ASUS ROG Swift PG38UQ 38-inch 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor: specs and fit

The ASUS ROG Swift PG38UQ is a large 38-inch gaming monitor with a 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) Fast IPS panel running at up to 144Hz. It has HDMI 2.1, so current game consoles can use it at 4K and 120Hz. Below is what its main specifications mean and who is likely to benefit.

A large 4K screen

At 38 inches and 3840 x 2160, this monitor is considerably bigger than the common 27-inch 4K models. The pixel density is lower than on a 27-inch 4K display, so the picture is less fine, but there is much more room for windows or game view. The size makes it work for people who sit a bit further back, so it is worth checking your desk depth.

Refresh rate and response

The 144Hz refresh rate means the image updates 144 times a second. ASUS rates the Fast IPS panel at 1ms grey-to-grey response, and the monitor supports Adaptive-Sync. It is listed as G-SYNC Compatible and FreeSync Premium Pro. These variable-refresh features let the screen match the frame rate coming from the graphics card, which reduces tearing and stutter. Running 4K at high frame rates typically needs a strong graphics card.

HDMI 2.1 and DSC

The listing highlights HDMI 2.1, which supports native 4K 120Hz gaming without chroma subsampling (4:4:4) on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Chroma subsampling reduces colour detail to save bandwidth, so 4:4:4 keeps full colour sharpness, which matters for text. DisplayPort 1.4 with Display Stream Compression (DSC) is also included. DSC is a method of compressing the signal so a very high resolution and refresh rate fit through the cable. The monitor also has a USB hub and speakers.

Colour and HDR

The panel is listed at 98% DCI-P3, a wide colour range used in film and many games, and carries VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification. DisplayHDR 600 sits above the entry-level tiers and signals higher peak brightness for HDR content, although a standard edge-lit monitor does not match the contrast of the best HDR screens. A tripod socket sits on top of the monitor.

Size and weight: about 33.9 x 10.1 x 21.2 inches (86 x 26 x 54 cm), weighing 22.5 lb (10.2 kg).

Who it suits

It suits people who want a big 4K screen for gaming on both a PC and a modern console, or who want to spread work out across a large display. It is less suitable for small desks.

What to check before you buy

• Desk and viewing distance: measure the width, depth and stand before ordering.
• Graphics card and cable: confirm your GPU supports DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, and that your console uses a certified HDMI 2.1 cable.
• Console settings: check the console's video options for 4K 120Hz.
• Mounting: if you plan to use a monitor arm, check VESA compatibility and the weight limit in the manual.
• Adobe offer: the listing mentions a limited-time Creative Cloud offer that has an end date; confirm whether it still applies.

The short version

• 38-inch 4K UHD Fast IPS monitor, 144Hz, 1ms GTG.
• HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, plus DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC.
• 98% DCI-P3 and DisplayHDR 600.
• Speakers, USB hub and tripod socket.
• 22.5 lb; plan for the desk space.

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