Large-format monitors that not only fill your field of view but can also be split to show two machines‘ content at the same time.
HP Z40c G3: 30-second review
The pure scale of the HP Z40c G3 WUHD IPS USB-C Curved Monitor is apparent as soon as the lid of the box is lifted, and even the assembly instructions highlight that the base should be fitted to the monitor prior to lifting and removal. Initial assembly is quick, with the stand clicking into position and the base screwing neatly into place before the monitor is lifted from the box and manoeuvred into its final position.
Due to the size of the curved screen and gloss finish, a position had to be found to limit reflections and glare from overhead lighting, windows, or anything else that could cause issues, an issue all monitors have but amplified here due to scale.
That aside, once the position was sorted and the monitor switched on, the HP Display Control and Device Bridge software solutions were installed before a DataColor SpyderX2 was used to calibrate the screen ready for use.
Having tested the best monitors, as a standard display, the additional real estate offered by HP Z40C is instantly beneficial. It enables you to quickly shift screens and content around the screen rather than needing to close down windows, and it’s a far neater solution than a dual monitor setup. What makes the use even more effective is the ability, through the HP Display control software, to snap windows to different areas of the screen. This effectively enables you to accurately layout all your windows at different sizes and positions, which is extremely useful if you’re switching between jobs.
While the Display Control is useful, the Device Bridge takes things a step further, enabling you to utilise one keyboard and mouse across two systems as long as they’re connected through USB Type-C. This system also enables two machines to be hooked up to the same display, and then through the OSD, you can select to split the screen to show the displays of the two different machines on the same display and to cross over the use of the keyboard and mouse, it’s like a switcher but more advanced.
After a while of using the monitor with a couple of machines, the actions through the OSD become more natural, and the benefits of using the monitor really help in terms of workflow. For general administration, Word documents, and office work, the monitor’s benefits are obvious, and a single-screen base takes up far less space than multiple monitors. However, when you switch over to photography, the monitor’s colour profile is limited to the P3 standard, and it only reaches 88% of the Adobe RGB scale. However, with several Gamut profiles, it is possible to switch between pre-calibrated options when needed quickly, including REC 709 for video.
For a monitor of such scale and with the features to match, there is little not to like about the HP Z40c G3. Screen quality is superb as long as you avoid reflections, and for most general use, office, gaming, graphics, and video work, this monitor absolutely nails it.HP Z40c G3: Price and availability
How much does it cost? £1439 / $1699
When is it out? Available now
Where can you get it? You can get it from the HP website
The HP Z40c G3 monitor is available for purchase directly from HP’s website and various authorized retailers. Prices typically range around $1,699, but may vary based on promotions and retailer pricing. The monitor includes a three-year limited warranty covering parts, labour, and on-site service. It is recommended to check HP’s official website or trusted retailers for the most up-to-date pricing and availability information.
Value: 4.5 / 5HP Z40c G3: SpecificationsHP Z40c G3: Design
The monitor’s scale and curved nature mean that every component needs solid materials and build to balance and support the weight. Thankfully, the all-metal base and mixture of plastic and metal used throughout the design give the monitor a high-quality look and feel.
However, anything of this size is going to need some careful manoeuvring, and HP has gone to lengths on the packaging, instructions and labelling to ensure that when the box containing the monitor arrives, you follow the procedure for removal. This makes what could be a tricky and weighty manoeuvre for the monitor into position into something that is actually quite easy, although a bit of muscle power or an additional pair of hands will make things easier.
The monitor extraction process starts with the screen remaining in the box and then involves clicking the stand into the back of the still-seated monitor and then bolting in the base. This all takes a couple of minutes, and then, when secure, the monitor can be lifted out and positioned on your chosen desk.
