What To Know
- The EW2880U and EL2870U come with a variety of game modes that optimize the display settings for different game genres, such as FPS, RTS, and RPG.
- The EW2880U features a sleek and modern design with a slim bezel and a sturdy metal stand.
- However, if you’re looking for a more affordable HDR gaming monitor with a solid feature set, the BenQ EL2870U is a great choice.
In the realm of high-dynamic range (HDR) gaming monitors, BenQ’s EW2880U and EL2870U stand out as two formidable contenders. Both monitors boast impressive specifications and features, but understanding their key differences is crucial for making an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the critical aspects of each monitor, helping you determine the best choice for your gaming setup.
Display Specifications
Panel Type and Resolution
Both the EW2880U and EL2870U feature 28-inch VA panels with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD). VA panels offer excellent contrast ratios and wide viewing angles, making them suitable for immersive gaming experiences.
Brightness and Contrast
The EW2880U boasts a peak brightness of 350 nits, while the EL2870U offers 300 nits. The EW2880U’s higher brightness provides a brighter and more vibrant image, especially in well-lit environments. However, both monitors deliver excellent contrast ratios, ensuring deep blacks and rich colors.
HDR Support
Both monitors support HDR10, a standard that enhances the dynamic range of images, resulting in more realistic and immersive visuals. However, the EW2880U also supports HDRi, BenQ’s proprietary HDR implementation that further optimizes HDR content for enhanced color accuracy and detail.
Gaming Features
Refresh Rate and Response Time
The EW2880U and EL2870U both offer a 60Hz refresh rate and a 5ms gray-to-gray response time. These specifications provide smooth and responsive gameplay, eliminating motion blur and ghosting.
Adaptive Sync
Both monitors support AMD FreeSync Premium, a variable refresh rate technology that synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card‘s frame rate, preventing screen tearing and stuttering.
Game Modes
The EW2880U and EL2870U come with a variety of game modes that optimize the display settings for different game genres, such as FPS, RTS, and RPG.
Connectivity
Input Ports
The EW2880U offers a more comprehensive range of input ports than the EL2870U. It includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4 port, a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode, and a headphone jack. The EL2870U, on the other hand, has two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.2 port, and a headphone jack.
Built-in Speakers
Both monitors have built-in speakers, eliminating the need for external audio equipment. However, the EW2880U’s speakers are more powerful, providing a richer and more immersive audio experience.
Design and Ergonomics
Aesthetics and Build Quality
The EW2880U features a sleek and modern design with a slim bezel and a sturdy metal stand. The EL2870U, while still aesthetically pleasing, has a more traditional design with a thicker bezel and a plastic stand.
Ergonomics
Both monitors offer ergonomic adjustments, including tilt, swivel, and height adjustment. However, the EW2880U’s stand provides a wider range of adjustment options, allowing you to find the most comfortable viewing position.
Additional Features
HDRi
As mentioned earlier, the EW2880U supports HDRi, which offers enhanced HDR performance by optimizing color accuracy and detail. This feature is particularly beneficial for games with HDR support, providing a more realistic and immersive experience.
Eye-Care Technology
Both monitors incorporate eye-care technologies, such as Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free, which help reduce eye strain and fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
Remote Control
The EW2880U comes with a remote control, providing convenient control over the monitor’s settings. The EL2870U does not include a remote control.
Recommendations
Both the BenQ EW2880U and EL2870U are excellent HDR gaming monitors with their own strengths and weaknesses. The EW2880U offers a brighter display, HDRi support, more comprehensive input ports, and a wider range of ergonomic adjustments. The EL2870U, on the other hand, is more affordable and has a more traditional design.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and budget. If you prioritize HDR performance, gaming features, and ergonomics, the BenQ EW2880U is the superior option. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable HDR gaming monitor with a solid feature set, the BenQ EL2870U is a great choice.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the difference between HDR and HDRi?
A: HDR (High Dynamic Range) expands the range of colors and brightness that a display can reproduce, resulting in more realistic and immersive visuals. HDRi is BenQ’s proprietary implementation of HDR that further optimizes HDR content for enhanced color accuracy and detail.
Q: Which monitor has better speakers?
A: The BenQ EW2880U has more powerful speakers than the EL2870U, providing a richer and more immersive audio experience.
Q: Does the EL2870U support G-Sync?
A: No, the EL2870U only supports AMD FreeSync Premium.
