BenQ’s latest MoonHalo monitor combines a 120Hz refresh rate with a 3:2 aspect ratio for ultimate comfort.

Last year, I tested BenQ’s 4K 32-inch Ergo Arm Programming Monitor with MoonHalo and found it to be particularly easy on the eyes and comfortable. BenQ is back with a new take on the programmer’s (or writer’s) ideal display. The new BenQ RD280UG shines with two specifications.

4K, 28 inches, 3:2

First, the 3:2 aspect ratio makes a 28-inch 4K display feel more comfortable in portrait orientation compared to 16:9. This is a monitor designed primarily for reading and writing text.

For writers and programmers, the 3:2 aspect ratio is the “Goldilocks” zone. Vertical lines of text are significantly increased without physically squeezing the monitor in tight spaces.

It comes with a height-adjustable stand that rotates easily, and brown cable management snaps add a nice touch to the well-designed display. The thin bezels along the top and sides give it a very modern look.

120Hz smoothness

Second, the 120Hz refresh rate is a huge improvement over 60Hz for text scrolling and casual gaming. 60Hz is fine for static text, but once you get used to the MacBook Pro’s ProMotion or the iPad Pro’s snappy response, it feels “choppy.”

We’re still waiting for Apple to enter the world of 120Hz external displays. Meanwhile, my M4 MacBook Air appreciates the upgraded smoothness in driving this monitor. The RD280UG lets you flick through long documents and Slack channels with ease. The Mac immediately received a 120Hz signal over a single USB-C cable (it also provides 90W PD to keep the laptop charged).

RD280UG connects to BenQ 5K PD2730S via USB-C. One Thunderbolt cable connects your MacBook Air to your 5K 27-inch display, and another Thunderbolt cable connects your 4K 28-inch monitor to your 5K 27-inch monitor. You don’t need a separate power adapter to charge your Mac. The M4 chip also allows you to use your MacBook Air display with both external displays at the same time. Clamshell mode is not required.

Cozy comfort

A dedicated coding mode gives you deep blacks with a 2000:1 contrast ratio, and a dark mode will greatly improve your focus during those late-night sessions.

Like the 32-inch, the Nano Matte panel has excellent diffused reflections, making it ideal for use in both bright and dark environments. It also features an ultra-low brightness mode for maximum nighttime comfort.

Paper color mode mimics an e-book reader. It makes it easier on the eyes when working with text. MoonHalo 2.0 is still the best “integrated” bias lighting. It syncs with your display brightness and can be controlled via Display Pilot 2 software on macOS.

The RD280UG ($699.99, regular price $759.99) features significant upgrades in smoothness and geometry. The 3:2 ratio feels pleasing, and the 120Hz refresh rate adds visual comfort that even Apple doesn’t bring to its standalone displays. Get it on Amazon and BenQ online store.