ASUS ProArt PA278CGV 27-inch QHD Monitor: colour, USB-C and 144Hz explained

The ASUS ProArt Display PA278CGV is a 27-inch monitor designed for creative work such as photo and video editing and graphic design. It combines a factory-calibrated IPS panel and wide colour coverage with a 144Hz refresh rate and a USB-C port that can also charge a laptop. Here is what those specs mean.

Resolution and panel type

The screen is 27 inches with QHD resolution (2560 x 1440). At this size, QHD gives sharper text and more working space than Full HD, without the scaling that 4K sometimes needs. ASUS specifies an IPS panel with a 178° viewing angle. IPS panels typically hold colour and brightness well when viewed from the side, which matters when you are checking colour.

What 95% DCI-P3 and Delta E under 2 mean

A colour gamut is the range of colours a screen can show. ASUS lists coverage of 95% of DCI-P3, the wide gamut used in digital cinema, and 100% of sRGB and Rec. 709, the standards for web and standard video. Delta E measures the difference between the colour requested and the colour shown. ASUS states a Delta E below 2, which is generally considered hard for the eye to notice. The monitor is factory calibrated and described as Calman Verified, which refers to a colour-calibration software company's verification programme.

Over time, any monitor's colour can drift, so people doing professional work often calibrate periodically with a measuring device.

144Hz and FreeSync Premium

The refresh rate is 144Hz, so the image updates 144 times a second, against 60 for many office monitors. That gives smoother cursor and scrolling movement, and it helps in games. FreeSync Premium is AMD's variable refresh rate technology, which lets the monitor match its refresh rate to the graphics card's output and reduces tearing. DisplayHDR 400 is an entry-level HDR certification, so don't expect the contrast of high-end HDR panels.

One cable with USB-C

The USB-C port carries data, video signal and up to 90W of power delivery. With a compatible laptop, one cable can send the picture to the screen, charge the laptop and connect to the monitor's USB hub. Check that your laptop's USB-C port supports video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode) and what wattage it needs; 90W covers many, but not every, laptop. The monitor also has DisplayPort and HDMI inputs.

Stand and size

The stand is height adjustable. The listing gives dimensions of about 24.2 x 9.0 x 14.7 inches (roughly 61 x 23 x 37 cm) and a weight of 18.7 lb (about 8.5 kg). Check the manual for other adjustments and for VESA mount compatibility.

Who it suits

It suits photographers, video editors, designers and others who want wide colour coverage and factory calibration at a size that fits a regular desk. The 144Hz refresh rate also makes it usable for gaming alongside creative work. For HDR editing or very large colour-critical projects, look at the maker's higher-end models.

What to check before you buy

• Graphics card and ports: confirm your computer has a DisplayPort, HDMI or video-capable USB-C output.
• Laptop charging: check your laptop's charging wattage against the 90W limit.
• Colour workflow: consider whether you need your own calibration device.
• Desk space: check the footprint and height range, or plan a monitor arm.
• Cables: check which cables are in the box.
• Bundled offers: the listing mentions a software trial with an expired validity date.

The short version

• A 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) IPS monitor with 178° viewing angles.
• 95% DCI-P3, 100% sRGB/Rec. 709, factory calibrated to Delta E under 2.
• 144Hz with FreeSync Premium and DisplayHDR 400.
• USB-C with 90W power delivery, plus DisplayPort, HDMI and a USB hub.
• Height-adjustable stand.

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