BenQ's 27-inch 5K Thunderbolt 4 Designer Monitor: A Stellar Alternative to Apple’s Studio Display for $1199

The BenQ 27-inch 5K Thunderbolt 4 Designer Monitor is now available for pre-order at $1199, serving as a viable alternative to the Apple Studio Display, which starts at $1600. This monitor includes several features that may appeal more to some users compared to Apple's offering:

• Versatile Design: The BenQ monitor comes with a power button and a Hotkey Puck G3 for easy control, while the Apple Studio Display has no physical buttons.
• Build Quality: While the Studio Display uses an all-aluminum design, the BenQ monitor is made primarily of plastic but still fits well with Apple's aesthetic.
• Connectivity: The BenQ offers Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, DP1.4, multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, and a headphone jack, providing more I/O options than the Studio Display’s Thunderbolt 3 and fewer audio/visual features.
• Ergonomics: The BenQ stand is height-adjustable (150mm) and tilt-adjustable (-5º to 20º), whereas the Apple stand only offers tilt adjustment, with a height-adjustable stand costing an additional $400.
• Display Quality: Both monitors offer 27-inch displays with 5K resolution, but the BenQ supports VESA HDR400 and has a 2000:1 contrast ratio. The Studio Display offers higher brightness (600 nits vs. 400 nits).
• Color Accuracy: BenQ focuses on color accuracy with pre-calibration and offers tools like Display Color Talk and Palette Master Ultimate for fine-tuning.

The BenQ PD2730S is a solid option for users who prioritize flexibility, connectivity, and ergonomic features over the premium design of the Apple Studio Display.