The Dell G3223D is a premium gaming monitor with a large 1440p IPS panel and USB-C connectivity for flexibility. It’s a formula we wish monitor brands would follow so gamers can justify upgrading since the product can be used for business or professional applications. It’s pricier than its VA counterparts, but let’s see if that extra cost merits better performance in all aspects.
Dell G3223D Specifications
- Screen Size: 32 Inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 WQHD
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Panel Technology: In-Plane Switching (Fast IPS)
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
- Brightness: 400 cd/m²
- Built-in Speakers: None
- Stand: Height – Yes
- Stand: Tilt – Yes
- Stand: Swivel – Yes
- Stand: Pivot – No
- VESA Compatibility: Yes (100 x 100)
- Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.4 x 1, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB-C PD15W x 1, USB 3.2 x 2, 3.5mm x 1
- Dimensions With Stand(WxHxD): 28.1″ x 21.9″ x 9.7″
- Weight: 18.39 lbs
Design and Features
The Dell G3223D looks identical to its sibling, the G3223Q, but the panel and connectivity differ. The monitor has the distinct matte black aesthetic with vents and blue accents found on Dell’s newer gaming models. The display is bezel-free on three sides, but it still has a bottom and inner border like most displays.
It’s a large monitor, so you might want to check how much desk space you have first before pulling the trigger. The monitor isn’t as deep as some recent models we’ve handled, but its width needs 28 inches of clearance. It is not the heaviest in its category, but we recommend asking for help since the cabinet is bigger than the usual PC display.
The product’s build quality is great and comparable to the brand’s best offerings, even if this is a budget to mid-range model. The plastics are thick and sturdy, and there were no signs of weakness or cosmetic defects on their parts. The stand is firm and stable, so the screen won’t sag or shake unless you nudge it accidentally.
The Dell G3223D has an OSD joystick and some hotkeys to access its features and capabilities conveniently. The layout is located at the back near the panel’s right-hand side, so it’s still within reach for most people. Other 32-inch monitors go as far as including remotes since they can be used for couch gaming, but it is not entirely necessary, in our opinion.
The stand included with the G3223D’s package offers tilt, swivel, and height adjustments for comfort and convenience. Pivoting isn’t included since the screen is quite big, so it’s not suitable as a portrait display. You can use VESA mounts, but it’s not immediately necessary since the stock setup is sufficient. What makes the Dell G3223D stand out is its connectivity layout which includes USB-C among its DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 slots. The former supports DP Alt Mode, but the downside is it only offers up to 15 watts of power. You also get USB 3.2 slots for your accessories and mobile devices and a 3.5mm jack for headsets.
Unfortunately, this model doesn’t include built-in speakers, which would have extended its value per dollar further. However, you are better off using gaming headsets or desktop speakers since they will be better for immersion. It’s to have a decent set, but it’s excusable not to have them if the monitor has a lower price.
Display and Performance
The Dell G3223D boasts a 32-inch IPS panel with a 2560 x 1440 resolution, a 165Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms boosted response time. The backlight has a 400 cd/m2 backlight and a 1000:1 contrast ratio, just like most IPS monitors. This model is VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified, but we all know how limited that is when it comes to actual HDR performance.
Larger 1440p monitors aren’t crisp like their smaller siblings, but the higher pixel count is still there to compensate for it. Games will still look better and more detailed, so you don’t have to worry about that. The screen is easy on the eyes for reading and browsing as well, so the monitor should work great if you need to finish work or school-related tasks.
The Dell G3223D covers 100% sRGB and 95% of DCI-P3, producing excellent vibrancy in games and movies. This monitor is pre-calibrated exquisitely like its 4K 144Hz sibling since the deltaE average is only at 0.78. Most users won’t need to calibrate it immediately since it’s bright and natural with the default setup.
Calibrating the monitor reduced its dE average to 0.66, so it is not worth going through it unless you need absolute color accuracy. There’s also the cost of the colorimeter, which isn’t usually cheap or practical for gaming and entertainment displays. However, we recommend getting one if you use the monitor for either sRGB or DCI-P3 formats to ensure the colors are on point.
The backlight’s output reached 391 cd/m2 in SDR, but it peaked at 425 cd/m2 when it’s HDR mode was active. There’s plenty of room for adjustment for different times of the day, so that will come in handy if you have plenty of windows. The downside with this model is its 980:1 contrast ratio which did not expand even if there is a certified HDR mode in place.
Panel uniformity for the test sample had minor backlight leaks, but they only become noticeable if you watch the affected spots closely. White or lightly colored backgrounds will conceal them, so you can only observe them in dark or black scenes. The good news is that this will change with every unit due to tolerances so that you can get a unit with better results
. Its pixel response time is comparable to the best Fast-IPS monitors in the market with the same refresh rate. There is a little bit of blurring, but using the monitor’s overdrive and its Fast setting should help with that. We don’t recommend the highest level since it will add overshoot which is more noticeable than the previous issue.
The Dell G3223D is certified to function flawlessly with FreeSync and G-Sync to prevent tearing and stuttering. Both Nvidia and AMD have compelling 1440p cards, so it’s wise to get a monitor with VRR for both companies. Input lag sits at 4ms at 165Hz, so there is no need to worry about delays while gaming.
Thoughts on the Dell G3223D
The Dell G3223D is an excellent choice if you want a large 1440p screen that’s capable of excellent colors and viewing angles. Its best quality is its color coverage and accuracy since the result is something you’d see on a high-tier model. Build quality is excellent, and its USB-C connectivity makes it more flexible than some competitors.
The first limitation is the USB-C port’s 15-watt limit, which shows that it won’t handle a laptop’s charging requirement. The screen’s limited contrast also holds down the poor HDR performance. However, it’s still excellent for us since it’s affordable and primarily designed for gaming instead of a docking display.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Excellent Gamut and Color Accuracy
- USB-C Connectivity
- FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible
Cons:
- Limited Contrast and HDR
- USB-C Charging Only Up to 15 Watts
Paolo is a gaming veteran from the golden days of Doom and Warcraft. Since junior high, he has built gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations; he believes that every citizen’s right to enjoy one. He has gone through several pieces of hardware in pursuit of every bit of performance gain, much to the dismay of his wallet. He has also spent half a decade researching, reviewing, and writing about these products and now has over 1400 articles about the best gaming tech under his belt.
Mark T. says
Might as well get the Gigabyte M32Q, that has USB-C and even KVR capabilities. It’s also much cheaper than this. It’s got an IPS panel @170hz at also had 100% rgb and 95% DCI-P3. It has more ports as well. This is dead from the get go. Much better monitors at this price range.