LG UltraFine 27UN850 Review: A Perfect Blend of Performance And Value

Display Quality

The first thing you’ll notice about the LG UltraFine 27UN850 is its stunning 4K UHD resolution (2160p). With a screen size of 27 inches, you get a lot of real estate to work with, making multitasking a breeze. Whether you’re editing photos, designing in CAD, or watching 4K movies, the resolution and sharpness are remarkable.

One of the most appealing aspects is the VESA DisplayHDR 400 compatibility. While not the highest HDR standard, it still enhances the viewing experience significantly. The monitor’s 400 nits of brightness ensures that even the smallest details are crisp, with highlights and shadows looking natural. This makes the screen pop, especially in dynamic content like games or high-resolution videos. I was personally impressed by how much more immersive movies looked with this display—characters and environments felt more lifelike.

Vibrant and Accurate Colors for Creatives

As a creative professional or a photographer, you know how crucial color accuracy is. The LG UltraFine 27UN850-W covers 99% of the sRGB spectrum, which is essential for anyone working with color-sensitive projects. I’ve used this monitor for light photo editing and design, and the accuracy is on point. The colors are vibrant without being oversaturated, and they stay true even from different viewing angles.

This high level of color accuracy makes it ideal for graphic designers, photographers, and video editors who need their screen to reflect true-to-life hues. It’s particularly useful when working with print projects, where color fidelity is key. Every shade and tone looks just right on this display, so you can work confidently knowing that what you see on screen will match the final product.

Smooth Gaming Performance

Though it’s designed primarily for professionals, the LG UltraFine 27UN850 can double as an excellent gaming monitor. Thanks to its AMD FreeSync technology, you can enjoy smooth gameplay without the annoying screen tearing, flickering, or stuttering that can plague lesser displays. Paired with the right graphics card, like an AMD Radeon, FreeSync adjusts the refresh rate to match the frame rate of your game, making for seamless and fluid motion.

I tested a few games on this monitor, including fast-paced shooters and real-time strategy games, and the performance was fantastic. The custom game modes, including two FPS modes and one RTS mode, allow you to optimize the display settings depending on the type of game you’re playing. I didn’t expect such flexibility from what’s marketed as more of a professional monitor, but it’s a pleasant surprise for gamers.

Transforms SDR Content to HDR

One unique feature that I found especially interesting is the monitor’s ability to transform standard content into HDR-like quality. Using a built-in picture quality algorithm, it enhances SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) content by adjusting tone mapping and luminance to create an HDR-like effect. This means even older videos or lower-quality streams will look more vibrant and detailed.

I tried watching some standard HD videos, and the difference was noticeable. While it’s not a substitute for true HDR content, the enhancement definitely boosts the viewing experience, making everyday content look much better on this screen.

Designed for Comfort and Efficiency

While performance is key, I also look for monitors that are comfortable to use over long periods, and the LG UltraFine 27UN850 doesn’t disappoint. The monitor has a matte screen finish, which helps reduce glare and reflection. This is particularly useful if you work in a bright room or near a window. It keeps your eyes from straining, allowing for longer, more comfortable work sessions.

The monitor also features On-Screen Control, which makes it easy to adjust settings without fumbling through complicated menus. You can fine-tune brightness, contrast, and other settings with just a few clicks of the mouse, a feature I found incredibly convenient.

Connectivity and Power Delivery

The LG UltraFine 27UN850 supports USB-C power delivery up to 60W. This means you can charge your laptop while it’s connected to the monitor, minimizing the number of cables cluttering your workspace. I tested this with my MacBook Pro, and it worked flawlessly, providing power while delivering the display signal through a single cable. This is a huge plus for anyone who values a clean, minimalist desk setup.

In addition to USB-C, the monitor includes HDMI and DisplayPort options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

Conclusion

After using the LG UltraFine 27UN850 for work, gaming, and general use, I can confidently say that this is one of the best 4K monitors for its price range. Priced at $345.33 (with a discount from its original price of $379.99), it’s a solid investment for anyone who needs a reliable, versatile display.

If you’re in the market for a new monitor, I highly recommend checking out the LG UltraFine 27UN850. It’s a versatile, high-quality display that performs well across the board, making it a standout choice in a crowded field of 4K monitors.

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