Is QHD (2560x1440) Right For You?
These two monitors represent the high-end of computer displays. With all the advantages of IPS technology and super-high pixel density, these screens pretty much have it all.
Why would you want a QHD (2560x1440) display?
For the additional screen real estate, of course. You can fit quite a few more windows on one of these panels than you can with an FHD (1920x1080) panel. And the high density means that you won’t see any pixel structure, even at one or two feet away. However, there is one caveat, and its impact depends on the quality of your vision.
Why wouldn't you want a QHD screen like one of these two?
Everything gets smaller. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a QHD monitor smaller than 27 inches when you see how tiny fonts become. Our advice is to simply to try before you buy. You don’t want to run any monitor at less than its native resolution. The loss of sharpness is simply too great. So, it is imperative to be sure that you can adapt to what 2560x1440 looks like.
ViewSonic VP2770-LED
Price-wise, the ViewSonic is in line with its competition. While there are cheaper alternatives, you'd be hard-pressed to match the build quality and performance of the VP2770-LED. Its color accuracy is top-notch, it’s bright, and it offers decent contrast. Even without a calibration, the image looks great right out of the box. And if you are a fan of industrial design, this monitor belongs on your desktop.
Samsung S27B970D
For a penny shy of $1200, Samsung delivers a beautiful, high-performing product. You will have to decide if auto-calibration and a slick modern appearance are worth the premium. We would like to see a monitor at this price level offer a wide-gamut option, however. That omission aside, the S27B970D offers near-perfect grayscale and gamma, and excellent color accuracy, either stock or calibrated. Although slightly less bright than the ViewSonic, it still puts out plenty of light for all but the most blazingly-lit rooms. This monitor’s input lag numbers even put it ahead of some TN monitors we’ve tested.
If 1920x1080 pixels aren’t enough for you, these two monitors will thoroughly satisfy your need for more. Apple’s Retina screens still offer the highest pixel density, but QHD is currently it for PC users. This is going to change sooner rather than later. However, if you just can’t wait, we think these displays are well worth a look.