on Google.
I’ve made it no secret that my favorite display I’ve ever owned is the HP Omen 27K, a 27-inch 4K monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate. I bought the display years ago while it was on sale, and I’ve been using it every day since. So, when I had the chance to try out the new HP Omen 32X 
Thanks to its ultra-high resolution, HP’s device delivers sharp images and vibrant colors. In-game textures and shadows render with lifelike quality, letting you catch the smallest details. IPS panels don’t output the same level of contrast as an OLED monitor. That said, the Omen 32X still manages to impress. Brightness levels are rated at 400 nits, but I’ve sat in front of the device for hours, and it feels much brighter. This capability is probably due to support for Dolby Vision, a type of visual tech that further enhances a monitor’s output.
HP has also added nine distinct picture modes, each optimized for different uses. As two examples, PC Mode offers a balanced mix of brightness, contrast, and image quality, and Game Mode enhances brightness, contrast, and response to deliver a smoother gaming experience.
The Omen 32X performs admirably as a gaming monitor. The device runs at a speed and responsiveness that competitive players will appreciate. Thanks to the 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, on-screen motion is fluid, minimizing blurs and input for a velvety smooth experience. Every button press is registered instantly, creating a lightning-fast feel that’s perfect for certain titles. During testing, I played Monster Hunters Wilds and the recently released Hades 2. Both ran beautifully. Animations were crisp, attacks were easy to track, and gameplay felt seamless even during chaotic moments.
There are a handful of important features worth mentioning — some that I liked and others… not so much. Inside, the HP Omen 32X has a set of built-in speakers that get plenty loud. Raising the volume to 35% is all you really need to enjoy room-filling audio. However, they lack depth and bass. The overall audio experience was just average at best.
Around the back, you’ll find a solid selection of ports, including two HDMI inputs, a DisplayPort 1.4, and an RJ-45 Ethernet connection. The real highlight for me is the USB-C port, which outputs 65W of power, so you can recharge your devices directly from the monitor. That feature is great to have in a pinch, but 65W isn’t very fast. I plugged in my OnePlus Nord N20 at 29% for 30 minutes, and its power only rose to 34%.
For a more premium option, check out the Alienware 34 Curved Monitor. This device won ZDNET’s Editors’ Choice award.
