Head-to-head · Best USB-C Monitors

Dell UltraSharp U3225QE vs MSI Modern MD27UPHW

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Dell UltraSharp U3225QE comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.1 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about creative professionals needing large 4K workspace — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best USB-C Monitors

Dell UltraSharp U3225QE

4.1

$825as of May 19

The Dell UltraSharp U3225QE is a 32-inch 4K monitor with Thunderbolt 3 hub capabilities and IPS Black panel technology. PCMag praised its display quality and hub functionality, while a MacRumors user noted it replaced a failing U3224KB model and runs at 2560x1440 resolution with 1.5x fractional scaling. The monitor is priced at $1,029.99 at Dell, though it's no longer available on Amazon. It's best suited for users seeking a high-resolution display with connectivity hub features.

Strengths

— 4K resolution with Thunderbolt 3 hub functionality
— IPS Black panel technology for improved color accuracy
— Supports 1440p resolution at 1.5x fractional scaling

Watch-outs

— Higher price point compared to previous U3224KB model
— No longer available at Amazon

$825 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best USB-C Monitors

MSI Modern MD27UPHW

3.8

$349as of May 19

The MSI Modern MD27UPHW is a 27-inch 4K smart monitor that blends TV and PC functionality. PCWorld called it a 'solid smart monitor powered by Google TV OS' and noted its attractive design and included remote control. PCMag praised its bright image and streaming capabilities but noted the monitor's color performance is just so-so. The device is less expensive than many alternatives, though it lacks advanced color gamut and doesn't extend Ethernet connectivity to the connected PC.

Strengths

— Attractive and functional design with sleek white colorway
— Google TV OS is great for streaming and smart features
— Includes a TV-style remote control for easy navigation

Watch-outs

— Mediocre color gamut and performance
— Ethernet port doesn't extend connectivity to connected PC

$349 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Dell UltraSharp U3225QE

The Dell UltraSharp U3225QE is the size pick — at 32 inches it gives more workspace than the 27-inch Dell U2725QE and U2723QE for users who want one big screen instead of a dual setup. It shares the U2725QE's Thunderbolt 4 hub story but stops short of the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM's gaming chops.

MSI Modern MD27UPHW

The MSI Modern MD27UPHW is the smart-monitor wildcard — its Google TV OS and included remote let it double as a streaming display, which none of the Dell UltraSharps or the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM offer. It trades color accuracy and panel quality for that flexibility; pick it only if the smart-TV features matter.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Dell UltraSharp U3225QE	MSI Modern MD27UPHW
Size	32 inches	27-inch
Resolution	4K	3840×2160
Panel Type	IPS Black	IPS LCD
Refresh Rate	120Hz	60Hz
Connectivity	Thunderbolt 4 (140W PD), HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4	2x HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.4a, USB-C (98W PD)
HDR	DisplayHDR 600	VESA DisplayHDR 400
Weight	9.34 kg (with stand)	13.89 lbs

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