Dell S3225QS 31.5″ VA LED 4K UHD 120Hz FreeSync Monitor

Dell 32 Plus 4K Monitor - S3225QS
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🗣 Customers Say

The general sentiment from users is positive, highlighting the monitor's excellent value, sharp 4K resolution, and suitability for both productivity and casual gaming. Key criticisms, however, focus on the missing USB-C port, inconsistent performance on macOS, and some instances of quality control issues like defective stands or buzzing sounds.

Customer Reviews Summary

The Dell S2725QC has garnered a largely positive reception from users, who frequently praise its impressive visual quality and versatile performance. Many buyers highlight the crispness of the 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, which makes text sharp and images detailed, enhancing both work and entertainment. The monitor’s ability to serve multiple purposes is a recurring theme; users appreciate its suitability for everything from office tasks and content creation to console gaming, thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support. One user noted, “It’s a great monitor for my daily activities, including a little bit of gaming here and there… it isn’t a bad buy at all.”

Despite the accolades, some significant complaints have emerged. The most common issue cited is the absence of a USB-C connection, which many users expect at this price point for single-cable connectivity with modern laptops. Another point of frustration for some is its performance with Apple products. Several Mac users reported being unable to achieve the advertised 120Hz refresh rate and noted that Dell’s display management software is not supported on macOS. Quality control also appears to be a concern, with reports of defective stands that don’t adjust properly, buzzing noises from the power supply, and washed-out colors or poor viewing angles on some units.

Key User Feedback Summary

Most Loved FeaturesUser-Based Explanation
Stunning 4K ResolutionUsers consistently praise the sharp, clear, and vibrant picture quality, which makes it excellent for productivity, creative work, and media consumption.
Versatile PerformanceThe combination of a 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync makes it a solid choice for both smooth office work and casual console or PC gaming.
Excellent ValueMany buyers feel the monitor offers premium features like 4K resolution and a high refresh rate at a very competitive and affordable price point.
Surprisingly Good SpeakersThe built-in 5W speakers are frequently described as being surprisingly loud and clear for a monitor, sufficient for daily use without needing external speakers.
Sleek and Sturdy DesignThe monitor is often complimented for its thin bezels, sturdy stand with height and tilt adjustments, and clean, modern aesthetic that fits well in any setup.
Most Common ComplaintsWhat Users Said
No USB-C PortA significant number of users expressed disappointment over the lack of USB-C connectivity, which limits single-cable docking solutions for laptops.
macOS Compatibility IssuesMac users reported difficulties achieving the full 120Hz refresh rate and noted that Dell’s management software is not supported, limiting functionality.
Inconsistent Color & Viewing AnglesSome reviewers found the colors to be washed out and the viewing angles to be poor, with noticeable color shift when not viewed head-on.
Quality Control ProblemsThere are several reports of receiving defective units, including issues like a buzzing power supply, faulty stands, or dead pixels.
No Audio Output JackThe absence of a headphone or audio-out jack means users cannot connect external speakers directly to the monitor, requiring an HDMI audio extractor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can this monitor achieve a 120Hz refresh rate with MacBooks?
    It depends on the model and connection. Some users with newer MacBooks (like the M2 Pro) have achieved 120Hz using a direct high-speed HDMI connection. However, many others, especially with older models or when using docks, have been limited to 60Hz. Compatibility can be inconsistent.
  • Does the monitor have built-in speakers?
    Yes, it comes with dual 5-watt built-in speakers. Most users find them to be surprisingly loud and clear for integrated speakers, making them suitable for video calls, system sounds, and casual media watching.
  • Is this a good monitor for competitive gaming?
    While the 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support make it great for casual and console gaming, its 8ms response time may not be fast enough for highly competitive FPS gamers, who typically prefer monitors with 1ms response times to minimize motion blur.
  • Can I connect my laptop with a single USB-C cable for video and power?
    No, this monitor does not have a USB-C port. You will need to use an HDMI or DisplayPort cable for video and a separate power adapter for your laptop.
  • Does the stand allow for vertical orientation (portrait mode)
    No, the included stand does not support pivoting into a vertical or portrait orientation. It only offers height, tilt, and a small amount of swivel adjustment.

Should You Buy It?

This monitor is a great choice for you if:

  • You are a Windows user looking for a large, high-resolution display for productivity and general use.
  • You are a casual or console gamer who wants to take advantage of the 4K @ 120Hz capabilities of a PS5 or Xbox Series X.
  • You prioritize value for money and want premium features without paying a premium price.
  • You need a versatile monitor that can handle both work and entertainment effectively.

You might want to look elsewhere if:

  • You are a MacBook user who needs reliable 120Hz performance and seamless software integration.
  • You require USB-C connectivity for a clean, single-cable setup with your laptop.
  • You are a creative professional who needs perfect color accuracy and wide viewing angles for your work.
  • You are a competitive gamer who needs the fastest possible response times.
Check it out on Amazon

See the latest pricing for Dell 32 Plus 4K Monitor – S3225QS – 31.5-inch 4K (3840 x 2160) up to 120Hz 16:9 Display, VA Panel, AMD FreeSync Premium, 99% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3, 1500:1 Contrast Ratio, Comfortview Plus – Ash White on Amazon

Overview

Product Page: Dell 32 Plus 4K Monitor - S3225QS | Dell USA
Click on the link above to go to the official product page and get more detailed information about the product.

Customer Reviews

Updated on July 31, 2025

Showing 110 reviews of 63 reviews.

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Christopher B.April 1, 2025

Buzzing like it’s dying! Replacement had dim edges.

I had been waiting for this release as I was looking forward to the upgraded model. I purchased it on launch from Dell’s website. Mine was received in good physical condition but it buzzes like a dying fluorescent lamp (not from the speakers- this is an electronic buzz from its power supply). I called Dell for warranty support, they filed a replacement ticket last Friday after confirming with support it was defective. I had not heard back this week, so I reached out again and the ticket was cancelled without notification. That’s highly unprofessional, and a bit absurd.

What a shame. The display is an excellent VA panel otherwise and it makes a great companion to my work laptop. It looks good, but buy it through Amazon. I’ll update as I go.

EDIT: I received the replacement. Second panel was very burnt looking on the edges and far worse viewing angles. Dell’s QA has gone downhill. I returned and refunded the whole thing.

the-movie-guyMay 16, 2025

Awful

The good:

–120 Hz refresh rate is cool

The bad:

–Not all pixels have the same response rate (blue pixels are slower)
–White text on a dark background turns yellow when scrolling
–Bad smearing
–Audio (through the integrated speakers) sounds muffled and canned
–Atrocious chemical smell comes from the box, packing materials and accessories
–The included stand is dinky, screen tends to wobble when using it

The worst Dell monitor I’ve used in the last 5 years. Returned it and went back to my old one.

Bob SacamanoMay 21, 2025

Yes

As another reviewer noted, the cardboard used in the box has a terrible smell. They should obviously address that. The monitor itself I also agree with reviews regarding color shift. To me it’s not terribly significant side to side, however you can see the screen get noticeably washed out when moving up/away from the screen. Viewing angles aren’t the best but honestly this is a common occurrence. I don’t know about the quality of this particular VA monitor, just that IPS monitors in general tend to and SHOULD have better viewing angles. I’m pleased with it overall but it’s still something to consider. I think it gets bright enough, I was more concerned before I changed the color settings because next to an IPS monitor the white was more yellow. They’re different panels though and the IPS monitor is smaller and lower resolution. I think the colors look good – great and the monitor itself gets bright enough unless you have a very bright environment where I could see ‘potential’ for issues. What really surprised me was the bump in clarity. I understand some monitors are sharper but having nothing similar to compare it to, I’m satisfied with the resolution and it absolutely blows away a 1080 monitor. The speakers are excellent. They’re not a replacement for dedicated speakers but they can certainly be used as such. It’s not necessarily the quality but the loudness. They get LOUD. The quality is also very good. They’re approaching the sound quality of a good, large TV. The interface is operated via button on the back and slightly annoying but easy to use and functional. A prompt came up on the screen to download additional software to customize the display. I honestly didn’t know a monitor does this, I’m assuming through Windows update. I haven’t done that yet and I’m satisfied with the quality enough that I might not get around to it. Setup was easy enough although I found it odd that there was no instruction manual whatsoever in the box. Not mine at least. Light bleed around the edges is practically non existent (on this panel) and the colors and resolution are good. I haven’t noticed any flickering or dead pixels. BTW the monitor is flipped in the manufacturer box and Amazon placed it front of the box side up, which is logical and they probably don’t know it’s upside down in the box, but so that means it constantly got dropped directly on the screen whenever it was set down. They also shipped it inside another box for whatever reason so the package was massive. I’ll update this review if anything odd starts happening but as of now I’m satisfied with it and would recommend it.

Pros:
Resolution
Speakers
Display colors
Design
Size

Cons/not the best:
Huge Amazon box 🤔
Brightness
Color shift
Noxious packaging
No instructions
Price

Paul MoolanApril 30, 2025

Real 4K – Value for Money

Really good resolution jump from HD to 4k. I got rid of two HD monitors. The text is much clearer. Im not professional enough to get the Color profile right. Im moving around Movie/RTS color profiles and its working good.
This monitor is capable of 120 Hz. If youre using a dock, make sure it support 120Hz. I bought the best of Anker Prime Dock and it did NOT support 120Hz but only 60Hz – I mean it doesnt make a diff unless you play a lot of video content or games.

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Thomas HyattApril 30, 2025

Not as Sharp or Bright as I expected.

I hate to write this review because I have always been an admirer of Dell products since I began buying their computers in the 1980’s. I did a great deal of research to replace my 27″ Asus monitor which is almost 10 years old. But I swear, the picture on this 32″ Dell was no where near as bright and sharp as my Asus. No matter what resolution I chose or what image/color profile I switched to, I simply could not get it to be as sharp and bright as I expected from the reviews I read. So, sadly, i returned it and will stick with my Asus for the time being.

BungoJuly 10, 2025

On paper looks great, in person…. yikes

I have never felt such disappointment, the image had a halo cloud of dark pixels in border. (Note display was not damaged in any way) image was dull and seemed like i was looking at an old school box tv

Parth BrahmbhattJune 16, 2025

Amazing product! Buy it!!

Absolutely amazing monitor for the price! Just get it! I went with the 32” 4k for $339….what!!! How are they even making any money on this? I never write reviews,,but felt obligated since DELL has made a phenomenal product at a reasonable price. If you work a lot on your computer, this is well worth the investment to protect your eye sight. Hope it helps! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Rick MeredithMay 29, 2025

washed out tones

Colors are missing saturation, blacks look grey and refresh rate on osx would only go up to 30hz. Ended up sending back and going with a different monitor.

Rodrigo CofincoMay 28, 2025

Good monitor style, visual display, and ergonomics.

Overall a very good monitor. Only minor item is that it does not have an analog audio out for the built-in internal speakers sourced from the HDMI port. If sharing the display with 2 different computers, each computers audio output will have to be routed to the external audio speakers.

Amazon CustomerMay 23, 2025

Look up actual reviews before purchasing. VA screen w/ gray blotches

This is a review of the 32″ model (note how 3 seperate models are included when you click on this product – all different). It seems like an ok monitor with a lot of detail packed in. However, from the moment i swapped out my knock-off 2k monitor, i felt something was off as if i suddenly downgraded. The resolution, lighting, and overall comfort just felt sub par. The biggest dealbreaker was that if you are closer than 3 ft to the monitor, you will see gray blotches in the corner of your eye when you look to each side. Apparently other reviews highlight this monitor uses VA technology normally reserved for curved displays which do not present this nuance the same way. Either way, i felt so much better when i swapped my old monitor back in, so this had to go.

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