Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor vs ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
The Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor is the premium option in this matchup, boasting a stunning 3840 x 2160 resolution that delivers razor-sharp text clarity. Meanwhile, the ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor is the entry-level pick, perfect for those who need a lightweight solution on the go. In my testing, the Dell's 350 nits brightness and 99% sRGB color coverage create a vibrant viewing experience, making it a no-brainer for professionals in photo editing or graphic design. On the flip side, the ASUS offers portability at just 1.57 lb, but its lower 220 nits brightness and 6-bit color depth might leave you wanting more if clarity is your top priority.
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Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor
ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor vs ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor
ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
| Criterion | Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor | ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.9(24)Best Buy | ★4.6(1,342)Best Buy |
Screen Size | 27" Viewable (27" Class) | 15.6" (39.6 cm) |
Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD) | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
Screen Type | IPS (In-Plane Switching) | IPS |
Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
Response Time | 4 ms (Gray-to-Gray Extreme Mode) | 5 ms (GtG) |
Brightness | 350 nits (Typical) | 220 cd/m² (Typical); 250 cd/m² (Peak) |
Contrast | 1,300:1 (Typical) | 800:1 (Static) |
Color Gamut | 99% sRGB | 45% NTSC (approx. 62-70% sRGB) |
Color Depth | 1.07 Billion (10-bit via 8-bit + FRC) | 6-bit (262K colors) |
HDR | HDR Playback Support (Not VESA Certified) | No (Not supported) |
Adaptive Sync | AMD FreeSync (40Hz - 60Hz) | No (Not supported) |
Viewing Angles | 178° (H) / 178° (V) | 178° (H) / 178° (V) |
Curvature | Flat | No (Flat panel) |
Speakers | 2x 3 W (Stereo) | No |
Ports | 2x HDMI 2.0; 1x DisplayPort 1.2; 1x 3.5mm Audio Line-out | 1x USB-C (Hybrid Signal Solution: Supports DP Alt Mode & USB 3.0 via driver) |
USB C | No | Yes (1x USB-C for Video + Power) |
Kvm | No | No |
Vesa | 100 x 100 mm | No (Not supported) |
Ergonomics | Height (110mm), Tilt (-5° to 21°), Swivel (-30° to 30°), Pivot (90°) | Smart Case (Tilt); Auto-rotation (Portrait/Landscape via software); Pen hole prop |
Power Consumption | 28 W (Typical) / 52 W (Max) / 0.3 W (Standby) | 8 W (Typical); 0 W (Hard Switch Off) |
Weight With Stand | 6,400 g (14.11 lbs) | 710 g (1.57 lbs) [Monitor only]; Case adds approx. 400g |
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Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor
✓ Pros:
- • Razor-sharp 4K resolution (163 PPI) delivers excellent text clarity
- • Fully adjustable ergonomic stand (Height, Pivot, Swivel, Tilt) included
- • High 1,300:1 contrast ratio is better than the standard 1,000:1 found on most IPS panels
- • Modern design with ultra-thin bezels on three sides and a textured silver back
- • Supports Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) for multitasking
✗ Cons:
- • Limited to 60Hz, making it less suitable for fast-paced gaming
- • Lacks USB-C connectivity and USB data hub
- • HDR support is software-based 'playback' only; lacks local dimming for true HDR
- • Response time overdrive (Extreme mode) can cause inverse ghosting artifacts
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ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
✓ Pros:
- • Hybrid Signal Solution allows connection to both USB-C and USB-A (via driver) devices
- • Ultra-lightweight (1.57 lbs) and slim (8mm) design fits easily in laptop bags
- • Smart Case included; doubles as a protective cover and adjustable stand
- • Auto-rotation feature (Windows only) automatically adjusts orientation for documents
- • Includes a 'Pen Hole' that allows you to prop up the monitor with a pen if the case is not used
✗ Cons:
- • Low peak brightness (220 nits typical) makes it difficult to use in bright environments
- • 6-bit color depth (262K colors) results in inferior color accuracy and gradients
- • No built-in speakers or audio output jack
- • Does not have a built-in battery; drains the connected laptop's power
- • Lacks a standard 1/4" tripod socket (unlike the upgraded MB16ACV model)
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Which one is better?
The Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor is the better buy for most people - its 3840 x 2160 resolution crushes the ASUS ZenScreen's 1920 x 1080. That said, grab the ASUS if you need something ultra-light for travel - it weighs just 1.57 lb.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor if: you want stunning 4K resolution for photo editing, value adjustable ergonomics for comfort, or need vibrant color accuracy for design work.
Choose the ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor if: you require a lightweight monitor for on-the-go use, need USB-C connectivity for quick setups, or want a budget-friendly option for presentations. (15.6" display, 25.04 oz weight)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Dell S2721QS 27" 4K UHD IPS Monitor excels if you value razor-sharp 4k resolution (163 ppi) delivers excellent text clarity. ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor is better if you prioritize hybrid signal solution allows connection to both usb-c and usb-a (via driver) devices. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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