Acer Predator XB241H 180Hz G-Sync Gaming Monitor Review

Rating: 7.0.

While every serious PC gamer might long for a 32in gaming monitor like the AOC AGON AG322QCX or HDR-capable Samsung C32HG70, the sad reality is that not everyone has the kind of cash (or desk space) required to get one of these beasts. But is this a reason to put up with an inferior gaming experience? At least on paper, the 24in Acer Predator XB241H gives you all the highlights of a ‘true’ gaming display, while eschewing the arguably frivolous extras such as RGB lighting, a USB hub or an external controller.

It offers a speedy 180Hz overclocked refresh rate paired with a zippy 1ms response time and modest 1920 x 1080 resolution, which should make for a very smooth experience no matter how intense the action gets. Especially when it’s combined with Nvidia’s proprietary, variable refresh rate G-Sync technology, though you will only get the benefits hereof if your gaming machine is sporting a graphics card from the green team.

And arguably, having it all in a compact 24in package makes the action easier to focus on – though we solidly subscribe to the “bigger is better” philosophy when it comes to displays for any kind of work or entertainment (within reason, naturally; sticking a 55in UHD telly on your desk may stretch your eyeballs further than they’re happy with).

Nor does the XB241H skimp on looks and ergonomics, coming with similar design highlights and adjustability as its more high-end Predator stalemates, such as the Z35. There is even good news for fans of 3D, as this is one of the few monitors available today that still supports Nvidia’s 3D Vision. Alas glasses were not included so unfortunately, we cannot give you our thoughts on this part of the experience.

Aside from its relatively low resolution, the only potential fly in the ointment is that image quality may suffer due to Acer’s use of a TN panel here, which usually means limited viewing angles, contrast and colour fidelity. So let’s find out if the Predator XB241H is an apex predator or merely a scavenger under another name.

Acer Predator XB241H Specs

• Screen size: 24 inch/61 cm
• Native resolution: 1920 x 1080 (91.8 PPI)
• Refresh rate (Hz): 144 (native), up to 180 (overclocked)
• Panel type: TN
• Contrast ratio (typical): N/A
• Brightness (cd/m²): 350
• Response time (ms): 1 (Grey-to-Grey)
• Bezel (colour, finish): Black, matte
• Display inputs: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2 (G-Sync)
• Audio inputs: Headphone jack
• USB hub: No
• Speakers: Yes
• Tilt: Yes
• Height: Yes
• Swivel: Yes
• Pivot: Yes
• VESA mount: Yes
• Power (plug type, internal/external): Kettle, internal
• Depth on desk: ~31cm
• Weight: 6.30kg
• Other: Nvidia G-Sync & 3D Vision

Price (retail): £364.98 inc. VAT at time of review

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