The Dell Alienware AW2723DF Gaming Monitor has received a mix of praise and criticism from users, reflecting both its strengths and limitations. Customers are particularly impressed by the monitor’s 1440p resolution, high refresh rate of 280Hz, and fast response time. The build quality also gets high marks, with many stating that it feels solid and well-crafted, perfect for competitive gaming. Users appreciated its color accuracy, especially with 98% SDR/HDR color calibration right out of the box, making it a strong contender for those who need reliable colors for gaming or work.
The 280Hz refresh rate is a key highlight for many users, particularly those who play fast-paced games where every millisecond matters. The refresh rate ensures smooth, fluid visuals that contribute to an immersive gaming experience. Combined with the 0.5ms response time, users found that gameplay felt incredibly responsive, with no noticeable lag or ghosting. The build quality also contributes to the monitor’s appeal, with a robust stand and materials that feel premium. Many users noted that the monitor’s adjustable stand and sturdy construction make it easy to set up and adjust for comfortable viewing.
However, some users have noted significant drawbacks. Backlight bleed is a recurring issue, especially noticeable in dark scenes or black wallpapers, and multiple users have found it bothersome enough to mention in their reviews. The HDR performance is often described as mediocre, with users pointing out that it fails to deliver the deep contrasts and bright highlights expected at this price point. The lack of HDMI 2.1 support surprised some buyers, given the monitor’s price range and release date, as it limits compatibility with the latest gaming consoles and high-bandwidth devices.
Quality control issues such as dead pixels and stuck pixels were also reported, frustrating customers who expected better reliability from a premium product. Several customers expressed dissatisfaction with Alienware’s customer support when dealing with these defects, noting that responses were either slow or unhelpful. Despite these problems, for many customers, the high refresh rate and excellent response time made the monitor an ideal choice for fast-paced FPS games. Users frequently mentioned that while the monitor has its flaws, its performance in critical gaming scenarios makes it a solid choice for competitive players.
PROS
- High Refresh Rate (280Hz): Many users praised the 280Hz refresh rate, stating that it delivers smooth gameplay, particularly for fast-paced FPS titles like Call of Duty and Overwatch. “A user said it felt like ‘a smooth butter-like experience’ with no noticeable jitters or ghosting.” The refresh rate provides a significant advantage in competitive gaming, helping players react faster and more accurately.
- Color Accuracy: The 98% SDR/HDR color calibration out of the box is highly appreciated. Users have highlighted that the color reproduction is vibrant, making both gaming and work tasks enjoyable. “The factory calibration was spot on,” noted a customer, adding that colors pop beautifully, enhancing the visual experience for both entertainment and productivity.
- Build Quality: The robust build of the monitor stands out to many. Users appreciate the heavy-duty stand and overall quality of materials used. “It’s built like a tank,” said one reviewer, who also noted that it’s not overly heavy despite its solid construction. The adjustable stand is also praised for its flexibility, allowing users to find the perfect height and angle for their setup.
- Fast Response Time (0.5ms): The fast response time with overdrive enabled ensures that there is no ghosting during gameplay. This is crucial for competitive gamers, and it has been consistently noted as one of the strong points of the AW2723DF. Gamers who play high-speed, action-packed games have found that the response time keeps up with the demands of their gameplay, ensuring a clear and crisp visual experience.
- Good for Competitive Gaming: The monitor has been described as perfect for those looking to play fast-paced competitive games. “This monitor excels at being a top-tier choice for competitive games,” shared a user who owns an OLED for other types of gaming. The 280Hz refresh rate and fast response time make this monitor particularly well-suited for titles that require rapid reflexes, such as first-person shooters, where every millisecond can be the difference between winning and losing.
CONS
- Backlight Bleed: Backlight bleed was one of the most commonly mentioned issues, especially in dark scenes or when the screen displays a black background. “The backlight bleed was among the worst I’ve ever seen,” a user complained, indicating it could be a dealbreaker for those sensitive to screen uniformity issues. The bleed is most noticeable in dark rooms or when viewing content with predominantly black visuals, which can be distracting for some users.
- Mediocre HDR Performance: Many users found the HDR performance lacking, describing it as “mediocre at best.” The gray uniformity and below-standard HDR brightness did not meet expectations for a monitor at this price range. One user recommended sticking to SDR mode, which they found far superior. The HDR’s inability to achieve the necessary contrast and brightness levels means that users seeking a rich HDR experience may be disappointed, especially when comparing it to OLED or Mini LED displays.
- Quality Control Issues: Dead pixels and other quality issues, such as stuck pixels and poor assembly quality, were frequently reported. “I received my monitor with dead pixels right out of the box,” said one reviewer, reflecting frustration with Alienware’s quality control. These issues have led to multiple users needing replacements or repairs soon after purchasing, detracting from the overall experience.
- No HDMI 2.1 Support: Some buyers were disappointed by the absence of HDMI 2.1, particularly given the monitor’s release date and price. “I would have assumed HDMI 2.1 support, considering the price point,” noted a customer who expected better compatibility with current-gen consoles. This limitation reduces the monitor’s attractiveness for console gamers who want to take full advantage of features like variable refresh rates and higher bandwidth for enhanced visual performance.
- Alienware UI Limitations: The user interface was found lacking compared to competitors. Users mentioned that the HDR mode restricts settings like brightness, which was an inconvenience for those wanting more control over their display settings. The menu system was described as clunky, and the lack of customization options for specific display modes was seen as a downside for users who like to fine-tune their setup for different types of content.
Who Should Buy?
The Dell Alienware AW2723DF Gaming Monitor is best suited for competitive gamers who need a high refresh rate and low response time to excel in fast-paced games. It is ideal for those who play FPS titles and can utilize the 280Hz refresh rate to its fullest potential. The color accuracy makes it a good choice for those who also use their monitor for tasks that require precise color representation, such as photo editing or content creation. Additionally, the monitor’s build quality and responsive panel make it well-suited for those who want a versatile display for both work and play. However, if you are looking for excellent HDR performance or are concerned about backlight bleed, this might not be the best choice for you. Users who value HDR quality and perfect screen uniformity may want to consider other options, especially at this price point.
Do Users Recommend It?
Overall, users are divided in their recommendations for the Dell Alienware AW2723DF Gaming Monitor. Many recommend it highly for its smooth gaming performance, excellent refresh rate, and vibrant color accuracy, particularly for competitive gaming. These features make it a solid option for gamers looking to improve their performance in fast-paced titles, where responsiveness and refresh rates are crucial. However, users who experienced issues like backlight bleed, dead pixels, or poor HDR performance are less enthusiastic and suggest looking at other options, especially considering the monitor’s price range. The inconsistent quality control and lackluster HDR are points that weigh heavily against the monitor for some buyers. For those who can overlook these flaws, the AW2723DF is an impressive monitor that delivers in areas that matter most to gamers, providing smooth visuals, great color, and competitive advantages. It remains a popular choice for those who want an immersive and responsive gaming experience without venturing into the more expensive OLED category. The sturdy build, adjustable stand, and vibrant colors make it a versatile monitor suitable for both gaming and general use, provided users are willing to accept some of the compromises mentioned.
