Three cutting-edge gaming monitors were unveiled at Computex, each pushing the boundaries of refresh rates. Leading the pack is the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, a 1080p display boasting an unprecedented 610Hz refresh rate. Not to be outdone, both MSI and Acer introduced 1440p monitors with a 500Hz refresh rate, a challenging spec to drive even with top-tier hardware like the RTX 5090 and multi-frame generation technology.
Acer's offering, the Predator X27U F5, not only delivers speed but also features a QD-OLED panel for superior color accuracy. This model is set to launch initially in Europe and China at a starting price of €899. Acer has confirmed plans to bring the monitor to the US market, though pricing details remain under wraps due to ongoing tariff negotiations. As technology costs continue to rise in the US, affordability remains a concern.
MSI's entry, the 27-inch MPG 271QR X50, also utilizes a QD-OLED panel. However, the standout feature here is an innovative AI-driven burn-in protection system. A small sensor at the bottom of the display detects when you step away, triggering the monitor to turn off and initiate burn-in protection. This feature, powered by a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), aims to extend the lifespan of the OLED panel by refreshing the pixels periodically. While the integration of AI might seem futuristic, it's a welcome advancement over traditional OLED protection methods that can interrupt gameplay.
Do Gaming Monitors Need to Be This Fast?
The introduction of monitors with such high refresh rates raises the question: do gaming monitors really need to be this fast? The Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, with its 610Hz refresh rate, sets a new benchmark, even in an era where Nvidia's multi-frame generation technology pushes frame rates to new heights. However, achieving such high frame rates, particularly in demanding games like Marvel Rivals, requires not only a powerful GPU like the RTX 5090 but also a robust CPU to handle the data load.
High frame rates significantly reduce render latency, a critical factor in competitive gaming. Players of games like Counter-Strike 2 often opt for the lowest settings to maximize frame rates and minimize input lag, understanding that even milliseconds can make a difference in competitive play. While these ultra-fast monitors offer a competitive edge, the high cost might be a barrier for many gamers. Whether the benefits of such high refresh rates justify the expense will depend on individual needs and budgets.
