Alienware launches a $350 27-inch OLED gaming monitor with 240Hz QHD panel

Even as the memory shortage inflates the cost of PC builds, OLED gaming monitors have become more affordable. To capitalize on the budget market, Alienware has unveiled a new 27-inch QHD display. Although the listed typical brightness is entry-level, it appeals to dedicated gamers with a maximum 240Hz refresh rate.  

For buyers in North America and EMEA countries, the AW2726DM QD-OLED panel is in stock on the brand’s official site for $349.99.

A more subdued Alienware monitor

Fans will immediately notice that the black OLED gaming monitor lacks the flashiness of most Alienware desktops and laptops. While there is no RGB lighting, the manufacturer included a range of ergonomic tweaks. Owners can tilt, swivel, pivot, and adjust the screen's height to accommodate most setups.

With a typical brightness of 200 nits, sunlight may overwhelm the AW2726DM. Notebookcheck measured a peak HDR brightness of 381 nits, which is also on the lower-end. Nevertheless, the company promises the same deep blacks and wide HDR10 color palette as more expensive models.

The available 240Hz refresh rate is a highlight, possible through a single DisplayPort 1.4 connection. A pair of HDMI 2.1 ports also supports the 2560 x 1440 QHD resolution at a lower 120Hz. For gamers who are annoyed when OLED monitors skip the feature, there is an accessible headphone port.

Competitive gaming on the AW2726DM

Buyers can expect a 0.03ms response time while engaged in first-person shooter action. To minimize screen tearing, AMD FreeSync Premium is an option, but G-Sync is not found in the listed specs.

Despite its budget status, the Alienware monitor ships with the brand’s standard 3-year warranty. Covered issues include burn-in, although the QD-OLED panel reduces that risk with a graphite-film heatsink.

At $349.99, the latest Alienware OLED gaming monitor aims to be a sensible upgrade during challenging economic times. Notebookcheck also has a launch video for the AW2726DM, providing initial impressions and more detailed brightness, color, and response time readings. 

Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.