The Asus ProArt Display 5K offers the same impressive 5K resolution (5120×2880) in a comparable 27-inch format, all at a price that’s significantly lower than the Apple Studio Display. If you’re in search of a budget-friendly 5K display compared to the Studio Display, this model deserves your attention. Check out my hands-on video review, and don’t forget to subscribe to DMN on YouTube for more insights.
Display Performance
The ProArt Display (PA27JCV) stands out with its authentic 5K (5120×2880) panel, eliminating any potential UI scaling problems that can occur with 4K displays when used with macOS. While there are utilities to address these issues, I prefer having a native 5K panel, which the Asus display confidently provides.
This 5K display is equipped with an IPS panel delivering standard 178-degree viewing angles. As it features an LED backlight, it may not achieve the same contrast levels or backlight control as OLED or miniLED displays. Although Asus has implemented a dynamic dimming feature, I recommend turning it off as the limited dimming zones can lead to distractions. Overall, the panel quality is commendable, showing consistency with minimal backlight bleed in my sample unit from Asus.
Asus ProArt Display 5K Video Review
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The monitor features a typical brightness of 400 nits and a peak brightness of 500 nits, which may not be ideal for HDR content creation but is adequate for enjoying movies via the Apple TV app. In comparison, its brightness rating is less than the 600 nits offered by the Apple Studio Display, but it’s important to note that brightness doesn’t scale linearly, making the difference between these specs closer than they might appear.
It boasts a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz with a 5ms response time. While this refresh rate may not be suitable for high-end gaming, it worked seamlessly with my Nintendo Switch.
Display Specifications
- Model Name: ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV
- Size: 27-inch
- Backlight: LED
- Panel: IPS
- Finish: Matte
- Viewing Angle: 178°/178°
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Resolution: 5K (5120×2880)
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Color Space: 99% DCI-P3
- Brightness: Typical: 400cd/㎡ HDR, Peak: 500 cd/㎡
- VESA DisplayHDR 500
- Contrast: Typical: 1500:1 Max: 3000:1
- Response Time: 5ms (GTG)
- Color Depth: 1073.7M (8bit+FRC)
- Ambient Brightness/Color Temperature
- Dynamic Dimming
Similar to many third-party monitors, the Asus display utilizes a matte coating to minimize ambient light interference. While matte technology, especially Apple’s high-end nano-texture, has its advantages, I personally favor glossy displays. The diffusion layer in matte displays tends to reduce text sharpness and contrast. Although this may not be problematic for users accustomed to matte screens, the difference becomes apparent when compared to glossy displays like those on Apple Studio Displays, MacBook Pros, or iPads.
I believe Asus has done a commendable job with its matte display. Over time, I found myself re-evaluating my previous biases against matte screens. It performed excellently and made me realize how I often overlook the reflections of gloss finishes, especially in a controlled lighting environment. Gradually, I adjusted to the matte diffusion layer, efficiently handling extensive text work, such as this review.
Design & Build Quality
The build quality of the Asus ProArt 5K feels typical of third-party displays, mainly comprised of a mixture of plastic and metal, with a predominant use of plastic. However, let’s focus on the positive attributes first.
The stand comes equipped with a variety of ergonomic adjustments, offering a luxury experience compared to the Apple Studio Display, which only provides tilt functionality. As for Asus, they have gone above and beyond, including an extensive array of adjustments.
The ASUS ProArt Display 5K features the following adjustment capabilities:
- Tilt: +23° ~ -5°
- Height Adjustment: 0~130mm
- Swivel: +30° ~ -30°
- Pivot, also known as Tate mode: +90° ~ -90°
For context, Apple charges a $400 premium just to add height adjustment to the Studio Display, which highlights the excellent value of the Asus approach. While Apple’s stand design integrates quality aluminum and has a silky-smooth adjustment, the end result is essentially similar.
The ProArt Display 5K also includes a 100x100mm VESA mounting option, which must be configured during the build-to-order process for Apple’s display. While it is possible to convert the Studio Display to VESA afterward, it necessitates a visit to the Apple Store for a fee.
Regarding the VESA compatibility of the Asus 5K Display, you might want to consider mounting options because, like nearly all third-party displays I’ve encountered, there is a slight wobble when typing. The Asus 5K Display performs better than some monitors I’ve tried, yet there’s still a noticeable “bobblehead” effect when typing on my Magic Keyboard. You can minimize the level of wobble by keeping the height adjustment towards the lower end, although it won’t completely eliminate the wobble.
This highlights one of the key issues I face with third-party displays. The stands and construction materials frequently lack the ability to absorb the vibrations produced by typing. In terms of stability, the Apple Studio Display performs admirably. While it, too, isn’t completely free from wobble, it outperforms nearly all competing monitors when using standard stands.
Connectivity Features
Another considerable advantage of the Asus ProArt Display 5K is its extensive connectivity options. First and foremost, kudos to Asus for integrating the power supply, which eliminates the need for bulky external power bricks cluttering my workspace. The built-in cable management channel in the stand’s stem is a welcome addition, ensuring cables can be routed neatly.
Apple users will appreciate the straightforward DisplayPort Alt Mode through a single USB-C connection. Besides display input, this connection can deliver up to 96W of power to a compatible MacBook or iPad while enabling access to the display’s USB hub.
Connectivity Ports
- USB-C x 1 (DP Alt Mode)
- DisplayPort 1.4 x 1
- HDMI (v2.1) x 1
- USB Hub: 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (4.5W)
- USB Hub: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C (15W)
- 3.5mm headphone jack
- 96W USB-C Power Delivery
Unlike Apple’s displays, which rely on a single upstream USB-C connection, the Asus ProArt 5K includes both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 connections. This monitor is versatile enough to connect to a range of devices, including gaming consoles and set-top boxes.
In this regard, Asus has tackled the build and stability aspect proficiently, and I’ve begun to reassess my position regarding glossy versus matte displays. The quality is genuinely impressive and highlighted how I tend to overlook reflections from a glossy display, even within a zone where controlling ambient light is possible. Eventually, I adapted to the matte diffusion layer, even while working with extensive textual content, such as this review.
Connectivity Overview
The Asus ProArt 5K boasts ample connectivity options, marking another commendable feature. First off, thank you, Asus, for internalizing the power supply, which means no more unsightly power bricks cluttering my workspace. The addition of a cable management channel integrated into the stand’s stem also assists in keeping things organized.
Apple users will appreciate the streamlined connection process through DisplayPort Alt Mode, which utilizes a single USB-C connection. This connection can deliver up to 96W of power to compatible devices while offering access to the built-in USB hub of the display.
Connectivity Options
- USB-C x 1 (DP Alt Mode)
- DisplayPort 1.4 x 1
- HDMI (v2.1) x 1
- USB Hub: 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (4.5W)
- USB Hub: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C (15W)
- 3.5mm headphone jack
- 96W USB-C Power Delivery
In contrast to Apple’s single upstream USB-C connection setup, the Asus ProArt 5K offers both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, allowing more flexible connections to a variety of devices, including gaming consoles and set-top boxes.
However, the Apple Studio Display does have a slight edge in this area as it includes an integrated webcam and microphone. While it has a pair of 2W speakers mounted on the rear, their performance is so underwhelming that it’s hardly worth mentioning. To put it in perspective, even the speaker on the Mac mini produces better sound quality, which underscores the limits of the display’s sound system. Fortunately, there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack available for connecting headphones or powered speakers, such as the Yamaha HS4 Powered Studio Monitors.
Asus ProArt Display 5K vs Apple Studio Display
Is the Apple Studio Display significantly superior to the ASUS ProArt Display 5K? The answer leans towards yes, particularly when it comes to build quality. However, the comparison becomes more nuanced when focusing strictly on the panels. If glossy displays aren’t your preference and you feel comfortable with a matte finish, both displays become considerably comparable despite their differing price tags.
The most notable advantage of the Apple Studio Display is its build quality, constructed entirely from glass and aluminum, resulting in a sleek design devoid of any significant chin, logos, or buttons on the front. Aesthetically, it presents a more refined offering. Additionally, its integration and user-friendliness stand out. It provides a built-in ultrawide 12MP Center Stage Camera, a surprisingly robust six-speaker array with spatial audio support, and a three-microphone array that features directional beamforming for high-fidelity FaceTime calls. All of this is managed through a single, simple USB-C upstream cable. The Studio Display also includes three USB-C downstream inputs on the back.
In conclusion, is the Apple Studio Display worth twice the price of the Asus 5K Display? It ultimately depends on how highly you value the sleek Apple aesthetic within your workspace. For many users, a display serves as a tool, leading to an answer being a firm no. However, for those who have painstakingly designed their workspace around a minimalist vision, the premium price for the Studio Display can seem warranted.
My personal take? It might throw you off, but if I had $1600 to spare, I would choose the Asus 5K and save the additional $800. It simply represents a better value. If I had to rate it, I would give it a 4.5 out of 5. What are your thoughts? Feel free to share in the comments.
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