Dell has redefined what a professional monitor can be with the Ultrasharp 52 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor—a display so large it rivals TVs in size, yet so feature-packed it could replace an entire desk setup. At 52 inches wide, this isn’t just a monitor; it’s a statement piece designed for power users who demand both space and connectivity.
The monitor’s sheer dimensions—51.5 inches diagonally with a 21:9 aspect ratio—mean it spans nearly 4 feet horizontally, offering more screen real estate than most 4K TVs. But unlike a TV, it’s engineered for productivity, packing Thunderbolt 4, 10G USB ports, and even a 2.5GbE Ethernet jack into its robust frame. The question isn’t whether it works, but whether its $2,899 price makes sense for anyone outside enterprise or high-end creative workflows.
A Display Built for Multitasking
The Ultrasharp 52’s 6144×2560 resolution delivers a pixel density of 129 PPI, sharper than most 49-inch ultrawides and close to the clarity of a 27-inch 4K display. That level of detail is ideal for developers, designers, or traders juggling multiple applications. However, the lack of HDR and a modest 336 nits of brightness mean it won’t compete with OLED panels for media consumption.
For motion, the 120Hz refresh rate is a standout, though response times hover around 5ms—slower than gaming monitors but smooth enough for productivity tasks. The built-in speakers are surprisingly capable, delivering clear audio without distortion, though audiophiles will still reach for external options.
Connectivity That Replaces a Dock
Where the Ultrasharp 52 truly shines is in its role as a hub. The single Thunderbolt 4 port supports 40Gbps data transfer, 140W Power Delivery (enough for most laptops), and can drive up to four additional USB devices via a built-in KVM switch. Add in two HDMI 2.1 ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 outputs, and five USB-A ports, and this monitor becomes a one-stop solution for connecting multiple devices without a separate dock.
The Ethernet port is a rare inclusion, allowing wired internet access to be routed through the monitor—a feature that could appeal to offices or setups where Wi-Fi reliability is a concern.
Design: Heavy, Sturdy, and Unyielding
Weighing over 40 pounds, the Ultrasharp 52 is no lightweight. Its stand offers height, tilt, and swivel adjustments, though the wide aspect ratio limits rotation to just 40 degrees. The VESA mount options (100x100mm, 200x100mm, or 200x200mm) accommodate heavy-duty arms or wall mounts, though removing the stand only saves $100.
Build quality is exceptional—no creaks or flex, despite the massive size. The subtle 4200R curve is barely noticeable, making it suitable for both productivity and light creative work where distortion is a concern.
Who Should Buy It?
The Ultrasharp 52 isn’t for casual users. Its strengths lie in replacing multiple monitors with a single, high-resolution display while offering the connectivity of a docking station. For developers managing VMs, traders monitoring multiple feeds, or designers working across large canvases, it’s a compelling choice. However, gamers and media enthusiasts may find the lack of HDR and lower contrast limiting.
At $2,899, it’s priced like a premium workstation accessory. If your workflow demands both screen space and peripheral management, it delivers. Otherwise, smaller ultrawides or OLED panels may offer better value for entertainment or gaming.
Key specs:
- Display: 51.5-inch IPS Black, 21:9 aspect ratio, 6144×2560 resolution, 120Hz, 129 PPI
- Connectivity: 1x Thunderbolt 4 (40Gbps, 140W PD), 2x HDMI 2.1, 2x DisplayPort 1.4, 5x USB-A (10Gbps), 3x USB-C (10Gbps upstream), 2x USB-C (27W PD downstream), 1x 2.5GbE Ethernet
- Audio: 2x 9W speakers
- Weight: 40 lbs (with stand)
- Price: $2,899.99
Availability remains limited to Dell’s official channels, with no major retailers listed at launch.
