Dell has just given its UltraSharp 4K monitors a significant upgrade that’s bound to catch the eye of both professionals and gamers alike. At this year’s CES, Dell unveiled the latest iterations of its 27-inch and 32-inch 4K UltraSharp Thunderbolt displays, now boasting a refresh rate of 120Hz — a substantial leap from the previous 60Hz.

Traditionally, the Dell UltraSharp series has been the go-to for office workers and creatives who demand precision, reliability, and compatibility across various operating systems like Windows and macOS. These monitors are particularly celebrated for their multi-monitor setup capabilities, with the 27-inch version often cited in “best 4K monitor” lists. However, with the introduction of a 120Hz refresh rate, Dell is bridging the gap in the gaming domain, where higher refresh rates mean smoother visuals and quicker response times for a more fluid gaming experience. This makes the new 27-inch UltraSharp 4K model an appealing choice for those looking for a monitor that can handle both productivity and gaming without needing to switch screens.

Pricing and availability

This technological advancement doesn’t come cheap. The 27-inch model (U2725QE) has seen its price jump to $699.99 from $639.99, while the 32-inch version (U3225QE) now costs $949.99, up from $919.99. These monitors are set to hit the global market starting February 25th, offering consumers a high-end choice despite the price hike.

The upgrade isn’t just about speed. These monitors now feature “enhanced IPS Black technology,” which promises a 3,000:1 contrast ratio — a 47% improvement over standard IPS panels. This enhancement leads to deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, significantly enhancing image quality. A demonstration of this contrast ratio can be found on Dell’s official YouTube channel, showcasing the visual leap from the previous generation’s 2,000:1 ratio.

Additionally, both new models come with an ambient light sensor for adjusting screen brightness and color temperature based on the room’s lighting conditions, aiming to reduce eye strain during long hours of use. This feature, coupled with VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, ensures that the display delivers high dynamic range content with improved detail in both dark and bright scenes.

While the core design remains largely unchanged from previous models, there are subtle updates. The ports remain versatile with USB-A, USB-C, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and DisplayPort options, all surrounded by newly designed ventilation grills on the back for better heat dissipation. The overall aesthetic continues to blend into office environments with its professional look but now comes with the added flair of performance that could easily fit into a gamer’s setup too.

Dell’s decision to integrate a 120Hz refresh rate into its UltraSharp 4K monitors marks a significant shift, attempting to cater to a broader audience without compromising on its professional-grade heritage. While the price increase might give some pause, the combination of enhanced visual comfort, superior image quality, and versatility of use could justify the investment for those needing a high-quality, all-purpose monitor.