Monitors, like TVs, are available in a wide array of sizes, price points, and designs, typically catering to specific user groups: office users, general users seeking a balance between work and entertainment, and dedicated gamers prioritizing rapid response times and high refresh rates. The AOC 27-inch Q27G2U (also offered in a curved variant, the AOC CQ27G2U) is clearly targeted towards the latter. This monitor offers a combination of good resolution, a high refresh rate, and an attractive price for its size.
When running visually demanding games like Witcher 3 with maximum settings on a capable gaming PC, the strengths of the AOC Q27G2U become apparent. Achieving frame rates exceeding 100 fps in-game with an Nvidia RTX 2070 (utilizing G-Sync, which can be configured for adaptive VESA via Nvidia’s control panel), the monitor’s 144 Hz refresh rate complements the frame rate, resulting in exceptionally smooth gameplay. The tight synchronization between refresh rate and frame rate contributes to this fluidity, maximizing the visible frames per second within the monitor’s capabilities. Details are rendered clearly, colors and lighting are reproduced faithfully, and the low latency (1ms) provides a distinct advantage characteristic of VA panels.
The display’s resolution is 2560×1440 pixels (1440p), offering a higher pixel density than standard Full HD 1080p screens, which are common in this price bracket. 8-bit color support and AMD FreeSync compatibility complete this compelling gaming package, available at an attractive price point.
Design and Accessories
The monitor features a classic and stylish design, characterized by slim bezels and a color scheme that evokes a “gaming” aesthetic without being overly ostentatious. Red accents on the back and stand add visual interest to the predominantly black chassis. The stand is easily assembled and provides stable support, allowing for convenient adjustments. A comprehensive set of accessories and cables is included.
Image Quality AOC Q27G2U
A key strength of the AOC Q27G2U is its 1ms response time and 144 Hz refresh rate. This will appeal to gamers seeking higher frame rates and smoother visuals in their gaming experiences.
Regarding color accuracy, the monitor covers 90% of the Adobe RGB color space and 121% of the sRGB color space. The latter is particularly relevant for general users who are not involved in design or printing, as it represents the standard color gamut. The brightness is rated at 250 cd/m2 (approximately 200 nits), which is adequate but may appear somewhat subdued in brightly lit environments (high-end OLED displays can reach 1000 nits). Therefore, the monitor performs optimally in ambient or dimly lit gaming setups.
VA panels offer the benefits of speed and affordability. However, they can sometimes be limited in color and contrast reproduction. The AOC Q27G2U’s color performance isn’t exceptional; colors may not appear as natural, rich, or vibrant as on displays like the BenQ EW277HDR (which, conversely, is not ideal for gaming). A slight “milky” haze was also observed, particularly noticeable when using DisplayPort, but mitigated by switching to HDMI (review DisplayPort vs HDMI for gamers).
For users considering this monitor for console gaming, it performs admirably. We tested it with the editorial team’s PS4 Pro, playing Nier: Automata, which generally maintains a stable 60 fps. Current-generation consoles do not fully utilize the monitor’s capabilities, but it will be interesting to assess its performance with the upcoming Xbox Series X/S and Playstation 5 consoles. These consoles can output up to 120 fps in 4K and support VRR (variable refresh rate). However, this requires HDMI 2.1, which this monitor lacks, as well as 4K resolution. Therefore, the Xbox Series S, with its 1440p output at 60/120 fps, appears to be the best match for this monitor, which supports HDMI 1.4– 2.0 (confirmed by AOC to be HDMI 2.0 despite some inaccurate information). We will provide further updates upon testing.
Summary AOC Q27G2U
The AOC Q27G2U delivers substantial value for its price. With a price tag around 3 000 SEK, it is a popular and well-regarded gaming monitor. It is responsive, easy to configure, and offers a range of customizable features for optimizing the picture quality. However, compromises are inherent at this price point. The resolution falls between Full HD and 4K, the brightness is moderate, and the color and contrast may not be ideal for users primarily seeking an office monitor for occasional gaming. Alternative options may be more suitable for such users, and we will explore these in future reviews.
However, for users primarily engaged in gaming and seeking a 27-inch monitor with versatile connectivity, a 144 Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync, and a near-imperceptible response time (approximately 1 millisecond), the AOC Q27G2U represents a compelling choice for the price.
