ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A Review: 180Hz QHD Gaming Monitor

ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A Review: 180Hz QHD Gaming Monitor

Table of Contents

Introduction

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A is a 27-inch QHD monitor that aims to provide a smooth and immersive gaming experience. With its 180Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and Fast IPS panel, it promises to deliver sharp visuals and rapid responsiveness. But is it all that it’s cracked up to be? Let’s dive into our in-depth review to find out.

Features

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A is packed with features that cater to both gamers and content creators. Here are some of the key highlights:

  • 27-inch QHD (2560×1440) resolution: Provides a sharp and detailed image, with more screen real estate than a 1080p monitor.
  • 180Hz refresh rate: Delivers incredibly smooth visuals, especially in fast-paced games.
  • 1ms response time (GTG): Minimizes motion blur, ensuring crisp and clear visuals in fast-moving scenes.
  • Fast IPS panel: Offers wide viewing angles and excellent color accuracy.
  • Adaptive-Sync (FreeSync Premium and G-SYNC Compatible): Eliminates screen tearing and stuttering for a smoother gaming experience.
  • ELMB Sync: Combines Adaptive-Sync with a backlight strobing technology to further reduce motion blur.
  • GamePlus: Features in-game enhancements such as an on-screen crosshair, timer, and FPS counter.
  • Shadow Boost: Enhances visibility in dark areas of the game.
  • Multiple HDR Modes: Offers HDR support for a more realistic and immersive gaming experience.

Specifications

Model TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A
Display
Panel Size (inch) 27
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Display Viewing Area (H x V) 596.74 x 335.66 mm
Display Surface Non-Glare
Backlight Type LED
Panel Type Fast IPS
Viewing Angle (CR≧10, H/V) 178°/ 178°
Pixel Pitch 0.233mm
Resolution 2560×1440
Color Space (sRGB) 130%
Color Space (DCI-P3) 96%
Brightness (HDR, Peak) 400 cd/㎡
Brightness (Typ.) 350cd/㎡
Contrast Ratio (Typ.) 1000:1
Display Colors 16.7M
Response Time 1ms(GTG)
Refresh Rate (Max) 180Hz
Flicker-free Yes
Video Feature
Trace Free Technology Yes
GameVisual Yes
Color Temp. Selection Yes (4 modes)
GamePlus Yes
HDCP Yes, 2.2
Extreme Low Motion Blur Yes
ELMB Sync Yes
VRR Technology Yes (Adaptive-Sync)
GameFast Input technology Yes
Shadow Boost Yes
DisplayWidget Yes, DisplayWidget Center
Low Blue Light Yes
Multiple HDR Mode Yes
Audio Feature
Speaker Yes (2Wx2)
I/O Ports
DisplayPort 1.4 1 (HBR2)
HDMI(v2.0) 2
USB Hub 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
Earphone Jack Yes
Power Consumption
Power Consumption <23W*
Power Saving Mode <0.5W
Power Off Mode <0.3W
Voltage 100-240V, 50/60Hz
Mechanical Design
Tilt Yes (+20° ~ -5°)
Swivel Yes (+20° ~ -20°)
Pivot Yes (+90° ~ -90°)
Height Adjustment 0~130mm
VESA Wall Mounting 100x100mm
Kensington Lock Yes
1/4″ Tripod Socket Yes
Dimensions (Esti.)
Phys. Dimension (W x H x D) 615 x (404~534) x 215 mm
Phys. Dimension without Stand (W x H x D) 61.50 x 36.70 x 5.10 cm (24.21″ x 14.45″ x 2.01″)
Box Dimension (W x H x D) 81.50 x 47.70 x 17.00 cm (32.09″ x 18.78″ x 6.69″)
Weight (Esti.)
Net Weight 6.9 kg (15.21 lbs)
Net Weight without Stand 4.6 kg (10.14 lbs)
Gross Weight 9.3 kg (20.50 lbs)
Accessories (vary by regions)
Included DisplayPort cable, HDMI cable, L-shaped Screwdriver, Power cord, Quick start guide, USB 3.2 cable, Warranty Card, Certificate (TÜV Flicker-free, TÜV Low Blue Light, VESA AdaptiveSync Display 180Hz, VESA DisplayHDR 400, AMD FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible)

Performance

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A delivered a stellar performance in our tests, offering a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The 180Hz refresh rate truly shines in fast-paced games, providing fluid motion and reducing input lag. The 1ms response time effectively eliminates motion blur, making gameplay feel incredibly responsive and crisp. The Fast IPS panel offers wide viewing angles and vibrant colors, ensuring a visually pleasing experience even when viewing the screen from an off-angle.

Adaptive-Sync technology, supported by both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible, worked flawlessly, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in a significantly smoother gameplay experience. The ELMB Sync feature, when enabled, further reduced motion blur, making the visuals even sharper and more responsive.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A:

Pros

  • Excellent 180Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
  • Fast IPS panel for wide viewing angles and vibrant colors
  • Adaptive-Sync (FreeSync Premium and G-SYNC Compatible) eliminates screen tearing and stuttering
  • ELMB Sync further reduces motion blur for even sharper visuals
  • Comprehensive range of features like GamePlus, Shadow Boost, and Multiple HDR Modes
  • Ergonomic stand with tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment
  • Comes with DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB 3.2 ports

Cons

  • The built-in speakers are relatively weak
  • The price may be a bit high for some budget-conscious gamers

Final Verdict

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A is an exceptional gaming monitor that offers a fantastic blend of performance and features. The 180Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and Adaptive-Sync technology combine to deliver a smooth and immersive gameplay experience. The Fast IPS panel provides stunning visuals with vibrant colors and wide viewing angles.

While the speakers could be better and the price might be a bit steep for some, the overall performance and feature set of the VG27AQL3A make it a highly recommended choice for gamers seeking a high-quality gaming monitor.