Greatest USB-C displays 2025: These shows have a hidden expertise

USB-C is the one connection to rule all of them. Its reputation has made USB-C a standard sight on new displays. A USB-C monitor can act as USB hub, providing you with further ports for connecting varied USB gadgets, however the monitor’s USB-C port may function a video-input various to HDMI or DisplayPort; and a few USB-C displays may even cost a related system whereas in use.

The main points of USB-C might be complicated, nevertheless, and pricing for USB-C displays is commonly larger than that for displays that lack the interface. See our patrons’ information under our suggestions to higher perceive the nuances.

Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE – Greatest USB-C monitor general

Professionals

• Useful, skilled design
• Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, Ethernet, and 140 watts of Energy Supply
• New era of IPS Black boosts distinction ratio
• Wonderful sharpness from 31.5-inch 4K panel
• 120Hz refresh fee with VRR

Cons

• Distinction ratio is sweet for an IPS panel, however nonetheless behind VA and OLED panels
• HDR brightness is first rate, however distinction stays restricted
• Doesn’t have audio system

The Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE is a wonderful selection for professionals who want a high-quality show with best-in-class USB-C connectivity.

The U3225QE’s connectivity eliminates the necessity for exterior docks and adapters. It options Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Energy Supply—sufficient to cost most laptops—together with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining a number of displays. A built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet port ensures a quick and steady wired community connection, a uncommon function amongst displays. It additionally presents six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM swap performance for seamless switching between two related PCs.

Along with its connectivity, the U3225QE has a pointy 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel with wonderful shade accuracy and an above-average distinction ratio for a productiveness monitor. The 120Hz refresh fee enhances responsiveness, making duties like scrolling by means of paperwork and multitasking smoother. The ergonomic stand supplies top, tilt, swivel, and portrait mode changes, and the anti-glare coating ensures snug viewing in varied lighting circumstances.

Whereas it lacks built-in audio system and its HDR efficiency is proscribed, the U3225QE’s in depth connectivity and high-quality show make it a standout selection for professionals who want a central hub for his or her workspace.

Desire a smaller model of this monitor? Take a look at the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE. It has an analogous 4K IPS Black show panel and Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C connectivity.

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Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE evaluate

BenQ GW2786TC – Greatest finances USB-C monitor

Professionals

• Enticing design and ergonomic stand
• Nice connectivity together with USB-C with Energy Supply
• Contains ambient gentle sensor, microphone
• Good distinction ratio for the value

Cons

• Solely 1080p decision
• Coloration efficiency is mid-pack
• Lacks Adaptive Sync

The BenQ GW2786TC is without doubt one of the greatest USB-C displays you should purchase for underneath $200. It presents a 27-inch IPS show with 1080p decision, a 100Hz refresh fee, and an ergonomic stand with top, tilt, and swivel changes. Whereas it’s not the sharpest monitor at this dimension, it delivers good distinction and a easy viewing expertise for on a regular basis work.

It has USB-C with 65W Energy Supply, permitting a single-cable connection for video, energy, and knowledge. It additionally consists of DisplayPort-out for daisy-chaining a second monitor, a uncommon perk on this value vary. Constructed-in audio system, a noise-canceling microphone, and an ambient gentle sensor add further comfort for residence workplace use.

BenQ markets this monitor as a companion for MacBooks just like the MacBook Air, however don’t let that idiot you: It really works simply as properly with Home windows PCs, Chromebooks, and Linux laptops.

The BenQ GW2786TC’s greatest flaw is its lack of adaptive sync, which suggests gameplay received’t seem as easy as on some price-competitive alternate options.

That apart, the BenQ GW2786TC’s quite a few options and low value make it among the finest budget-friendly USB-C displays accessible.

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BenQ GW2786TC evaluate

Viewsonic ColorPro VP16 OLED – Greatest moveable USB-C monitor

Professionals

• Versatile, helpful stands
• Good connectivity, cables included
• Quite a few picture high quality customization choices
• Prime-tier picture high quality even at default settings

Cons

• Audio system are included, however weak
• Dear for a conveyable monitor
• No HDR

The Viewsonic VP16-OLED is a exceptional moveable OLED monitor that brings collectively top-notch picture high quality, USB-C connectivity, and an progressive stand design. 

The monitor’s 15.6-inch 1080p OLED panel delivers distinctive shade accuracy, gamut, and distinction. It surpasses many full-sized OLED displays and practically all moveable displays. This makes it an awesome selection for productiveness, although it additionally appears wonderful when viewing motion pictures or taking part in video games. 

The VP16-OLED’s stand can be utilized as a kickstand or expanded to carry the monitor upright, making it preferrred for professionals who need to maximize their workspace or want improved ergonomics. The stand consists of two USB-C ports, each of which may present energy and video enter to the monitor, and a micro-HDMI port for compatibility with non-USB-C gadgets. The monitor consists of all the required cables in addition to a USB-C energy brick.

There’s a disadvantage: the price. The Viewsonic VP16-OLED’s MSRP of $399.99 is dear for a conveyable monitor. Nonetheless, if you happen to place a excessive worth on picture high quality and need one of the best monitor in your moveable workplace, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED is a wonderful selection.

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Viewsonic ColorPro VP16-OLED evaluate

LG DualUp 28MQ780-B – Greatest USB-C monitor for productiveness

Professionals

• Distinctive side ratio is beneficial for picture, video modifying
• Makes an superior second monitor 
• Extremely adjustable stand 
• Vivid, correct shade

Cons

• Tough to slot in a small residence workplace 
• USB-C port presents restricted downstream connectivity 
• Can lack immersion in some content material

The LG DualUp 28MQ780-B is a USB-C monitor with a singular 16:18 side ratio that’s nearly precisely sq.. It may possibly rotate right into a 18:16 side ratio if you happen to’d favor. The monitor is far taller than most displays and, consequently, has an adjustable stand that clamps to the rear of your desk as an alternative of a traditional desktop stand.

The monitor’s odd type issue is right for viewing massive, complicated paperwork and might be helpful for modifying portrait or sq. images. It’s additionally properly fitted to use as a second monitor alongside a big 32-inch show.

The DualUp 28MQ780-B has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of Energy Supply, so it may cost a related laptop computer or pill. The USB-C port can lengthen connectivity to 2 further USB-A ports. Sadly, the monitor lacks ethernet or video-out, so some homeowners may have an extra adapter.

What about picture high quality? It’s nice. The monitor has nice shade accuracy, a large shade gamut, and respectable sharpness due to its decision of 2560×2880. Simply be warned: The odd side ratio makes it a wierd match for gaming and flicks. It is a monitor constructed for work, not play.

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LG DualUp 28MQ780-B evaluate

Philips Evnia 8000 – Greatest super-ultrawide USB-C monitor

Professionals

• Wonderful SDR picture high quality
• Nice movement readability
• A lot of connectivity together with USB-C
• Lovely design

Cons

• Ergonomic stand is deep, huge, and requires meeting
• Default shade temperature, gamut barely off course
• HDR efficiency may very well be higher

The Philips Evnia 8000 takes the crown as the final word big-screen, super-ultrawide monitor. This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor combines top-notch design and in depth connectivity with spectacular picture high quality.

Philips nails the design with the Evnia 8000. The smooth white-and-silver aesthetic and geometric rear panel stand out in any setup. Though the ergonomic stand requires extra desk area than some may favor, it presents top, tilt, and swivel changes. The pleasurable 30-watt speaker system delivers clear, loud audio, and the ultra-bright Ambiglow lighting system supplies customizable RGB LED backlighting.

Connectivity is a perk. It options a number of HDMI 2.1 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C port with 90W Energy Supply, catering to a variety of gadgets from gaming PCs to work laptops. The monitor additionally features a USB hub with 4 USB-A ports and an extra USB-C port, making it simple to attach peripherals like keyboards, mice, and webcams.

Picture high quality doesn’t disappoint. The show has 5120×1440 decision and a 240Hz refresh fee for vibrant visuals and easy, responsive movement. The monitor additionally excels in distinction and shade accuracy.

The Philips Evnia 8000 is priced at an intimidating $1,350, but it surely’s not a nasty worth for what it presents. Its dimension, connectivity, and picture high quality make for a formidable but versatile show.

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Philips Evnia 8000 evaluate

Different USB-C monitor opinions

• MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED: This 27-inch gaming monitor presents a headline-grabbing next-gen QD-OLED panel, 240Hz refresh fee, and USB-C with Energy Supply.
• BenQ PD3226G: This IPS monitor is aimed toward inventive professionals who may additionally take pleasure in some gaming, with a number of Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity.
• MSI MPG 321URXW QD-OLED:  Yet one more wonderful 32-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor — however with the added perk of USB connectivity.  
• HP Omen Transcend 32: It’ss dear even for a 32-inch 4K OLED monitor, however makes up for that with nice USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR picture high quality.
• Acer Predator X32 X3: The Acer Predator X32 X3 is a extra inexpensive 4K OLED monitor that packs a pleasant bonus: USB-C with 90 watts of Energy Supply.
• Asus ProArt Show 5KT: An incredible 5K monitor that delivers sharp-sharp 5K decision, professional-grade shade efficiency, and excellent worth, in addition to USB-C with 96 watts of energy supply and the connectivity choices of a well-rounded hub.
• Acer Predator X34: It’s one other in a spate of OLED displays with a 240Hz refresh fee, however with the added distinction of boasting a curved display screen for immersive gameplay. After all, it additionally options USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of USB Energy Supply and a group of USB-A and -C ports for connecting peripherals.
• Alienware AW2725QF: Whereas it doesn’t function USB-C amongst its three video imputs, it may act as a USB hub, with its upstream USB-B 3.2 port and 4 downstream ports: three USB-A ports plus one USB-C port.
• Gigabyte Aorus F032U2 and Gigabyte Auros FO27Q3: Each of those QD-OLED panels present their gaming chops with excessive refresh charges and Adaptive Sync assist, in addition to 4 video inputs apiece together with USB-C, and so they additionally every toss in a pair downstream USB-A ports to energy peripherals.

What to search for in a USB-C monitor

Many options fascinating in a USB-C monitor are the identical as on some other show. A pointy, vivid, brilliant, and contrast-rich display screen is greatest. Nonetheless, consumers who need to purchase a USB-C monitor ought to keep watch over particulars solely related to USB-C.

Bear in mind, too, {that a} USB-C show can be utilized in two contexts. First, you possibly can join your USB-C monitor to a desktop PC or laptop computer through a USB-C cable, and use it like a conventional USB-C hub through the USB-C cable’s 20Gbps interface. That’s fairly easy.

Second, you too can use the USB-C cable as a alternative for a show cable like HDMI or DisplayPort, particularly for newer laptops which may remove an HDMI or DisplayPort port.

Additional studying: For much more monitor suggestions, try our roundups of one of the best displays and one of the best displays for a house workplace.

It’s right here that USB-C displays can get tough. The standard rule of thumb is {that a} USB-C port can assist a 4K show at 30Hz decision. DisplayPort Alternate Mode (see under) will increase that to 4K60, which is far simpler on the eyes. Newer laptops use DisplayPort 1.4, which mixes a high-bit-rate mode (HBR3) with a DSC compression mode that ought to enable for 4K60 video alongside the power to make use of USB 3.1 storage gadgets.

Remember, nevertheless, that the USB-C cable’s 20Gbps throughput could not enable for video to be handed to premium shows just like the NZXT Canvas S27Q at its full 1440p, 165Hz refresh fee. These specs most likely assume that you just’re utilizing a devoted video port like DisplayPort, as an alternative, in addition to its separate video cable. You may definitely join the show to your laptop computer utilizing each a video cable and the USB-C cable concurrently, nevertheless.

In case your laptop computer makes use of both Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 — all of which use a 40Gbps knowledge connection and a USB-C port in your laptop computer — it’s best to most likely don’t have any points connecting your laptop computer to the monitor on the full refresh fee utilizing a Thunderbolt cable. Simply seek the advice of your laptop computer’s specs and/or guide to verify.

Energy Supply

USB-C Energy Supply supplies energy over a USB-C cable. It’s not a part of the core USB-C specification, so gadgets with USB-C (together with displays) don’t at all times assist it. Energy Supply can pack as much as 240 watts, however most USB-C displays present simply 65 to 90 watts. It’s an ideal match for individuals who personal a thin-and-light laptop computer, 2-in-1, or pill.

Energy Supply is insufficient for some gadgets, equivalent to gaming laptops, which devour extra energy than present USB-C displays can present. These laptops should still cost when left at idle however will cost slowly (and even discharge the battery) when in use.

Ethernet

Wired ethernet is a fascinating function in a USB-C monitor. Many trendy laptops lack a bodily Ethernet port, so its inclusion on a monitor is handy. It may possibly enhance the pace and reliability of a related system’s web connection.

Whereas helpful, that is an costly function accessible solely on premium fashions. The Dell U3223QE is the one USB-C monitor on this listing with ethernet assist.

DisplayPort Alternate Mode

DisplayPort Alternate Mode is a function accessible to USB-C that handles video as if the USB-C cable was a DisplayPort cable. It helps all of the options you’d anticipate from DisplayPort together with excessive refresh charges and adaptive sync.

A monitor with out this function received’t settle for video over USB-C, that means you’ll have to attach each USB-C and a separate video enter. All of the displays on this listing assist DisplayPort Alternate Mode.

How we take a look at displays

PC World’s monitor guides are the results of unbiased exams by PC World workers members and freelance expertise journalists. 

We take a look at every monitor with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Extremely shade calibration instrument. This instrument can measure a monitor’s brightness, distinction, shade gamut, shade accuracy, uniformity, gamma, shade temperature, and different vital elements of show high quality. Utilizing a instrument that measures goal high quality helps us objectively examine dozens of displays.

Our exams of USB-C displays additionally think about the vary of USB-C connectivity and options accessible. We favor to see a USB-C monitor with a whole vary of bodily connectivity together with ethernet and a minimum of 90 watts of Energy Supply, however these fascinating options are balanced towards the monitor’s value.

Study extra in our article “How we take a look at displays at PCWorld.”