U32 and M34d: HP introduces two new monitors

HP has introduced two completely different new monitors with the U32 and M34d models, but they are supposed to serve the same target group: Both models are primarily aimed at creative professionals.

HP U32: Ultra HD at 31.5 inches

The HP U32 measures 31.5 inches diagonally and offers a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels, which corresponds to a pixel density of 140 ppi. According to the manufacturer, the display covers 99 percent of the sRGB color space and 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color space. The simulated color depth is ten bits, which results from an actual color depth of eight bits and FRC. In addition, there is a refresh rate of 60 Hz. The maximum brightness is 400 cd/m², while the contrast is 1,000:1.

The elegantly minimalistic design of the device, which rests on a flat silver stand, is completely silver on the back and only has a black display border as a slight contrast, should also score with its connections. It has one DisplayPort 1.4, one HDMI 2.0 and one USB-C port, three USB-A ports and an audio output. Furthermore, the USB-C port can be used to display a notebook’s image on the PC screen and to supply the notebook with power.

A pivot function and the monitor’s height adjustability round off the features. The device will be available from November for 549 euros.

HP M34d: Curved VA panel

The M34d is visually quite different from the U32, which is not only due to the fact that it is significantly wider and heavily curved. The general design also conveys a completely different impression here: kept in black throughout, the screen looks significantly heavier and more space-consuming than the other new introduction. In 21:9 format, the curved monitor offers a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 pixels with a screen diagonal of 34 inches. In terms of contrast ratio, it clearly outshines the other new model and achieves a value of 3500:1. However, it is significantly less bright – HP specifies a value of 150 cd/m² – and does not achieve the color gamut of the U32. Thus, HP only specifies a 99% coverage of the sRGB color space here and does not give any information about the coverage of the DCI-P3 color space or the color depth.

However, the M34d is superior to the other new model in terms of connectivity: it also offers a USB-B upstream port and an additional USB-A jack. Furthermore, the monitor can score with integrated speakers. It is available immediately. The recommended retail price is 499 Euros.