MSI
MSI Optix MAG272CQR Gaming Monitor
Best curved monitor for competitive gamers seeking smooth, immersive visuals.
Immerse yourself in the MSI OPTIX MAG272CQR, a 27-inch curved gaming monitor designed for an exceptional visual experience. Its WQHD resolution delivers sharp, detailed images, while the rapid 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time ensure fluid, tear-free gameplay. The VA panel provides excellent contrast and HDR support for vibrant colors and deep blacks. With versatile connectivity including USB Type-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort, this monitor is a powerful addition to any gaming setup, offering features like Night Vision and AMD FreeSync for a competitive edge.
$542.88
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
755
/ 3744
#755 in Computer Monitors
Price vs Category Average
-11%
Below average
Panel Size
27
/ inches
Who it's for
- Competitive gamers needing fluid motion and crisp visual clarity
- Cinematic gamers who prioritize deep, immersive contrast levels
- Laptop users wanting a streamlined, single-cable workstation setup
Who should skip it
- Fast-paced FPS players sensitive to motion blur and smearing
- Users who frequently view their screen from off-center angles
- HDR enthusiasts expecting true, high-impact dynamic range performance
Performance breakdown
Motion Clarity
165Hz refresh rate keeps fast-paced shooters fluid and responsive.
Visual Immersion
The 1500R curve wraps your field of view for deeper engagement.
Contrast Performance
VA panel technology delivers deep blacks that IPS panels often miss.
Connectivity Versatility
USB-C integration simplifies cable management for modern gaming setups.
Color Vibrancy
HDR support adds necessary pop to shadows and highlights in games.
Ergonomic Adjustability
Limited to tilt adjustment, lacking height or swivel flexibility.
Key Specs
Panel Size
27 inches
Panel Resolution
2560 x 1440 (WQHD)
Refresh Rate
165Hz
Response Time
1ms (MPRT)
Panel Type
VA
Brightness
300 nits
Contrast Ratio
3000:1
VESA Mounting
100 x 100 mm
Know before you buy
The monitor supports up to 165Hz via DisplayPort, but console performance varies. While it is compatible with PS5 and Xbox, consoles typically cap output at 120Hz, so you will get a smooth 120Hz experience rather than the full 165Hz.
The 1500R curvature is designed to match the natural field of view of the human eye. On a 27-inch display, this helps reduce eye strain and distortion at the edges, making your peripheral vision feel more immersed in the game.
Yes, this monitor is HDR Ready. While it provides a wider color gamut and better contrast than standard non-HDR monitors, it is an entry-level HDR experience. It will look vibrant and punchy, but it does not offer the extreme peak brightness found in high-end professional HDR displays.
Yes, the USB Type-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate mode. This allows you to connect a compatible laptop or mobile device to the monitor for video output and data transfer using a single cable.
The VA panel is excellent for gaming because it offers deep blacks and high contrast ratios, which make images pop. With a 1ms response time and 165Hz refresh rate, it handles fast-paced motion very well, though some users sensitive to ghosting might notice slight trailing in extremely dark, high-speed scenes compared to TN or IPS panels.
The monitor features a 5-way OSD navigation joystick located on the back. It is much more intuitive and faster to use than traditional button-based menus, allowing you to quickly toggle through display modes and settings.
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