Philips a few weeks ago launched a massive 43-inch, 4K-compatible desktop monitor, the BDM4350UC. Now, it's Dell's turn at bat.

The Dell P4317Q is similar to Philips' offering in that it also measures 43 inches diagonally (technically, its 42.51 inches) with a maximum output resolution of up to 4K (3,840 x 2,160) at 60Hz). At first glance, the Dell doesn't seem all that different than the Philips model... until you look at the price tag. Dell's offering commands more than $450 extra, but is it worth it?

The standout feature of the Dell P4317Q is the ability to show content from four separate inputs simultaneously. Using this mode, the IPS matte screen is split digitally four ways, offering up four full HD (1,920 x 1,080) views, all without bezel breaks. Virtual displays can be rearranged and you can easily zoom into a single window to fully take advantage of the 4K view.

It reminds me a lot of Dish's Hopper 3 DVR which can split your 4K television into four 1080p views, ideal for sports fans that want to watch multiple games at once.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell P4317Q is loaded. It features a DisplayPort 1.2 connection, a miniDisplayPort 1.2 connection, two HDMI 1.4 connections, a legacy VGA connector, one USB 3.0 upstream port, four standard USB 3.0 ports, audio input, a headphone jack and even an RS-232 port.

Dell says its new monitor is designed specifically for financial institutions, trading floors and software developers although anyone that currently utilizes a multi-monitor setup could conceivably use it.

The Dell P4317Q retails for $1,349.99 with an estimated ship date of May 23 listed on its website.