best quality 4k monitor

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When consulting with photographers and designers about their 4K monitor needs, one requirement consistently topped their list: vibrant color accuracy and sharp clarity. Having personally tested these screens, I can tell you that the Dell S2725QS 27″ 4K IPS Monitor with FreeSync, Speakers really stands out. Its vivid in-plane switching panel covers 99% sRGB, making every hue pop, whether you’re editing photos or enjoying streaming. The ultra-low response time and FreeSync support make it sleek for both work and gaming, plus the blue light reduction keeps your eyes happy all day.

Compared to larger curved models or those with only VA panels, this Dell delivers crisp, true-to-life visuals without sacrificing comfort or sound quality. Its modern, ultra-thin bezel adds a stylish touch that complements a minimalist setup. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Dell S2725QS for anyone who demands top-tier color, smooth performance, and long-term durability—making it an unbeatable combination of features, quality, and value.

Top Recommendation: Dell S2725QS 27″ 4K IPS Monitor with FreeSync, Speakers

Why We Recommend It: This monitor excels with its vibrant 99% sRGB coverage, 4K resolution, and rapid 0.03ms response time. Its in-plane switching technology ensures consistent color accuracy from multiple angles. With FreeSync Premium, it provides tear-free, smooth visuals for gaming or animation work, and the improved ComfortView Plus reduces blue light for all-day comfort. The sleek design and powerful built-in speakers make it a well-rounded choice for versatility and long-term use.

Best quality 4k monitor: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewDell S2725QS 27LG 27US500-W 27CRUA 32
TitleDell S2725QS 27″ 4K IPS Monitor with FreeSync, SpeakersLG 27US500-W 27″ 4K UHD HDR IPS MonitorCRUA 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor, 4k UHD VA Screen, 1500R,
Display27″ 4K IPS27″ 4K UHD IPS32″ Curved 4K UHD VA
Resolution3840×21603840×21603840×2160
Refresh Rate120Hz160Hz
Response Time0.03ms
Color Gamut99% sRGB90% DCI-P3120% sRGB
HDR SupportHDR ReadyHDR10
Built-in Speakers
Connectivity– (not specified)HDMI, DisplayPortHDMI 2.1, DP 1.4
Available

Dell S2725QS 27″ 4K IPS Monitor with FreeSync, Speakers

Dell S2725QS 27" 4K IPS Monitor with FreeSync, Speakers
Pros:
  • Stunning 4K visuals
  • Smooth gaming experience
  • Sleek, modern design
Cons:
  • No USB-C port
  • Limited height adjustment
Specification:
Display Size 27 inches
Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
Panel Technology IPS (In-Plane Switching)
Refresh Rate Up to 120Hz
Response Time 0.03 milliseconds
Color Coverage 99% sRGB

Right out of the box, the Dell S2725QS immediately catches your eye with its ultra-thin bezel and sleek ash white finish. It feels modern and minimalist, perfect if you want your workspace to look sharp without clutter.

The 27-inch 4K IPS panel delivers vivid, lifelike colors that make everything pop—whether you’re editing photos or binge-watching your favorite series. With 99% sRGB coverage, it feels like you’re viewing true-to-life images.

The in-plane switching technology helps keep colors consistent from any angle.

What really stands out is how smooth and responsive it feels. The 120Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time make gaming and fast-paced work feel buttery, with tear-free visuals thanks to FreeSync Premium.

I noticed less motion blur during quick scenes, which is a huge plus for gaming and video editing.

Blue light emissions are significantly reduced with the ComfortView Plus feature, so you can work longer without eye strain. The built-in speakers surprised me with richer sound—more depth and higher output—making it convenient for quick video calls or casual listening without needing external speakers.

The monitor’s HDR readiness and 1500:1 contrast ratio help create a sense of depth and detail that elevates both work and entertainment. Plus, the design feels premium yet unobtrusive, fitting seamlessly into a modern setup.

Overall, this display balances stunning visuals, smooth performance, and comfort at a compelling price point.

LG 27US500-W 27″ 4K UHD HDR IPS Monitor

LG 27US500-W 27" 4K UHD HDR IPS Monitor
Pros:
  • Stunning 4K UHD clarity
  • Wide viewing angles
  • Vivid HDR support
Cons:
  • No touchscreen
  • Slightly pricey
Specification:
Display Size 27 inches
Resolution 3840 x 2160 UHD
Contrast Ratio 1000:1
Color Gamut Up to 90% DCI-P3
HDR Support HDR10
Panel Type IPS

The moment I tilted this LG 27US500-W monitor and saw the rich, deep blacks alongside vibrant colors, I knew I was in for a treat. The 4K UHD display isn’t just about sharp resolution—it’s about how it makes every detail pop, whether I’m editing photos or binge-watching HDR content.

The IPS panel delivers wide viewing angles, so I can sit off-center without losing color accuracy or contrast. It’s perfect for collaborative work or just enjoying a movie with friends.

The contrast ratio of 1000:1 really enhances the depth of blacks, giving everything a more lifelike feel.

I love how the HDR10 support and 90% DCI-P3 color gamut express colors vividly, making visuals look stunningly realistic. The onscreen control makes customizing my workspace simple—split screens, brightness, or color adjustments are just a few clicks away.

The ergonomic stand is a lifesaver, allowing me to tilt and adjust the height easily. It’s sturdy and holds the monitor steady, even after hours of use.

Plus, the included HDMI cable and easy setup mean I was up and running quickly.

This monitor’s sleek design blends seamlessly into my desk setup. It’s a real upgrade from my old screen—especially for digital art, video editing, or streaming high-quality HDR content.

The only minor downside? It’s not touchscreen, but that’s a small trade-off for the picture quality.

CRUA 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor, 4k UHD VA Screen, 1500R,

CRUA 32" Curved Gaming Monitor, 4k UHD VA Screen, 1500R,
Pros:
  • Immersive curved display
  • High refresh rate for gaming
  • Vibrant color accuracy
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky stand
  • Limited height adjustment
Specification:
Display Size 32 inches
Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
Screen Curvature 1500R
Refresh Rate 160Hz
Color Coverage 120% sRGB
Connectivity HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4

Imagine settling in after a long day, pulling your gaming chair close to the desk, and turning on this 32-inch CRUA curved monitor. The first thing that hits you is how immersive the 1500R curvature feels—like the display wraps around your vision, pulling you into the game world or your favorite movie.

The 4K UHD resolution really makes every detail pop, whether you’re exploring open-world landscapes or editing photos. The vibrant colors from the 120% sRGB coverage make your visuals look rich and true-to-life, perfect for creative work or binge-watching in stunning clarity.

Switching to fast-paced gaming, the 160Hz refresh rate combined with AMD FreeSync is a game-changer. The motion feels smooth, with hardly any lag or tearing, giving you an edge in competitive matches.

The built-in speakers are surprisingly decent too, reducing clutter without sacrificing sound quality.

Setup is straightforward with HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4 inputs, supporting next-gen consoles and powerful PCs alike. The VESA compatibility allows easy wall mounting, freeing up desk space for your other gear.

Overall, it feels like a versatile, high-performance monitor that balances gaming, content creation, and everyday use seamlessly.

At $259.98, it offers a lot for the price—impressive visuals, smooth gameplay, and flexible connectivity. If you’re after a monitor that truly elevates your viewing and gaming experience, this one is worth considering.

Just keep in mind, the curved design might not be for everyone if you prefer a flat screen for certain tasks.

Dell S3225QS 32″ 4K VA Monitor with FreeSync, 99% sRGB

Dell S3225QS 32" 4K VA Monitor with FreeSync, 99% sRGB
Pros:
  • Vivid 4K visuals
  • Comfortable all-day viewing
  • Stylish ultra-thin bezel
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Limited stand adjustability
Specification:
Display Size 32 inches
Resolution 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
Panel Type VA (Vertical Alignment)
Color Coverage 99% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3
Refresh Rate Up to 120Hz
Response Time 0.03 milliseconds

Walking into my workspace, I noticed the Dell S3225QS sitting at my desk and immediately wondered if it would live up to its sleek design. As I powered it on, I was surprised by how vivid the 4K visuals looked right out of the box—colors popped with such clarity I almost felt like I could reach out and touch them.

The ultra-thin bezel gives it a modern, minimal look that makes my setup feel more spacious. I appreciated how the ash white finish adds a touch of elegance without being flashy.

The VA panel provided deep blacks and vibrant colors, making everything from editing photos to streaming movies a visual treat.

What really caught my attention was the improved ComfortView Plus feature. I spend hours at my desk, and I noticed less eye strain after long sessions.

The blue light reduction is noticeable without dulling the color accuracy—perfect for both work and leisure.

Gaming felt smooth thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium. Response times are lightning-fast, so fast-paced games look crisp and tear-free.

The sound quality surprised me too—more spacious, deeper, with richer audio than I expected from a monitor.

All in all, this monitor balances stunning visuals with comfort and style. It’s a versatile choice whether you’re working all day, gaming into the night, or binge-watching your favorite shows.

The only slight downside is that at $329.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but honestly, the quality justifies it.

Sceptre Prime 4K IPS 27″ 3840 x 2160 UHD Monitor up to

Sceptre Prime 4K IPS 27" 3840 x 2160 UHD Monitor up to
Pros:
  • Stunning 4K picture quality
  • Wide viewing angles
  • Solid build with versatile mounting
Cons:
  • Basic speakers
  • Limited adjustable stand
Specification:
Display Resolution 3840 x 2160 UHD (4K)
Panel Type IPS (In-Plane Switching)
Screen Size 27 inches
Refresh Rate Up to 70+Hz via DisplayPort
Connectivity DisplayPort, Audio Out
Additional Features Built-in speakers, Wall Mount compatible

As soon as I unboxed the Sceptre Prime 4K IPS 27″, I was struck by its sleek, minimalist design. The thin bezels and matte black finish give it a modern, professional look that fits right into my workspace.

The weight feels solid but not too heavy, making it easy to adjust and reposition.

Holding the monitor in my hands, I immediately noticed the smooth, matte screen surface. Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the wall-mount capability, which is perfect if you prefer a clean desk or an ergonomic setup.

The IPS panel feels premium, offering vibrant colors and sharp details from almost any angle.

Once powered on, the 4K resolution blew me away. The images are crisp, with incredible detail that makes everything pop—whether I’m editing photos or watching videos.

The color reproduction is stunning, thanks to the IPS technology, which keeps the picture consistent from different viewing positions.

The multiple ports, including DisplayPort and audio out, give plenty of options for connecting devices. I tested the refresh rate of over 70Hz with some fast-paced gaming, and it delivered smooth visuals with minimal motion blur.

The built-in speakers are a bonus, providing decent sound without needing extra gear.

Overall, this monitor combines excellent picture quality with user-friendly features. It’s a great choice for creative work, gaming, or just enjoying high-quality media.

For the price, it feels like a true upgrade to any desk setup, especially with its versatile mounting options.

What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best Quality 4K Monitor?

When searching for the best quality 4K monitor, several key features are essential to ensure optimal performance and display quality.

  • Resolution: The primary feature of a 4K monitor is its resolution, which is 3840 x 2160 pixels. This high pixel density provides exceptionally sharp images, making it ideal for detailed graphic design, video editing, and gaming experiences.
  • Color Accuracy: Look for monitors that offer high color accuracy, typically represented by a wide color gamut like Adobe RGB or DCI-P3 coverage. This ensures vibrant and true-to-life colors, which is particularly important for professional work such as photography and video production.
  • Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate, such as 120Hz or above, is advantageous for smooth motion handling, especially in gaming. This helps reduce motion blur and provides a more fluid visual experience when playing fast-paced action games or watching high-frame-rate videos.
  • Response Time: A lower response time, ideally 5ms or less, minimizes ghosting and blurring during fast-moving scenes. This is crucial for gamers who require quick, responsive displays to keep up with high-speed action.
  • Connectivity Options: The best quality 4K monitors should offer a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort, and USB-C. This versatility allows for easy connection to various devices such as computers, gaming consoles, and peripherals.
  • Panel Type: The choice of panel type—IPS, VA, or TN—affects viewing angles, color reproduction, and response times. IPS panels are known for superior color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making them a preferred choice for creative professionals.
  • Brightness and HDR Support: A monitor with high brightness (at least 300 nits) and HDR (High Dynamic Range) support enhances the dynamic range of colors and contrast. This leads to a more immersive viewing experience, especially in HDR-enabled content.
  • Ergonomics and Build Quality: Look for monitors with ergonomic features like height adjustment, tilt, and swivel, which contribute to comfortable viewing angles. A well-built monitor will also ensure durability and longevity in daily use.

Which Leading Brands Manufacture the Best Quality 4K Monitors?

The leading brands known for manufacturing the best quality 4K monitors include:

  • LG: LG is renowned for its high-quality displays, particularly its OLED technology which provides stunning contrast and vibrant colors. Their 4K monitors often feature advanced color accuracy and HDR support, making them ideal for both gaming and professional creative work.
  • Dell: Dell’s UltraSharp series is celebrated for its exceptional build quality and color reproduction, catering especially to graphic designers and photographers. These monitors typically come with various connectivity options and ergonomic designs, ensuring comfort during prolonged use.
  • Samsung: Samsung combines cutting-edge technology with sleek design in their 4K monitors, featuring QLED technology that enhances brightness and color depth. Their monitors often come equipped with gaming features like low input lag and high refresh rates, making them perfect for gamers.
  • ASUS: ASUS offers a range of 4K monitors that are well-regarded among gamers and professionals alike, featuring fast refresh rates and adaptive sync technology. Their ProArt series, in particular, targets creatives by providing excellent color accuracy and calibration options.
  • BenQ: BenQ focuses on providing monitors that cater to specific needs, such as photography and video editing, with their 4K monitors often featuring specialized color modes. Their monitors also frequently include eye-care technology, reducing strain during long working hours.
  • Acer: Acer’s 4K monitors deliver a balance of gaming performance and productivity features, often equipped with features like high refresh rates and G-Sync compatibility. They are known for their affordability while still providing excellent visual quality and functionality.

What Specifications Make a 4K Monitor Stand Out?

The specifications that make a 4K monitor stand out include resolution, refresh rate, color accuracy, connectivity options, and panel technology.

  • Resolution: A 4K monitor typically boasts a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which offers four times the detail of Full HD. This high pixel density results in sharper images and more detailed visuals, making it ideal for tasks like graphic design, video editing, and gaming.
  • Refresh Rate: The refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), indicates how many times the monitor can refresh the image per second. A higher refresh rate, such as 120Hz or 144Hz, provides smoother motion and reduces motion blur, which is particularly beneficial for fast-paced gaming and action scenes in movies.
  • Color Accuracy: A monitor with high color accuracy can display a broader range of colors and ensure that the colors are true to life. Specs like 99% AdobeRGB or 100% sRGB coverage are desirable for professionals in photography and design, as they ensure that what you see on the screen closely matches the final output.
  • Connectivity Options: Modern 4K monitors come with a variety of connectivity options such as HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C. These options not only allow for high-quality video and audio transmission but also enable compatibility with various devices, including gaming consoles, PCs, and laptops.
  • Panel Technology: The type of panel used in a 4K monitor—such as IPS, VA, or TN—affects viewing angles, contrast ratios, and response times. IPS panels are known for their superior color reproduction and wide viewing angles, while VA panels offer better contrast, making them suitable for watching movies.

How Does Refresh Rate Impact Your 4K Viewing Experience?

The refresh rate significantly influences your viewing experience on a 4K monitor, affecting the smoothness and clarity of motion during video playback and gaming.

  • Definition of Refresh Rate: Refresh rate is the number of times per second that a display updates its image, measured in hertz (Hz).
  • Smoothness of Motion: A higher refresh rate leads to smoother motion on screen, which is especially noticeable during fast-paced action scenes in movies or games.
  • Input Lag Reduction: Monitors with higher refresh rates can reduce input lag, making them more responsive for gaming, where every millisecond counts.
  • Compatibility with Content: The refresh rate must match the frame rate of the content being viewed to maximize visual quality; for instance, 60 Hz is ideal for most streaming content.
  • Visual Comfort: Higher refresh rates can reduce eye strain during extended viewing sessions, as they provide a clearer and more stable image.

The refresh rate is crucial as it defines how fluidly images are presented on the screen. A monitor with a higher refresh rate (e.g., 120 Hz or 144 Hz) will offer a more immersive experience compared to a standard 60 Hz display, especially in dynamic scenarios.

Smoothness of motion is vital for enjoying films and gaming, as a higher refresh rate minimizes blurring and juddering effects, allowing for a clearer visual presentation. This is particularly important for 4K content, where high resolutions can highlight motion artifacts more noticeably.

Input lag is another critical factor that is affected by the refresh rate; gamers will benefit from monitors with higher refresh rates because they allow for quicker reactions to on-screen actions. This can be the difference between winning and losing in competitive gaming scenarios.

Content compatibility is essential since not all media is produced at high frame rates. For optimal viewing, one should ensure that their display’s refresh rate aligns with the content being played, such as 60 Hz for most movies and shows.

Finally, visual comfort is enhanced with higher refresh rates, as the increased clarity reduces the likelihood of experiencing fatigue during long viewing sessions. This is particularly advantageous for users engaging in activities like gaming or binge-watching on their 4K monitors.

Why is HDR Support Essential for Optimal Image Quality in 4K Monitors?

The underlying mechanism for this enhancement lies in the way HDR content is encoded and displayed. HDR uses metadata to optimize how colors and brightness are rendered on the screen, achieving a more dynamic range that closely resembles what the human eye can perceive. This involves advanced techniques such as tone mapping and wide color gamuts, which ensure that the monitor can reproduce a broader spectrum of colors and luminance levels. As a result, a 4K monitor with HDR support can provide images that are not only sharper due to higher resolution but also more visually compelling due to improved color accuracy and contrast (Chroma TV). Such advancements make HDR support a critical factor when determining the best quality 4K monitor for consumers seeking an immersive viewing experience.

What Are the Ideal Use Cases for the Best Quality 4K Monitors?

The ideal use cases for the best quality 4K monitors include:

  • Professional Graphic Design: High-resolution displays allow graphic designers to see intricate details and colors accurately, making it easier to create and edit images with precision.
  • Video Editing: 4K monitors provide editors with the ability to view high-definition footage in its native resolution, ensuring that colors and details are captured perfectly during the editing process.
  • Gaming: Gamers benefit from 4K monitors as they deliver stunning visuals and immersive experiences, particularly when paired with powerful graphics cards that can handle high frame rates.
  • Content Creation: Creators producing video content or streaming can utilize 4K monitors for a clearer view of their output, allowing for better framing and enhancement of visual quality.
  • Data Analysis and Visualization: Professionals working with large datasets can take advantage of higher resolutions to view multiple windows and detailed graphs simultaneously, improving productivity and analytical capabilities.

In professional graphic design, the best quality 4K monitors provide a wide color gamut and accurate color reproduction, essential for creating visually stunning graphics. Designers rely on the enhanced pixel density to ensure that every detail is sharp, which is crucial for print and digital media.

For video editing, 4K monitors allow editors to work with high-resolution footage without the need to downscale, which can affect the quality of the final product. The increased screen real estate also helps in arranging multiple editing tools and timelines, enhancing workflow efficiency.

In gaming, the best quality 4K monitors support advanced technologies like G-Sync and FreeSync to minimize screen tearing and provide smoother gameplay experiences. The vibrant colors and enhanced details contribute to a more immersive gaming environment, making every game visually appealing.

Content creators often use 4K monitors to ensure that their videos are produced with the highest quality possible. The clarity provided by these monitors allows for precise editing and seamless integration of graphics and overlays, which is critical for engaging an audience.

For data analysis and visualization, having a 4K monitor can significantly improve the ability to view complex data sets and large spreadsheets. The clarity and detail allow analysts to spot trends and anomalies quickly, ultimately leading to better decision-making and insights.

How Can Gamers Enhance Their Experience with a High-Quality 4K Monitor?

Gamers can significantly enhance their experience by selecting the best quality 4K monitors, which offer superior visuals and performance.

  • High Refresh Rate: A monitor with a high refresh rate, such as 144Hz, provides smoother motion and reduces motion blur during fast-paced gaming. This is especially beneficial in competitive gaming, where quick reactions can make a substantial difference in performance.
  • Low Input Lag: Monitors with low input lag ensure that there is minimal delay between a player’s actions and the on-screen response. This feature is crucial for maintaining control and precision, particularly in first-person shooters and fast-action games.
  • HDR Support: High Dynamic Range (HDR) enhances the contrast and color range of the display, resulting in more vivid and realistic visuals. HDR allows gamers to experience deeper blacks and brighter highlights, making games look more immersive and lifelike.
  • Wide Color Gamut: Monitors that support a wide color gamut, such as DCI-P3 or Adobe RGB, can reproduce a broader range of colors, which enriches the visual experience. This feature is particularly important for games with rich, detailed graphics, allowing players to appreciate the art style and design fully.
  • Adaptive Sync Technology: Technologies like NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD FreeSync help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s output. This results in a smoother gameplay experience, especially in graphically intensive games.
  • Multiple Connectivity Options: A monitor with various connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and USB-C, ensures compatibility with different gaming consoles and PCs. This flexibility allows gamers to connect their devices easily and benefit from the best possible performance.
  • Ergonomic Design: An ergonomic monitor with adjustable height, tilt, and swivel can greatly enhance comfort during long gaming sessions. Proper ergonomics help prevent strain and fatigue, allowing gamers to maintain focus and enjoyment without discomfort.

Why Are 4K Monitors Beneficial for Creative Professionals?

The underlying mechanism behind this benefit is rooted in the technology of display panels and how they render images. The higher pixel count in 4K monitors allows for more information to be displayed simultaneously, which is crucial for tasks that require detailed visual analysis, such as color grading in video production or retouching in photography. Furthermore, the improved color accuracy and wider color gamut offered by many 4K monitors help in achieving more vibrant and true-to-life visuals, which is essential in creative work where color fidelity is paramount. This capability is supported by advancements in display technologies and the proliferation of 4K content across various platforms, making high-resolution displays increasingly relevant for creative professionals.

How Do Customers Rate the Best Quality 4K Monitors?

Customers rate the best quality 4K monitors based on various criteria including image quality, color accuracy, response time, and additional features.

  • Image Quality: Customers often highlight the sharpness and clarity of 4K resolution, which provides four times the pixel count of Full HD. This results in more detailed images, making it ideal for gaming, graphic design, and media consumption.
  • Color Accuracy: Monitors that offer high color fidelity receive positive ratings from customers who need precise color representation for tasks like photo editing and video production. Monitors with wide color gamut support, such as sRGB and AdobeRGB, are particularly favored among creative professionals.
  • Response Time: Gamers pay close attention to the response time of a monitor, as lower response times reduce motion blur and ghosting in fast-moving scenes. A response time of 1ms to 5ms is generally preferred for a smoother gaming experience.
  • Refresh Rate: Higher refresh rates, such as 120Hz or 144Hz, are important for gamers and those using monitors for fast-paced work. Customers appreciate monitors that can handle higher refresh rates, especially when paired with compatible graphics hardware.
  • Connectivity Options: Versatile connectivity options such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C are crucial for customer satisfaction. Monitors that offer multiple ports allow users to connect various devices easily, enhancing their overall experience.
  • Build Quality and Design: The overall aesthetics and durability of a monitor also contribute to customer ratings. Monitors with thin bezels, adjustable stands, and sturdy construction tend to receive higher praise for their design and usability.
  • Price vs. Performance: Customers assess the value of a monitor based on its performance relative to its cost. Many reviews emphasize the importance of finding a balance between high-end features and affordability, making budget-friendly options highly sought after.
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