The ultrawide revolution has been underway for years, but HP is taking things a step further with a display designed to replace multiple monitors entirely. The newly unveiled HP Series 5 Pro Conferencing Monitor measures in at a staggering 49 inches, offering professionals a mega-super-ultrawide screen that is less about gaming thrills and more about productivity and collaboration. At 5120×1440 resolution, the panel effectively mimics two 27-inch 1440p displays side by side, and HP’s software makes it possible to treat the screen as two or more independent virtual monitors. This flexibility is particularly useful in conferencing environments, where a stretched 32:9 image can be difficult to share, and it allows layouts like a 21:9 split with an additional workspace alongside.
Connectivity is another area where this monitor sets itself apart. Alongside DisplayPort and HDMI, the Series 5 Pro offers USB-C input with up to 140 watts of power delivery, making it suitable for charging laptops and other devices while in use. Additional ports include two extra USB-C connectors, three USB-A ports, and even a gigabit Ethernet jack for direct network access. Built-in features like a KVM switch make it possible to control multiple connected systems, while down-firing speakers provide a modest improvement over the typical audio bundled with monitors, though most users will still prefer dedicated speakers or headsets.
The monitor’s integrated 5-megapixel pop-up webcam is another nod to its business-first design. While the image quality won’t rival standalone cameras, it is more than serviceable for virtual meetings, with support for Windows Hello via an IR sensor. Dual microphones with noise cancellation are also onboard, providing a complete out-of-the-box teleconferencing solution. For ergonomics, the hefty panel provides up to 150mm of height adjustment and supports VESA mounting, though its size and weight will require a strong arm mount for users who prefer a floating setup.
There are some trade-offs, however. The curved VA-LCD panel, while fine for everyday office work and casual use, will not satisfy users needing professional-grade color accuracy for creative tasks. The inclusion of a 165Hz refresh rate does add smoothness, which is a welcome touch. Price may be the biggest sticking point: HP is “targeting” $1,300 for the launch, which is expected later this year. That figure could shift depending on regional availability and broader market conditions, particularly in the U.S., where consumer electronics pricing remains volatile.
