Dell S2721DGF 27-inch QHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor

Dell S2721DGF 27-inch QHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor — image 1
86%

Overview

The Dell S2721DGF 27-inch QHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor is designed to elevate your gaming experience with its sleek, high-performance specs. This 27-inch display offers a crisp QHD resolution (2560 x 1440), ideal for immersive gameplay. Equipped with a 165Hz refresh rate and a fast 1ms response time, it ensures smooth, lag-free performance during fast-paced action. With support for both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC, this monitor virtually eliminates screen tearing, making it a great option for serious gamers. Whether you're diving into competitive matches or exploring expansive game worlds, this monitor promises top-notch visual performance.

Features & Benefits

This high-refresh-rate monitor is packed with features that cater to gamers who prioritize performance. The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time provide a competitive edge in fast-paced games, ensuring every frame is rendered without noticeable lag. The IPS panel offers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making it perfect for both gaming and content creation. Ergonomic adjustability is another highlight, with options to tilt, swivel, height-adjust, and pivot the display for maximum comfort. Additionally, the HDR support enhances your gaming visuals, adding depth and realism to compatible content.

Best For

The Dell S2721DGF is best suited for competitive gamers who need the speed and precision offered by a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. Gamers who play fast-paced shooters or other action-heavy genres will appreciate the fluid, tear-free experience. Content creators who demand color accuracy will also find this monitor appealing due to its vibrant IPS display. Additionally, those who spend long hours gaming or working will benefit from its ergonomic adjustability, ensuring comfort during extended sessions. This monitor is a solid choice for anyone seeking a top-tier gaming display.

User Feedback

User feedback for this Dell monitor highlights its exceptional performance in gaming. Many users rave about the smooth, tear-free gameplay provided by its high refresh rate and FreeSync/G-SYNC support, especially in competitive shooters. Content creators have also praised the color accuracy and image clarity, making it a great option for editing and multimedia work. However, some users have pointed out that the HDR support is not as impressive as on more expensive models, with limited performance in HDR-enabled games. Despite this, the monitor’s overall quality has left most users satisfied, particularly for its price range.

Pros

  • The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time provide smooth, tear-free gaming, particularly in fast-paced genres.
  • Color accuracy is highly praised, making this monitor ideal for content creators who need precise visuals.
  • The adjustable stand offers tilt, height, swivel, and pivot options, enhancing comfort during long gaming sessions.
  • AMD FreeSync Premium and G-SYNC compatibility ensure a seamless gaming experience, even with different graphic card brands.
  • The 27-inch QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) strikes a great balance between clarity and performance without being too demanding on the GPU.
  • This monitor is a good fit for esports and competitive gamers who require low latency and high refresh rates.

Cons

  • HDR performance is limited, with some users noting that it doesn't compare well to higher-end monitors in terms of brightness and contrast.
  • While the monitor offers good adjustability, its large size and weight might be cumbersome for smaller desks or tight spaces.
  • Some users report issues with color uniformity, particularly around the edges of the screen, which can affect editing work.
  • The build quality is decent but feels somewhat plasticky compared to higher-end displays, which may not appeal to users who prioritize premium materials.
  • The monitor's brightness of 350 nits is lower than that of more expensive models, making it less suitable for bright rooms or outdoor use.
  • Speakers are not included, so users must rely on external audio solutions, which can be inconvenient for some setups.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple languages and platforms, we’ve compiled the scores for the Dell S2721DGF 27-inch QHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor. Only authentic, high-quality feedback was used, filtering out spam, bots, and incentivized reviews. Both the strengths and pain points of this device are reflected in the results, offering a well-rounded assessment from real users in diverse regions and markets.

Performance
92%
Many users highlight the ultra-smooth experience provided by the 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, particularly in fast-paced games. This combination ensures high responsiveness, making it ideal for competitive gaming where split-second decisions matter most.
A small number of users report occasional minor stuttering or ghosting, especially with certain hardware configurations or when running highly demanding games. These performance hiccups, while not widespread, can detract from the otherwise impressive gaming experience.
Display Quality
88%
The vibrant IPS display offers stunning color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making it a top choice for both gamers and content creators. Users appreciate the sharp QHD resolution (2560 x 1440), which strikes a balance between performance and visual clarity.
Despite the strong display quality, some users note that the brightness, at 350 nits, isn’t as high as some other premium models, which can be a disadvantage in very bright environments or for HDR content. The lack of full HDR support also limits its appeal to users seeking high-end visual experiences.
Ergonomics
85%
This monitor's ergonomic design is highly praised, especially its versatility. The ability to adjust the height, tilt, swivel, and pivot makes it comfortable for long gaming or work sessions, allowing users to find the ideal viewing angle and position.
While most users enjoy the ergonomic adjustments, a few feel that the stand could be sturdier, as it may wobble slightly during intense gaming sessions. This minor flaw may be more noticeable for those with limited desk space or heavier monitor mounts.
Gaming Experience
91%
Gamers rave about the smooth, tear-free experience provided by the combination of the 165Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium support. The 1ms response time ensures there is no noticeable input lag, which is crucial for high-speed, competitive games like first-person shooters.
A few gamers mention that while FreeSync works well, there can still be occasional screen tearing in some rare scenarios, particularly when paired with older graphics cards or less-optimized game settings. This is more of a niche issue but could impact some users.
Color Accuracy
87%
Users appreciate the Dell monitor's color accuracy, making it a great choice for tasks like photo editing, video editing, and content creation. The wide color gamut ensures rich, true-to-life hues that make everything from gaming to media consumption a visually engaging experience.
However, a handful of users feel that the colors may not be quite as vibrant as expected in very high-end monitors. Some note that fine color calibration is required to achieve the best results, which could be a downside for those seeking an out-of-the-box solution.
HDR Performance
75%
25%
For users who enjoy HDR content, this monitor does provide a noticeable improvement in contrast and brightness, enhancing the overall viewing experience in compatible games and videos. The HDR effect is subtle but adds to the visual experience in scenes with high dynamic range.
That being said, several users point out that the HDR performance is somewhat underwhelming compared to premium models, especially with a peak brightness of 350 nits. The lack of true HDR10 certification means it doesn’t fully deliver the high-end HDR experience some users expect.
Build Quality
84%
The build quality of this monitor is generally solid, with a sturdy design that feels durable enough for long-term use. The slim bezels give it a sleek, modern look, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition to any desk setup.
A few users have expressed concerns about the plastic build, which can feel a bit flimsy in certain areas. While not a major issue, the overall material quality could be a little more premium, especially considering the price point.
Setup & Installation
89%
Users find the setup process to be quick and straightforward, thanks to the intuitive on-screen display (OSD) menu and easy connection ports. The monitor is VESA-compatible, making it easy to mount on a wall or adjust with different stands if necessary.
Some buyers mention that the cables provided could be longer, particularly for those who intend to mount the monitor on a higher wall or need a more flexible setup. A few have also commented on the need for more in-depth instructions for adjusting advanced settings.
Value for Money
92%
Many users feel that this monitor offers excellent value for the price, especially given its performance features like the high refresh rate, low response time, and robust connectivity options. It strikes a good balance between gaming features and display quality, without reaching the price tag of some premium monitors.
On the other hand, some buyers feel that the price could be lower for the features offered, especially when compared to similar models from other brands. While the monitor delivers good quality, it may not be the absolute best value for budget-conscious gamers.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Users who have contacted customer support have reported fairly quick response times and helpful assistance with setup and minor technical issues. Dell’s warranty is also appreciated by those who want peace of mind with their purchase.
However, a number of users report mixed experiences with customer service, citing long wait times or unsatisfactory responses to complex technical issues. For some, the support didn’t meet expectations, which could be a concern for those needing more hands-on assistance.
Connectivity
90%
The monitor’s connectivity options, including HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2, are highly regarded. These options allow for easy connection to a wide range of devices, from gaming PCs to consoles, ensuring versatility for various use cases.
While the connectivity is generally solid, a few users point out that the ports could be positioned more conveniently for those with limited desk space. The lack of USB-C support is also noted by some users who prefer more modern connection options.
Portability/Size
80%
20%
The 27-inch size is perfect for most desk setups, offering a good balance of screen real estate without overwhelming the space. The monitor's slim profile and VESA compatibility allow for easy wall mounting or desk mounting, increasing its portability for different setups.
However, the larger size may not be ideal for users with smaller desks or limited workspace. Some find that the monitor’s weight, at 16.38 lbs, makes it harder to move or reposition frequently.

Suitable for:

The Dell S2721DGF 27-inch QHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor is an excellent choice for competitive gamers who prioritize high refresh rates and low latency. With its 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, it offers smooth, tear-free gameplay, making it ideal for fast-paced shooters and esports. Additionally, the IPS display provides vibrant color accuracy and wide viewing angles, which benefits content creators who require precise visuals for photo and video editing. Gamers seeking long sessions will also appreciate the ergonomically adjustable stand, which allows for tilt, height, swivel, and pivot adjustments for added comfort during extended use. Overall, those who need both gaming performance and color precision will find this monitor well-suited to their needs.

Not suitable for:

While this monitor performs exceptionally well for gaming and content creation, it may not be the best fit for users who prioritize high-end HDR performance. The HDR support on this model is limited, with a peak brightness of 350 nits, which may not meet the expectations of users looking for a true HDR experience. Additionally, those who need a more premium build quality might find the plastic construction of this monitor less appealing. It may also not be ideal for users with smaller desk spaces, as the 27-inch size and 16.38 lbs weight might be too large or cumbersome for some setups. Overall, those seeking a higher HDR standard or a more compact design might want to consider alternatives.

Specifications

  • Display Size: The monitor features a 27-inch display, providing a large and immersive viewing experience.
  • Resolution: The resolution is QHD (2560 x 1440), delivering crisp and clear visuals for gaming and productivity.
  • Refresh Rate: With a 165Hz refresh rate, the monitor ensures smooth and fluid gameplay, especially in fast-paced games.
  • Response Time: The monitor offers a 1ms response time, reducing motion blur and ghosting for fast-moving visuals.
  • Panel Type: It uses an IPS panel, providing wide viewing angles and vibrant, accurate color reproduction.
  • FreeSync Support: The monitor supports AMD FreeSync Premium, minimizing screen tearing and stuttering during gaming.
  • G-SYNC Compatibility: It is NVIDIA G-SYNC compatible, ensuring smooth synchronization with NVIDIA graphics cards for tear-free gameplay.
  • Height Adjustability: The monitor stand is height-adjustable, allowing you to customize the screen position for optimal comfort.
  • Tilt, Swivel, and Pivot: The stand offers tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, providing ergonomic flexibility for various viewing angles.
  • HDR Support: The monitor supports HDR, enhancing visuals in compatible games, though its HDR performance is limited compared to higher-end models.
  • Brightness: It has a peak brightness of 350 nits, offering adequate brightness for most indoor environments.
  • Connectivity: The monitor includes HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2 inputs for easy connection to PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles.
  • VESA Compatibility: The monitor is VESA compatible, allowing for easy mounting to compatible stands and wall mounts.
  • Dimensions: The monitor's dimensions are 2.67 x 24.8 x 14.31 inches, providing a spacious yet compact form factor.
  • Weight: The monitor weighs 16.38 lbs, offering a sturdy build while still being manageable for setup and adjustment.
  • Color Accuracy: The IPS display provides excellent color accuracy, making it suitable for content creation and gaming alike.
  • Viewing Angles: The IPS technology ensures wide viewing angles, with consistent color and brightness from various perspectives.
  • Setup: The monitor is easy to set up with a simple plug-and-play installation process.
  • Power Consumption: The monitor is energy-efficient, consuming relatively low power compared to larger displays, making it environmentally friendly.

FAQ

The Dell S2721DGF offers a 27-inch QHD display (2560 x 1440 resolution), a 165Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms response time, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming. It supports both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC, ensuring smooth, tear-free gameplay across different GPU brands.

Yes, this monitor is compatible with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards. It supports AMD FreeSync Premium for AMD users and is also G-SYNC compatible, ensuring smooth gameplay for users of both GPU types.

The IPS panel provides vibrant color accuracy, wide viewing angles, and consistent brightness, which is particularly beneficial for content creators and gamers who need precise visuals. This ensures that the image quality remains consistent even when viewed from off-angles.

Yes, the Dell S2721DGF features an ergonomically adjustable stand. You can adjust the height, tilt, swivel, and pivot, allowing you to customize the monitor for optimal comfort during long gaming sessions or productivity work.

The Dell S2721DGF does support HDR, but the HDR performance is somewhat limited compared to higher-end models. While it enhances the visual experience in compatible games, the brightness and contrast levels may not be as high as premium monitors.

With a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, this monitor is optimized for fast-paced games like FPS and racing games. It delivers smooth, tear-free gameplay with minimal motion blur, making it an excellent choice for competitive gaming and esports.

While the Dell S2721DGF is primarily designed for PC gaming, it can also be used for console gaming. However, keep in mind that the monitor does not support HDMI 2.1, so console gamers who are looking for 120Hz or higher at 4K will need to consider a different model.

This monitor offers HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2 connectivity. These ports are compatible with most modern PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles, making it easy to connect various devices for a seamless experience.

Yes, the Dell S2721DGF's color accuracy and wide viewing angles make it a solid choice for productivity work, especially for photo or video editing. However, its HDR performance might not satisfy professionals who require the highest color precision in critical lighting conditions.

Before buying this monitor, consider your desk space as it is a large 27-inch display. Also, while it performs well for fast-paced games and content creation, the HDR capabilities are limited compared to high-end monitors, and the lack of built-in speakers may require external audio equipment.