Review of the Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE)

Recently, I’ve found myself enamored with OLED displays, and it’s hard to argue against such a fascination. Yet, this doesn’t mean I’ve shut my heart off from falling for other types of monitors. In fact, Dell’s latest offering has charmed me so much that parting with it after this review is going to be tough.

I’m talking about the Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor—a 27-inch, 4K masterpiece with a Thunderbolt USB hub embedded right in it. Dell’s UltraSharp line is known for targeting productivity-focused users who desire a bit of everything, and this model doesn’t disappoint. Its crisp display, rich blacks, and that nifty Thunderbolt hub add a layer of convenience that’s hard to ignore, making it my top pick among recent reviews.

If you’re in search of a monitor that effortlessly syncs with your multitude of devices, checks all boxes for comfort, and even satisfies your gaming itch, then, well, let me introduce you to a choice you’ll hardly regret.

Why can you trust my review? Simply put, I practically live in front of displays for writing, research, video calls—basically, every part of my job. I’m continually evaluating the screens I use based on image quality, user-friendliness, performance, and of course, how they handle entertainment.

Dell was kind enough to provide a review sample, but rest assured, their hands were off this analysis entirely. Now, let’s dive into the details, starting with the cost and specifications.

With a price tag of $699.99, this monitor aligns with its capabilities. If you crave more screen, there’s a 32-inch sibling priced at $950, which mirrors all features except for its size. The unique mix of features this display offers is not something you stumble upon every day in the monitor market.

Featuring IPS LCD Black technology, this 27-inch screen isn’t just about the sharp 4K resolution. It has a 120Hz refresh rate and keeps viewers engaged with High Dynamic Range (HDR) support. One standout aspect is the integrated Thunderbolt 4 USB hub. This feature enables an abundance of peripheral connections, something few other monitors can boast. Plus, its capability for daisy chaining other monitors is a real asset.

Opening the box, you’ll find the display, a tool-free, two-piece stand, and an assortment of cables set to kickstart your setup. What backs this product is Dell’s 3-year limited hardware warranty complete with an Advanced Exchange Service for fast replacements.

So, what’s commendable about the Dell U2725QE? For starters, it’s simple yet sturdy, offering reliable assembly and user experience with excellent image quality and color accuracy. The monitor’s Thunderbolt hub is extremely handy—think of it as a central command post for your workstations and gaming setups.

On the design front, this monitor is unassuming. It’s not trying to be glossy or opulent; it’s built to perform with its thin bezels and functional stand that offers cable management and versatile adjustments in height, swivel, tilt, and pivot.

Then there’s the display itself, powered by IPS LCD Black tech, boosting contrast while maintaining vivid color replication—ideal for extended use, thanks in part to features like Dell’s ComfortView Plus. The anti-glare coating is efficient, keeping reflections minimal, allowing the brightness to stay consistent across the whole panel.

Benchmark tests reveal impressive color precision, boasting full sRGB and 99% DCI-P3 color coverage. Contrast ratios, while not OLED-level, are quite fair for an IPS display, delivering satisfying black levels. It’s bright too, surpassing the 450 nits advertised by Dell, albeit with a noticeable jump between 75% and 100% brightness.

Beyond just the rich display qualities, the Thunderbolt 4 hub is the jewel in this crown. Sporting three USB Type-C and five USB Type-A ports, along with Ethernet and audio connections, it gives you remarkable flexibility. It supports KVM, allowing seamless transitions between multiple devices via a single monitor—effectively turning it into a command hub.

That said, there are some less-than-favorable aspects. I wish the display got a bit brighter without prompting brightness warnings after 75%. Short cables provided can be a nuisance in certain setups. While the On-Screen Display and the optional Dell software can be cumbersome to navigate or buggy at times.

Critically, the lack of integrated speakers or a webcam, not to mention certain more luxurious features like Human Presence Detection found in pricier options, might leave some wanting more. But given what this monitor can accomplish for $700, it’s hard to complain too much.

If you’re in the market for an all-in-one setup solution that offers stellar utility without breaking the bank, the Dell UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U2725QE) is a prime candidate. Despite any minor gripes, it represents a practical, feature-rich option that should appeal to both work-focused users and tech enthusiasts. It’s available now at Dell for $699.99, with the larger 32-inch option asking a bit more from your wallet. This monitor, without a doubt, earns my endorsement.