To read about our monitor tests in-depth, please check out Display Testing Explained: How We Test PC Monitors. We cover brightness and contrast testing on page two.
Uncalibrated – Maximum Backlight Level
Out of the box, the EX3210U just tops 250 nits peak for SDR signals. BenQ is purposely limiting brightness here because I had no problem hitting 600 nits in HDR mode. You can also get greater brightness in the HDRi modes. My default test employs factory settings with the backlight slider maxed. That being said, 250 nits is plenty of light for such a large panel.
Though the EX3210U wins the black level test, it’s due to its lower backlight level, not greater contrast. That value is just 875.7:1, lower than average compared to the competition. The Philips is the best panel here not only for its dynamic range but also for its relatively low price. The ViewSonic looks fantastic too, but its Mini LED panel will set you back around $2,500.
After Calibration to 200 nits
Calibration in the EX3210U’s Custom mode improves contrast a little to 916.3:1. This is still below average, but some careful tweaking of the Light Tuner helps improve picture quality by tightening the gamma tracking. Thanks to tremendous color saturation, the picture is good. But there is room for improvement. Unfortunately, the variable backlight feature is only available for HDR content or in the HDRi modes.
ANSI contrast stays right with the static number which is a very good thing. The EX3210U is clearly made from excellent components with good quality control. A bit of engineering in the monitor’s firmware could probably increase that dynamic range enough to make it more competitive.
