ASUS ROG Strix XG259QN 25″ 380Hz Gaming Monitor Review

The ASUS ROG Strix XG259QN is a 25-inch Full HD (1920×1080) gaming monitor boasting an impressive 380Hz refresh rate and a 0.3ms response time. It’s designed to deliver a buttery-smooth and incredibly responsive gaming experience, making it an enticing choice for competitive gamers and esports enthusiasts.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance and Gaming Experience
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

In the world of competitive gaming, milliseconds matter. The ROG Strix XG259QN aims to give you every edge with its lightning-fast refresh rate and response time. But does it deliver on its promise? I put it through its paces to see if it truly lives up to the hype.

Key Features

The ASUS ROG Strix XG259QN packs a punch with its impressive features:

• 380Hz Refresh Rate (OC): The XG259QN boasts a 380Hz refresh rate, enabling exceptionally smooth gameplay and eliminating motion blur. I was able to experience this with various fast-paced games, like FPS and racing titles, making even the most demanding scenarios feel fluid and responsive.
• 0.3ms Response Time: With a response time as low as 0.3ms, the XG259QN delivers a crisp and clear visual experience, minimizing ghosting and smearing. The result was a sharper and more precise visual experience, especially in high-action games where quick reactions are critical.
• Fast IPS Panel: The monitor utilizes a Fast IPS panel that offers wide viewing angles and vibrant color reproduction. The colors were vibrant and lifelike, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Whether it was the lush environments in open-world games or the gritty realism of a battlefield, the XG259QN brought them to life.
• HDR: The XG259QN features HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology, enhancing the visual detail and dynamic range of content, showcasing brighter whites, deeper blacks, and more vivid colors. This technology made a noticeable difference in games with HDR support, providing a more immersive and visually impressive experience.
• AMD FreeSync Premium: The monitor is compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium, which helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience. I was able to experience a seamless and smooth gameplay experience, even in demanding games with fast-paced action.

Performance and Gaming Experience

The XG259QN truly excels in gaming. The high refresh rate and fast response time make a noticeable difference. Games feel smoother and more responsive, and my ability to track targets and react quickly was greatly improved. I tested it with various titles, including “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare,” “Apex Legends,” and “Forza Horizon 5.” The results were consistently impressive, with gameplay that was fluid, responsive, and free of any noticeable lag or stuttering.

However, it’s worth noting that the XG259QN’s resolution is Full HD. This means that while it excels in smooth and responsive gameplay, it lacks the sharpness and detail of a higher resolution monitor, such as 1440p or 4K. The benefit of the high refresh rate and response time is clear, but for those who prioritize ultra-sharp visuals, a higher resolution monitor might be a better fit.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages and disadvantages of the ASUS ROG Strix XG259QN:

Pros:

• Exceptional refresh rate (380Hz) for incredibly smooth and responsive gameplay
• Ultra-fast 0.3ms response time to minimize ghosting and smearing
• Vibrant colors and wide viewing angles thanks to the Fast IPS panel
• HDR technology enhances visual detail and dynamic range
• AMD FreeSync Premium eliminates screen tearing and stuttering for smoother gameplay
• Comprehensive connectivity options with DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and USB 3.2 ports
• Ergo stand with tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment for optimal viewing comfort

Cons:

• Full HD resolution might not be ideal for all gamers who prioritize high visual fidelity
• Can be a bit pricey compared to some other gaming monitors with lower refresh rates

Final Verdict

The ASUS ROG Strix XG259QN is a fantastic gaming monitor that excels in delivering smooth, responsive gameplay. The high refresh rate and fast response time make it an excellent choice for competitive gamers and esports enthusiasts. The vibrant colors and HDR technology enhance the visual experience, making it a joy to use for various types of games. While the Full HD resolution might limit its appeal for some, the XG259QN is a strong contender for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness over ultra-high resolution. If you’re serious about gaming, the XG259QN is a worthy investment that will enhance your gaming experience.

Specifications