LG DualUp Ergo Monitor review: Strange but effective

The LG DualUp Ergo Monitor is probably one of the stranger things you'll see this year. This 27.6-inch monitor looks like two standard 16:9 displays — one stacked on top of the other. This unusual 16:18 aspect ratio is suitable for multi-taskers who have multiple open windows, or even multiple computers connected to the monitor. Does it work? Yes, but there are obvious downsides to this squarish monitor, including its relatively steep S$999 price tag.

Quick specs

27.6-inch (2,560 x 2,880 pixels) IPS display, 60Hz
2x HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, USB upstream, 2x USB downstream, headphone jack
Built-in KVM
Ergonomic stand with C-Clamp

Like the LG UltraFine Ergo, the DualUp Ergo comes with a monitor arm instead of a monitor stand. This arm seems to be even more flexible and versatile than the one used by the UltraFine. For example, it can swivel left or right up to 335 degrees around its mounting point, up from 280 degrees. It can also pivot (90 degrees), tilt (25 degrees), adjust the height, and pull the screen forward or push it back. However, pivoting the DualUp Ergo monitor doesn't make much of a difference given its squarish dimensions. In short, this monitor arm is the MVP here. It's so much better than a normal stand or even some monitor arms. Note that the monitor arm clamps to the desk — it can also fit in a grommet hole — but it may not work for unconventional table designs.

Of course, the main selling point of the DualUp Ergo is its unusual 16:18 aspect ratio. It's a single large canvas for you to arrange your windows and open apps to your satisfaction. It's also better than a dual-monitor setup since there are no bezels between displays, though obviously you lose the flexibility of having two 16:9 screens side by side with the DualUp Ergo. And if you're not in the mood for multi-tasking, the tall DualUp Ergo is perfect for reading a document or browsing online news. However, this monitor is less than ideal for watching movies or playing games in full-screen mode. You'll get enormous black bars for videos, while games look weird due to the aspect ratio. The 60Hz refresh rate doesn't help for gaming, either.

For those with two computers, you can hook both up to the DualUp Ergo via the HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C ports. You can then enable the picture-by-picture mode to show the contents from two computers at the same time. In addition, you can control both devices using a single set of keyboard and mouse, thanks to the monitor's built-in KVM feature. You can even choose which device gets to transmit its audio through the monitor's integrated speakers. Compared to other monitors with KVM, LG's interface makes it really easy to get this two computer, one monitor setup working.

As a display, the LG DualUp Ergo Monitor offers accurate enough colours (98% of DCI-P3) for photo and video editing. It also supports HDR, though its 300 nits peak brightness isn't impactful enough compared to a proper HDR TV. But you shouldn't be buying the DualUp Ergo for movies or games. This display is best for work, especially if you have to juggle multiple windows or multiple computers. It is, however, rather pricey at S$999, though part of that is due to the excellent monitor arm. There's no other monitor quite like it, so that could count as a plus point for consumers. Get it now at Shopee and Lazada.

Note: Review unit provided by LG.

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