LG 37G800A
Dell 27 Plus 4K
Choosing a new monitor can feel like navigating a maze. You’re looking for that perfect blend of performance, visual fidelity, and maybe even a touch of style, all while staying within your budget. Today, we’re diving deep into two compelling options that sit at different ends of the spectrum but both promise a fantastic visual experience: the LG 37G800A-B 37-Inch Ultragear 4K UHD Curved Gaming Monitor and the Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor.
This comparison is for anyone who’s feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the specs and marketing jargon. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer seeking the ultimate competitive edge, a creative professional demanding color accuracy, or simply someone who wants a stunning display for everyday use, understanding the nuances between these two monitors is key. We’ll break down their features, explore what real users are saying, and help you figure out which one is the right fit for your desk and your needs.
Get ready to explore the vibrant world of 4K displays, high refresh rates, and immersive visuals as we put the LG 37G800A and the Dell 27 Plus 4K side-by-side. By the end of this, you’ll have a much clearer picture of which monitor deserves a spot in your setup.
In-Depth Look: LG 37G800A
The LG 37G800A is an absolute beast when it comes to screen real estate and gaming performance, all wrapped up in a striking curved design. If you’re looking for a monitor that makes a statement and pulls you into your games or content, this LG UltraGear could be your next obsession.
Let’s talk about that size first: 37 inches. That’s a significant jump from the standard 27-inch displays, and when combined with a 4K UHD resolution, the level of detail you get is simply phenomenal. Text is razor-sharp, images are incredibly crisp, and it creates a truly immersive experience, especially with that gentle curve. The curve, often around 1800R for monitors this size, is practically a necessity for such a large panel. It helps keep the edges of the screen within your peripheral vision, reducing distortion and making the whole display feel more cohesive and less like you’re looking at a flat surface.
When it comes to gaming, the LG 37G800A doesn’t hold back. A 165Hz refresh rate means incredibly smooth motion. Whether you’re in a fast-paced shooter or a racing game, you’ll notice a significant reduction in motion blur and stutter compared to lower refresh rate monitors. This fluidity is crucial for competitive gaming, giving you a visual advantage by allowing you to track fast-moving objects more easily. Complementing the high refresh rate is the 1ms response time (GtG). This means pixels change color incredibly quickly, further minimizing ghosting and smearing that can plague fast action. For gamers, this combination of 165Hz and 1ms is a dream.
Color reproduction is another strong suit. With up to 95% DCI-P3 color coverage, you’re getting a wide and vibrant palette. This is fantastic for gaming, as it means richer, more lifelike colors, but it’s also a boon for content creators and anyone who enjoys watching movies or editing photos. The VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification adds another layer of visual quality. This means the monitor can reach higher peak brightness levels and has better contrast, delivering deeper blacks and brighter highlights. The result is a more dynamic image with greater depth and detail, making everything from explosions in games to subtle shadows in a film pop.
LG has also packed in some gamer-centric features. AMD FreeSync Premium Pro is there to ensure tear-free, stutter-free gameplay by synchronizing your monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card’s frame rate. Dynamic Action Sync helps reduce input lag, so your actions on the controller or mouse are reflected on screen almost instantly. Black Stabilizer is a neat trick for darker games, brightening up shadowy areas so you can spot enemies or hidden items without blowing out the rest of the image. And for FPS players, the Crosshair feature provides a virtual crosshair on screen, giving you an aiming advantage.
Connectivity is also a strong point, with USB-C support that can handle power, video, and audio all through a single cable. This is fantastic for simplifying your desk setup, especially if you use a laptop. The built-in speakers are also a nice addition, offering decent sound for casual use, though most serious gamers or cinephiles will likely opt for external audio solutions.
Pros:
- Massive 37-inch curved 4K display for incredible immersion.
- High 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for silky-smooth gaming.
- Excellent color reproduction with 95% DCI-P3 and VESA DisplayHDR 600.
- Robust gaming features like FreeSync Premium Pro, Dynamic Action Sync, and Black Stabilizer.
- Convenient USB-C connectivity with power delivery.
- Curved design enhances immersion and viewing comfort on a large screen.
Cons:
- The sheer size might be overwhelming for some desk setups.
- The on-screen menu navigation can be a bit fiddly according to some users.
- The USB-C port might not offer enough power for some high-drain laptops.
- Likely not an IPS panel, which might mean slightly less vibrant colors and viewing angles compared to an IPS equivalent, though VA panels excel in contrast.
Customer Reviews:
“Awesome monitor! One usb-c cable provides power, video and audio. Works great on Linux Fedora 43 and macOS Tahoe. Built-in speakers are decent. Picture is great. Curved is a necessity for a 37″ monitor, and this one nails it.”
This review highlights the convenience of the single-cable USB-C setup and the monitor’s broad compatibility, which is a huge plus. The user also confirms that the curve is well-implemented for the large size.
“Sharp. Detailed. Great color. Non-reflective screen. Fast and Smooth. Ample I/O with both USB-C & HDMI. Easy setup.”
This user emphasizes the core strengths: visual clarity, color quality, smooth performance, and versatile connectivity. The non-reflective screen is also a key benefit for many users, especially those with bright environments.
“After taking about an hour to unbox, set up, and connect to my system, I turned it on, The screen briefly came to life, and it was a nice looking screen, wide bright and clear. The on screen menu button located at. the back of the screen not user friendly, you’d have to experiment to get to the right menu. Upon plugging in my phone to the USB C on the back of the monitor, my phone did not power up. After spending 2 hours with a confused bunch of tech support who offered confusing and inaccura”
This review points out some potential usability issues with the OSD navigation and a specific problem with USB-C power delivery to a phone. While the initial visual impression is positive, these usability hiccups can be frustrating.
Best for:
The LG 37G800A is an exceptional choice for serious gamers who crave immersion and a competitive edge. Its large, curved 4K display, high refresh rate, and fast response time make it a top-tier gaming monitor. It’s also great for users who want a cinematic experience for movies and TV shows, or for those who appreciate having a massive amount of screen space for multitasking and productivity, provided they have the desk space for it. If you’re looking for a monitor that truly fills your field of view and delivers breathtaking visuals, this is it.
In-Depth Look: Dell 27 Plus 4K
The Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor, or S2725QS, is a more conventional yet highly polished option, perfect for those who value a balance of productivity, visual quality, and modern aesthetics in a more manageable 27-inch form factor. Dell has a reputation for creating reliable, well-built monitors, and this one seems to continue that legacy.
At the heart of the Dell 27 Plus 4K is its 27-inch IPS panel with a 4K UHD resolution. This combination is a sweet spot for many users. The 4K resolution on a 27-inch screen offers incredible pixel density, meaning text is exceptionally sharp, images are detailed, and everything looks crisp and clear. This makes it ideal for productivity tasks, coding, design work, and even general web browsing. If you’re coming from a 1080p or 1440p monitor, the jump to 4K on this size will be immediately noticeable and highly appreciated. For more on scaling and text clarity, check out our guide on what DPI scaling is best for a 27-inch 4K monitor on Windows.
The IPS panel technology is a significant advantage here. IPS monitors are known for their excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles. The Dell 27 Plus 4K boasts 99% sRGB coverage, which is fantastic for everyday use, general content consumption, and even light to moderate photo editing. Wide viewing angles mean you can look at the screen from various positions without the colors shifting or the image becoming washed out, which is great if you often have people looking over your shoulder or if you work in a collaborative environment.
While not primarily a gaming monitor, the Dell 27 Plus 4K is no slouch in the performance department. It features a 120Hz refresh rate and an incredibly low 0.03ms response time (GtG). The 120Hz is a significant upgrade over the standard 60Hz, providing noticeably smoother motion in games and during general desktop use. Coupled with AMD FreeSync Premium, it ensures a tear-free experience. The ultra-low response time is also impressive and helps minimize ghosting. While it might not match the 165Hz of the LG for hardcore competitive gaming, 120Hz is more than capable for many gamers, especially those who prioritize visual fidelity and use it for a mix of gaming and other tasks. This makes it a solid contender for those looking for a great 27-inch 4K HDR monitor.
Dell has also focused on user comfort and audio. The improved ComfortView Plus feature reduces harmful blue light emissions to less than 35% without significantly impacting color accuracy. This is excellent for long work sessions, helping to reduce eye strain. The re-engineered sound quality with more powerful, deeper audio is also a notable upgrade. While built-in speakers are rarely a replacement for a dedicated sound system, Dell’s improvements suggest they are more than just an afterthought, offering a more immersive audio experience for casual use.
Aesthetically, the Dell 27 Plus 4K sports an ultra-thin bezel design and is available in an ash white finish, contributing to a sleek, modern look. This minimalist design can help it blend seamlessly into various desk setups, and the thin bezels are great for multi-monitor configurations.
Connectivity is also well-covered, with HDMI 2.1 ports (which can support 4K at 120Hz) and USB-C, making it versatile for connecting to various devices, including modern laptops. The inclusion of an HDMI 2.1 cable in the box is a thoughtful touch, ensuring you can immediately take advantage of the monitor’s capabilities.
Pros:
- Excellent 4K resolution on a 27-inch IPS panel for sharp visuals and great color accuracy (99% sRGB).
- Wide viewing angles thanks to the IPS panel.
- ComfortView Plus for reduced eye strain during long use.
- Smooth 120Hz refresh rate and very low 0.03ms response time with FreeSync Premium.
- Sleek, modern design with ultra-thin bezels.
- Improved built-in speaker quality.
- Versatile connectivity, including USB-C and HDMI 2.1.
Cons:
- Not as large or immersive as the LG 37G800A.
- Refresh rate (120Hz) is lower than the LG’s 165Hz, which might matter for very high-end competitive gaming.
- HDR readiness is present, but it doesn’t have a specific VESA DisplayHDR certification like the LG’s HDR 600.
- The stand might not be as adjustable as some users prefer, though a monitor arm is a great alternative.
Customer Reviews:
“Coming from a hardcore gamer of 15+ years. I had all the gaming monitors growing up ranging from 120hz to 240hz, in different resolutions. I love gaming but my time has been shortened as work became more frequent. I saw this monitor and noticed for one, it’s 4K and can output 120hz. It’s does the bells and whistle on height adjustment and yes, you can vertical tilt if wanted. It’s IPS so the view angles are nice and I currently have mine going of sRGB mode for color accuracy. I use a RTX 4080 Su”
This user, a seasoned gamer, finds the Dell 27 Plus 4K to be a great compromise for their reduced gaming time, appreciating the 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. The mention of height adjustment and tilt suggests good ergonomics.
“First off, save yourself some money because this comes with a 2.1 HDMI cable. wish I knew that. Otherwise, I absolutely love it, I bought a monitor arm stand to go with this and they paired perfectly, so don’t worry if you don’t like the stand, it was extremely easy to put together, though I can’t speak for the stand that it comes with because I didn’t use that. The settings are very comprehensive with a wide range of versatile options for quality like a video game hdr mode and a movie hdr mode”
This review points out a useful detail about the included HDMI 2.1 cable and praises the monitor’s comprehensive settings and versatile HDR modes. It also suggests that using a monitor arm is a good option, which is common for 27-inch displays.
“A very nice 4K monitor that does exactly what I needed a 27″ monitor to do. Arrived in good shape, although the motor box was inside another box that had barely any packing, so the monitor was free to move around a lot inside the outer box. Fortunately, the monitor arrived in one piece, could easily have gone the other way. Great screen, the matte finish is exactly what I need next to the window this monitor is sitting by. Colors are very nice …. actually suffice to say I struggle to descr”
This user confirms the monitor’s suitability for general 27-inch 4K needs and appreciates the matte finish, which is excellent for reducing glare. The comment about packaging is a slight concern, but the monitor arrived safely for them.
Best for:
The Dell 27 Plus 4K is an excellent all-around monitor. It’s perfect for professionals, students, and general users who need a sharp, color-accurate display for productivity and everyday tasks. It’s also a great choice for gamers who want a high-quality 4K experience with smooth performance but don’t necessarily need the absolute highest refresh rates for competitive play. Its balanced features, comfortable viewing experience, and modern design make it a versatile addition to almost any workspace or entertainment setup. If you’re looking for a refined 4K experience without the extreme immersion of a large curved display, this Dell monitor is a strong contender. For those interested in the best Dell 4K monitors, this certainly fits into that category.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Now that we’ve taken a closer look at each monitor individually, let’s pit them head-to-head across key categories to see how they stack up.
Screen Size and Immersion
The LG 37G800A clearly wins in terms of sheer screen real estate and immersion. Its 37-inch curved display wraps around your field of vision, making games and movies feel much more engaging. The curve is essential for making such a large panel comfortable to view. The Dell 27 Plus 4K, at 27 inches, is a more traditional size. While still offering a great 4K experience, it doesn’t provide the same level of panoramic immersion as the LG. If immersion is your top priority, the LG is the undisputed champion here.
Gaming Performance
This is where things get interesting. The LG 37G800A boasts a higher 165Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time, which are ideal for fast-paced, competitive gaming. The extra frames per second and quicker pixel response can give you a slight edge. However, the Dell 27 Plus 4K isn’t far behind with its 120Hz refresh rate and incredibly fast 0.03ms response time. For most gamers, 120Hz is more than sufficient and provides a very smooth, responsive experience. The Dell’s IPS panel might also offer slightly better color vibrancy and viewing angles, which can enhance the visual experience in games that don’t demand absolute peak performance from the refresh rate. The LG’s FreeSync Premium Pro also offers a broader range of compatibility and features over FreeSync Premium. So, for pure competitive gaming, LG has the edge, but for a more balanced gaming experience with excellent visuals, the Dell is very capable.
Visual Quality and Color Accuracy
Both monitors offer stunning 4K UHD resolution, ensuring incredible sharpness and detail. However, they differ in their color specifications. The LG 37G800A highlights 95% DCI-P3 coverage and VESA DisplayHDR 600. DCI-P3 is a wider color space often used in digital cinema, meaning the LG can produce a broader, more vibrant range of colors, especially reds and greens. The HDR 600 certification also indicates better peak brightness and contrast for HDR content. The Dell 27 Plus 4K focuses on 99% sRGB coverage, which is the standard for web content and most digital displays. While sRGB is excellent for general use and accuracy within that spectrum, DCI-P3 offers more punch. For creative professionals who need to work with a wider color gamut or for users who simply want the most vibrant colors, the LG might have an advantage. For standard color accuracy and a more balanced color profile, the Dell is excellent.
Productivity and Everyday Use
For productivity, the Dell 27 Plus 4K might be the more practical choice for many. Its 27-inch size is a standard and comfortable desk footprint, and the 4K resolution on an IPS panel provides exceptionally sharp text and wide viewing angles, which are crucial for long work sessions. The LG’s 37-inch size, while great for immersion, can be a bit much for some desk setups and might require more head movement to take in the entire screen. The Dell’s ComfortView Plus also adds to its appeal for extended use. However, if you have the space, the LG’s massive screen can be fantastic for multitasking, allowing you to have multiple windows open side-by-side with plenty of room.
Connectivity and Features
Both monitors offer modern connectivity, including USB-C, which is a huge plus for simplifying cable management and connecting laptops. The LG 37G800A specifies USB-C for power, video, and audio, which is a powerful feature. The Dell 27 Plus 4K also includes USB-C and HDMI 2.1, which is important for next-gen consoles and PCs to achieve 4K@120Hz. Both have FreeSync, but the LG’s Premium Pro offers more robust features. The LG also includes specific gaming enhancements like Black Stabilizer and Crosshair, which the Dell lacks. The Dell, however, has improved built-in speakers and ComfortView Plus for eye strain reduction.
Value and Price (General Consideration)
While specific pricing fluctuates, generally, a 37-inch curved 4K 165Hz gaming monitor like the LG 37G800A will likely command a higher price point due to its specialized features and larger size. The Dell 27 Plus 4K, being a more standard size and targeting a broader audience, may offer a more accessible price point, especially if it falls into the “budget-friendly” category for 4K monitors. When considering value, it’s crucial to weigh the specific features you need against the cost. For cutting-edge gaming performance and immersion, the LG might be worth the premium. For a solid, versatile 4K experience, the Dell likely offers better bang for your buck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which monitor is better for gaming?
A: For pure competitive gaming where every millisecond and frame counts, the LG 37G800A has an edge with its higher 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. However, the Dell 27 Plus 4K is still very capable with its 120Hz refresh rate and ultra-low response time, offering a smooth and visually rich gaming experience for most users. If you’re looking for a dedicated 4K gaming monitor, the LG might be the more specialized choice.
Q: Which monitor is better for productivity and office work?
A: The Dell 27 Plus 4K is generally a better choice for productivity. Its 27-inch size is ideal for desk real estate, the IPS panel offers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, and the 4K resolution makes text incredibly crisp. The ComfortView Plus feature also aids in reducing eye strain during long work hours. While the LG 37G800A offers more screen space, its curved nature and sheer size might be less practical for typical office tasks for some users. If you want to know more about 4K for work, check out our guide on best 4K monitors for office work.
Q: Can I use USB-C for charging my laptop with these monitors?
A: Both monitors feature USB-C connectivity. The LG 37G800A specifically mentions USB-C for power, video, and audio, suggesting it can likely charge a compatible laptop. However, the power delivery wattage isn’t specified, so it might only support charging for less power-hungry laptops. The Dell 27 Plus 4K also includes USB-C, which is commonly used for charging on modern laptops. It’s always best to check the specific wattage supported by the monitor’s USB-C port to ensure it meets your laptop’s charging requirements. For more options, see our list of best 4K monitors with USB-C.
Q: Which monitor has better color quality for creative work?
A: For creative professionals who need a wide color gamut, the LG 37G800A with its 95% DCI-P3 coverage and VESA DisplayHDR 600 likely offers superior color reproduction and HDR performance. DCI-P3 is a broader color space than sRGB. The Dell 27 Plus 4K, with 99% sRGB, is excellent for general accuracy and tasks that primarily use the sRGB color space, and its IPS panel ensures good viewing angles.
Q: Is the curved screen on the LG 37G800A worth it?
A: For a monitor as large as 37 inches, a curve (typically 1800R) is highly recommended and often considered a necessity. It helps to draw the edges of the screen into your peripheral vision, creating a more immersive experience and reducing perceived distortion. If you’re considering a large monitor for gaming or cinematic viewing, the curve significantly enhances the experience. For smaller screens, like the 27-inch Dell, a flat panel is generally preferred and offers wider viewing angles without the curve.
Q: Do I need a powerful graphics card for these 4K monitors?
A: Yes, absolutely. To fully utilize the 4K resolution and high refresh rates (165Hz or 120Hz) on either the LG 37G800A or the Dell 27 Plus 4K, you will need a powerful graphics card. For gaming at 4K, especially with high settings, a top-tier GPU is essential to achieve smooth frame rates. For productivity tasks, a less powerful GPU will suffice, but you’ll still benefit from having a card that can comfortably drive a 4K signal. For gaming, check out our recommendations for the best 4K monitors for PS5 or best 4K monitors for Xbox Series X.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between the LG 37G800A and the Dell 27 Plus 4K ultimately comes down to your primary use case and personal preferences. Both are excellent 4K displays, but they cater to different needs.
If you are a serious gamer who prioritizes maximum immersion, speed, and cutting-edge gaming features, the LG 37G800A is likely your winner. Its massive 37-inch curved display, 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and superior HDR capabilities create an unparalleled gaming and entertainment experience. It’s a monitor designed to pull you into the action and provide a competitive edge.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more versatile, balanced, and perhaps more practical monitor for a mix of productivity, general use, and enjoyable gaming, the Dell 27 Plus 4K is an outstanding choice. Its 27-inch IPS panel offers fantastic clarity and color accuracy for everyday tasks, while the 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium provide a smooth gaming experience. Its modern design and focus on user comfort also make it a great all-rounder for any desk.
Consider your desk space, your budget, and the types of content you consume most. For an immersive gaming throne, go for the LG. For a sharp, color-accurate, and comfortable all-rounder, the Dell is hard to beat.
