ASUS TUF Gaming VG32AQA1A 31.5-inch 170Hz WQHD monitor: specs and who it suits

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG32AQA1A is a 31.5-inch gaming monitor with a WQHD (2560 x 1440) panel and a refresh rate that can be overclocked to 170Hz. It is aimed at PC players who want a large screen with smooth motion and sharper detail than a 1080p display of the same size.

What WQHD means at 31.5 inches

WQHD, also called 1440p, packs 2560 x 1440 pixels, about 78% more than Full HD. On a 31.5-inch screen, that keeps text and game detail noticeably crisper than 1080p would at the same size. It is also easier for a graphics card to drive than 4K, which is one reason it is common among PC gamers.

170Hz and the 1ms figure

Refresh rate is how many times per second the picture updates. ASUS says this monitor can be overclocked to 170Hz, beyond the common 144Hz. In general, higher refresh rates make motion look smoother and reduce the delay between your input and what you see, but you only benefit when your graphics card produces enough frames per second to match.

The 1ms figure is given as MPRT (moving picture response time), which is a measure of motion clarity rather than pixel switching speed. ASUS pairs it with ELMB (Extreme Low Motion Blur), a technology intended to cut ghosting and blur in fast scenes. Brand figures like these are measured under specific conditions, and not every feature can be used at the same time. The manual explains which combinations are available.

Variable refresh rate with FreeSync Premium

When a game's frame rate doesn't match the monitor's refresh rate, you can see tearing or stutter. Variable refresh rate (VRR) lets the screen follow the graphics card's output instead. This monitor lists FreeSync Premium, and ASUS says it works through Adaptive Sync with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 10, GTX 16, RTX 20 series and newer cards, as well as with AMD graphics. Check your own card's generation and the connection you plan to use.

HDR10 and Shadow Boost

The monitor accepts the HDR10 format, which is intended to show brighter highlights and deeper shadows than standard content. How convincing HDR looks depends on the panel's peak brightness and contrast, so treat it as a compatibility feature and read the full specs if HDR matters to you. ASUS also lists Shadow Boost, which brightens dark areas of the picture so details in shadows are easier to make out.

Size and desk space

At 31.5 inches the screen is wide, and the monitor weighs about 14.8 lb (6.7 kg). The dimensions on the listing are placeholders, so measure your desk against the manufacturer's full specification, including the stand's depth and the viewing distance you'll sit at. A screen this size is generally more comfortable with some distance between you and the display.

Who it suits

It suits PC gamers who play fast-moving genres and have a graphics card capable of high frame rates at 1440p. It also suits people who want a large, sharp screen for everyday work alongside gaming.

What to check before you buy

• Graphics card: confirm it can output 1440p at high refresh rates and supports the variable refresh rate mode you want.
• Ports and cables: check which cable (DisplayPort or HDMI) is needed to reach 170Hz, and that one is included.
• Desk fit: measure the width, depth and height, and check mounting options if you prefer an arm.
• Consoles: if you plan to use one, check which resolution and refresh rate it supports.
• Overclocking: the 170Hz setting is an option you turn on in the on-screen menu, so check the manual for steps.
• Viewing angle: read the panel type and viewing-angle details in the full specification.

The short version

• 31.5-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) gaming monitor.
• 170Hz overclocked refresh rate, 1ms MPRT and ELMB for motion clarity.
• FreeSync Premium, with Adaptive Sync support on listed NVIDIA GeForce cards.
• HDR10 support and Shadow Boost for dark scenes.
• Large panel: check desk space and graphics card before choosing.

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