The Dell Ultrasharp U2518D stems from a series of Ultrasharp monitors that put color accuracy into sharp focus. All their monitors have a wide color gamut, covering close to 98% of the sRGB color space to deliver deep color saturation. This is the kind of color support that makes it one of the best monitors for video editing. This specific Dell monitor has a peak brightness of 350 nits which isn’t too bad, and a contrast ratio of 1000:1 for a high contrast range of shades. The Dell u2518D comes with excellent factory calibration that deems it ready for use straight out of the box. If you want the convenience of a dual monitor, but are missing the necessary space, check out our review of the Del Multi-Client monitor (makes multiscreen setups unnecessary). Or, if you’d like to see all the options out there, take a look at our list of the best computer monitors around.
Why We Like It – Dell U2518D
The Dell U2518D UltraSharp mid-range monitor is an IPS panel that comes packed ready for action thanks to it’s 5ms response time for close to non-existent motion blur, and a 60Hz refresh rate for reduced screen stuttering. Granted, its 25 inch screen size may be slightly limiting, but it’s 5ms input lag ensures quick responsiveness during gameplay. This makes the Ultrasharp U2518D a charm for most gamers
- Low 5ms response time
- Impressive peak brightness of 350 nits
- HDR Content Support
- Lack of AMD FreeSync Support
- Minimal IPS glow
Performance
The Ultrasharp U2518D is a smart selection both as a gaming monitor and a professional’s tool thanks to HDR support that allows for hyper-realistic visuals. The only downside would be that it only works when connected over HDMI. The monitor’s 60Hz refresh rate matches that of the AOC U3277PWQU, and just about makes the cut for tear-free gaming. Its 5ms input lag is also great for fast moving game-play. The monitor unfortunately doesn’t come with AMD FreeSync support, so it won’t be able to synchronize it’s refresh rate with that of your GPU if it’s higher or lower.
Related: If you like this monitor, also check out our Dell U2415 review.
Design
Design-wise, this Dell Monitor looks simple yet elegant – much better than the ViewSonic VP2468 ColorPro. It comes in matte black and gun-metal grey, and its thin InfinityEdge bezels allow for a multi-display set up. The Dell U2518D offers great viewing angles at 160 degrees both horizontally and vertically. The display can also be tilted and swiveled at a considerably wide range, and have its height adjusted to the user’s comfort level. Its connectivity options are also diverse, with 1 DisplayPort, 1 Mini DisplayPort, 1 DisplayPort out, 1 HDMI port, 1 DVI-DV port, 5 USB 3.0 ports, and 1 AC power connector for the power cable.
Related: Also check out our Dell U2520D review.
Value
The Ultrasharp U2518D’s power consumption is fair at about 27 watts. It however doesn’t come with any built in speakers. At a screen resolution of 1440p, the Dell U2518D is beaten by the Dell UP3216Q’s 4K resolution, but this isn’t a dealbreaker for most folks. This Dell Monitor still delivers good quality graphics for objects in fast motion, making it great as a mixed-use display.
Dell U2518D Wrap Up
The Dell U2518D is a good monitor for it’s mid range price, and a great monitor for a graphic designer or a professional photographer. It’s 25-inch screen offers ample screen space for the normal viewer, but may not be enough for gamers who prefer a wide field-of-view. Feel encouraged to make a purchase if all you need is a decent display that doesn’t have too many bells and whistles, but still has a lot to offer under the hood.
