Video editors spend a lot of time looking at a monitor, so you want to make sure you have one that makes working a better experience. One such option is the relatively affordable VP3481 34” Curved HDR LCD Monitor from ViewSonic. These ultra-wide displays are amazing for editing thanks to their large size and 21:9 aspect ratio. So, is this one up to the task?
Experienced filmmaker Tom Antos has put together a review of the VP3481 with how it works as his new video editing monitor. Antos points out that this isn’t ideal color grading monitor – he has a dedicated grading display for that – but that it has numerous benefits for editing.
I actually see a lot of monitors in my day job, so I was curious to hear how this offering from ViewSonic holds up. Of course, the first thing that pops up is how the wide 21:9 aspect ratio and 3440 x 1440 WQHD resolution give a lot of room for your timeline and windows. Anyone who edits knows that you always need more room, making this a huge plus.
The display even manages a fast 100 Hz refresh rate that provides smooth motion of any elements on screen and is a bonus for gaming. Another gaming-specific benefit is AMD FreeSync support. HDR10 is also supported for viewing media with a wider dynamic range.
Getting into the color specs, the VP3481 is factory-calibrated and comes with a report of the measurements. It is only 8-bit, however, so while not perfect, it is just fine for working in the timeline of your NLE. A 14-bit 3D LUT should help ensure proper reproduction of Rec.709, sRGB, EBU, SMPTE-C, and DICOM-SIM color spaces. Just make sure you have a proper display for your color grading work.
If you want to clean up your desk, there are two built-in speakers for audio. Unsurprisingly, this monitor does offer a USB hub with two USB Type-A and two USB Type-C available once you connect to your PC via the USB Type-B connection. Beyond that, you have two HDMI 2.0 inputs and a DisplayPort input for your devices and its comes with a decent stand and a bunch of cables.
If you are looking for a monitor that is suitable for when you need to get some work done as well as when you want to kick back and watch a movie or play some games, the ViewSonic VP3481 is looking to be one of the best choices for the price.
[source: Tom Antos]
Order Links:
ViewSonic VP3481 34” Ultra Wide Curved HDR LCD Monitor (B&H, Amazon)
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