Philips 34B2U5600C Ultrawide Business Monitor Review

The Philips 34B2U5600C is a 34-inch curved ultrawide monitor aimed at professionals seeking immersive productivity. Boasting a crisp WQHD resolution (3440 x 1440) in a 21:9 aspect ratio, it promises ample screen real estate for multitasking and daily work. It features a relatively basic VA panel, but comes with a few tricks, such as Adaptive-Sync for smooth visuals, a versatile USB-C hub with 90W power delivery, and integrated KVM functionality for streamlined control across multiple devices, making it excellent for dynamic workspaces and offices.

Philips also emphasizes ergonomic comfort with this model, providing full adjustability and features like LowBlue Mode and Flicker-free technology to reduce eye strain during long work hours. With built-in speakers and a MultiView function enabling dual-source viewing, the 34B2U5600C aims to be a comprehensive workstation monitor.

While many ultrawide monitors cater to gamers with high refresh rates and vibrant colours, the 34B2U5600C takes a different approach. Its focus lies in enhancing productivity and comfort for professionals. Features like the KVM switch, USB-C connectivity, and ergonomic design prioritise efficient workflows and a comfortable user experience, but importantly it does this at a reduced cost too. However, this emphasis on productivity raises the question: does it make any compromises in terms of visual fidelity and responsiveness? Short answer, yes. A slightly longer answer is yes, because it is limited to a VA panel, with a 4ms response time, and a 100Hz refresh rate, and lacks performance (gamer-focused) features such as overdrive and MPRT, so it is a slower responding panel and is likely unsuitable or fast motion and quick response time uses. Not that any of this should concern those using it for a web browser, MS Office, Zoom meetings and the like.

Philips clearly understands the needs of modern professionals, and it shows in the 34B2U5600C’s design. This isn’t just about cramming pixels onto a screen; it’s about creating a seamless and efficient workspace. Imagine decluttering your desk with a single USB-C connection that handles video, data, and even charges your laptop. Picture effortlessly switching between your work computer and personal laptop with a single click of a button on the integrated KVM switch. Add to that the immersive experience of a curved ultrawide display, and you start to see how the 34B2U5600C elevates the workday.

Key Features and Specifications

• Display: 34-inch curved VA display, 3440 x 1440 (WQHD) resolution, 21:9 aspect ratio
• Brightness: 300 cd/m²
• Contrast Ratio: 3000:1
• Response Time: 4 ms (Grey to Grey)
• Refresh Rate: 100 Hz
• Viewing Angle: 178°/178°
• Features:
  • Adaptive-Sync technology
  • LowBlue Mode
  • Flicker-free technology
  • Built-in speakers (2x 5W)
  • MultiView (allows dual connect and view)
  • SmartKVM switch
  • PowerSensor (for energy saving)
• Connectivity:
  • USB-C with 90W power delivery
  • HDMI
  • DisplayPort
  • USB Hub
• Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, and height adjustment
• VESA mount: 100 x 100 mm