ASUS TUF Gaming VG27VH1B and VG27WQ1B 27-inch Curved 165Hz Monitors

This listing covers two ASUS TUF Gaming monitors: the VG27VH1B and the VG27WQ1B. Both are 27-inch curved gaming screens with a 165Hz refresh rate. The main difference is resolution, with the first at Full HD and the second at 1440p. This page explains what the shared features mean and how the two differ.

Two models, one resolution difference

• VG27VH1B: 27 inches, 1920 x 1080 (Full HD), 1500R curve, 165Hz.
• VG27WQ1B: 27 inches, 2560 x 1440 (WQHD), 1500R curve, 165Hz, which the listing says also supports 144Hz.

On the same screen size, the higher resolution gives a sharper image with more detail, but it asks more of the graphics card, since it has to draw more pixels every frame. The Full HD model is easier to drive at high frame rates. Check which of the two the listing option you are viewing actually supplies, because the models' details differ.

What a 1500R curve does

The "1500R" figure means the screen curves as part of a circle with a radius of 1,500 mm, or 1.5 metres. A tighter curve like this wraps further around your field of view. ASUS says the curve is designed for immersive gameplay. Many people find it comfortable at normal desk distance, while others prefer a flat screen for editing or for straight-edged work.

165Hz refresh rate

Refresh rate is the number of times per second the screen updates. At 165Hz, the screen can show up to 165 frames a second, compared with the 60 of a typical office monitor. You only see the benefit when your computer produces frames at that pace, so it matters most in fast-paced games. ASUS also says the 1440p model supports 144Hz.

ELMB, 1ms and adaptive sync

ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) is a feature that reduces blur in fast motion. ASUS quotes a 1ms response time measured as MPRT, or moving picture response time. That is a different measure from grey-to-grey response times, so the numbers should not be compared directly.

Both models also carry FreeSync Premium, AMD's variable refresh rate technology. It matches the screen's refresh rate to the frames from the graphics card, which helps to avoid screen tearing and stutter. The listing says the 1440p model supports it through both DisplayPort and HDMI. Check your graphics card's compatibility with adaptive sync in its documentation.

Shadow Boost and connections

Shadow Boost brightens dark areas of the picture to reveal detail without over-exposing the bright parts, which can help in dark game scenes. For the 1440p model, ASUS lists two HDMI (v2.0) ports and one DisplayPort 1.2. The VG27VH1B description also mentions HDMI and D-Sub. Make sure the port you plan to use on your graphics card matches an input on the model you choose.

Who they suit

They suit gamers who want a high refresh rate and a curved screen on a 27-inch desk setup. The Full HD model suits systems where reaching high frame rates is the priority. The 1440p model suits those who want a sharper image and have a graphics card to match.

What to check before you buy

• Which model: confirm whether you are getting the VG27VH1B or the VG27WQ1B.
• Graphics card: check that it can drive your chosen resolution at the refresh rate you want.
• Cables: use a cable that supports the full refresh rate, and check the input type.
• Desk and stand: check the stand's adjustments and whether you need a mount.
• Curve preference: consider whether a curved screen suits your type of work.
• What's in the box: check the supplied cables in the manual.

The short version

• Two 27-inch 1500R curved gaming monitors: VG27VH1B (1920 x 1080) and VG27WQ1B (2560 x 1440).
• 165Hz refresh rate; the 1440p model also supports 144Hz.
• ELMB with a 1ms (MPRT) response time, FreeSync Premium and Shadow Boost.
• HDMI and DisplayPort connections; confirm the exact inputs for your model.
• Higher resolution means a sharper image but needs a stronger graphics card.

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