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Acer DS2 Series Pro: A 3D Monitor for Visualisers and Designers
The monitor I’ve been testing recently doesn’t fit neatly into any of the categories that we have in our buying guides. That’s not to say it couldn’t contend for the best premium option but with 3D smarts, this is no ordinary monitor.
Design and Build
As soon as I opened up the DS2 Series Pro monitor box, I thought "what on earth do we have here?" The display itself is fairly standard, but it’s the multiple cameras at the top and the bottom-mounted speakers that first caught my attention. The speakers, in particular, seem like a cheap add-on rather than something that was meaningfully integrated into the design.
Key Specifications
| Screen | 27-inch 3840 x 2160 |
|---|---|
| Inputs | HDMI x1, DisplayPort x1, Audio (In/Out), USB-A x2, USB-C x1 |
| Speakers | Yes |
| Adjustments | Height adjustment 150 mm, Swivel -/+ 45 degree, Tilt-7/33 degree |
| Dimensions | 387.5, 628.6, 29.5mm |
| Weight | 4.80 kg |
3D Performance
Despite arguably aiming at a very niche market, the DS2 Series Pro actually performs very well. Through the SpatialLabs software, you can access SpatialLabs Go, SpatialLabs Model Viewer, and SpatialLabs Player. These tools provide everything required to turn 2D content into 3D in real-time as well as watch side-by-side videos into stereoscopic 3D. We particularly liked the ModelViewer which is a direct integration with Sketchfab. The ability to adjust lighting is effective and useful.
2D Performance
The monitor does an admirable job of converting 2D data into viewable 3D data thanks to its pair of eye-tracking cameras and dedicated 3D lens. You can do away with those 3D glasses you paid good money for. As a 2D monitor, it delivers outstanding color quality and depth. I was impressed by the depth of color and contrast when working on photos or watching videos. 400 nits of brightness is also more than enough to make it usable under most lighting conditions.
Scorecard
| Category | Rating | Review |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Build | 3.5/5 | Dated design that protrudes too far onto the desk |
| Features | 4/5 | Visual and sound output immerses users into the action |
| Performance | 4/5 | Impressive all-round 3D and 2D performance |
Who’s it for?
This monitor has a seriously niche target market. Not only is it only going to be useful and affordable for those working in the 3D industry, but even within that industry, not all 3D visualizers or designers will want this type of monitor. If you’re working with stereoscopic images and videos and you want a monitor that can handle that, then maybe go for it. But otherwise, I think most people will be happy using glasses or goggles.
Buy it if:
- You’re a 3D visualizer or developer
- You want a 4K monitor
Don’t buy it if:
- You’re on a budget
- You only work in 2D or you already own VR goggles
Conclusion
The Acer DS2 Series Pro is a unique monitor that caters to a specific audience. While its 3D capabilities are impressive, its 2D performance is also noteworthy. However, the high price tag and limited target market may deter many potential buyers. If you’re working in the 3D industry and need a high-end monitor, the DS2 Series Pro is worth considering. But for others, there may be more affordable and accessible options available.
