MSI Optix G242C 23.6” FHD Curved Gaming Monitor Review (9S6-3BB31H-009)
Table of Contents
Introduction
The MSI Optix G242C is a 23.6-inch curved gaming monitor designed to deliver a truly immersive gaming experience. It boasts a 170Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync technology, promising smooth and responsive gameplay. This review will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of this monitor, offering a comprehensive evaluation of its capabilities.
Features
The MSI Optix G242C is packed with features designed to enhance your gaming experience. Key features include:
- Curved Display: The 1500R curvature creates a more immersive viewing experience, wrapping around your field of vision and drawing you into the action.
- 170Hz Refresh Rate: With a rapid 170Hz refresh rate, the G242C delivers incredibly smooth visuals, reducing screen tearing and stuttering for a more seamless gaming experience.
- 1ms Response Time: The 1ms response time (MPRT) ensures crisp visuals with minimal ghosting, making fast-paced action games feel more responsive.
- AMD FreeSync: AMD FreeSync technology synchronizes the refresh rate of the monitor with the frame rate of your graphics card, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering for a smooth and fluid gameplay experience.
- Wide Viewing Angles: With 178° viewing angles, the monitor provides consistent color and image quality even when viewed from the sides.
- Anti-glare Surface: The anti-glare coating helps reduce reflections and glare, enhancing visual clarity and minimizing eye fatigue during long gaming sessions.
Performance
The MSI Optix G242C delivers on its promise of smooth, responsive gameplay. The 170Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time are truly noticeable, making fast-paced action games feel incredibly fluid. In games like “Valorant” and “CS:GO,” the difference in responsiveness is stark, allowing for quicker reactions and more precise aiming. The curved display also adds to the immersion, enhancing the sense of depth and making the gameplay feel more engaging.
While the color accuracy of the monitor is decent, it doesn’t quite reach the level of professional-grade displays. However, for most casual gamers and users, the color reproduction is more than adequate for daily use and gaming.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast refresh rate (170Hz) for smooth gameplay
- Low response time (1ms) for sharp, ghosting-free visuals
- Immersive curved display
- AMD FreeSync for tear-free gaming
- Wide viewing angles for consistent color and image quality
- Anti-glare coating for reduced reflections
Cons:
- Color accuracy could be better for professional use
- Limited adjustability compared to higher-end models
Final Verdict
The MSI Optix G242C is a fantastic gaming monitor for gamers looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers excellent performance. With its high refresh rate, quick response time, and AMD FreeSync technology, the G242C ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay. The curved display adds to the immersion, making the gaming experience even more enjoyable. While the color accuracy might not be perfect for professionals, it’s still more than adequate for most casual gamers and general use. Overall, the MSI Optix G242C is a solid choice for those seeking an upgrade to their gaming setup without breaking the bank.
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| PANEL SIZE | 23.6″ |
| ACTIVE DISPLAY AREA (MM) | 521.395(H)x293.284(V) |
| CURVATURE | 1500R |
| PANEL TYPE | VA |
| PANEL RESOLUTION | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) |
| PIXEL PITCH (H X V) | 0.27156(H)x0.27156(V) |
| ASPECT RATIO | 16:9 |
| BRIGHTNESS (NITS) | 250 |
| CONTRAST RATIO | 3000:1 |
| DCR | 100000000:1 |
| SIGNAL FREQUENCY | 104~186.8 KHz(H) / 48~170 Hz(V) |
| ACTIVATED RANGE | 48Hz-170Hz |
| REFRESH RATE | 170Hz |
| RESPONSE TIME | 1ms (MPRT) |
| DYNAMIC REFRESH RATE TECHNOLOGY | Adaptive sync |
| VIDEO PORTS | 2x HDMI™ (Supports 1920x1080P@165Hz as specified in HDMI™ 2.0b), 1x DP (Supports 1920x1080P@170Hz as specified in DisplayPort 1.2a by DP Overclocking) |
| AUDIO PORTS | 1x Earphone out |
| VIEWING ANGLE | 178° (H) / 178° (V) |
| ADOBE RGB / DCI-P3 / SRGB | 91% / 89% / 113% |
| SURFACE TREATMENT | Anti-glare |
| DISPLAY COLORS | 16.7M |
| POWER TYPE | External Adaptor |
| POWER INPUT | 20V 2.25A |
| ADJUSTMENT (TILT) | -5° ~ 20° |
| KENSINGTON LOCK | Yes |
| DIMENSION (W X D X H) | 537.4 x 215.6 x 414.7 mm |
| CARTON DIMENSION (W X D X H) | WW carton: 614 x 182 x 416 mm, Outer: 629 x 196 x 440 mm |
| FRAMELESS DESIGN | Yes |
| VESA MOUNTING | 75x75mm |
| WEIGHT (NW / GW) | 3.3kg / 5.15kg |
| NOTE | Display Port: 1920×1080 (Up to 170Hz by DP overclocking), HDMI™: 1920×1080 (Up to 165Hz), *sRGB and DCI-P3 follow CIE1976 standard |