ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QR 27-inch 165Hz Monitor: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QR is a 27-inch Full HD gaming monitor with an IPS panel and a 165Hz refresh rate. It is aimed at fast-paced games, where a smooth image and low motion blur matter, and it has a stand with several adjustments.

Full HD IPS at 27 inches

The resolution is 1920 x 1080. On a 27-inch screen, that is less dense than 1440p or 4K, but it is easier for a graphics card to drive at high frame rates, which is why Full HD remains common for competitive gaming. IPS panels typically offer good colour and wide viewing angles.

165Hz and ELMB

The refresh rate is 165Hz, and ASUS says it supports 144Hz as well. A higher refresh rate means the image updates more often, which looks smoother when your graphics card can supply the frames. ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) is a backlight strobing feature that ASUS says enables a 1ms response time (MPRT) and eliminates ghosting. MPRT measures motion-picture response time, which isn't the same as grey-to-grey response. Strobing features like this typically trade some brightness and may not work alongside adaptive sync, so check the manual for how the modes combine.

G-SYNC Compatible and Shadow Boost

The monitor is certified G-SYNC Compatible, with variable refresh rate (VRR) enabled by default, to give tear-free gameplay with supported NVIDIA graphics cards. Shadow Boost brightens dark areas to show detail, which ASUS says it does without over-exposing bright areas.

Connections and stand

Inputs are one DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI (v1.4) ports. The stand adjusts for swivel, tilt, pivot and height, and the monitor is VESA 100 x 100 mm mountable for arms or wall mounts. The box contains an HDMI cable, a DisplayPort cable, a power cord and adapter, a Quick Start Guide and a warranty card.

Size and weight

With its stand the monitor measures about 14.8 x 24.4 x 8.3 inches (37.6 x 62 x 21 cm) and weighs 12.4 lb (about 5.6 kg).

Who it suits

It suits PC gamers who play fast-paced titles and want a high refresh rate on a mainstream 1080p screen, and anyone who needs a pivot-capable, height-adjustable stand. HDMI 1.4 means it isn't designed for 4K console modes.

What to check before you buy

• Graphics card: check that it has DisplayPort for the full 165Hz; HDMI 1.4 may limit the refresh rate on some setups.
• Resolution preference: 1080p at 27 inches may look softer to some people.
• Desk space and mount: about 62 cm wide; check the arm's VESA pattern.
• Motion blur mode: ELMB and adaptive sync settings are described in the manual.
• Included offers: the listing mentions a software trial with expired dates.

The short version

• A 27-inch 1920 x 1080 IPS gaming monitor with 165Hz (supports 144Hz).
• ELMB for a 1ms MPRT response time, G-SYNC Compatible and Shadow Boost.
• DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 1.4 inputs, VESA 100 x 100 mm.
• Stand with swivel, tilt, pivot and height adjustment.
• About 12.4 lb.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.