ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM 27″ Fast IPS Monitor Review 280Hz Performance and HDR Quality

Description

Design and Build Quality

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM immediately catches the eye with its sleek, modern aesthetic. This 27-inch monitor, finished in matte black, strikes a balance between a professional and gaming-oriented look. The adjustable stand is sturdy and offers smooth height, tilt, and pivot adjustments, making it versatile for different desk setups. Its thin bezels are a nice touch, especially for multi-monitor setups, and they don’t distract from the screen itself. While the overall construction feels robust, I did notice that the base, although stable, takes up a decent chunk of desk space. Some users might find this an issue if their workspace is limited.

Performance and Display

Testing this monitor was a treat, particularly for gaming. Its 280Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time are not just numbers on paper—they’re a game-changer. I ran some fast-paced games, and the motion clarity was outstanding, with no visible ghosting or screen tearing. The Fast IPS technology ensures vivid colors and sharp visuals, even during intense action scenes. Whether you’re a fan of shooters, racing games, or RPGs, this monitor delivers buttery-smooth gameplay. The DisplayHDR 400 certification adds impressive depth to the colors, especially in darker scenes. However, the HDR performance, while decent, doesn’t quite match higher-end monitors with better HDR capabilities.

Key Benefits

Here are some standout highlights of this monitor:

• Ultra-fast 280Hz refresh rate for competitive gamers.
• 1ms response time, making ghosting nearly non-existent.
• G-SYNC compatibility ensures a tear-free gaming experience.
• DisplayHDR 400 certification adds vibrancy to visuals.

Limitations

Nothing’s perfect, and this monitor isn’t without its flaws.

• The Full HD resolution feels a bit stretched on a 27-inch display, which might not satisfy users looking for sharper visuals.
• HDR performance, although certified, isn’t as impactful compared to higher-tier HDR monitors.
• The stand design, while functional, takes up considerable desk space.

Features and Connectivity

This monitor doesn’t skimp on features. The ASUS ELMB SYNC technology is one of its standout traits, combining motion blur reduction and adaptive sync to eliminate any visual hiccups. I tested this feature in a few games, and it genuinely enhances the experience. Connectivity is another strong point, with DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, allowing for multiple device hookups. The addition of two USB 3.0 ports is a bonus for those who need extra accessory connections.

However, I found myself wishing for a USB-C port, as it’s becoming increasingly common in modern monitors.

Product Rivals

Comparing this monitor to its competitors, like the Acer Nitro XV272U or Dell S2721DGF, reveals some interesting strengths and weaknesses. The Acer Nitro offers a higher resolution (1440p) but caps out at a lower refresh rate of 144Hz. Meanwhile, the Dell S2721DGF boasts excellent color accuracy and HDR performance but comes at a slightly higher price point. What sets the ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM apart is its unmatched refresh rate and ELMB SYNC feature, which are perfect for esports enthusiasts. It’s a more specialized monitor, ideal for competitive gaming, but might not suit users prioritizing resolution or HDR quality.

Price Performance

In terms of bang for the buck, this monitor offers a lot for gamers who value speed and responsiveness. The features like G-SYNC compatibility, 280Hz refresh rate, and ELMB SYNC justify the cost, especially if you’re looking for an edge in competitive gaming. While there are monitors with better resolution or HDR capabilities, they often come at a significantly higher price. For someone prioritizing gaming performance, this monitor is a solid investment.

Overall, the ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM excels in delivering a smooth, tear-free gaming experience. It’s an excellent choice for competitive players, but casual gamers or users seeking higher resolution might want to explore other options. My experience with it has been overwhelmingly positive, despite a few minor shortcomings.

Additional information