ASUS TUF Gaming VG27WQ1B 27-inch Curved Monitor: specs and who it suits

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27WQ1B is a 27-inch curved monitor with a 2560 x 1440 (WQHD) panel and a 165Hz refresh rate. It is aimed at gamers who want a sharper image than 1080p and smoother motion than a standard 60Hz screen. This particular listing is for a pre-owned, refurbished unit that the seller describes as inspected and tested.

Resolution and curve

WQHD, often called 1440p, has about 78% more pixels than Full HD, which makes text and game detail look sharper on a 27-inch screen. The 1500R curve means the screen follows a circle with a 1500 mm radius. ASUS says this gives an immersive view, and it typically suits a desk viewing distance of around a metre or so.

Refresh rate and response time

The refresh rate is 165Hz, with 144Hz supported. This means the screen can redraw the image up to 165 times a second, which looks smoother in fast games if your graphics card can produce those frame rates.

ASUS rates the response time at 1ms MPRT (moving picture response time) using its Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology together with Adaptive-sync. MPRT figures are measured differently from grey-to-grey response times, so they are not directly comparable. The brand says the combination reduces ghosting and tearing.

FreeSync Premium

FreeSync Premium is AMD's variable refresh rate standard. The monitor changes its refresh rate to match the frames the graphics card sends, which removes tearing and stutter. ASUS says it works through both the DisplayPort and HDMI ports. Many NVIDIA cards can also use Adaptive-sync displays, but check your card's documentation.

Picture features

Shadow Boost brightens dark areas of a scene without overexposing the bright parts, which can reveal detail in dim game environments. The monitor also supports HDR10, a signal format for higher dynamic range content. HDR10 support does not by itself mean the panel reaches the brightness of dedicated HDR displays, so treat it as compatibility with the format.

ASUS lists Eye Care technology with TUV Rheinland certification for flicker-free and low blue light operation.

Connections and size

Ports are two HDMI v2.0 and one DisplayPort 1.2. The monitor measures about 24.0 x 18.7 x 8.4 inches (about 61 x 47.5 x 21 cm) boxed and weighs 12.1 lb (about 5.5 kg).

Who it suits

It suits PC gamers with a graphics card able to drive 1440p at high frame rates, and people who want a larger, sharper workspace for everyday tasks as well as games.

What to check before you buy

• Your graphics card: check it can output 1440p at 165Hz through DisplayPort, and which HDMI version it has.
• Desk space: a curved 27-inch screen with a stand needs a reasonably deep desk.
• Mounting: check the VESA pattern in the manual if you plan to use an arm.
• Condition: this is a refurbished unit, so look at what the seller says about condition, accessories and the return terms.
• Cables: confirm the cable you need is included, and use DisplayPort for the highest refresh rate.

The short version

• A 27-inch 1500R curved monitor at 2560 x 1440.
• 165Hz refresh rate (144Hz supported) and 1ms MPRT with ELMB.
• FreeSync Premium over DisplayPort and HDMI; HDR10 support.
• Two HDMI 2.0 ports and one DisplayPort 1.2.
• Listed as a refurbished unit.

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