When it comes to delivering a high-quality 4K gaming monitor, BenQ rarely misses the mark. The BenQ EX381U is positioned as a premium option for gamers and professionals, as long as they have enough real estate on their desk for this 38in beast. Over the course of testing this display with PS5 and PC, I dove into games like Destiny 2, Cyberpunk 2077, and the beta of Path of Exile 2. While this monitor has plenty to love, it also makes a few compromises that are worth discussing.
It’s All in the Build
Out of the box, the BenQ EX381U screams sophistication. As mentioned, the 38-inch screen provides an expansive 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity. The slim bezels and minimalist design complement most setups, while its ergonomically adjustable stand adds flexibility for height, tilt, and swivel adjustments. Of course it’s also VESA certified.
Equipped with a 4K UHD resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time, the EX381U doesn’t just look good—it performs exceptionally well. More specifically on consoles, VRR allows systems like the PS5 to thrive; Destiny 2 ran beautifully, with the smooth motion during 120hz Crucible, adding a much needed performance boost against cheaters really good players. Switching to PC gaming, the monitor’s FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility ensured buttery-smooth gameplay, free of screen tearing or stuttering. There’s no auto switching into the mode, I had to manually adjust settings, but it’s there.
Key highlights:
- 4K resolution delivers impeccable detail and sharpness.
- 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, particularly noticeable in fast-paced shooters like Destiny 2.
- HDR10 support enhances color and contrast in compatible games.
- 1ms response time ensures you won’t miss a beat, even during intense gaming sessions.
Casual gamers looking to utilize VRR or competitors that are looking for high refresh rate at a relatively low cost will find much to love with this monitor.
The Productive One
Beyond gaming, the BenQ EX381U is a productivity powerhouse. Its large screen real estate and 4K resolution make multitasking seamless. Working on spreadsheets, editing photos, or even video editing feels intuitive and efficient. The 95% DCI-P3 color gamut ensures color accuracy, which is particularly appealing for creatives. The monitor’s IPS panel, while delivering excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, doesn’t quite match the visual depth of an OLED screen. In dark scenes—especially noticeable in Cyberpunk 2077—the blacks lean more toward dark gray, which diminishes some of the immersion. It’s all thanks to the back light that’s visible at the edge of the screen. Given its price point, the lack of an OLED option feels like a missed opportunity, especially with competitors offering OLED screens for just a bit more.
While the monitor does not include a built-in speakers, but it does have a headphones jack. I understand the design philosophy, and it’s pretty much paying homage to how monitors were back in the early 2000’s but….c’mon – add a cheap one at least.
For a monitor that nears the $1,000 mark, the absence of smart OS capabilities stands out. Competitors like Samsung’s Odyssey G9 at a slightly higher price point include features like a built-in hub for streaming apps and smart functionalities. These additions make such monitors more versatile for mixed-use setups, and their absence here makes the EX381U feel a little behind the curve.
Specs:
- Screen Size: 38-inch, 16:9
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
- Panel Type: IPS
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms (GtG)
- HDR Support: HDR10
- Color Gamut: 95% DCI-P3
- Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium Pro
- Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x USB-C (90W PD), multiple USB-A ports
REVIEW SCORE: 7.5/10
The BenQ EX381U is a stellar monitor for gamers and professionals who value sharp visuals and smooth performance. Its 4K resolution and high refresh rate make it a perfect companion for PS5 and PC, while its color accuracy ensures creatives aren’t left out. That said, it does make some compromises. The IPS panel feels like a step behind OLED technology, and the absence of smart OS features at this price point is hard to ignore.
For gamers looking for a high-performance monitor without stretching their budget beyond $1,000, the EX381U is a fantastic choice. But if you can spare a couple hundred more, competitors with OLED screens and smart features might offer better value.
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