Finest USB-C displays: 4 shows with a hidden expertise

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USB-C is the one connection to rule all of them. Its reputation has made USB-C a standard sight on new displays. A USB-C monitor can act as USB hub, providing you with further ports for connecting varied USB units, however the monitor’s USB-C port may function a video-input different to HDMI or DisplayPort; and a few USB-C displays may even cost a linked gadget whereas in use.

The main points of USB-C could be complicated, nevertheless, and pricing for USB-C displays is commonly greater than that for displays that lack the interface. See our patrons’ information under our suggestions to raised perceive the nuances.

Why it's best to belief PCWorld for monitor opinions and shopping for recommendation: PCWorld prides itself on PC {hardware} expertise and experience. We’ve been protecting PCs since 1983, and we overview dozens of displays yearly. All of our suggestions have been personally examined and vetted by our knowledgeable reviewers, who’ve utilized not solely efficiency benchmarks however rigorous usability requirements.

Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE – Finest USB-C monitor total <img decoding="async" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" class="product-chart-item__image" alt="Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE - Best USB-C monitor overall" src="https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/dell-u3225qe.jpg?quality=50&strip=all" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Execs Purposeful, skilled design

Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, Ethernet, and 140 watts of Energy Supply

New era of IPS Black boosts distinction ratio

Glorious sharpness from 31.5-inch 4K panel

120Hz refresh price with VRR Cons Distinction ratio is sweet for an IPS panel, however nonetheless behind VA and OLED panels

HDR brightness is respectable, however distinction stays restricted

Doesn’t have audio system

Worth When Reviewed: $949.99 Finest Costs At this time:

Retailer Worth

$899 View Deal $899 View Deal $899 View Deal $1029.99 View Deal Worth comparability from over 24,000 shops worldwide

Product Worth Worth comparability from Backmarket Who can buy the Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE?

The Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE is a wonderful selection for professionals who want a high-quality show with best-in-class USB-C connectivity.

The U3225QE’s connectivity eliminates the necessity for exterior docks and adapters. It options Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Energy Supply—sufficient to cost most laptops—together with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining a number of displays. A built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet port ensures a quick and secure wired community connection, a uncommon function amongst displays. It additionally gives six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM change performance for seamless switching between two linked PCs.

Along with its connectivity, the U3225QE has a pointy 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel with wonderful coloration accuracy and an above-average distinction ratio for a productiveness monitor. The 120Hz refresh price enhances responsiveness, making duties like scrolling by way of paperwork and multitasking smoother. The ergonomic stand gives top, tilt, swivel, and portrait mode changes, and the anti-glare coating ensures snug viewing in varied lighting situations.

Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE: Additional concerns

Whereas it lacks built-in audio system and its HDR efficiency is proscribed, the U3225QE’s in depth connectivity and high-quality show make it a standout selection for professionals who want a central hub for his or her workspace.

Desire a smaller model of this monitor? Try the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE. It has the same 4K IPS Black show panel and Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C connectivity.

Learn our full Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE overview

BenQ GW2786TC – Finest funds USB-C monitor <img decoding="async" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" class="product-chart-item__image" alt="BenQ GW2786TC - Best budget USB-C monitor" src="https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/benq-gw2786tc-2.jpg?quality=50&strip=all" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Execs Enticing design and ergonomic stand

Nice connectivity together with USB-C with Energy Supply

Consists of ambient mild sensor, microphone

Good distinction ratio for the worth Cons Solely 1080p decision

Coloration efficiency is mid-pack

Lacks Adaptive Sync

Worth When Reviewed: $199.99 Finest Costs At this time:

Retailer Worth

$229.90 View Deal $229.99 View Deal $240.16 View Deal BenQ $249.99 View Deal $259.11 View Deal Worth comparability from over 24,000 shops worldwide View extra costs

Product Worth Worth comparability from Backmarket Who can buy the BenQ GW2786TC?

Funds consumers, take observe. The BenQ GW2786TC is likely one of the finest USB-C displays you should buy for below $200. It gives a 27-inch IPS show with 1080p decision, a 100Hz refresh price, and an ergonomic stand with top, tilt, and swivel changes. Whereas it’s not the sharpest monitor at this measurement, it delivers good distinction and a easy viewing expertise for on a regular basis work.

It has USB-C with 65W Energy Supply, permitting a single-cable connection for video, energy, and knowledge. It additionally consists of DisplayPort-out for daisy-chaining a second monitor, a uncommon perk on this value vary. Constructed-in audio system, a noise-canceling microphone, and an ambient mild sensor add additional comfort for house workplace use.

BenQ GW2786TC: Additional concerns

BenQ markets this monitor as a companion for MacBooks just like the MacBook Air, however don’t let that idiot you: It really works simply as nicely with Home windows PCs, Chromebooks, and Linux laptops.

The BenQ GW2786TC’s greatest flaw is its lack of adaptive sync, which implies gameplay gained’t seem as easy as on some price-competitive alternate options.

That apart, the BenQ GW2786TC’s quite a few options and low value make it the most effective budget-friendly USB-C displays accessible.

Learn our full BenQ GW2786TC overview

Viewsonic ColorPro VP16 OLED – Finest transportable USB-C monitor <img decoding="async" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" class="product-chart-item__image" alt="Viewsonic ColorPro VP16 OLED - Best portable USB-C monitor" src="https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/viewsonic-vp16-oled-4.jpg?quality=50&strip=all" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Execs Versatile, helpful stands

Good connectivity, cables included

Quite a few picture high quality customization choices

High-tier picture high quality even at default settings Cons Audio system are included, however weak

Dear for a conveyable monitor

No HDR

Worth When Reviewed: $399.99 Finest Costs At this time:

Retailer Worth

$339.99 View Deal $359.99 View Deal $359.99 View Deal ViewSonic $399.99 View Deal $444.82 View Deal Worth comparability from over 24,000 shops worldwide View extra costs

Product Worth Worth comparability from Backmarket Who can buy the Viewsonic VP16-OLED?

If you need a piece setup worthy of productiveness that’s additionally simply transportable, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED is a exceptional transportable OLED monitor for the job. It brings collectively top-notch picture high quality, USB-C connectivity, and an modern stand design.

The monitor’s 15.6-inch 1080p OLED panel delivers distinctive coloration accuracy, gamut, and distinction. It surpasses many full-sized OLED displays and practically all transportable displays. This makes it a terrific selection for productiveness, although it additionally appears wonderful when viewing motion pictures or taking part in video games.

The VP16-OLED’s stand can be utilized as a kickstand or expanded to carry the monitor upright, making it superb for professionals who need to maximize their workspace or want improved ergonomics.

Viewsonic VP16-OLED: Additional concerns

The stand consists of two USB-C ports, each of which may present energy and video enter to the monitor, and a micro-HDMI port for compatibility with non-USB-C units. The monitor consists of all the mandatory cables in addition to a USB-C energy brick.

There's a downside: the fee. The Viewsonic VP16-OLED’s MSRP of $399.99 is pricey for a conveyable monitor. Nonetheless, in the event you place a excessive worth on picture high quality and need the very best monitor on your transportable workplace, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED is a wonderful selection.

Learn our full Viewsonic ColorPro VP16-OLED overview

LG DualUp 28MQ780-B – Finest USB-C monitor for productiveness <img decoding="async" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" class="product-chart-item__image" alt="LG DualUp 28MQ780-B - Best USB-C monitor for productivity" src="https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/lg-dualup-28-photo-3.jpg?quality=50&strip=all" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Execs Distinctive facet ratio is helpful for photograph, video modifying

Makes an superior second monitor

Extremely adjustable stand

Vivid, correct coloration Cons Tough to slot in a small house workplace

USB-C port gives restricted downstream connectivity

Can lack immersion in some content material

Worth When Reviewed: 699.99 Finest Costs At this time:

Retailer Worth

LG $699.99 View Deal $699.99 View Deal Examine Worth comparability from over 24,000 shops worldwide

Product Worth Worth comparability from Backmarket Who can buy the LG DualUp 28MQ780-B?

This uniquely sized monitor isn’t for everybody, however for photographers or videographers it has some particular strengths. The LG DualUp 28MQ780-B is a USB-C monitor with a 16:18 facet ratio that’s virtually precisely sq.. It may rotate right into a 18:16 facet ratio in the event you’d desire. The monitor is far taller than most displays and, consequently, has an adjustable stand that clamps to the rear of your desk as an alternative of a standard desktop stand.

The monitor’s odd kind issue is good for viewing giant, complicated paperwork and could be helpful for modifying portrait or sq. photographs. It’s additionally nicely fitted to use as a second monitor alongside a big 32-inch show.

Picture high quality is nice. The monitor has sturdy coloration accuracy, a large coloration gamut, and respectable sharpness due to its decision of 2560×2880.

LG DualUp 28MQ780-B: Additional concerns

The DualUp 28MQ780-B has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of Energy Supply, so it will probably cost a linked laptop computer or pill. The USB-C port can lengthen connectivity to 2 further USB-A ports. Sadly, the monitor lacks ethernet or video-out, so some house owners may have a further adapter.

Simply be warned: The odd facet ratio makes it an odd match for gaming and flicks. This can be a monitor constructed for work, not play.

Learn our full LG DualUp 28MQ780-B overview

Different notable USB-C monitor opinions

The Acer Predator X34 X0 ultrawide has a Mini-LED backlight, a vivid image, and USB-C connectivity with 65W Energy Supply; the Asus ProArt PA32QCV is a wonderful and reasonably priced 6K monitor that opts for Thunderbolt 4 versus USB-C, making it match for Mac customers; the Samsung Sensible Monitor M9 doubles as a sensible TV and a productiveness monitor full with USB-C connectivity; the Viewsonic VA1655 transportable monitor has USB-C energy with 60 watts of energy supply and pass-through help for charging a laptop computer; the Dell Professional 27 Plus is a pleasant 4K monitor, however its key function is its USB-C hub; the LG Ultragear 39GX90SA-W is 39-inch OLED with TV smarts; the MSI Fashionable MD272UPSW is one other good TV disguised as a monitor; the Asus ProArt PA32UCDM leans closely on Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C. Maybe too closely, because it falls quick in different ports in comparison with its friends; the Dell Professional 34 Plus USB-C is an honest selection if you would like an ultrawide with a number of connectivity, however the monitor’s picture high quality fails to impress; the BenQ PD3226G IPS monitor is aimed toward inventive execs who may also get pleasure from some gaming, with a number of Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity; the HP Omen Transcend 32 is expensive even for a 32-inch 4K OLED monitor, however makes up for that with nice USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR picture high quality; the Acer Predator X32 X3 is a extra reasonably priced 4K OLED monitor that packs a pleasant bonus: USB-C with 90 watts of Energy Supply.

How we check displays

Our monitor guides are the results of in depth product testing by freelance and workers contributors with many years of mixed expertise.

Whereas we depend on a hands-on analysis of real-world utilization for an preliminary impression, we additionally totally check every monitor with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Extremely coloration calibration device. This specialised {hardware} can objectively measure a monitor’s brightness, distinction, coloration gamut, coloration accuracy, luminance and coloration uniformity, gamma, and lots of different elements of picture high quality.

Utilizing this device helps us detect strengths and weaknesses that don’t essentially seem at a look and ensures {that a} change in lighting situations or monitor location gained’t skew our impression.

For extra particulars, see our article on on how we check displays at PCWorld.

Who curated this text?

Matthew S. Smith is a contract expertise journalist with greater than 15 years of expertise reviewing client electronics and PC {hardware}, together with the universe of laptop displays. Along with PCWorld, his work could be discovered on Wired, Digital Developments, Reviewed, Lifewire, and different expertise publications.

How to decide on the very best USB-C monitor

Many options fascinating in a USB-C monitor are the identical as on another show. A pointy, vivid, shiny, and contrast-rich display is finest. Nonetheless, consumers who need to purchase a USB-C monitor ought to control particulars solely related to USB-C.

Bear in mind, too, {that a} USB-C show can be utilized in two contexts. First, you possibly can join your USB-C monitor to a desktop PC or laptop computer through a USB-C cable, and use it like a conventional USB-C hub through the USB-C cable’s 20Gbps interface. That’s fairly simple.

Second, you too can use the USB-C cable as a substitute for a show cable like HDMI or DisplayPort, particularly for newer laptops that may remove an HDMI or DisplayPort port.

It’s right here that USB-C displays can get tough. The normal rule of thumb is {that a} USB-C port can help a 4K show at 30Hz decision. DisplayPort Alternate Mode (see under) will increase that to 4K60, which is far simpler on the eyes. Newer laptops use DisplayPort 1.4, which mixes a high-bit-rate mode (HBR3) with a DSC compression mode that ought to enable for 4K60 video alongside the flexibility to make use of USB 3.1 storage units.

Bear in mind, nevertheless, that the USB-C cable’s 20Gbps throughput could not enable for video to be handed to premium shows just like the NZXT Canvas S27Q at its full 1440p, 165Hz refresh price. These specs in all probability assume that you simply’re utilizing a devoted video port like DisplayPort, as an alternative, in addition to its separate video cable. You may definitely join the show to your laptop computer utilizing each a video cable and the USB-C cable concurrently, nevertheless.

In case your laptop computer makes use of both Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 — all of which use a 40Gbps knowledge connection and a USB-C port in your laptop computer — it's best to in all probability don't have any points connecting your laptop computer to the monitor on the full refresh price utilizing a Thunderbolt cable. Simply seek the advice of your laptop computer’s specs and/or guide to verify.

Energy Supply

USB-C Energy Supply gives energy over a USB-C cable. It’s not a part of the core USB-C specification, so units with USB-C (together with displays) don’t all the time help it. Energy Supply can pack as much as 240 watts, however most USB-C displays present simply 65 to 90 watts. It’s an ideal match for many who personal a thin-and-light laptop computer, 2-in-1, or pill.

Energy Supply is insufficient for some units, resembling gaming laptops, which eat extra energy than present USB-C displays can present. These laptops should still cost when left at idle however will cost slowly (and even discharge the battery) when in use.

Ethernet

Wired ethernet is a fascinating function in a USB-C monitor. Many fashionable laptops lack a bodily Ethernet port, so its inclusion on a monitor is handy. It may enhance the pace and reliability of a linked gadget’s web connection.

Whereas helpful, that is an costly function accessible solely on premium fashions. The Dell U3223QE is the one USB-C monitor on this record with ethernet help.

DisplayPort Alternate Mode

DisplayPort Alternate Mode is a function accessible to USB-C that handles video as if the USB-C cable was a DisplayPort cable. It helps all of the options you’d count on from DisplayPort together with excessive refresh charges and adaptive sync.

A monitor with out this function gained’t settle for video over USB-C, that means you’ll have to attach each USB-C and a separate video enter. All of the displays on this record help DisplayPort Alternate Mode.

FAQ 1. What's the finest USB-C monitor?

The most effective USB-C monitor is the Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE. Along with being a high-quality 4K IPS show able to assembly the wants of an expert, the monitor is unparalleled in terms of connectivity, that includes Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Energy Supply—sufficient to cost most laptops—together with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining a number of displays. It additionally gives a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for a quick and secure wired community connection, in addition to six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, a KVM change.

2. What's the finest low cost USB-C monitor

The most effective funds USB-C monitor is the BenQ GW2786TC. Whereas it’s come up in value since our unique overview, it nonetheless gives good worth at $250. It has USB-C with 65W Energy Supply, permitting a single-cable connection for video, energy, and knowledge. It additionally consists of DisplayPort-out for daisy-chaining a second monitor, which is rare at this value vary.

Constructed-in audio system, a noise-canceling microphone, and an ambient mild sensor are good extras that make this monitor nice for house workplace use.

3. Do I actually need a USB-C monitor?

A USB-C monitor is a good way to increase your laptop’s connectivity with out the added muddle of a USB-C hub or dock. It reduces the wires current in your desk, releasing up area for different makes use of. PC World’s information to USB-C hub displays has the complete story.

USB-C displays are wonderful when used with a USB-C laptop computer that consumes lower than 90 watts of energy at load. Docking a laptop computer at a desk could be annoying in the event you use a wired keyboard, wired mouse, and exterior monitor. A USB-C monitor can consolidate all of your wired units to a single USB-C cable.

If these advantages sound good, then a USB-C monitor may very well be for you. If not, you might get extra worth from a standard monitor.

4. Are USB-C displays costly?

Sure, USB-C displays are costlier. Primary displays with out USB-C retail for as little as $100, whereas related displays with USB-C begin round $150.

That value premium persists by way of all value classes. You may count on to pay round $50 to $100 extra for a USB-C monitor than you'd for the same monitor with out it.

Premium productiveness {and professional} displays are an exception. Almost all displays in these classes provide some type of USB-C help. They continue to be costly, although, and are sometimes priced between $500 to $1,000 (and typically extra).

5. Are USB-C displays good for gaming?

Technically talking, USB-C displays could be nice for gaming. USB-C video is dealt with over DisplayPort Alternate Mode, which preserves all the same old advantages of DisplayPort. This consists of nice help for prime refresh charges, excessive resolutions, and adaptive sync.

However there’s a catch: Many displays which have a USB-C port don’t help necessary gaming options like an enhanced refresh price, low pixel response instances, or adaptive sync. The Asus ProArt PG348CGV, our decide for finest ultrawide with USB-C, and the NZXT Canvas 27Q, our greatest funds decide, are two notable exceptions. Simply just remember to’re connecting to them with a devoted DisplayPort or HDMI video cable, and never utilizing the USB-C cable because the video cable, too.