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Alienware AW3821DW Review

True Score

76
78
6

Experts

88
656

Consumers

Expert Rankings

The Alienware AW3821DW gets praise from experts because of G-SYNC Ultimate certification, FreeSync compatibility, and a 144 Hz native refresh rate. However, reviewers have criticized its mediocre contrast ratio and troubled local dimming method.

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Overview

The Alienware AW3821DW is a high-end curved UHD gaming monitor, which was released in 2020, to provide an immersive experience to professional gamers. Featuring an exciting 144 Hz native refresh rate and Variable Refresh Rate tech, this monitor offers smooth, high-frame-rate visuals. It has a G-SYNC Ultimate certification and is compatible with FreeSync, providing tear-free imagery when paired with various AMD Radeon and NVIDIA graphics cards. The monitor has an incredibly low 4.4 ms input lag and 1 ms GtG super-fast response time for smooth visuals and split-second responsiveness. This gaming monitor is more ergonomic than the competing LG 38GN950-B and boasts HDR10 with outstanding peak brightness that brings HDR content to life. However, its mediocre contrast ratio and poor edge-lit zonal dimming prevent this monitor from attaining its true HDR potential. Read our full Alienware AW3821DW review and see how the display compares with the best-ranked computer monitors today.

What Is Not on the Box

What the brand doesn’t always tell you…

our Verdict

The Alienware AW3821DW is a hit with gamers, thanks to its anti-stuttering tech with G-SYNC ultimate, FreeSync, and Variable Refresh Rate. Tests showed smooth motion with its super-low input lag and fast response time. Color accuracy and HDR performance also got a thumbs up, but the contrast ratio and edge-lit local dimming method could use some work.

True Score

76

Reasons to Buy

  • Curved screen provides an immersive gaming experience
  • G-SYNC Ultimate certification and FreeSync compatibility
  • Quick 1ms GtG response time and high 144Hz refresh rate
  • HDR10 support with a peak brightness delivers colorful content
  • 4 ms low input lag provides an edge during competitions

Reasons to Avoid

  • Low contrast ratio
  • Poor edge-lit dimming method

Specifications

Display TypeLCD
HDMI Inputs2
HDR FormatYes
Max Resolution3840 x 1600
Panel TypeIPS
Refresh Rate144 Hz
Response Time1 ms
Screen size38"
Sync TechnologySync TechnologyG-Sync Ultimate

All Specs

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    Availability

    In Stock

    Free Shipping

    Yes

Score Card

E

Expert Score

78

*.75

We place a 75% weighted value on Expert Test Scores

C

Customer Score

88

*.25

We place a 25% weighted value on Customer Scores

True Score

76

Any product with a True Score above 70 is a Mixed Reviews

Expert Score Breakdown

  • Rtings
    A

    Trust Score

    76
    The Alienware AW3821DW isn’t perfect, but right now, it’s the best value in 38-inch ultrawide… read more

    By:

    Rami Tabari
  • PC Mag
    D

    Trust Score

    70
    The pricey Alienware 38 Curved Gaming Monitor has lightning-quick response times and looks good on… read more

    By:

    Rob Shafer
  • Trusted Reviews
    D

    Trust Score

    70
    The Alienware AW3821DW gaming monitor looks great, offers a solid range of features and it… read more

    By:

    Christian Eberle
  • Tom’s Hardware
    D

    Trust Score

    80
    The Alienware 38 AW3821DW Curved Gaming Monitor offers a gorgeous curved display with an eye-opening… read more

    By:

    Samuel Breton
  • Laptop Mag
    F

    Trust Score

    80
    The Dell Alienware AW3821DW delivers both an immersive and responsive gaming experience thanks to its… read more

    By:

    Zackery Cuevas
  • Display Ninja
    F

    Trust Score

    90
    The Dell AW3821DW is great for gaming. It has a high 144Hz refresh rate with… read more

    By:

    Mike Jennings

Customer Score Breakdown

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