Enlarge (credit: HP)

HP announced a 31.5-inch monitor today at its Amplify partner conference that's aimed at workers with data-heavy setups and strong image quality needs. The 4K resolution HP Z32k G3 claims to be the first monitor to use an IPS Black panel along with a Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port.

Dell was the first to use IPS Black , tapping the LG Display tech for 27-inch and 31.5-inch USB-C UltraSharp monitors. IPS Black is a type of IPS panel that's supposed to double the typical contrast ratio of traditional IPS by delivering darker black levels. LG Display claimed that IPS Black's black levels are "35 percent deeper than existing IPS products."

HP's Z32k G3 claims a 2,000:1 contrast ratio, compared to the standard IPS monitor, which is typically around 1,000:1, with premium IPS examples reaching around 1,300:1. Assuming HP's shared an accurate figure, it's worth noting that the spec doesn't match a strong VA monitor or, compared to contrast afforded by displays with more expensive backlighting technology, Mini LED or OLED .