MSI Optix MAG271CR Gaming Monitor review

Rating: 7.0.

MSI is a relative newcomer to the gaming monitor market, having announced its first model almost exactly two years ago. Its stable of offerings has since swelled to a total of 15 models, with the MAG271CR sitting somewhere in the middle of the pack.

The Optix MAG271CR delivers a 27-inch VA-type LCD panel, a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, a 3000:1 contrast ratio, Freesync and an impressive sounding 1ms response time.

However, that latter figure refers to one of this display’s key tricks which is that it includes backlight-strobing motion blur reduction. That’s where the backlight flashes off momentarily and tricks the eye into seeing a sharper image. As such that 1ms response time figure refers to its MPRT (motion picture response time), not the panel’s native response time.

Elsewhere the display also includes an adjustable stand, some RGB lighting and a gentle curve, all for an asking price that’s comfortably below £400.

Specifications:

• Screen size: 27-inch, 16:9 aspect
• Native resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Panel type: VA
• Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 native
• Brightness: 300cd/m2
• Response time: 1ms grey-to-grey
• Adaptive sync: Freesync
• Display inputs: DisplayPort, HDMI
• USB hub: USB 2.0, two ports
• Audio: 2 x 2W speakers, headphone port
• Tilt: Yes
• Raise: Yes
• Swivel: No
• Pivot: No
• VESA: Yes
• Warranty: 3 years

Retail Price: £383 (inc. VAT)

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