ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL1A Gaming Monitor –27 Inch WQHD (2560x1440), IPS,170Hz (above 144Hz), ELMB SYNC, Adaptive-sync, G-Sync compatible ready, 1ms (MPRT), 130 % sRGB, HDR

Product Information

Keeping up the good work, Asus includes an integrated pair of stereo speakers for basic audio duties, and connectivity is sensible with a single DisplayPort 1. Yeah, me too, but don't be discouraged as Asus does have more palatable offerings under its TUF Gaming umbrella. Peak brightness takes a hit, it works optimally at higher refresh rates, and you lose fine-grained control over certain features such as overdrive. It’s not always effective and appreciable, but you know these brands and how marketing plays a significant role in their spec sheets.

Likeable credentials for the target audience, and we appreciate the fact that Asus has taken the time to update and streamline the monitor's external appearance.The monitor has a matte black chassis that is easy to maintain with a look that is still strictly Asus. The ASUS-exclusive, integrated GamePlus hotkey offers in-game enhancements that help you get more out of your game. It tweaks colour saturation for greens and blues, making it ideal for viewing photos and videos that depict scenery.

But even if that’s the case, we’re happy to see any instance of engineers pushing performance into the realm of unnecessary. However, take note that this feature doesn’t work well with framerates that fall below 120 FPS, so make sure to optimize your graphics settings first for heavier or newer titles. The Asus VG27AQL1A’s backlight only slightly exceeded its rating at 405 cd/m2, while its contrast at 50% brightness only reached 1070:1.The Asus VG27AQL1A’s ELMB, on the other hand, is an exclusive backlight strobing feature on the brand’s latest monitors.

This capability makes a monitor valuable since you don’t have to ditch it right away if you decide to switch between the GPU brands during an upgrade cycle. The Asus VG27AQL1A is an improved successor for the superb VG27AQ that comes with better fine-tuning and a revamped design makes the upgrade more worthwhile. This ultrafast refresh rate lets you play at the highest visual settings and react instantly to what's onscreen.

Versatility is still decent with up to 130mm of height adjustment, +20°/-5° of tilt, and the ability to swivel 20° in either direction. QHD is more taxing on your GPU, but you can reduce post-processing effects like Anti-Aliasing without sacrificing the graphics versus a 1080p screen. We understand your disappointment, but to be clear, monitors like the Asus VG27AQL1A isn’t truly HDR-capable. An impressive 170Hz* refresh rate eliminates lag and motion blur to give you the upper hand in first-person shooter, racing, real-time strategy, and sports titles.