For Your Fast-Paced Gaming Needs
A knock-out rig is nothing without a kick-ass gaming monitor. Whether you want an FPS monitor with low input lag, a decent 1440p-monitor, or a huge curved panel, what’s important is that it gives your rig the display it deserves.
That is why I did a double-take when I first saw the Dell Gaming S2716DGR. This monitor uses a Twisted Nematic (TN) panel technology, which is best for competitive gamers, although it’s not everyone’s favorite. It supports higher refresh rates, has low response time, a decent input lag, and a high resolution. So let’s see if this monitor is the real deal!
| Screen Size | 27 Inches |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 QHD |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Panel Technology | Twisted Nematic (TN) |
| Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Response Time | 1 ms |
| Contrast Ratio | 1000:1 (Static) |
| Brightness | 350 cd/m² |
| Built-in Speakers | No |
| Stand | Height -Yes |
| Stand | Tilt – Yes |
| Stand | Swivel – Yes |
| Stand | Pivot – Yes |
| VESA Compatibility | Yes (100 x 100) |
| Connectivity | DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI 1.4 x 1, USB 3.0 x 2, 3.5mm Audio Jack |
| Dimensions | 24.51″ x 21.51″ x 8.17″ |
| Weight | 15.43 lbs |
Build and Design
Dell monitors usually follow a uniform design except for the Alienware models, of course. The Dell S2716DGR is minimalistic – it has the standard black and silver theme and is almost bazel-free. The glossy black chassis is clean and sophisticated, with its own quiet charm.
This panel is subtle and will naturally fit in a studio or an office, much different from gaming monitors like the Acer Predator X34 BMIPHZ that scream ‘gamer.’ But don’t get fooled, as this is a legitimate gaming monitor.
Build quality is one of the factors when choosing a good gaming monitor. The S2716DGR is robust and reliable, in line with Dell products. Though made of plastic, it is thick and sturdy, whereas the mechanism is smooth and firm. No wobbling, it is sure to last for a few years.
Display and Performance
The Dell S2716DGR dons a 27-inch TN panel ( a 24-inch option is available too). It supports a 2560 x 1440 QHD resolution perfect for games with amazing graphics. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey looked amazing on this monitor. Thanks to its 350cd/m2 maximum brightness and 1000:1 contrast ratio, the images were clear, crisp, and smooth.
However, before you achieve this level of awesome color display, you need to do some tweaking. My impression is that the S2716DGR’s color accuracy needs a little help, plus the screen is bright for regular usage. The good thing is that these offsets can be reduced with calibration, not the most convenient thing, I know. The contrast is also a bit low at a max of 820:1. Not ideal for black depth and vibrancy but can be easily remedied by lowering the screen’s backlight.
On the bright side, the S2716DGR has a splendid backlight uniformity. Games with dark hues like Hells Blade: Senua’s Sacrifice look great, and you can easily make out the images even in the darkest areas of the game. There is also zero blurring and ghosting on the S2716DGR. All thanks to the TN panel that powers the monitor that is quick enough when it comes to pixel transitions.
Gaming
Overall the Dell S2716DGR is an effective gaming monitor. It supports G-Sync, so this panel stays responsive, plus its BFI (Black Frame Insertion) feature contributes to the panel’s clear motion. With its low input lag and high 144Hz refresh rate, it earned its spot in our Lowest Input Lag Monitor for Competitive FPS Gaming list. It also has a 1ms response time, so you are sure to perform well in your upcoming PUBG matches. If you use an FPS gaming mouse in conjunction with the Dell S2716DGR, you are sure to have a tactical advantage over your opponents.
Controls and Connectivity
What I like about Dell monitors is that the I/O connectors are skillfully tucked beneath the indent on the lower part of the rear bulge. Considering that this is a G-Sync monitor, the connectivity is limited to DisplayPort 1.2 and HDMI for video input. There are two USB slots on the side plus three more on the rear.
I’m a bit disappointed by the OSD button layout of the Dell S2716DGR, which is not as good as the joystick-equipped models. Though the buttons are tactile, it takes an annoying number of clicks to get where you want to go on the OSD. Fortunately, Dell’s menus and sub-menus are organized neatly, so it is easy to just memorize the required presses to get to your desired setting.
Added Features
Unlike most monitors nowadays, the Dell S2716DGR doesn’t have built-in speakers. However, it does come with two 3.5mm audio ports perfect for your headset and speakers. So, it is in your best interest to get a headset with 7.1 surround sound like the ASUS ROG Centurion to upgrade your gaming experience. If you stream on Twitch and use a microphone for streaming, you will need to plug it in your rig while streaming, as there is no slot for this.
Some gamers love to free as much space as they can on their gaming desk. After all, with extended mouse pads being a regular on gaming setups, this is to be expected. Fortunately, the Dell S2716DGR is VESA mount compatible, so you can easily free space. It also has a cable management hole that keeps your desk clutter-free.
For those who are suffering from eye strain, you will be delighted to know that this monitor has an anti-glare coating. Now combine that with your gaming glasses, and you are on your way to a healthy gaming lifestyle. The panel also has an all-inclusive range of ergonomics – you can adjust the height, tilt, swivel, and pivot for better viewing angles.
Final Verdict
The Dell S2716DGR is a great choice if you want to experience QHD gaming with G-Sync support. Its low latency is on par with high-end gaming monitors. Though not a budget monitor pick, it is reasonably priced for gamers everywhere.
Overall the S2716DGR is a great practical choice if you are looking for a 144Hz G-Sync monitor. It is responsive, solidly built, and will surely cater to your fast-paced gaming needs.
