ASUS TUF Gaming VG279Q3R 27-inch 180Hz monitor: specs and who it suits

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG279Q3R is a 27-inch Full HD gaming monitor with a Fast IPS panel and a 180Hz refresh rate. It is meant for people who play fast games on a PC or console and want smoother motion than a standard 60Hz screen provides. This page explains what the main specifications mean.

What 180Hz and 1ms mean

Refresh rate is how many times per second the screen redraws. At 180Hz the image updates three times as often as on a 60Hz display, which typically makes fast camera movement look smoother and easier to follow. To benefit, your graphics card has to produce high frame rates, so it helps to check what your system manages in the games you play.

ASUS lists a 1ms response time (grey to grey). Response time describes how quickly a pixel changes colour, and lower values reduce the smeared trails behind moving objects. ASUS says its Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology works together with Adaptive-sync to reduce ghosting and tearing. Manufacturers measure response time under favourable conditions, so treat it as a guide.

Fast IPS panel and colour

IPS panels typically offer wider viewing angles and more consistent colour than VA or TN types. ASUS describes this as a Fast IPS panel and lists 100% sRGB coverage. sRGB is the standard colour range for most web content and games, so full coverage means the monitor can display that range. It does not make it a professional colour-grading tool without calibration.

Resolution at 27 inches

The resolution is 1920 x 1080. On a 27-inch screen that spreads fewer pixels across a larger area than a higher-resolution panel, so text and fine detail look less sharp at close range. The upside is that Full HD is easier for a graphics card to run at high frame rates, which is why it is common in competitive gaming setups.

FreeSync and Shadow Boost

The monitor supports FreeSync, enabled by default as variable refresh rate (VRR). With a compatible graphics card, the screen adjusts its refresh rate to match the frames being produced, which avoids tearing without the lag of traditional V-Sync. Check whether your graphics card supports FreeSync or Adaptive-sync.

Shadow Boost is a setting that brightens dark areas of the image to reveal detail, without over-exposing the bright parts. It is useful in dark scenes, though some players prefer the original look.

ASUS also mentions Variable Overdrive and Eye Care features in the listing title. Check the manual for how to use them.

In the box

The listing says the box contains a DisplayPort cable, an L-shaped screwdriver, a power cord and adapter, a quick start guide and a warranty card. The listing title mentions a three-year warranty. Check the terms for your region.

Who it suits

It suits PC gamers who play fast-paced shooters, racing or sports games and want high frame rates, and people who want a roomy screen for general use. If you mostly edit photos or work with fine text, a higher-resolution screen may suit you better.

What to check before you buy

• Graphics card: make sure it can output high frame rates at 1080p and supports FreeSync or Adaptive-sync.
• Ports: the included cable is DisplayPort, so confirm your graphics card has a matching output, and check the listing or manual for the other inputs.
• Desk space: the listing gives dimensions of about 24.2 x 16.9 x 8.4 inches (61 x 43 x 21 cm) and 9.5 lb (about 4.3 kg) with the stand.
• Stand and mounting: check the manual for height and tilt adjustment and any wall-mount options.
• Resolution: confirm that 1080p at 27 inches is sharp enough for you.

The short version

• 27-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) Fast IPS gaming monitor.
• 180Hz refresh rate with a 1ms (GTG) response time and ELMB.
• FreeSync with variable refresh rate on by default.
• 100% sRGB and Shadow Boost for dark scenes.
• DisplayPort cable and power adapter included.

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