In today’s work-from-anywhere environment, a reliable and comfortable computer monitor is more important than ever. While BenQ is a well-known name in the monitor market, some might not consider them as budget-friendly options. However, the BenQ GW2790 challenges that perception, offering a compelling package of features and functionality at an attractive price point for remote and hybrid workers. Let’s delve deeper into this 27-inch IPS monitor and see if it lives up to the hype.
Design and Build Quality: Simple Yet Functional
The BenQ GW2790 boasts a minimalist design with a focus on functionality. The monitor features a flat panel with slim bezels on three sides, creating a sleek and modern look. The bottom bezel is slightly thicker to accommodate the physical buttons for navigating the monitor’s settings. While the included stand is basic and doesn’t offer height adjustability, it’s easy to assemble and keeps the monitor stable on your desk. The stand’s compact design also helps minimize clutter on your workspace.
The back of the monitor is made of plastic with a black matte finish. While some users might prefer a more premium build material, the plastic construction feels sturdy and doesn’t detract from the overall aesthetics.
Connectivity Options: Covering Your Essentials
For connecting your devices, the GW2790 provides a decent selection of ports:
- Two HDMI 1.4 ports: Ideal for connecting laptops, desktops, or gaming consoles.
- One DisplayPort (DP) port: Offers a higher refresh rate and resolution compared to HDMI 1.4, future-proofing your connection options.
- One headphone jack: Allows you to connect headphones or speakers for private audio.
The ports are conveniently located on the bottom of the monitor, facing downwards. While this might not be ideal for frequent switching, it keeps the back of the monitor clean and uncluttered.
Intuitive Controls: Buttons and Software
The GW2790 utilizes a combination of physical buttons and downloadable software for accessing its various settings. Four buttons located on the bottom right of the monitor provide basic controls for power, input source selection, Low Blue Light Plus mode, and accessing the main menu.
For a more user-friendly experience, BenQ offers the Eye-CareU software. This software allows you to control all the monitor’s features using your mouse, including:
- Picture presets: Choose from various picture modes like Standard, Movie, Game, etc., to optimize the display for different tasks.
- Brightness and volume adjustment: Fine-tune the brightness and volume levels for optimal comfort.
- Blue light reduction: Adjust the Low Blue Light settings to minimize eye strain during prolonged use.
- Break reminders: Set up reminders to take breaks from staring at the screen and avoid eye fatigue.
A Display Built for Comfort and Productivity
The heart of the GW2790 lies in its 27-inch IPS panel with a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This display size offers ample screen real estate for multitasking and working with multiple windows simultaneously. Here are some key highlights of the display:
- 99% sRGB Color Gamut: Delivers vibrant and accurate colors, making it suitable for basic photo editing tasks.
- IPS Panel Technology: Ensures wide viewing angles, providing a clear picture from almost any position.
- 100Hz Refresh Rate: Offers smoother visuals compared to standard 60Hz monitors, particularly beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content.
- 5ms Response Time: Minimizes ghosting and blurring during quick movements, making it suitable for casual gaming.
Eye Care Technology: A Focus on Comfort
One of the most impressive aspects of the BenQ GW2790 is its suite of eye care technologies. These features are specifically designed to reduce eye strain and fatigue during extended use, making it ideal for long workdays. Here’s a closer look at some of these features:
- Flicker-Free Technology: Eliminates screen flickering, a significant contributor to eye fatigue.
- Low Blue Light Technology: Reduces harmful blue light emissions, which can disrupt sleep patterns and cause eye strain.
- Brightness Intelligence Technology: This feature automatically adjusts the monitor’s brightness based on the ambient light in your environment, ensuring optimal viewing comfort.
- Multiple Picture Modes: The GW2790 offers various picture modes like ePaper and Coding Mode, optimized for specific tasks and minimizing eye strain.
FAQs
Q: Is the BenQ GW2790 good for gaming?
A: The GW2790 can handle casual gaming well with its 100Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time. However, serious gamers might miss features like FreeSync/G-Sync compatibility and HDR support.
Q: Does the BenQ GW2790 have a height-adjustable stand?
A: No, the included stand is basic and doesn’t offer height adjustment.
Q: What are the benefits of the BenQ GW2790’s eye care technology?
A: The eye care features reduce screen flickering, and harmful blue light emissions, and automatically adjust brightness for optimal viewing comfort, minimizing eye strain during prolonged use.
