BenQ EX3501R
$799
The BenQ EX3501R is a 35-inch ultrawide monitor with a 3440x1440 resolution and a 100Hz refresh rate. It offers HDR support and USB-C connectivity, making it suitable for both gaming and media consumption.

Our take
Great for media enthusiasts who need an immersive display.
So, I've been messing around with this BenQ EX3501R monitor, and I’ve got some thoughts. First off, it's a 35-inch curved display, which is pretty massive. The curve is subtle but makes things feel more immersive, like you’re wrapped up in whatever you’re doing. If you’re into gaming or watching movies, this could be a game-changer. But, if you’re just using it for work or browsing, it might just feel like you're drowning in a sea of pixels. It’s great if you like to have a lot of stuff open at once, though, so take that into account.
The display quality is pretty sweet — it’s got a 3440x1440 resolution and HDR support. Colors pop nicely, and everything looks sharp. However, HDR on this thing isn’t quite perfect. Sometimes the dark scenes can look a bit washed out, which is a bummer if you’re expecting it to be as good as a high-end TV. But hey, for a monitor, it’s definitely not bad. Just don’t go expecting cinema-level quality, and you’ll probably be happy with it.
Now, let’s talk about the connections. You’ve got all the ports you need: HDMI, DisplayPort, and even USB-C, which is fantastic if you want to hook up a laptop quickly. The USB-C is a handy feature for those who are tired of fumbling with a bunch of cables. But, I've noticed that if you’re using it for charging, it’s not the fastest — so don’t expect lightning speed if you’re trying to juice up your devices.
One thing that’s worth mentioning is the stand. It’s adjustable, which is nice, but it’s a bit wobbly. If you’re heavy-handed or have a shaky desk, you might find the screen bouncing a little more than you'd like. You can adjust the height, tilt, and even rotate a bit, but it’s not the sturdiest setup out there. So, if you’re the type who likes to fiddle with positioning all the time, just be ready for a little wiggle.
Overall, the BenQ EX3501R is solid for what it is, but it’s not without its quirks. It’s a fantastic option if you want a big, vibrant screen with a curve that pulls you in. Just be ready to deal with the quirks like the HDR not always hitting the mark and the stand being a bit shaky. It’s got some trade-offs, but if you can live with those, it’s a pretty sweet setup for anyone wanting a more immersive viewing experience without breaking the bank.