TUF VG27WQ monitor review: The Transformonitor

We remember when curved displays came out as the next ‘big thing’ in display tech. Uptake was fairly slow, and many old-school display fans weren’t convinced. Same here. Until we got our hands on this TUF VG27WQ curved, 165Hz, 1ms response time gaming display. This thing’s packed with tech, and makes for a welcome addition to any gaming setup. 

The monitor features a 2560×1440 res curved VA panel with a (relatively tight) 1.5-meter radius (1500R) curvature. You also get 400 nits brightness, a 3000:1 contrast ratio, a 1ms response time, and a maximum refresh rate of 165Hz.

Of course, PC gamers will get more out of a monitor like this. It’s fully adjustable, and the refresh rate alone will convince any semi-professional gamer that this is a good investment. But its compact size, vivid colours and infinite ports makes this a great screen for a variety of users. Hear us out. 

Look mom, a Transformonitor

We’re getting the full Transformer treatment here. Asus has introduced a new, sleeker, more stylish design style with the TUF VG27WQ monitor — as it drops the brighter, RGB-clad look we’ll typically see on ROG-branded products. TUF is definitely going in a more ‘grown up’ design format, and it’s highly appreciated. 

And this thing’s completely adjustable. Probably one of our favourite features is the ability to adjust everything from height, angle, swivel and pivot without much hassle. Taking all of the additional movement and parts into account, the monitor is actually a sturdy piece of equipment. There’s even enough pivot support to use the monitor in portrait orientation. 

Read More: Asus TUF Gaming FX505 – The Krillin of gaming machines

Its transform-ability is increased with the wide variety of ports found around the back of this display. Here you’ll find a DisplayPort 1.2 input (this one’s 165Hz), an HDMI 2.0 port (this one’s 144Hz), and a headphone output.

Want to know the best part? It has on-board sound in the form of two 2W speakers. Of course, the external sound will be better, but for a quick Netflix binge, it’s nice to have the headphone-less option. 

Shine bright like a…

The TUF VG27WQ is great for gaming. That’s… what it was built for real. It’s 165Hz refresh rate and VRR support really work to help reduce screen tearing. Couple that with the disgustingly low input lag and you’ve got a winning combo.

One minor flaw, is that we found some motion blur in certain instances. Asus has included something called a Black Frame Insertion feature that should help reduce the blur, but it’s still there sometimes. We did enjoy the high-contrast colour output, which really pops in colourful titles like Apex Legends.

It must be noted that this screen is not only built for gaming, but also a decent companion in day-to-day work and content consumption (as well as creation, if that’s your thing). The monitor is DisplayHDR 400 certified, so it supports HDR10, and a wider-than-sRGB colour gamut. We found it’s fine for basic design, but you may find RGB-verified displays more geared toward content creation and video editing. The colour reproduction is beautiful, however, so it’ll get the job done as an entry-level one-screen-fits-all. 

TUF VG27WQ Monitor Verdict

For R10,000 the TUF VG27WQ offers a highly enjoyable gaming experience, complete with every ergonomic adjustment you could ever need, ports for days and decent colour reproduction. You don’t really need much more to complete a semi-professional gaming setup. Especially if you’re on a budget and like curved displays. 

Of course, not everyone’s into curvature in a 27in, as it may feel too close for comfort, but it does offer a type of immersion you won’t find on a flat panel. There’s also some tearing if fast-moving images are just too fast. But connect a PS5 (that’s capped at 120Hz) and you’re et with a beautiful experience.