Alienware AW2725D QD-OLED Review: Rich Color, High Performance & Value
▼ Summary
– The Alienware AW2725D is a 27-inch QHD OLED gaming monitor with a 280 Hz refresh rate, Quantum Dot technology, and HDR400, priced at $550.
– It features extremely fast 0.03ms response time, excellent color accuracy, and over 111% DCI-P3 gamut coverage, making it highly vibrant and responsive.
– The monitor includes gaming aids like AlienVision for customizable aiming points, timers, and frame counters, but lacks internal speakers and a headphone jack.
– It has a premium build with a sturdy stand, extensive ergonomic adjustments, USB ports, and a three-year warranty backed by passive cooling and panel health monitoring.
– The AW2725D offers top-tier performance and image quality for its price, making it a strong alternative to more expensive 4K OLED monitors.
For gamers seeking a premium visual experience without the premium price tag, the Alienware AW2725D QD-OLED gaming monitor delivers outstanding color performance and responsiveness at a surprisingly accessible cost. This 27-inch display combines Quantum Dot OLED technology with a 280Hz refresh rate, offering a compelling alternative to pricier 4K options.
Specifications reveal a panel built for speed and vibrancy. It features a 2560×1440 QHD resolution, a blistering 0.03ms response time, and support for both FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility. With a measured color gamut exceeding 111% of DCI-P3, it stands out as one of the most vividly colorful displays available. HDR400 certification ensures bright highlights and deep blacks, though peak HDR brightness reaches around 460 nits in specific modes.
Design and construction maintain Alienware’s reputation for quality. The stand offers full ergonomic adjustment including tilt, swivel, height, and even portrait orientation. Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.1 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, alongside a practical USB hub with Type-A and Type-C ports conveniently located under the bottom bezel. Notably, the monitor omits internal speakers and a 3.5mm audio jack, relying instead on USB or external audio solutions.
Out-of-the-box image quality is good, though a slight green tint in Standard mode may prompt users to explore the OSD settings. Custom Color mode provides granular control over RGB gains, hues, and saturation, allowing for professional-grade calibration with minimal effort. The on-screen display is intuitive, featuring a handy quick menu and deeper options like AlienVision, an advanced crosshair editor with dynamic reticles and night vision settings.
Gaming performance is where the AW2725D truly excels. Motion clarity is exceptional, with no visible blur or ghosting even during fast-paced action. The combination of OLED’s instantaneous pixel response and high refresh rate creates an incredibly fluid and responsive experience. In titles like Doom Eternal, aiming feels precise and immediate, giving players a tangible competitive edge.
Beyond gaming, the monitor serves as an excellent tool for creative work and media consumption. The wide color gamut and high contrast ratio make photo editing and video playback particularly engaging. While it lacks built-in speakers, pairing it with quality headphones or external speakers transforms it into a impressive personal entertainment center.
Priced at around $550, the Alienware AW2725D represents remarkable value. It provides nearly all the benefits of higher-end OLED displays, including superb motion handling, rich colors, and deep blacks, while remaining significantly more affordable than 4K alternatives. For those prioritizing smooth gameplay and vibrant imagery over ultra-high resolution, this monitor is an easy recommendation.
(Source: Tom’s Hardware)
