Dell 32 4K USB-C Hub Monitor (P3222QE) Review

CONS

• Pricey
• Not as port-packed as some USB docking-station monitors
• No built-in speakers

DELL 32 4K USB-C HUB MONITOR (P3222QE) SPECS

The P3222QE from Dell is a 32-inch 4K USB-C Hub Monitor that boasts an impressive UHD resolution. It stands out among other USB-hub or docking-station displays we have reviewed due to its large screen size. this productivity monitor offers a USB Type-C port, an Ethernet jack, and multiple downstream USB Type-A ports. This allows it to function not only as a display but also as a PC docking station. While the P3222QE may cost more than Dell’s highly rated U2722DE UltraSharp 27 USB-C Hub Monitor and lacks some of its ports, it compensates with its significantly larger screen and excellent sRGB color coverage. It would make an excellent centerpiece for a dedicated home or office workstation focused on productivity. However, the higher price tag may be a deterrent for some, considering the screen size.

A Single, Expansive Display.

The P3222QE features a 31.5-inch display with in-plane switching (IPS) panel technology, offering a resolution of 3,840 by 2,160 pixels for UHD (4K) content in a 16:9 widescreen format. With a pixel density of 140 pixels per inch (ppi), this monitor is ideal for photo editing and working with detailed graphics. Higher pixel density results in sharper text and finer details in images. The Philips Brilliance 279P1, which is the Editors’ Choice winner, also offers 4K resolution but on a smaller 27-inch screen.

The P3222QE’s viewing angles are wide, as expected from IPS displays, with a rating of 178 degrees both vertically and horizontally. This guarantees consistent colors, even if your viewing position is not directly in front of the screen.

The dimensions of the P3222QE are 24.4 by 28 by 9.2 inches when the stand is fully extended, and it has a weight of 22 pounds. The monitor features slim bezels on the top and sides, with a bezel of less than an inch below the screen. Its stand allows for various ergonomic adjustments including height (up to 5.9 inches), tilt (up to 5 degrees towards the viewer and 21 degrees away), swivel (30 degrees in each direction), and pivot (from landscape to portrait orientation in either direction).

Within the compact footprint of the silver-colored stand, there is a shaft that contains a hole near the bottom. This hole allows for the easy routing of cables. The top of the shaft is connected to the back of the cabinet. Alternatively, you have the option to mount the panel on a wall or a movable arm. This can be done by screwing a VESA mounting bracket into the square array of holes, which are spaced 100mm apart. These holes are located in the area where the shaft would typically attach to the back of the panel.

Every Port of Destination.

Despite not having the numerous DisplayPort and USB-C ports seen on the Dell Ultrasharp 27 U2722DE and U2421E, or the dual DisplayPort ports of the Dell U2722DE for daisy-chaining monitors, the P3222QE still offers a satisfactory range of ports.

The monitor is equipped with an HDMI port, a DisplayPort connector, and an upstream USB Type-C port that supports DisplayPort over USB alternate mode and provides up to 65 watts of power delivery, allowing the monitor to charge a connected laptop. Additionally, there are four downstream USB 3.2 Type-A ports. While the monitor does not have built-in speakers or an audio-out jack, it is compatible with Dell’s Slim Soundbar (SB521A).

The price of the Dell 32 4K USB-C Hub Monitor (P3222QE) in Pakistan is available upon request.

There is an RJ-45 Ethernet jack available for connectivity in case your laptop does not have a physical Ethernet connection and the Wi-Fi signal is weak. The monitor comes with network-management features such as PXE, WoL, and MAC address pass-through, similar to the Dell U2722DE and U2421E. PXE allows a computer to boot from the network, WoL allows a PC to be woken up remotely from a low-power state, and MAC address pass-through enables an attached PC to bypass the monitor/dock’s MAC address and use its own MAC address for network identification. The HP E24d G4 also provides a similar set of management features, while the Philips 279P1 and Philips 272P7VUBNB support WoL.

The control of the panel’s onscreen display (OSD) is managed by a compact joystick located at the rear of the cabinet near the power switch. This method is more favorable compared to the cluster of small buttons typically used as OSD controls on various monitors, and it was found to be simple to navigate through the menu system of the P3222QE.

Testing the P3222QE: High Contrast, Full sRGB.

I evaluated the brightness, contrast ratio, and color accuracy of the P3222QE by utilizing Portrait Displays’ Calman 5 color calibration software, a Klein K10-A colorimeter, and a Murideo Six-G signal generator.

In its standard mode, the luminance reached 332 nits (candelas per meter squared), falling slightly below its specified 350-nit brightness. The contrast ratio, on the other hand, was measured at 1,309:1, surpassing its rated 1,000:1. (Click here to view our monitor testing methodology.)

The P3222QE by Dell boasts an impressive sRGB color coverage rating of 99%, which is the standard color space utilized on the internet and in various applications. Remarkably, this monitor surpasses expectations with a generous coverage of 125.1%.

Dell does not assert any claims regarding the coverage of DCI-P3, a color space specifically designed for digital video. However, our measurements indicate that it covers 90.8%, which is a commendable result for a monitor not specifically optimized for that mode. In addition, we measured its coverage of Adobe RGB at 81.2%, which is satisfactory for a general-purpose monitor. However, photographers who work extensively in this color space may prefer a monitor with more comprehensive coverage, such as the Lenovo ThinkVision P32u-10, which achieves 99.7% coverage of Adobe RGB. Alternatively, they may opt for a fully professional monitor like the NEC MultiSync PA311D-BK, which offers complete coverage.

Furthermore, apart from our formal testing, I conducted some impromptu testing on the quality of text, video, and images. The video clips we tested exhibited vibrant colors and commendable contrast in both well-lit and dimly-lit sections. Moreover, the images captured from our photo suite appeared vivid, showcasing lifelike colors.

All the Harbors, All the Wealth.

The Dell 32 4K USB-C Hub Monitor (P3222QE) boasts a 31.5-inch panel with UHD resolution and complete sRGB color space coverage, making it an excellent productivity monitor for creative professionals. It offers a variety of ports, such as a USB-C port for laptop charging, an Ethernet jack for connectivity through USB-C, and a hub of USB-A ports.

This monitor lacks the redundancy in USB-C and DisplayPort connectors compared to other USB hub/docking station monitors we have reviewed. Additionally, it is quite pricey for its features. If connectivity is a priority for you, consider the Dell U2722DE, which offers a 27-inch screen, QHD resolution, three USB-C, and two DisplayPort connectors for about. On the other hand, the P3222QE is significantly more expensive than the Editors’ Choice-winning Philips Brilliance 279P1, which also features UHD resolution, a similar port selection, but with a 27-inch screen.

However, if you are prepared to invest in the P3222QE’s superior, oversized display, you will likely find great satisfaction in having it as the focal point of your workspace, providing seamless connectivity to all your devices.