Key points
- Two of the most popular 240Hz gaming monitors on the market are the Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K.
- The BenQ XL2546K, on the other hand, has a more subdued and understated look, with a focus on functionality and ergonomics.
- The Alienware AW2521H is a better choice for gamers who want a wider color gamut and better viewing angles, while the BenQ XL2546K is a better choice for gamers who want a faster response time.
In the realm of competitive gaming, every millisecond counts. That’s why high refresh rate monitors have become the go-to choice for serious gamers, offering buttery-smooth visuals and reduced input lag. Two of the most popular 240Hz gaming monitors on the market are the Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K. Both monitors boast impressive specs and features, but which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the details and help you make an informed decision.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Dell Alienware AW2521H | BenQ XL2546K |
| — | — | — |
| Panel Size | 24.5 inches | 24.5 inches |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Refresh Rate | 240Hz | 240Hz |
| Response Time | 1ms GTG | 0.5ms GTG |
| Panel Type | IPS | TN |
| Contrast Ratio | 1000:1 | 1000:1 |
| Brightness | 400 nits | 400 nits |
| Viewing Angles | 178°/178° | 170°/160° |
| HDR Support | No | No |
| G-Sync Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| FreeSync Premium Pro Support | No | Yes |
| Ports | 2x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0 | 2x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0 |
| Price | $499 | $599 |
Design and Build Quality
Both the Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K feature sleek and aggressive designs that are sure to turn heads. The Alienware AW2521H has a more angular and futuristic aesthetic, with sharp lines and bold accents. The BenQ XL2546K, on the other hand, has a more subdued and understated look, with a focus on functionality and ergonomics.
In terms of build quality, both monitors are top-notch. They’re both made from high-quality materials and feel solid and durable. The stands on both monitors are sturdy and offer a wide range of adjustments, including height, tilt, swivel, and pivot.
Display Quality
The Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K both offer excellent display quality, but there are some key differences between the two. The Alienware AW2521H uses an IPS panel, which offers wider viewing angles and better color accuracy than the TN panel used in the BenQ XL2546K. However, the BenQ XL2546K has a slightly faster response time, which can be an advantage for competitive gaming.
In terms of color reproduction, the Alienware AW2521H covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut, while the BenQ XL2546K covers 98% of the sRGB color gamut. Both monitors also offer good contrast ratios and brightness levels, making them suitable for both gaming and general use.
Gaming Performance
The Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K are both excellent gaming monitors, but there are some subtle differences between the two. The Alienware AW2521H has a slightly wider color gamut and better viewing angles, which can be an advantage for games with vibrant visuals. The BenQ XL2546K, on the other hand, has a slightly faster response time, which can be an advantage for competitive gaming.
Both monitors offer a variety of gaming-specific features, such as black level adjustment, motion blur reduction, and crosshair overlays. The Alienware AW2521H also has a unique “AlienFX” lighting system that can be customized to match your gaming setup.
Connectivity and Features
The Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K both offer a good selection of ports and features. Both monitors have two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.2 port, and a USB 3.0 hub. The BenQ XL2546K also has a DisplayPort 1.4 port, which supports higher refresh rates and resolutions.
In terms of features, the Alienware AW2521H has a unique “AlienFX” lighting system that can be customized to match your gaming setup. The BenQ XL2546K, on the other hand, has a variety of gaming-specific features, such as black level adjustment, motion blur reduction, and crosshair overlays.
Price and Value
The Dell Alienware AW2521H is priced at $499, while the BenQ XL2546K is priced at $599. Both monitors offer excellent value for money, but the Alienware AW2521H is the more affordable option.
Which Monitor is Right for You?
The Dell Alienware AW2521H and the BenQ XL2546K are both excellent gaming monitors, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Alienware AW2521H is a better choice for gamers who want a wider color gamut and better viewing angles, while the BenQ XL2546K is a better choice for gamers who want a faster response time.
Ultimately, the best monitor for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a high-quality gaming monitor with a wide color gamut and excellent viewing angles, the Dell Alienware AW2521H is a great option. If you’re looking for a high-quality gaming monitor with a fast response time and a variety of gaming-specific features, the BenQ XL2546K is a great option.
Beyond the Comparison: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right gaming monitor can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Here are a few additional factors to consider when making your decision:
- Your budget: How much are you willing to spend on a gaming monitor?
- Your gaming needs: What types of games do you play? Do you need a monitor with a fast response time or a wide color gamut?
- Your setup: How much space do you have for a gaming monitor? What kind of mount do you need?
Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options and choose the best gaming monitor for your needs.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which monitor has a better response time, the Dell Alienware AW2521H or the BenQ XL2546K?
A: The BenQ XL2546K has a slightly faster response time of 0.5ms GTG, compared to the Dell Alienware AW2521H’s 1ms GTG.
Q: Which monitor has a wider color gamut, the Dell Alienware AW2521H or the BenQ XL2546K?
A: The Dell Alienware AW2521H has a wider color gamut, covering 99% of the sRGB color gamut, compared to the BenQ XL2546K’s 98% coverage.
Q: Which monitor has more gaming-specific features, the Dell Alienware AW2521H or the BenQ XL2546K?
A: The BenQ XL2546K has more gaming-specific features, such as black level adjustment, motion blur reduction, and crosshair overlays.
Q: Which monitor is better for competitive gaming, the Dell Alienware AW2521H or the BenQ XL2546K?
A: The BenQ XL2546K is a better choice for competitive gaming due to its faster response time and variety of gaming-specific features.
Q: Which monitor is better for general use, the Dell Alienware AW2521H or the BenQ XL2546K?
A: The Dell Alienware AW2521H is a better choice for general use due to its wider color gamut and better viewing angles.