TentorTech

The ASUS ROG Strix XG27ACS is a budget-friendly 27-inch gaming monitor with a 1440p resolution and a 180Hz refresh rate. It’s a solid choice for casual gamers, offering support for common VRR formats to reduce screen tearing. However, competitive gamers might find the refresh rate a bit limiting. The monitor has a fast response time and low input lag, but it suffers from some inverse ghosting at lower refresh rates. Its contrast is low, and without local dimming, HDR highlights don’t stand out as much as they should. For console gaming, the XG27ACS performs decently but lacks HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, meaning it can’t fully utilize the capabilities of the PS5 or Xbox Series X|S. Motion handling is sharp, and input lag remains low, but the HDR experience is underwhelming due to poor contrast and no local dimming. On the plus side, it works well with both consoles without major issues, making it a functional, if not ideal, choice for console players. Office users will appreciate the monitor’s good text clarity and brightness, which helps combat glare in well-lit rooms. The matte coating improves reflection handling, and the ergonomics are excellent, allowing for easy adjustments. However, the USB-C port has limited power delivery, and there are no additional USB ports, which might be a drawback for some users. Content creators will benefit from the monitor’s accurate sRGB mode, which requires no calibration for editing. The wide viewing angles ensure consistent image quality from different positions. While it performs well in bright environments, the low contrast and lack of local dimming make it less suitable for dark rooms. HDR editing is also disappointing, as highlights don’t pop as they should. Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix XG27ACS is a solid budget option for gaming and general use, with strengths in motion handling and ergonomics. However, its HDR performance and contrast leave something to be desired. If you prioritize HDR or deeper blacks, other monitors in the same price range might be a better fit. Buy on Amazon