Choosing the right gaming monitor is a balancing act. You want the highest possible resolution, but you also want fast frame rates. Getting these two in the same display means an expensive video card, like the GeForce RTX 4090. To run Ultra HD at 144 Hz, you need a lot of processing power. But it is possible to have just as much fun for less money if you go with an FHD monitor. There are plenty of choices that run at 144 Hz or 165 Hz and deliver good color and video processing. At $170, the Dell S2422HG is one of the standouts.
With its slightly curved VA panel, the S2422HG delivers an immersive visual experience. VA means high contrast with deep blacks and this Dell is one of the very best in that regard. FHD often means sRGB color, but Dell has quietly upped that metric with a wide gamut that covers 125% of sRGB or 88.5% of DCI-P3. And with a few simple tweaks, that color is very accurate with a balanced and saturated palette. There’s no HDR, speakers or USB, but honestly, those omissions did not lessen the gaming experience.
Video processing was solid in nearly every respect. Only a slightly weak overdrive detracted from otherwise smooth gameplay. A backlight strobe is provided, which is a nice bonus at this price point, but I found it didn’t improve the situation. However, in most gaming content, only a slight softness was noticeable. I still spent many enjoyable hours mowing through monsters and mutants in Doom Eternal with no attention paid to those flaws. High frame rates and low input lag contribute to an excellent gaming experience. And the S2422HG’s build quality means it will last for the long haul.
If you have a modest gaming system, the Dell S2422HG is an ideal display with all the right attributes. It’s equally suited for work or play and will satisfy those looking for value. If your budget for a gaming monitor is $200 or less, this could be your best choice.
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