The ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM has made waves in the creative community, and for good reason. Priced at $1,899, this 31.5-inch 4K QD OLED monitor is tailored for creators who demand the best in display technology. With impressive specifications including 1000 nits of peak brightness, 99% DCI-P3 color coverage, and factory calibration, it certainly seems to be the dream monitor on paper. However, like any product, it has its nuances that potential buyers should consider.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into the design, performance, and potential drawbacks of the ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM, helping you determine if it’s the right choice for your creative needs.
Stunning Design
First, let’s talk about the design of the ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM. This monitor is aesthetically pleasing, with clean, modern lines and thin bezels that enhance the viewing experience without distractions. The design is so refined that it could easily win awards compared to other displays on the market.
From the front, the monitor features a minimalistic approach, with a subtle logo at the bottom and a pop-out panel for display controls. Flipping to the back reveals an 8-millimeter panel coupled with a robust metal housing that contains the power supply, speakers, fans, and ports. The aluminum stand has a small footprint for a 32-inch display and boasts a dual-pillar design for height, tilt, and rotation adjustments, although it lacks swivel functionality.
Despite its sleek appearance, there are a couple of design flaws worth noting. For one, the specifications printed on the aluminum base seem unnecessary and detract from the overall look. Additionally, the stand does not facilitate effective cable management, leaving cables visible either hanging down or routed awkwardly through the base.
Connectivity Options
When it comes to connectivity, the ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM provides ample options to meet the needs of most users. It features:
- One HDMI 2.1 port
- Two Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Two USB ports
The Thunderbolt ports are particularly advantageous, allowing for 96 watts of power delivery to laptops or tablets and enabling daisy chaining with other Thunderbolt devices like the ASUS ProArt 5K display.
Unmatched Display Quality
The heart of the ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM is its QD OLED panel, which delivers stunning color accuracy and brightness. With a resolution of 4K and a pixel density of 140 PPI, the display excels in providing vibrant visuals. While some may argue that 4K displays fall short compared to higher pixel densities, many users, including those with mid-40s vision, find 4K perfectly suitable for everyday tasks.
This monitor is factory calibrated to achieve an impressive 99% coverage of the P3 color space with a delta E of less than 1, ensuring consistent and accurate colors. For professionals, built-in presets for color profiles such as P3, Adobe RGB, and Rec.709 allow for immediate out-of-the-box usability.
One standout feature is its HDR performance, with a contrast ratio of around 1.5 million to 1 and peak brightness hitting 1000 nits, making HDR content come alive. The display supports HLG, HDR10, and soon Dolby Vision, catering to both creators and gamers alike.
Ease of Use with Mac
Setting up the ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM with a Mac can be slightly complex, especially when utilizing HDR content. Users must enable HDR in system settings and adjust the display settings accordingly to fully appreciate its capabilities. While this may seem inconvenient, the result is a beautifully immersive HDR experience.
Performance and Usability
In addition to its visual prowess, the PA32 UCDM supports up to 240Hz variable refresh rates, providing smooth gameplay and responsive computing. Everyday tasks such as scrolling and window movement feel fluid, enhancing productivity.
However, it’s crucial to address the potential issue of fan noise associated with this monitor. For those with auditory sensitivity, the dual fans may present a challenge. The noise level can reach 32-34 dB, which, while not overwhelmingly loud, can be noticeable in quiet environments. ASUS has implemented various features to mitigate overheating, but the audible fan sounds may deter some users.
Conclusion
The ASUS ProArt PA32 UCDM QD OLED monitor offers exceptional color accuracy, stunning design, and robust features tailored for creators. While the monitor excels in many areas, the fan noise could be a dealbreaker for those seeking a completely silent workspace. If you’re in the market for a high-end display and can overlook the potential for audible fans, this monitor is an excellent investment for anyone serious about their creative work. For further inquiries about this display or related products, feel free to leave your questions below!
Credit: Jerry Schulze
