ASUS ProArt PA278CV 27-inch WQHD Monitor: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS ProArt Display PA278CV is a 27-inch monitor aimed at photographers, designers and video editors who care about colour accuracy. It combines a WQHD IPS panel with factory colour calibration claims and a USB-C connection that can handle several jobs through one cable.

WQHD resolution on 27 inches

WQHD means 2560 x 1440 pixels, sometimes called 1440p. On a 27-inch screen it's a sharp step up from Full HD, with more room for editing timelines, toolbars and large images side by side. ASUS says it gives sharp and detailed visuals, and many people find 1440p is a comfortable match for 27 inches without needing display scaling.

IPS panel

IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels typically hold their colour and brightness well when viewed from the side, which matters when you're judging an image or sharing a screen with a colleague. ASUS says the panel provides accurate colour reproduction and wide viewing angles.

What the colour figures mean

ASUS lists 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709 coverage. sRGB is the standard colour space for web and most photos, and Rec. 709 is the standard for HD video, so full coverage means the monitor can show the whole range of each. ASUS also quotes a Delta E (ΔE) below 2. Delta E measures the difference between a colour as shown and as intended; in general, a value under 2 is regarded as hard to notice by eye. The monitor is described as Calman Verified, which refers to a colour-calibration software and verification programme. Wide-gamut work such as print or HDR video may need a different display, so check the full specs against your workflow.

USB-C, daisy-chaining and HDMI

The listing highlights an all-in-one USB-C port, plus daisy-chaining and HDMI. A USB-C connection can typically carry video from a compatible laptop and, depending on the model, data and power. Daisy-chaining lets a second compatible monitor connect through the first, which reduces cable clutter on a two-screen desk. The monitor also includes a USB hub, so you can plug peripherals into it. ASUS describes it as compatible with laptops and Macs; check the manual for the exact ports, cable types and any power delivery.

Size and weight

The listing gives the dimensions as 14.7 x 24.2 x 9.0 inches (about 37 x 61 x 23 cm) and the weight as 18.5 lb (about 8.4 kg). Allow desk space for the stand, and check the manual for height, tilt and swivel adjustment, and for VESA mounting if you want an arm.

Who it suits

It suits photographers, graphic designers, video editors and general users who want a colour-conscious 27-inch screen, especially with a laptop that can send video over USB-C. It isn't a gaming display, and ASUS doesn't promote it as one.

What to check before you buy

• Your computer's ports: confirm whether your laptop's USB-C port supports video output and what it can power.
• Cables: check which cables come in the box and whether you need a longer one.
• Colour needs: compare 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 with what your projects require, such as wide-gamut print.
• Calibration: check the manual about how to calibrate and how often to re-check.
• Desk space and stand: measure the footprint and height, and look at VESA options.
• Daisy-chaining: confirm the second monitor supports it and which input it uses.

The short version

• A 27-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) IPS monitor from ASUS' ProArt line.
• 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709, ΔE below 2, Calman Verified.
• USB-C, daisy-chaining, HDMI and a USB hub.
• 18.5 lb; suited to colour-focused work.

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