MSI MAG 401QR Gaming Monitor Review: 40″ UWQHD, 155Hz, Adaptive Sync – Is it Worth It?
MSI MAG 401QR Gaming Monitor Review: A Deep Dive
The MSI MAG 401QR promises a truly immersive gaming experience with its expansive 40-inch ultrawide display, lightning-fast 155Hz refresh rate, and adaptive sync technology. But does this monitor live up to the hype, or are there hidden drawbacks? I’ve spent countless hours putting it through its paces, and here’s my honest and detailed review.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The MSI MAG 401QR is a powerful gaming monitor aimed at serious gamers seeking a truly immersive and responsive experience. Its 40-inch UWQHD (3440×1440) resolution delivers breathtaking detail, while the 155Hz refresh rate ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay.
Key Features
Here’s a closer look at the standout features of the MSI MAG 401QR:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panel Size | 40″ (101.6 cm) |
| Active Display Area | 926.22(H) x 387.72(V) mm |
| Curvature | Flat |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Panel Resolution | 3440×1440 (UWQHD) |
| Pixel Pitch | 0.2697(H) x 0.2697(V) |
| Aspect Ratio | 21:9 |
| Brightness | 400 (Typ.), 400 (HDR peak) nits |
| Contrast Ratio | 1000:1 |
| DCR | 100000000:1 |
| Signal Frequency | 30~160 KHz(H) / 60~144 Hz(V) |
| Activated Range | 48~155Hz |
| Refresh Rate | 155Hz |
| Response Time | 1ms (MPRT) |
| Dynamic Refresh Rate Technology | Adaptive Sync |
| HDR Support | VESA DisplayHDR 400 |
| Video Ports | 2 x HDMI™ (Supports 3440×1440@100Hz as specified in HDMI™ 2.0b) 1 x DisplayPort (Supports 3440×1440@155Hz as specified in DisplayPort 1.4a) |
| USB Ports | 1 x Type-C (DP alt. with PD 65W) 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A 1 x USB 2.0 Type-B Upstream 1 x USB 2.0 Type-C (PD 65W) |
| Audio Ports | 1 x Headphone out |
| Viewing Angle | 178° (H) / 178° (V) |
| Adobe RGB / DCI-P3 / SRGB | 90% / 94% / 118% |
| Surface Treatment | Anti-glare |
| Display Colors | 1.07B (8 bits + FRC) |
| Power Type | Power Cable |
| Power Input | 100~240V, 50/60Hz |
| Adjustment (Tilt) | -5° ~ 20° |
| Kensington Lock | Yes |
| Control | 5-Way Navigator Joystick |
| Dimension | 945.22 x 289.63 x 530.29 mm / 945.22 x 83.32 x 416.12 mm (without stand) |
| Console Mode | 2K Resolution PS5™ Optimization |
| Frameless Design | Yes |
| PIP / PBP Function | Yes |
| VESA Mounting | 100x100mm |
| Weight (NW / GW) | 10.3 kg / 12.4 kg |
| Weight Without Stand | 8 kg |
Performance and Usage
The MSI MAG 401QR excels in performance. The 155Hz refresh rate truly shines in fast-paced games, delivering incredibly smooth and responsive gameplay. I barely noticed any tearing or stuttering, even in demanding titles. The Adaptive Sync technology ensures a seamless experience by syncing the refresh rate of the monitor with the output of the graphics card.
The 40-inch UWQHD resolution is a revelation. It provides a truly immersive gaming experience, especially in open-world games and racing simulations. The extra screen real estate gives you a wider field of view, allowing you to see more of the game world and react faster.
The colors are vibrant and accurate, thanks to the IPS panel. The monitor also boasts a wide viewing angle, which is great for sharing your gaming experience with others.
While the 1ms MPRT response time helps with reducing motion blur, I found that enabling this feature did introduce a slight bit of ghosting in fast-paced scenes. However, this effect was very minimal and didn’t significantly detract from the overall experience.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the key advantages and disadvantages of the MSI MAG 401QR:
Pros:
- Expansive 40-inch UWQHD display for immersive gaming
- Smooth and responsive 155Hz refresh rate
- Adaptive Sync technology eliminates tearing and stuttering
- Vibrant and accurate colors with wide viewing angles
- Comprehensive connectivity options, including USB-C with Power Delivery
- Excellent build quality and ergonomic stand
Cons:
- The 1ms MPRT setting can introduce minimal ghosting
- Can be quite heavy for some setups
- The price point may be higher compared to some other 40-inch monitors
Final Verdict
The MSI MAG 401QR is a fantastic gaming monitor that delivers on its promises. It offers a truly immersive and responsive gaming experience, thanks to its expansive display, fast refresh rate, and adaptive sync technology. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as potential for minimal ghosting and a relatively high price, the overall performance and features make it a strong contender for serious gamers. If you’re seeking a top-of-the-line gaming monitor that can handle even the most demanding titles, I highly recommend the MSI MAG 401QR.
