Dell P2425H Review: The Monitor I Chose for My Desk
I’ve been using a 13.3-inch laptop for quite some time, and while it has served me well, the small screen was becoming a problem, especially when I was typing or editing videos, even with a laptop stand. I eventually decided it was time to get a proper monitor for my desk, and that’s where the Dell P2425H came in.
The P2425H is a 24-inch monitor that doesn’t try to do anything too flashy. Instead, Dell has focused on practical things that make a difference when using it every day, including a 100Hz refresh rate, a 1500:1 static contrast ratio, and a down-facing USB-C port for accessories.
I’ve had it on my desk recently, so here’s my initial look at the Dell P2425H, how it performs out of the box, and what it’s like to use as a larger display alongside a laptop.
Design and Ergonomics: Pure Office Practicality
The monitor has a height of 150 mm of travel, which lets me align the monitor directly with eye level without needing a monitor arm, and I found it really helpful.
The distance is quite significant because previously, with my laptop, I used to bring it closer to my eyes so I could see, but with the monitor, I don’t move closer or squint; hence, I stay in an upright position.
The monitor can also turn 90 degrees on both the right and the left side, which is especially important for writers reviewing drafts, software engineers reading code, and analysts working on tall spreadsheets. I rarely use it, to be honest, but it’s going to be a game-changer in the near future when I find it's needs.
There is a cutout in the stand where the power and display cable tucks neatly. I believe a nice office setup should be free of cables hanging around like spaghetti (Ironically). The base of the monitor is firm and doesn't wiggle around.
The monitor is also edge-to-edge, which was one of the main reasons that drove me towards buying it, especially the top and sides; it’s like the frames don’t exist. At the bottom, there is a very slim area as well, which I use to stick my sticky notes; it comes in handy.
The Display: 100 Hz Fluidity and Better Contrast
100 Hz Refresh Rate
While I didn’t mind a 60Hz monitor, I was actually surprised to find that this monitor supports up to a 100Hz refresh rate; you can switch between 50Hz, 59.94Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, 75Hz, and 100Hz. I have mine at 60Hz because I want to save power on my laptop since the laptop is the one powering the monitor.
I, however, maxed out the 100Hz refresh once, and everything felt so smooth. Switching between tabs, opening tabs, and scrolling through articles and documents has never felt so smooth.
1500:1 Contrast Ratio
When you look at most standard monitors, they sit around a 1000:1 contrast ratio; Dell has pushed the P2425H up to 1500:1, which is very good for an IPS panel. This translates to deeper black levels and improved legibility for dark UI themes and nighttime use, like when editing a document.
This, combined with an anti-glare matte finish reflections from office lights or nearby windows to a minimum.
Ports and Connectivity: Desktop Hub Convenience
The monitor has a pretty decent port selection; on the left side, you get one USB-A port and a 15W Type-C port ideal for data transfer, not ideal for charging your laptop.
There are three USB-A ports, great for connecting your keyboard and mouse receiver dongle or an internal drive without reaching your desktop tower. For me, my mouse dongle is connected to the laptop. I tried connecting to the USB-A ports, but it didn’t work.
There is also a great selection of legacy and modern video inputs with DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, and an analogue VGA port. For my case, I have connected my laptop with a display cable since it’s a modern one and doesn't have the VGA port. This means you can hook up modern laptops as easily as older office desktop towers.
Local Pricing and Availability
I got my Dell P2425H at KES 10,400 for a refurbished unit, including the display cable and the power cord, which is pretty affordable if you are on a budget.
Some dealers are selling the monitor for as high as KES 25,000-KES 30,000 for brand-new units.
If you are on a tight budget, I would highly recommend going for a refurbished unit.
Initial Verdict: Who Is the P2425H Best Suited For?
The Dell P2425H is definitely not built for competitive gaming or color grading cinema workflows; it mainly targets students, those who want a desk setup but are on a budget, programmers, and home office users who spend 8+ hours a day looking at text, browsers, and spreadsheets.
Hits:
- Smooth 100 Hz refresh rate reduces scrolling fatigue
- Stand adjustability (height, tilt, pivot, swivel) avoids neck strain.
- Integrated USB hub cuts down on desktop clutter.
- Edge-to=edge design
Misses:
- 1080p resolution across 24 inches is sharp for text, but power users wanting extra canvas real estate might prefer 1440p (QHD).
- No built-in speakers (relies on an optional snap-on soundbar.
