Quick Review: Philips 278G4DHSD AH-IPS Monitor

Specs That Matter

Display Size: 27 Inch

Panel Model: LG AH-IPS

Pixel Pitch: 0.311mm

Color Depth: 6-bit + A-FRC (16.7m colors)

Screen Coating: Glossy

Response Time: 7ms (g2g) in 2D mode

Brightness: 250 nits

Static Contrast Ratio: 1000:1

Resolution: 1920 x 1080

Backlight: W-LED

Refresh Rate: 60Hz

Connectivity: VGA (1), HDMI (3)

Features: Passive 3D support, Ambiglow (LED ambience lighting)

4 out of 5

Rating:

+ Positives

• Wide viewing angles typical of most IPS based LCD displays.
• Input lag is very low (around 4ms average) with the 3D function disabled.
• Pixel response is better than average for an IPS panel. Low input lag and good responsiveness means most users will find the 278G4DHSD is perfectly acceptable for gaming.
• High contrast ratio for an IPS panel thanks to the glossy screen surface.
• Glossy screen is less reflective than the average glossy monitor, though direct sunlight still produces many reflections.
• 3D works reasonably well assuming you are positioned directly in front of the display and sitting at the correct distance.
• Ambiglow has a mode that simulates daylight with a 6500K color temperature that is very comfortable to use in low light situations.
• Passive 3D means you can use cheaper, more lightweight 3D glasses, not the complex glasses required for active 3D that include expensive electronics.
• Handy USB 3.0 hub with fast charging support.
• Three HDMI inputs on the 278G4DHSD. It's a rarity for LCD monitors to include so many HDMI connections.

- Negatives

• Poor stand that has practically no range of movement, just a tilt function.
• Passive 3D function of the 278G4DHSD is somewhat disappointing, as it reduced image quality (also introduced subtle horizontal lines) and increased input lag, so it shouldn't be used while gaming.
• Panel uniformity isn't great, with some clouding and bleeding in the corners.
• Ambiglow, the array of 10 colored LEDs for environmental ambient lighting, is a little pointless (daylight mode aside) and drives up the 278G4DHSD's asking price.

See PCHardwareHelp.com's complete list of IPS monitors for more options other than the Philips 278G4DHSD.

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