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Conclusion

Users wanting a 3D-capable display have few choices, but after spending time with two of the newest examples, it’s gratifying to know that the format is very much alive and receiving the support it deserves. Glasses-free 3D isn’t new, but until now, it wasn’t the equal of the technologies associated with polarized or shutter-type glasses. Thanks to Samsung, SpatialLabs, and Acer, it is now possible to enjoy 3D content and the conversion of 2D material on the desktop.

Acer Predator SpatialLabs View 27 PSV27-2 3D — (Image credit: Acer)

Comparisons to the Samsung 3D G9 are inevitable, so I’ll sum them up here. Both screens are excellent 4K monitors for 2D content. They have wide color gamuts and bright, sharp images. However, the PSV27-2 takes a hit for its missing HDR support. Both monitors offer excellent video processing, with smooth motion resolution and low input lag. Acer does have a better backlight strobe implementation, though. It is one of the very best I’ve experienced. And the PSV27-2 has the best integrated audio I’ve ever experienced from a computer monitor, thanks to its external speaker boxes and convincing spatial sound effects.

In the 3D realm, the PSV27-2 offers significantly more support for creative applications in the design and presentation genres, thanks to Acer’s partnership with SpatialLabs. Both Samsung and Acer allow the conversion of 2D video to 3D, but the PSV27-2 provides the user with more control over the effect through on-the-fly adjustments. Acer also offers more game support through TrueGame, with 185 titles available at the time of writing.

Both monitors cost the same at around $2,000, so a buyer’s decision comes down to, “What do I want a glasses-free monitor for?” If it’s fantastic audio, creative applications, and wide game support, the answer is Acer’s PSV27-2 Predator Spatial Labs PSV27-2.

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Christian Eberle is a Contributing Editor for Tom's Hardware US. He's a veteran reviewer of A/V equipment, specializing in monitors. Christian began his obsession with tech when he built his first PC in 1991, a 286 running DOS 3.0 at a blazing 12MHz. In 2006, he undertook training from the Imaging Science Foundation in video calibration and testing and thus started a passion for precise imaging that persists to this day. He is also a professional musician with a degree from the New England Conservatory as a classical bassoonist which he used to good effect as a performer with the West Point Army Band from 1987 to 2013. He enjoys watching movies and listening to high-end audio in his custom-built home theater and can be seen riding trails near his home on a race-ready ICE VTX recumbent trike. Christian enjoys the endless summer in Florida where he lives with his wife and Chihuahua and plays with orchestras around the state.