitor. Easy set up and runs flawlessly with the series x. 1440p @120fps is a compete game changer. Warzone/Call of duty is my main fps and the combination of next gen and this monitor has greatly improved my play. Sleek looking base/stand that doesnt take up much room. Very clean monitor. Highly recommend.

I came from a 144Hz TN display, and this is SO much better. I saw multiple reviews that stated the ONLY issue with this monitor, is the contrast ratio. However, I would argue that the blacks are GREAT, perhaps with the exception of professional photo/video editing. Take a look at my screenshots of Phasmophobia (good game to test out dark environments) and see for yourself.

One of the best monitors i’ve owned, it’s cristal clear playing my games in 1440 at 165hz.. very happy with the monitor, a little pricey but well worth the money

Great monitor that I’ve paired with my 3080, looks sharp and vibrant next to my TN monitor.

THE BREAKDOWN: The packaging was very well done and protected. It came with the main display, the base, the power cord, HDMI cable, Display Port Cable and USB cable. The Dell S2721DGF monitor really delivered. The 27 inch IPS panel with QHD resolution (2560 X 1440 pixels) will surely impress anyone looking to upgrade their old gaming monitor. One key thing to keep in mind if you want the 165Hz refresh rate you will need to use the Display port cable, if you use the HDMI cable your refresh rate will only be 144Hz. Dell played the neutral role when it comes to picking a graphics card to support as this monitor supports both AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync graphics technologies. This I found the IPS fast, bright and very colorful. This display also supports up to 3 user profiles, timer, FPS counter and you can manage frame rates and shadow control to name a few. The monitor itself has 2 HDMI inputs, 1 Display Port input, 4 USB 3.0 ports, a 3.5mm headphone out jack and3.5 mm audio line out jack. This monitor weighs about 9.9 lbs. The power button is located on the bottom right bezel and the menu buttons with the joystick style is located on the back right of the monitor behind the power button. I have to say that I really like the joystick button to navigate through the menus. One last thing to mention on the monitor is that it is VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified which allows you to see more detail than a SDR display giving those clearer visuals. Some people prefer monitors with DisplayHDR certs of 500 or greater. Overall, I found this monitor to be everything it claimed to be: fast 1ms response time, contrast ratio of 1,000:1, worked well with G-Sync and the colors were great. Also, the menus where very easy to navigate. Very visually appealing with the thin bezel and blue light in the back. PRO’s: -Thin Bezel -IPS/LED panel/backlight -VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified -1ms response time -2560 X1440 @ 165Hz (when using the Display Port) -G-Sync and FreeSync Compatible CON’s: - none SUMMARY: Overall, I feel that this product worked very well, and I would recommend this to a friend if they are in the market for device like this. You won’t be disappointed if you pick this one up.

This Dell 27" gaming monitor is truly stunning. As an avid video gamer and photographer, I am loving the high refresh rates (165Hz) and wide color gamut respectively. I'm sure there are more expensive monitors out there that meet higher HDR standards, but for the difference in price, I'm happy that I personally haven't been able to tell the difference. I'm moving up from a 1080p HDR gaming display and the extra resolution is a nice balance between 4K with need for display scaling and the slightly cramped feeling of my 1080p monitor. I'm using the Dell and my old monitor in a dual monitor setup and I have to say I much prefer gaming and working on the Dell. Between the higher resolution and refresh rates and the fantastic color representation, the Dell is a real improvement and a pleasure to work and play on. All the necessary cables are included (HDMI, DP and USB 3.0 passthrough as well as the obvious power cable) and setup was no more complicated than you'd expect a monitor to be. Assembly was tool-free and very straightforward. After assembly, just plug it in and go. I used the DP 1.4 cable/connection and I have my gaming keyboard and mouse plugged into the USB ports with the USB 3.0 passthrough cable running back to my tower. I was pleasantly surprised at the difference 165Hz makes. I thought I couldn't tell the difference until I tried to go back. The controls on the back right side of the monitor and on-screen menu display make adjusting settings simple and the controls feel durable and solid. I had to make very few changes from the defaults to get to optimal settings for me. Bottom line: I truly love this monitor and it's a Dell, so I look forward to many years of use since all of my Dell devices have always lasted a good long time. I have a small wish that it lifted up a little higher on the stand for comfort, but that's a minor quibble and easily fixed with a small box or shelf if I decide I need to.

I got the monitor yesterday, I am very excited about writing the review for this dell monitor, I really liked and enjoying it. I have 4 DELL Monitors at home currently we are using all, my elder son uses one for his online class, my younger uses another one, and i use two for work. All my present 4 monitors are top quality monitors, this one beats all my current ones :). Image clarity is so good, faster response time. I am very sure you will like this monitor like me, just go for it. Power cable, HDMI, DP and USB cables are included in the box. Ports : AC Power, Security lock slot, Two HDMI 2.0 Ports, One DP Port, Audio line-out, USB 3.0 Up and Downstream ports, Audio headphone. I used HDMI port to connect to my laptop. Installation: Very easy. You can do it in less than 2 mins :). No need manual, but it comes with manual :). Monitor buttons are on the backside which is good, so that screen looks big. Initially, i was confused what button is for what since there are no signs on it, but once we click top menu button on the screen it will show what button is mapped to what key, maybe dell can consider including adding one paper manual document explaining the same, but not a big a deal it is very easy to figure out. Maybe dell can consider adding USB C port in future versions, because in laptops like Surface uses USB C, of course we can use USB C to HDMI adapter. Very good design, backside blue color light gives rich look. Monitor can be adjusted to set desired height, tilt and swivel. I really liked it and i am sure you will enjoy this monitor like me. Go for it !