The S2725QS makes a straightforward desk upgrade if you already have a way to connect everything. Its 27-inch 4K panel runs at up to 120 Hz, a combination that benefits a long document as much as a game. Its name differs from the S2725QC by one letter. That letter decides whether the monitor can replace a laptop dock.
In depth
Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor S2725QS review
Published · Updated
Best forSomeone with a desktop, console or existing dock who wants sharp work text and smoother scrolling without buying another USB hub.
At a glance
- Screen size
- 27 inches
- Panel technology
- IPS
- Native resolution
- 3840 × 2160
- Refresh rate
- 120 Hz
Pros
- Crisp 4K text, with a stand that adjusts for height and orientation. 1
- Two HDMI inputs and DisplayPort accommodate several video sources.
Cons
- There is no USB input, downstream hub or laptop charging.
- HDR highlights lack impact on the tested panel. 1
Display & Desktop Use
- 27-inch 4K IPS
- 120 Hz
- 99% sRGB
RTINGS found very clear text and an accurate sRGB preset on its unit. A fast-moving pointer and scrolling page can also benefit from 120 Hz, provided the computer actually outputs it. The reviewer found less impressive motion in demanding games and gray-looking blacks in a dark room. A display can improve desktop movement without becoming an ideal HDR gaming screen. 1
Connectivity
- 2 HDMI inputs
- DisplayPort 1.4
- No USB hub
A laptop with only USB-C will need a compatible video adapter or dock. It will still need its own power connection. Someone who already owns that dock can buy the QS without losing a daily convenience. Someone building a new hot-desk setup should count the dock and extra cables when comparing prices.
HDR & Motion
- No local dimming in RTINGS’ test
- FreeSync Premium
- 4 ms rated in Extreme mode
The sRGB preset is the better reason to buy this screen for image work. RTINGS found that it reproduced a limited range of colors in HDR, lacked local dimming and left bright details looking subdued. The same reviewer saw blur during fast motion even as refresh rate changed. The manufacturer’s 4 ms figure applies to the Extreme overdrive setting. Read it as a particular transition specification, separate from the sharpness you would see while following a moving target. 1
Design & Ergonomics
- Anti-glare finish
- Height, tilt, swivel and pivot
- 100 × 100 mm VESA
Portrait rotation makes sense for a single long document or a code window. On this model the video input remains on the monitor, while keyboards, webcams and storage stay on the computer or dock. Leave enough slack in the video lead to rotate the panel without tugging the connector. For a two-monitor arm, Dell gives a panel weight of about 4.56 kg without the stand or cables and a 100 × 100 mm mounting pattern.
Alternatives
The S2725QC adds a USB-C hub and charging. The older S2721QS also offers 27-inch 4K but stops at 60 Hz. Staying with one of those older units is reasonable for mostly static work if the only upgrade on offer is smoother motion.
Verdict
Buy the QS for the panel and stand when your ports are already sorted. Choose the QC when a single-cable arrival at the desk is part of what you want the new monitor to do.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this monitor.
Sources & Research
1 reference
Independent sources cited in this article.
- RTINGSRTINGS • Dell S2725QS review (opens in a new tab)https://www.rtings.com/monitor/reviews/dell/s2725qs
Exact S2725QS, Jan 2025 sample tested with firmware M3B101.