ASUS ROG Strix XG259CS 24.5-Inch 180Hz USB-C Monitor: specs and fit

The ASUS ROG Strix XG259CS is a 24.5-inch Full HD gaming monitor with a 180Hz refresh rate, a Fast IPS panel and a USB-C input. It is a compact, fast screen for competitive PC gaming, and the USB-C connection means a laptop can use it with a single cable. Here is what the main specs mean.

Size and resolution

A 24.5-inch panel at 1920 x 1080 is a very common pairing for competitive play. The pixel density is higher than on larger Full HD screens, so text and edges look reasonably crisp, and the whole screen fits comfortably in your field of view at desk distance. It also means graphics cards can reach high frame rates more easily than at higher resolutions.

180Hz and 1ms Fast IPS

Refresh rate is how often the picture updates each second; 180Hz is three times the 60Hz of a standard monitor, and it only helps if your system outputs frames that fast. ASUS pairs it with a Fast IPS panel and a 1ms grey-to-grey response time. IPS panels generally offer wider viewing angles and better colour than older fast panel types, and "Fast IPS" refers to quicker pixel transitions. The 1ms figure is a best-case measurement under specific conditions.

ELMB Sync and G-SYNC Compatible

ELMB Sync allows ASUS's Extreme Low Motion Blur technology to operate together with variable refresh rate, which ASUS says reduces both ghosting and tearing. G-SYNC Compatible means the monitor has been validated to work with variable refresh rate on supported NVIDIA graphics cards. Variable refresh rate makes the display follow your frame rate rather than a fixed schedule.

HDR and colour

The listing describes an HDR gaming monitor with a wide colour gamut and gray-scale tracking for smooth gradation and uniformity. HDR on monitors varies a lot in how bright the panel can get, so look at the actual brightness and certification details in the manual before expecting a dramatic effect.

USB-C with DP Alt mode

The USB Type-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode, which carries a video signal over USB-C. A laptop or other device that supports it can connect with one cable and a tidy desk. Check whether your device's USB-C port supports video output, since not all do. A DisplayPort cable is included.

Extras

• DisplayWidget Center: adjust monitor settings with a mouse rather than with buttons.
• Tripod socket: a socket on the monitor lets you attach compatible accessories.
• AI gaming features: ASUS mentions AI-powered features in its description.
• Warranty: the listing mentions a three-year warranty.

What is in the box

ASUS lists a DisplayPort cable, a power cord and adapter, a quick start guide, a ROG pouch, a ROG sticker and a warranty card. The listing's offer for a trial of creative software has an expired date range, so don't count on it.

Who it suits

It suits players of fast competitive games, people with a tidy desk who want a compact screen, and laptop users who like single-cable USB-C.

What to check before you buy

• Graphics card: confirm it can drive 180Hz and supports adaptive sync.
• Ports: check which inputs you need beyond DisplayPort and USB-C.
• USB-C video: confirm your laptop's port supports DP Alt mode.
• Resolution: Full HD may feel limited if you want more desktop space.
• Desk fit: it is about 29 inches wide and weighs 13 lb with the stand.

The short version

• 24.5-inch Full HD Fast IPS gaming monitor at 180Hz with 1ms GTG.
• G-SYNC Compatible with ELMB Sync.
• USB-C with DP Alt mode and DisplayPort cable included.
• DisplayWidget Center, tripod socket and a three-year warranty.

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