2
Predator X27
ACER $1,700
Until recently, gamers
had to choose between
high resolution and high
refresh rates. That’s until the Acer
Predator X27 and Asus PG27UQ
launched. Both monitors are
fantastic, with 4K resolution,
HDR, G-Sync, and a high refresh
rate. They’re also pricey at around
$1,700 apiece.
Marrying an IPS panel to a
refresh rate of up to 144Hz when
overclocked, the X27 is a sight for
sore (or sensitive) eyes. Its
integration of VisionCare
technology, Acer says, will help
prevent eye strain and tiredness
during long sessions. G-Sync
allows the monitor to refresh at a
variable rate instead of being
locked to its max (in this case,
144Hz). It syncs the monitor’s
refresh rate to your framerate
in-game, eliminating microstutter
or screen tearing when your
framerate doesn’t match up
perfectly to that 144Hz demand.
Despite the high asking price,
both the X27 and the PG27UQ are
worth considering, but I’m giving
the nod here to the Acer X27. The
two monitors are nearly identical,
but I like the stand on the X27
more. That said, if either monitor
is on sale, go for the one with the
lower price tag.
Capable of crisp 4K HDR graphics
Overclockable high refresh rate
Ludicrously expensive
Not the fastest response time
VERDICT
SPECS SCREEN SIZE: 27-INCH / PANEL TYPE: IPS / ASPECT RATIO: 16:9 / RESOLUTION: 3840X2160 /
RESPONSE TIME: 4MS / REFRESH RATE: 120HZ (OVERCLOCKS TO 144HZ) / WEIGHT: 12.3KG
1
XR382CQK
ACER $880
If your mantra for
displays is to go big or
go home, Acer hears
you. Its XR382CQK is a massive
38-inch curved screen that looks
stunning. It features a QHD
ultrawide (UW) panel with a
3840x1600 resolution, and an
aspect ratio of 24:10 that’s slightly
wider than the ‘standard’ 21:9 AR
seen on other UW displays.
Not content to end there, the
display also features FreeSync
with up to 75Hz variable refresh
rates. If you’re looking for
something to turn heads, this is
the best ultrawide gaming display.
For games that properly
support ultrawide resolutions, the
surround effect of the XR382CQK
is incredibly immersive—sitting at
your desk, the 38-inch panel
completely fills your field of view.
The cost for the best ultrawide
display is steep, but at least you
won’t need to upgrade again for
many years. $880 for the
XR382CQK may be a bitter pill to
swallow, but the beauty of this
screen will wash away the nasty
taste in your mouth the instant
you boot up your favorite games
in 24:10 glory. And barring total
hardware failure, this display
should keep you gaming happily
for years to come.
Immersive extra-wide curved screen
75Hz FreeSync enabled
3840x1600 display needs beefy GPU
Expensive
VERDICT
SPECS SCREEN SIZE: 37.5-INCH / PANEL TYPE: IPS / ASPECT RATIO: 24:10 / RESOLUTION: 3840X1600 /
RESPONSE TIME: 5MS / REFRESH RATE: 75HZ / WEIGHT: 10.7KG
2
HARDWARE
Group Test