ASUS VG278QR 27-inch 165Hz Full HD Gaming Monitor: specs and who it suits

The ASUS VG278QR is a 27-inch Full HD gaming monitor with a 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time. It supports adaptive refresh through FreeSync and G-SYNC Compatible modes and includes an adjustable stand and built-in speakers. Here is what the main specs mean.

Refresh rate and response time

A 165Hz refresh rate means the screen can update 165 times per second, versus 60 on a typical office monitor. Faster updates generally make fast-moving games feel smoother, but the computer needs to produce enough frames to use it. ASUS lists a 0.5ms grey-to-grey response time, a measure of how quickly a pixel changes colour. Lower figures typically mean less blur trailing behind moving objects.

ASUS also includes Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB), which it says reduces ghosting and motion blur for a more fluid picture.

Adaptive sync

Without adaptive sync, a screen refreshes at a fixed rate, which can cause tearing when the graphics card's frame rate differs. The VG278QR supports FreeSync/Adaptive Sync, and ASUS lists G-SYNC Compatible support through both DisplayPort and HDMI. That means the monitor can match its refresh rate to the frames coming from a supported graphics card, aiming for lower latency and fewer stutters or torn frames.

Full HD on 27 inches

The resolution is 1920 x 1080. On a 27-inch screen, that is a lower pixel density than QHD or 4K, so text and fine detail look less sharp at close range. The advantage is that Full HD is easier for a graphics card to drive at high frame rates, which suits competitive shooters, racing and sports titles, genres ASUS names.

Ergonomics and sound

The stand adjusts for height, tilt, swivel and pivot, so the screen can be rotated into portrait mode. ASUS also mentions Eye Care technology for long sessions. The monitor has stereo 2W speakers, which cover basic sound if you do not have separate speakers or a headset.

Connections

• DisplayPort 1.2
• HDMI 1.4
• Dual-link DVI-D

Note the HDMI 1.4 version, which sets limits on the highest refresh rate on that port. DisplayPort is generally the better choice for the full 165Hz.

Who it suits

The VG278QR fits players who care more about speed than resolution, and who have a graphics card that can hold high frame rates at 1080p. It also suits anyone who wants a large screen for general desk work, with a stand that adjusts in every direction.

What to check before you buy

• Which video output on your graphics card you will use; DisplayPort is typically needed for the top refresh rate.
• Whether Full HD is sharp enough for you at 27 inches at your sitting distance.
• Desk depth and height; the listing gives about 24.4 in wide and 12.3 lb with the stand.
• Whether you want a wall or arm mount, and whether you need to remove the stand.
• Cables supplied in the box.

The short version

• 27-inch 1920 x 1080 gaming monitor, 165Hz, with a 0.5ms GTG response time per ASUS.
• FreeSync/Adaptive Sync and G-SYNC Compatible over DisplayPort and HDMI, plus ELMB.
• Height, tilt, swivel and pivot adjustment, with 2W stereo speakers.
• DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4 and dual-link DVI-D inputs.

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