The history of 3D video shows the industry's and enthusiasts' real effort to elevate it beyond gimmick status. Modern formats like Imax and frame-packed Blu-ray can create a convincing 3D image that immerses the viewer. I’ll never forget the first time I saw Avatar in a premium Imax theater. It was and still is a formative experience. I didn’t mind wearing the glasses then, but the idea of glasses-free 3D is always attractive.
The Acer SpatialLabs View is more than a few steps in the right direction. Not only can it mimic the look of a 3D TV for video and games, but the 3D Ultra feature also goes way beyond anything I’ve ever seen. Unfortunately, only nine games currently support it, but it is undeniably one of the coolest things in the gaming world.
As a gaming monitor, the View is not something you’ll want for fast-motion titles like Doom Eternal. Leave those to the fast refresh Adaptive-Sync models. The View tops out at a fixed 60 Hz. But in 2D, adventure games are a lot of fun thanks to the 4K screen with 282ppi pixel density, excellent contrast and very saturated & accurate color. 3D reduces that resolution to FHD, but that truly doesn’t matter. The suspension of disbelief is something you must experience to appreciate.
As a workday display, it is one of the best portables I’ve reviewed, thanks to accurate Adobe RGB color and greater contrast than nearly any IPS panel out there. Plenty of brightness means you can use it just about anywhere. And a five-hour battery life means it’s qualified for a spot in the road warrior’s tech bag.
The Acer SpatialLabs View is a special display and at this writing, is unique. It’s a premium purchase at $1,099, but that number is relative since nothing else can do what it does. If you’re a fan of 3D imagery, the View is a monitor you should keep in mind.
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