ASUS ROG Strix XG27WCMS 27-inch Curved 280Hz Monitor: specs explained

The ASUS ROG Strix XG27WCMS is a 27-inch curved monitor with a 2560 x 1440 resolution and a refresh rate ASUS says can be overclocked to 280Hz. It adds a USB Type-C connection, which makes it more flexible than a typical gaming screen for laptops and other devices.

Resolution and curve

At 27 inches, 1440p is a widely used balance: noticeably sharper than Full HD while still being achievable for a mid-range graphics card at high frame rates. The curve wraps the edges of the screen slightly towards you. The idea is that it feels more immersive and keeps the edges at a similar distance from your eyes, though how much that matters is down to personal taste and desk depth.

Fast VA panel

The model uses a Fast VA panel. VA panels typically offer deeper blacks and higher contrast than IPS, which can help in dark games and films, while viewing angles are somewhat narrower. ASUS gives a 1ms (GTG) response time, a best-case figure for pixel changes.

280Hz and motion handling

A 280Hz refresh rate means 280 screen updates a second, which makes motion look very smooth if your system can supply frames that quickly. ASUS ELMB SYNC allows Extreme Low Motion Blur to run alongside variable refresh rate, and ASUS says this eliminates ghosting and tearing. FreeSync Premium is also listed for adaptive sync.

Colour

The listing quotes 95% DCI-P3 coverage. DCI-P3 is a wider colour space than sRGB, used in cinema and increasingly in HDR content. ASUS adds advanced grey-scale tracking for smoother gradation and uniformity. The monitor is described as an HDR model, though how striking HDR looks depends on the panel's brightness, which the listing does not specify.

USB-C and extras

The Type-C connection can carry video from a compatible laptop or device, which cuts down on cables. Check the manual for what the port supports (video only, or also power delivery). DisplayWidget Center lets you change settings with a mouse, AI gaming features are listed, and a tripod socket is included, which suggests uses such as mounting a camera or accessory. The listing also mentions a 3-year warranty. The monitor measures about 24.1 x 8.6 x 15.4 in and weighs 15.9 lb.

Who it suits

It suits players who want a fast 1440p screen with strong contrast, and people who connect a laptop and a desktop to the same display. Those who care most about wide viewing angles should consider the panel type.

What to check before you buy

• PC power: very high frame rates at 1440p need a capable graphics card.
• USB-C support: confirm your laptop outputs video over USB-C.
• Desk depth: a curved screen and its stand take space; check the dimensions.
• Panel type: VA offers deep blacks but narrower viewing angles than IPS.
• Mounting: check the manual for the mount pattern if you want an arm.

The short version

• 27-inch curved 2560 x 1440 monitor, overclockable to 280Hz.
• Fast VA panel with a 1ms (GTG) response time and ELMB SYNC.
• FreeSync Premium and 95% DCI-P3 coverage.
• USB Type-C connection, DisplayWidget Center and a tripod socket.
• 15.9 lb.

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