ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM 24.5-inch 280Hz Monitor: features and specs

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM is a 24.5-inch Full HD monitor built for fast-paced games. It pairs an IPS panel with a 280Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time, aiming at players who want smooth, clear motion on a screen small enough to sit comfortably on a desk.

What 280Hz means in practice

Refresh rate is how many times per second the screen redraws. A typical office monitor runs at 60Hz; this one is listed at 280Hz (an overclocked figure, with 144Hz also supported). Higher refresh rates only help when your graphics card can produce enough frames per second to feed them. In fast shooters and racing games, more frames typically mean smaller gaps between updates and a more fluid image. In slower games, the difference is much less noticeable.

Fast IPS and the 1ms figure

ASUS uses Fast IPS technology here and rates the response time at 1ms grey-to-grey (GTG). Response time describes how quickly a pixel changes from one shade to another. IPS panels are generally known for wider viewing angles and more consistent colour than many other panel types, and the "Fast" variant is meant to close the speed gap. Manufacturer response-time figures are measured under specific conditions, so real-world results vary with the overdrive setting.

G-SYNC Compatible and ELMB Sync

The monitor is certified as G-SYNC Compatible, which means variable refresh rate (VRR) is enabled by default. VRR lets the monitor match its refresh rate to the frames your graphics card is delivering, which reduces screen tearing and stutter. It is designed for use with compatible NVIDIA graphics cards.

ELMB Sync is ASUS's motion blur reduction technology. Backlight strobing methods have traditionally been hard to use together with variable refresh rate. ASUS says ELMB Sync allows both at once, aimed at reducing ghosting and tearing in fast scenes.

Resolution and size

The panel is 1920 x 1080 across 24.5 inches. At this size, Full HD gives a sharp enough picture for most desk distances, and it is far easier for a graphics card to drive at very high frame rates than 1440p or 4K. That is why many competitive players pair 1080p with a high refresh rate.

Ports and connections

ASUS lists one DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 inputs. DisplayPort is generally the connection to use for the highest refresh rates on a PC, and HDMI 2.0 is handy for a second computer or a console. The monitor is also listed with DisplayHDR 400, an entry-level HDR certification, so expect a modest HDR effect rather than the dramatic highlights of brighter panels.

Size and weight

With its stand, the monitor measures about 14.0 x 22.2 x 8.3 inches (36 x 56 x 21 cm) and weighs 11.2 lb (about 5.1 kg).

Who it suits

It suits PC gamers who play fast competitive titles and have a graphics card capable of pushing well over 144 frames per second. It also suits anyone who wants a compact desk setup with a clean Full HD picture.

What to check before you buy

• Your graphics card: a 280Hz screen is most useful when your PC can output frames close to that rate.
• Ports: confirm your graphics card has DisplayPort, and check what your console or other devices need.
• Desk space: check the footprint and height with the stand against your desk and any monitor arm you plan to use.
• Resolution preference: 1080p suits a 24.5-inch screen, but check whether you would prefer a higher resolution for work.
• Settings: G-SYNC and ELMB Sync are configured in the on-screen menu and graphics driver; check the manual for how to enable them.

The short version

• A 24.5-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) Fast IPS gaming monitor.
• 280Hz refresh rate (overclocked; 144Hz also supported) and a 1ms GTG response time.
• G-SYNC Compatible with ELMB Sync motion blur reduction.
• DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 inputs, plus DisplayHDR 400.
• About 11.2 lb with the stand.

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