Alienware has launched an OLED gaming monitor with a surprisingly low price. Available at just $349.99, the Alienware AW2726DM has a 2560×1440 QD-OLED panel, and looks set to shame many products in this price range, bringing OLED displays to value-conscious gamers.
You usually find IPS and VA-powered screens ranging from 240Hz up to 350Hz in this price range, going from 27in to 32in in size. Some, like the MSI MAG 274QPF X30MV, even offer Mini-LED local dimming zones, but none come close to the deep blacks and lightning-fast pixel response times possible on an OLED monitor. With its new low-cost QD-OLED monitor, Alienware looks set to bring deep blacks, per-pixel local dimming, and outstanding contrast to the masses.
The AW2726DM has the lowest price we’ve seen for a new, not discounted, QD-OLED gaming monitor, leaving a comfortable distance between it and the next in line, the Acer Predator X27U Z1bmiiprx at $399. Even discounted models, such as the MSI MAG 273QP QD-OLED X24 can’t go as low as this Alienware when it comes to price. In other words, if you want the best gaming or media consumption experience at this range, Alienware has just reshuffled the cards. At a time when many aspects of PC gaming are becoming expensive, it’s a breath of fresh air.
OLED greatness aside, what do you get for your $349? The AW2726DM features a 26.5in QHD (2560×1440) QD-OLED panel capable of reaching a refresh rate of 240Hz, which is standard at this resolution. Likewise, the pixel response time is listed at 0.03ms (grey-to-grey), plus Alienware says this screen covers 99% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage, although its 200nits of brightness is on the low side.
Given the low price, it’s likely that this monitor uses an older panel with a triangle sub-pixel GRB (green, red, blue) layout. This matters if you plan to use your monitor for productivity work where text clarity is important, as these screens often display purple and green fringing around black text on a white background. Fifth-gen QD-OLED panels, such as the one used on AOC’s Agon Pro AGP346UCS fix this limitation, but at a higher price.
That said, if you mainly plan on using the AW2726DM for gaming and content consumption, there should be no issue, aside from less punchy bright highlights compared to new OLED or Mini-LED LCD screens. Regardless, you should still get great contrast and a decent HDR experience. Most importantly, you can say goodbye to LCD ghosting and smearing while gaming. The panel is also topped with 2H hardened glass and anti-reflection treatment.
Panel aside, the AW2726DM offers a standard selection of video ports, including one DisplayPort 1.4 input supporting 240Hz at 1440p, plus two HDMI 2.1 ports supporting up to 120Hz at 1440p. All the inputs support AMD FreeSync Premium and VESA AdaptiveSync for Variable Refresh Rate. The brand also indicates the presence of a microphone. Don’t ask me why.
In terms of ergonomics, you’ll find a stand adjustable by 130mm in height, 90° pivot, 360° swivel, and from -5° to 21° tilt. If you need more, you can always install a 100mm VESA arm mount.
Alienware says this monitor comes equipped with an anti-burn-in AI algorithm plus a heat-dissipating graphite sheet, combining forces to maintain display longevity. However, in case of an issue, there is a three-year OLED burn-in warranty. Considering the benefits of an OLED panel, at this price, I don’t see many reasons for a gamer to choose anything else.
