Review of the HP OMEN Transcend 32 OLED Monitor: Nearly Perfect

Now is a fantastic opportunity to elevate your gaming experience with an upgraded monitor. The latest models offer unparalleled image quality, incredible resolutions, and seamless refresh rates that leave nothing to be desired.

HP might have arrived fashionably late to the scene, but their OMEN Transcend 32 is making quite an entrance in the realm of OLED gaming monitors. This impressive 31.5-inch display comes packed with a sharp 4K resolution paired with an astonishing 240Hz refresh rate and a lightning-fast 0.03ms response time. It’s a spectacular bundle of features that makes this monitor suitable for virtually any use. HP has meticulously crafted this model to ensure it doesn’t just blend in—it stands out.

One neat feature is the HP OMEN Gear Switch, a simple one-button KVM solution that allows you to switch between devices while keeping your peripherals in tow. Additionally, it offers full 140W power passthrough for your laptop or mobile device, stepping it up where most monitors hit their max at 90W. With these enhancements, combined with its stellar display, chic design, and user-friendly operation, it’s easily one of the top choices out there. My only gripe is that HP might have done well to start fresh with the stand design.

Why You Should Trust Me

In my time at Windows Central, I’ve reviewed numerous products across various categories—including monitors fitting a range of sizes and features for PCs, handhelds, and consoles. I bring the expertise and tools needed to scrutinize monitor performance, including color accuracy, image quality, and overall function, helping you decide if it’s right for you.

Note: HP provided a review sample for this article. HP had no hand in its content prior to publication.

HP OMEN Transcend 32: Pricing and Specifications

The HP OMEN Transcend 32 is priced at $1,299.99, but you might catch it on sale. Its cost aligns with other high-end models from brands like ASUS and Samsung, reflecting its premium features.

Specifications:

• Price: $1,299.99 at Best Buy | HP
• Display Type: 31.5-inch Quantum Dot OLED
• Resolution/Asp. Ratio: UHD (3840×2160), 16:9
• Refresh Rate/Response Time: 240Hz, 0.03ms
• Brightness: 250 nits Max
• Color Gamuts: 100% sRGB, 99% DCI-P3
• Support: AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-Sync
• Additional Features: OMEN Gear Switch (KVM), OMEN Gaming Hub, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, HyperX speakers
• Ports: DisplayPort 2.1, 2x HDMI 2.1, Multiple USB ports
• Weight: 8.8 kg with stand

The OMEN Transcend offers much to justify its price, such as its HyperX-tuned speakers and USB Type-C port with robust power delivery. Whether using the stylish stand or opting for your own through a VESA mount setup, there’s flexibility in how you utilize this monitor.

With purchase, you’ll find the monitor, its stand, a range of cables, and everything you need to start, including a factory calibration report. Plus, it’s backed by a 3-year warranty.

HP OMEN Transcend 32: The Good

The design of this monitor is one of my favorites, offering a refreshing two-tone look complemented by vibrant RGB lighting. Sitting next to the HP OMEN 35L Desktop PC, its "panda" design truly shines, even if it isn’t flawless. The RGB light strip elegantly bridges the convex back and the stand seamlessly.

Ports are nice and accessible, supported by excellent cooling to maintain display health. Quiet fans keep everything running smoothly. The RGB lighting not only enhances aesthetics but brilliantly lights up the area, amplifying your gaming ambiance.

In terms of performance, this display is a powerhouse. It’s large, but the 4K resolution doesn’t compromise sharpness. With a stunning 240Hz refresh rate and a mere 0.03ms response time, this monitor is built for speed. AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync support make sure your games look buttery smooth without hiccups. Color accuracy and vivid displays complement the picture, rendering games and media beautifully.

HP OMEN Gear Switch is an intriguing feature, serving as a modern KVM. It steps beyond traditional setups, allowing easy switching between devices and even file transferring, all while providing power delivery. This adds productivity chops to its gaming capabilities.

A highlight is the excellent On-Screen Display (OSD)—surpassing others I’ve used. It’s sleek, versatile, and intuitive, adding much value to usage without requiring the OMEN Gaming Hub software, unless you want deeper device integration. Plus, decent onboard speakers provide a convenient audio option.

HP OMEN Transcend 32: The Bad

However, the monitor doesn’t come without flaws. Its all-plastic design could feel less premium than other offerings, particularly the stand. It’s restrictive, with limited adjustability and poor cable management—a surprise at this price point. The absence of swivel support is particularly glaring.

The VESA setup process could also be simplified, unlike alternatives like ASUS, which offers a more hassle-free experience.

Brightness is another area where expectations might not be met; a max of 250 nits means it won’t dazzle in brightly lit rooms and HDR performance isn’t standout. I also wish HP would have been more generous with customizable color profiles, giving users more control over how the display looks to suit their preference. Additionally, the automatic pixel refresh function might interrupt tasks without prior notice—an occasional inconvenient function that, while important for screen longevity, feels intrusive at times.

HP OMEN Transcend 32: Final Thoughts

While not perfect, the HP OMEN Transcend 32 is certainly a compelling choice for anyone seeking a high-performing, feature-rich monitor. With its robust KVM capabilities, responsive display, and impressive design, it fulfills a wide range of needs. Despite its price, this monitor caters to those willing to invest in a versatile display that works well for both gaming and productive environments.

While ASUS may still take the crown for some aspects, the OMEN Transcend 32 offers something unique and substantial. It’s more than just another high-end monitor; it’s a thoughtful product that provides a luxurious gaming and working experience. Purchasing it might make sense if you very much value the perks and are prepared to offset its stand with a better suited mount.

In conclusion, while the HP OMEN Transcend 32 might not lead in every category, it sits comfortably as one of my top recommendations for versatile, high-quality monitors today. Remember to keep an eye out for deals—there could be more value for money waiting at a discounted price.