This 4K 120Hz monitor has a surprise hidden soundbar with incredible speakers, and it's a bargain

A modern computer setup featuring a sleek Dell monitor on a wooden desk, blue LED ambient lighting, and a gaming chair with a plush pillow. — The Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) on display (Image credit: Windows Central | Zachary Boddy)

The Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) on display (Image credit: Windows Central | Zachary Boddy)

PC monitors these days are sometimes equipped with built-in speakers to compensate for a lack of alternatives elsewhere. However, many can have mediocre or subpar audio quality, increasing the price of the monitors they're attached to for essentially nothing.

However, the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED (S3225QC) is one of the rare exceptions to this trend. It has a built-in soundbar with sound quality that puts the competition to shame and an excellent 4K display that's super responsive, all of which is now on sale for $499.99 at Dell (was $799.99).

Why buy the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC)?

A computer setup featuring a monitor displaying two squirrels peeking from a tree hollow. The setup includes a white PC case with blue lighting, creating a calm atmosphere. — Watching nature programs using the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) (Image credit: Windows Central | Zachary Boddy)

So what makes this monitor special? Let's start with its display, which is a QD-OLED panel capable of displaying images, videos, and games in 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rates. These two elements combined will ensure that whatever media you run on it will be displayed with immaculate detail and maintain a smooth, consistent framerate with little to no stuttering or lag.

Secondly, it's incredibly easy to set up for non-PC-build enthusiasts, to the point where you won't even need any tools. Lastly, the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) is equipped with a built-in 5-speaker soundbar, which produces exceptional audio quality, which is quite a rarity.

Two baby squirrels peek out from a tree hole. The bark is textured and detailed, while the squirrels display curiosity. The screen emits a soft glow. — A close-up shot of the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) (Image credit: Windows Central | Zachary Boddy)

What's more, the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED (S3225QC)'s speakers have an AI-empowered spatial audio feature that uses a proximity sensor and beamforming technology to produce an immersive surround sound experience that makes you feel like the speaker's audio is literally following you.

The only major drawback of this monitor is its shortage of ports, as it's only built with an HDMI 2.1 port, a USB-C video port, and two USB-C data ports, with no DisplayPorts, USB-A ports, or audio passthrough to speak of.

If you can overlook that quibble, the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) is a great premium-priced monitor we highly recommend for those looking for a 4K monitor with great sound quality to match its beautiful visual fidelity.

FAQ

What type of games is this monitor best suited for?

The Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC), with its 120Hz refresh rate, suits single-player cinematic action games and fast-paced, competitive online multiplayer games alike. Though the latter generally requires higher refresh rates, even up to 240Hz, doubling the standard 60Hz here ensures smooth gameplay.

Does it have KVM support?

No, the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) does not support KVM, meaning you will need to switch your keyboard and mouse manually if you're using multiple devices on it.

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Alexander Cope is a gaming veteran with over 35 years of experience who primarily covers Xbox and PC gaming news and spotlights discounts on the best laptops, peripherals, and other electronics. He's also a diehard fan of JRPGs, action games, beat em’ ups, and Capcom’s Monster Hunter series