Philips has launched two business-oriented monitors based on curved VA panels. Both feature a wide aspect ratio and ample connectivity, giving you more space to work efficiently.
The names are as catchy as ever, with 34B2U6603CH and 34B2U5600C each part of the brand’s 6000 and 5000 Series of monitors, respectively. Both boast a 34in curved VA panel rated for 4000:1 contrast and 4ms GtG response time. They also carry 3440×1440 resolution, which is still the sweet spot for ultrawides.
Design-wise, both models seem identical, if not for the 5MP pop-up webcam on 34B2U6603CH. This also includes the stand with its -5°/+30° tilt, 180° swivel, and 180mm height adjustments. Not to forget the dual 5W speaker, ready to save the day when needed.
The same goes for connectivity, with both models packing two HDMI 2.0, one Displayport 1.4, an Ethernet port, plus a USB hub comprised of four Type-A and one Type-C port. This is another spot where these monitors differ, with the 34B2U6603CH housing a Thunderbolt 4 connection plus 2.5GbE LAN instead of a lower-spec USB Type-C and 1GbE. Regardless, both Type-C connections support video input.
As you can guess, this amount of USB ports makes these prime candidates for a KVM switch. Add to that the PiP (Picture in Picture) plus PbP (Picture by Picture) modes, and you get a multitasking powerhouse. You can easily swap or combine multiple sources to improve your efficiency and productivity. Or you can lock a YouTube video while you are working, I won’t judge. What is sure is that both cover multiple aspects of what makes good business monitors.
Though steeper 1500R curves are popular on 16:9 displays, the 21:9 aspect ratio might make it a little smoother for business. I feel that professional monitors should be flat to avoid visual distortions when working with 3D models, for example, but bends like this are designed to conform to the shape of your eye and reduce fatigue.
It’s not all work, mind you. Each comes with a higher 120Hz refresh rate that makes each swish of the cursor as sleek as can be. It’s not as fast as the best gaming monitors with 360Hz, but plenty for office use. It should provide a smoother experience regardless of the task, even if it may not be as impactful.
34B2U6603CH and 34B2U5600C will be available at £599.99 and £439.99 MSRP respectively. Unfortunately, these are on the high side compared to its sister company AOC, which offers equivalent panel specs for much cheaper. Yes, these may lack extensive connectivity, but does that warrant this much extra? I guess that’s up to you.
