ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ 27-inch QHD 165Hz Monitor: specs and who it suits

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ is a 27-inch gaming monitor with a QHD (2560 x 1440) IPS panel and a refresh rate of up to 165Hz. It supports G-SYNC compatibility, includes built-in speakers and has a stand that adjusts in several directions. It is designed for fast-paced games, but the resolution also suits everyday work.

What QHD on a 27-inch IPS panel means

QHD packs more pixels than Full HD, so text and detail look sharper at 27 inches and you can fit more on the screen. IPS panels typically hold their colour and brightness when viewed from an angle. The listing says the monitor supports 144Hz and is described as 165Hz, and elsewhere describes a 155Hz overclocked rate, so check the exact modes in the manual.

Refresh rate and 1ms MPRT

Refresh rate is how many times the screen updates each second. A higher number gives smoother motion in games that produce enough frames. The 1ms figure is MPRT, or moving picture response time, which is typically measured with motion-blur reduction on rather than as a raw pixel response time.

ELMB Sync and G-SYNC compatibility

ASUS says Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync reduces tearing and ghosting. Tearing happens when the screen and graphics card are out of step, and G-SYNC compatibility lets a supported NVIDIA graphics card keep them in step with variable refresh rate. Check in the manual which features can be used together.

Shadow Boost

ASUS Shadow Boost brightens dark areas of a scene to reveal detail without over-exposing the bright parts. It is a picture mode you can switch on or off to suit the game.

Stand, connections and mounting

The ergonomic stand offers height, tilt, swivel and pivot adjustment, so the screen can sit at a comfortable height or turn to portrait. The monitor is VESA mountable if you prefer an arm. Connections are DisplayPort 1.2 and HDMI 2.0, and there are built-in speakers. ASUS also mentions Eye Care Technology for long sessions. The listed weight is 12.8 lb.

Who it suits

It suits PC gamers with a graphics card that can drive 1440p at high frame rates, and people who want one sharp screen for play, work and media. Console players should check which refresh rates and resolutions their console outputs.

What to check before you buy

• Ports: your graphics card needs DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0 for the higher refresh rates.
• Graphics card: high refresh rates at 1440p need a capable card.
• Desk space: check the footprint and the height range of the stand.
• Mounting: confirm the VESA pattern in the manual if you plan to use an arm.
• Sound: built-in speakers cover basics, and many people still use headphones or desktop speakers.

The short version

• 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) IPS gaming monitor, model VG27AQ.
• 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT response, as ASUS rates it.
• ELMB Sync, G-SYNC compatibility and Shadow Boost.
• Height, tilt, swivel and pivot stand; VESA mountable.
• DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0 and built-in speakers.

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