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The GS34WQC switches automatically to HDR mode when an HDR10 signal is input. There are no picture controls available, but I found decent accuracy during testing.
HDR Brightness and Contrast
HDR mode locks brightness at maximum which gives the picture more impact, but there is no dimming happening here. That means black levels and contrast are the same as they are for SDR content. You’ll see more color saturation, but that’s about it. The GS34WQC supports HDR but doesn’t embrace it. If HDR quality is a priority, one of the other screens (not the Xiaomi) would be a better choice. Obviously, the Mini LED Philips is the best of all with its near-1,500-nit peak and infinite black levels.
Grayscale, EOTF and Color
The GS34WQC maintains its grayscale and color accuracy in HDR mode. There is a slight cool tone in the brighter parts of the image but not enough to detract. The EOTF tracks almost perfectly on the reference which means all tone mapping is correct. The transition point is at 65% which is appropriate for the measured black and white thresholds.
In the gamut tests, the GS34WQC hits all the DCI-P3 targets with little variation. Color is generally over-saturated for just a little extra impact. The Rec.2020 chart shows all targets are on or close until the GS34WQC runs out of color at around 85% red, 70% green and 90% blue. This is typical performance for wide gamut monitors without Quantum Dot backlights.
Test Takeaway: The GS34WQC is very color-accurate in HDR mode with reference-level tone mapping. Unfortunately, there is no dimming in operation, so ultimately, the image has no more depth or contrast. Extra color saturation produces a slight improvement, but this monitor more supports the standard than embraces it.
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