HP Series 5 527sw 27-Inch FHD IPS Monitor: features, specs and who it suits

The HP Series 5 527sw is a 27-inch Full HD monitor with an IPS panel, a 100 Hz refresh rate and a slim, thin-and-light design. It is aimed at everyday computing, such as work, browsing and watching video, and it can sit beside a second screen. Here is what its listed specs mean.

Full HD at 27 inches

The resolution is 1920 x 1080 (FHD). On a 27-inch screen, the pixels are spread across a larger area than on a smaller monitor, so fine text can look a little less sharp up close. In general, it works well at a normal desk distance for documents, web pages and video. HP describes the image as sharp and clear.

The IPS panel and viewing angles

IPS panels hold their colour and brightness when you look at them from the side. HP lists 178-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angles, so the picture stays consistent whether you sit centred or share the screen with someone next to you.

Colour, contrast and brightness

The monitor covers 99% of the sRGB colour gamut, the common standard for web content and most everyday apps. HP says that gives consistent colour with minimal effort. Contrast is listed at 1500:1, the ratio between the brightest white and the darkest black the panel can show; a higher ratio generally gives more depth in shadows. Brightness is 300 nits, enough for typical indoor lighting. A very bright room can wash out any screen.

100 Hz refresh rate

At 100 Hz, the screen updates 100 times per second, compared with 60 on many basic monitors. HP says this gives smoother scrolling and stutter-free viewing. Your computer's graphics output and the cable you use need to support 100 Hz at 1080p.

Eye Ease with Eyesafe certification

HP Eye Ease is described as an always-on, true-colour, low-blue-light filter, carrying Eyesafe certification. HP says it limits blue light without affecting colour accuracy. It runs in the hardware, so you don't need to switch it on.

Stand, software and design

The stand adjusts for tilt. The monitor has integrated cable containment and a slim profile that allows side-by-side screens. HP Display Center software lets you customize the display and includes an Ergonomic Setup Guide. It measures about 23.9 inches wide and 14.0 inches high, and weighs 7.1 lb (about 3.2 kg).

Environmental details

HP says the Series 5 monitors use 85% recycled materials and 5% ocean-bound plastics, with sustainably sourced packaging. The design is EPEAT Silver registered and ENERGY STAR certified. EPEAT status varies by country. HP gives a one-year limited warranty with restrictions and exclusions.

Who it suits

It suits home offices, study desks and general computing where a larger Full HD screen with good viewing angles is useful, including a pair of matching screens.

What to check before you buy

• Ports: the listing doesn't list the input ports, so check the specification for the ones you need.
• Stand: it offers tilt only, so check for height adjustment or mounting options if you need them.
• Cables: confirm your computer can output 1080p at 100 Hz.
• Desk space: a 27-inch screen is about 24 inches wide.
• Colour needs: 99% sRGB suits general use; check your requirements for professional colour work.
• Warranty: read the terms and exclusions.

The short version

• A 27-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS monitor with 178-degree viewing angles.
• 99% sRGB, 1500:1 contrast and 300 nits.
• 100 Hz refresh rate and a tilt-adjustable stand.
• HP Eye Ease with Eyesafe certification, listed as a low-blue-light filter.
• ENERGY STAR certified and EPEAT Silver registered, as HP states.

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