Is this the BEST monitor for programming?

Summary

In this review, the presenter discusses the BenQ RD 280 monitor, specifically designed for programmers. The monitor’s 3x2 aspect ratio, 4K+ resolution, and matte display are highlighted for enhancing productivity and reducing glare. Key features include KVM support, a customizable moon halo light, and an adjustable ergo arm. While the 60Hz refresh rate might be a downside for some users, the overall performance and design make it a strong choice for programming tasks. The review also mentions a more affordable alternative, the BenQ RD 240. Overall, the RD 280 is praised for its quality and productivity benefits.

Takeaways

• 😀 The BenQ RD 280 is a 28-inch monitor with a 3:2 aspect ratio and a resolution of 3840x2560, ideal for programming and multitasking.
• 😀 It features a matte screen, which eliminates glare, making it easier to work in well-lit environments or near windows.
• 😀 The monitor includes multiple ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort, and USB-C with 90W charging, making it a versatile option for various devices.
• 😀 KVM functionality allows users to switch between computers while keeping USB peripherals connected, adding convenience for multi-system setups.
• 😀 The monitor has a built-in moon halo light that offers adjustable brightness, creating a warm, ambient glow when viewed from behind.
• 😀 The included Ergo arm (for an additional $30) is praised for its flexibility, durability, and ease of use, especially for vertical monitor placement.
• 😀 The display has specialized modes for dark and light themes that make reading code more comfortable and help text pop.
• 😀 Night hours protection adjusts the monitor's brightness based on the ambient lighting in the room, reducing eye strain during long hours of use.
• 😀 Despite being a 60Hz monitor, the RD 280’s performance is highly suitable for general use and programming, although some users may prefer higher refresh rates.
• 😀 For those on a budget or who prefer smaller screens, the BenQ RD 240 (24-inch, 16:10 aspect ratio) is a more affordable alternative with similar display quality, though without KVM features.
• 😀 Overall, the BenQ RD 280 is highly recommended for programmers looking for an ergonomic, high-quality monitor with excellent display features and customization options.

Q & A

Why did the reviewer decide to review the BenQ RD280 monitor?

The reviewer wanted to find a replacement for the Apple Cinema Display 30-inch, which they considered the best monitor for programming, and was looking for a similar quality monitor after it was discontinued.

What were the main issues with newer Apple monitors, according to the reviewer?

The newer Apple monitors had a glossy screen and a 16:9 aspect ratio, which the reviewer didn’t find suitable for programming, especially when working near windows with natural light.

What is the key feature of the BenQ RD280 monitor that sets it apart for programming?

The BenQ RD280 features a 3:2 aspect ratio, which the reviewer believes is ideal for programming as it allows more vertical screen space for code, making it feel more productive.

What connectivity options does the BenQ RD280 offer?

The monitor comes with an HDMI 2.0 port, DisplayPort, USB-C with 90W charging, a USB Type-B upstream port, and KVM capabilities, allowing users to connect multiple devices and switch between them easily.

How does the BenQ RD280 handle multiple monitors?

The BenQ RD280 supports daisy-chaining through its USB-C ports, allowing users to connect multiple monitors and manage them through a single laptop output, using BenQ’s MST (Multi-Stream Transport) technology.

What is the ‘moon halo light’ feature mentioned in the review?

The 'moon halo light' is a built-in feature of the BenQ RD280 that provides a soft, warm light from behind the monitor, creating an ambient glow that enhances the aesthetic and can be adjusted for brightness.

What are the benefits of the Ergo arm that comes with the monitor?

The Ergo arm, available for an additional $30, allows for easy height adjustments, screen tilting, and even rotating the monitor to a vertical position, offering a customizable ergonomic experience.

What are the built-in modes for programming on the BenQ RD280?

The monitor includes a dark mode and light mode, with dark mode making text stand out more clearly, which is especially beneficial for coding. The reviewer particularly praises the dark mode for enhancing their preferred Capuchin theme.

What is the night hours protection feature, and how does it work?

The night hours protection is a feature that automatically adjusts the screen’s brightness based on the ambient lighting in the room, making the monitor easier on the eyes as the lighting changes throughout the day.

What are the drawbacks of the BenQ RD280, according to the review?

The main drawback is that the BenQ RD280 has a 60Hz refresh rate, which the reviewer notes may not be ideal for those accustomed to higher refresh rates like 144Hz, especially for smoother scrolling in text-heavy applications.

What alternative monitor does the reviewer suggest for those on a budget?

The reviewer suggests the BenQ RD240, a 24-inch monitor with a 16:10 aspect ratio and similar features to the RD280 but at a lower price, making it a great choice for those seeking a more affordable option.