Three cutting-edge gaming monitors were unveiled at Computex, each pushing the boundaries of refresh rates. The standout is the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, a 1080p display boasting an astonishing 610Hz refresh rate. In contrast, both MSI and Acer introduced 1440p monitors with 500Hz refresh rates, a specification that's challenging to achieve even with top-tier hardware like the RTX 5090 and multi-frame generation technology.
Acer's offering, the Predator X27U F5, not only features a high refresh rate but also incorporates a QD-OLED panel, ensuring exceptional color accuracy. Initially, the Predator X27U F5 will launch in Europe and China, starting at €899. While Acer confirmed plans to bring the monitor to the US, pricing remains undecided due to ongoing negotiations with retailers over tariffs. As technology prices in the US continue to rise, affordability may be a concern for potential buyers.
Meanwhile, MSI's 27-inch MPG 271QR X50 also boasts a QD-OLED display, but the highlight here is its innovative AI feature. As reported by PC Gamer, the monitor includes a sensor at the bottom that detects when the user moves away. This data is then relayed to an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), triggering the monitor to turn off and initiate burn-in protection—a critical feature for OLED displays, especially in gaming contexts where static images are common. While the AI aspect may seem a bit unnerving, it's a step up from traditional OLED protection methods that might interrupt gameplay.
Do Gaming Monitors Need to Be This Fast?
The introduction of monitors with such high refresh rates raises questions about necessity. The Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, with its 610Hz refresh rate at 1080p, sets a new benchmark for speed, even in an era where Nvidia's multi-frame generation technology pushes frame rates to unprecedented levels. Achieving such frame rates in demanding games like Marvel Rivals would require not only an RTX 5090 but also the use of multi-frame generation, which can introduce latency—a significant drawback in competitive gaming.
To fully leverage these high refresh rates, a robust CPU is essential, as it must supply the GPU with data at a pace that matches the display's capabilities. While technologies like Nvidia Reflex and frame generation can help, a powerful CPU becomes crucial when aiming for frame rates around 600 fps.
The primary advantage of such high frame rates is the potential for extremely low render latency, which is crucial in competitive gaming scenarios. For instance, in games like Counter-Strike 2, players prioritize high frame rates over graphics quality to minimize input lag, which can be decisive in competitive play. However, the high cost associated with these monitors may make them a luxury that only a few can justify.
