The line between professional productivity monitors and gaming displays is blurring. The BenQ PD3226G embodies this shift, offering accurate visuals, impressive color performance, and a smooth 144Hz refresh rate with adaptive sync. This review delves into its strengths and weaknesses, assessing its suitability for creative professionals and gamers alike.
BenQ PD3226G: Specifications and Features
The BenQ PD3226G is a 31.5-inch 4K monitor designed for demanding tasks. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
- Display: 31.5-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio, 3840×2160 resolution
- Panel Type: 10-bit IPS LCD
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
- HDR: HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, Thunderbolt 4 (90W PD, DisplayPort), Thunderbolt 4-out (15W PD), Thunderbolt 3-out (Daisy Chain), USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 upstream (10Gbps data), 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 downstream (10Gbps data, 4.5W PD), USB-C Gen 2 downstream (10Gbps data, 4.5W PD), 3.5mm headphone jack
- Stand: Ergonomic (height, tilt, swivel, pivot)
- VESA Mount: 100x100mm
- Audio: 2x 3-watt speakers
- Extras: Wireless puck controller, KVM switch
The extensive Thunderbolt connectivity allows for powering laptops, connecting peripherals, and daisy-chaining a second display. While lacking Ethernet, the PD3226G offers a robust selection of ports for most users.
Design and Ergonomics
The “Designer” series moniker reflects the PD3226G’s sleek aesthetic. Its silver and white finish gives it a modern look, while the sturdy build quality inspires confidence. The ergonomic stand offers full adjustability, including a less common pivot feature, enhancing user comfort.
BenQ PD3226G 4
The small base minimizes desk footprint, and the integrated cable management system helps maintain a tidy workspace. VESA mounting compatibility further expands its versatility.
Connectivity and Control
Beyond its video inputs, the PD3226G excels in connectivity. The Thunderbolt 4 port supports both video and 90W Power Delivery for laptops. Additional Thunderbolt and USB ports facilitate peripheral connections and data transfer. The included KVM switch simplifies switching between multiple PCs.
Navigation is made easy with a responsive joystick and BenQ’s unique wireless puck controller. This dial offers complete menu control and can be customized for use within Windows applications.
BenQ PD3226G 3
Software control is also available through Display Pilot 2 for both Windows and Mac. The extensive image quality options and calibration software cater to professionals seeking precise color accuracy.
SDR Image Quality: Strengths and Weaknesses
The PD3226G’s SDR image quality is a mixed bag. It boasts impressive brightness reaching 468 nits, ensuring usability in bright environments. However, its contrast ratio of 1180:1 falls short of competitors with IPS Black or OLED panels, resulting in a somewhat duller image.
benq pd3226g brightness
benq pd3226g contrast
Redeeming itself, the PD3226G delivers exceptional color performance, covering 100% of sRGB, 99% of DCI-P3, and 92% of AdobeRGB. Color accuracy is equally impressive, with an average error below 1.0.
benq pd3226g color gamut
benq pd3226g color accuracy
HDR and Motion Performance
HDR performance is a weak point, limited by the monitor’s brightness and contrast. While supporting HDR10 and DisplayHDR 400, it doesn’t deliver the impactful HDR experience seen on Mini-LED or OLED displays.
Motion handling, however, is a strong suit. The 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time contribute to excellent motion clarity, surpassing many professional monitors. While OLED still reigns supreme in this category, the PD3226G offers a noticeable improvement over slower IPS alternatives.
Final Verdict
The BenQ PD3226G is a compelling option for creative professionals who also enjoy gaming. Its strengths lie in its connectivity, color performance, motion clarity, and extensive customization options. However, the limited contrast and subpar HDR performance should be considered. Ultimately, the PD3226G strikes a balance between professional needs and entertainment capabilities, making it a versatile choice for those who demand both.
