Dell UltraSharp U2723QE Review: Is It Worth It?

The Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is a 27-inch 4K monitor that has become a favorite among professionals who need accurate colors and a clean desk setup. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to see if this monitor lives up to its reputation. With IPS Black technology, a USB-C hub, and factory-calibrated colors, it promises to be a workhorse for photo editors, video editors, and office users. But is it worth the premium price? Let's dive in.

Design and Build Quality

The U2723QE follows Dell's UltraSharp design language: a slim bezel, a sturdy stand, and a clean silver-and-black finish. The stand offers height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, making it easy to find a comfortable viewing position. The build feels solid, with no creaks or wobbles. The back panel includes cable management holes to keep your desk tidy.

The monitor has a wide range of ports: one USB-C with 90W power delivery, two DisplayPort 1.4 (one upstream, one downstream for daisy-chaining), one HDMI 2.0, four USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, and an RJ45 Ethernet port. This hub functionality is a major plus for laptop users who want a single-cable solution.

Display Performance: IPS Black and Color Accuracy

The U2723QE uses IPS Black technology, which doubles the contrast ratio of traditional IPS panels to 2000:1. In practice, this means deeper blacks and better shadow detail, which is especially noticeable when viewing dark scenes or editing photos with high dynamic range. The 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) provides sharp text and fine details, ideal for spreadsheets, code, and image editing.

Color accuracy is outstanding out of the box. The monitor covers 100% sRGB, 100% Rec. 709, and 98% DCI-P3. Dell calibrates each unit at the factory to achieve Delta E < 2, and our analysis of buyer feedback confirms that most users see no color casts. The on-screen display includes preset color spaces like sRGB, Rec. 709, DCI-P3, and a custom mode. You can also adjust gamma and white point for precise calibration.

Brightness is rated at 350 nits (typical), which is sufficient for most indoor environments. However, it only supports VESA DisplayHDR 400, which is entry-level HDR. For HDR content, the monitor lacks the peak brightness and local dimming needed for a true HDR experience. If you need HDR for video editing, you might want to look at more expensive options.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

The USB-C port is a standout feature. It delivers up to 90W of power, so it can charge most laptops while transmitting video and data. The built-in Ethernet port is a bonus for stable wired network connections, especially in offices with weak Wi-Fi. The USB hub includes four downstream ports, allowing you to connect peripherals like a mouse, keyboard, and external drive.

Setting up the monitor is straightforward. The stand attaches with a simple click, and the on-screen display (OSD) is navigated via a joystick on the back. The OSD is intuitive, with quick access to input selection, brightness, and color modes. The monitor also has a picture-by-picture (PBP) feature that lets you view two inputs side by side, which is handy for multitasking.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the U2723QE receives high praise, some buyers have reported issues. A few mention backlight bleed in the corners, which is common with IPS panels and varies by unit. Others note that the monitor has no built-in speakers, so you'll need external speakers or headphones. The 60Hz refresh rate is fine for productivity but not for competitive gaming. Some users also find the price high, though they acknowledge the features justify it.

One recurring complaint is the lack of a true HDR experience. If you buy this monitor for HDR gaming or content creation, you may be disappointed. Also, the USB-C power delivery may not be enough for larger laptops that require more than 90W, so check your laptop's specifications.

Comparison with Similar Monitors

To help you decide, we compared the U2723QE with two popular alternatives: the LG 27UP850-W and the BenQ PD2705U.

• LG 27UP850-W: This monitor also has a 4K IPS panel and USB-C with 96W power delivery. It lacks IPS Black, so contrast is lower (1000:1). It has a similar color gamut (95% DCI-P3) and is often cheaper. The stand is less adjustable, and it lacks an Ethernet port.
• BenQ PD2705U: This monitor is aimed at designers and has a 27-inch 4K IPS panel with 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3. It includes a USB-C port with 65W power delivery and a hotkey puck for quick OSD control. It does not have IPS Black, and its contrast is typical for IPS. It is usually priced similarly to the Dell.
• ASUS ProArt PA279CV: Another 4K IPS monitor with 100% sRGB and 99% Adobe RGB. It has USB-C with 65W power delivery and a similar feature set, but again lacks IPS Black. It is often a bit cheaper.

The Dell stands out with its IPS Black panel and the most comprehensive hub (including Ethernet). If you value deep blacks and a single-cable setup, the U2723QE is worth the extra cost.

Ideal Use Cases

The U2723QE is best suited for:

• Photo editing and graphic design: Accurate colors and high resolution allow for precise adjustments.
• Video editing (non-HDR): The 4K resolution and good contrast help with timeline work, though HDR monitoring is limited.
• Office productivity: The USB-C hub and Ethernet port make it a great hub for laptops.
• Software development: Sharp text and screen real estate for code.

It is not ideal for competitive gaming due to the 60Hz refresh rate and lack of adaptive sync. For casual gaming, it's fine, but you won't get the smoothness of a 144Hz monitor.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

The Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is a premium 4K monitor that delivers on its promises. The IPS Black technology provides a noticeable improvement in contrast, and the color accuracy is exceptional. The USB-C hub with 90W power delivery and Ethernet is a game-changer for desk setups. While it lacks true HDR and is expensive, for professionals who need reliable, accurate color and a clean workspace, it is a worthwhile investment. If you're on a budget or need HDR, consider alternatives, but for photo editing and office work, the U2723QE is a top choice.

Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.