MSI MPG 271QRX Review (1440p/360Hz QD-OLED)

Following on from the 4K/240Hz MSI MPG 321URX that we reviewed earlier this year, today we have assessed another screen using Samsung's 3rd Gen QD-OLED panel – this time it has been the turn of the MSI MPG 271QRX, a 1440p monitor offering a 360Hz refresh rate.

By and large, the 271QRX is just as good as we'd expected given the performance of its bigger brother. The QD-OLED panel means it offers a very wide colour gamut, brightness is typical at about 250 nits in SDR and up to 1000 nits (for 1% and 2% APLs) in HDR, while it offers a great sRGB emulation mode.

The overall behaviour of the OLED panel is the same, too, both in terms of its semi-gloss coating, but also as we find the same set of anti-burn in features that MSI calls OLED Care 2.0. Essentially there are a variety of features all aimed at dimming static elements on screen, designed to prevent burn-in, while MSI does offer a three-year warranty which includes burn-in protection.

It may sound obvious, but really the key difference between the 321URX and the 271QRX is the fact that the latter monitor is smaller, offers a lower 2560×1440 resolution, but cranks up the refresh rate to 360Hz. I wasn't sure what visual benefit 360Hz would give versus a 240Hz OLED, and while the difference is relatively small, it is definitely perceptible and offers what I'd say is the best motion clarity of any monitor I have ever tested. It is quite something to behold!

Naturally, driving 1440p resolution up to 360FPS isn't easy for AAA games, so it's probably aimed more at those who primarily play FPS or competitive games where it is much easier to reach lofty frame rates. Even then, I still had a good time playing Jedi: Survivor at around 120FPS so it's not like you can't use it for AAA titles – you just might not get the full benefit of the higher refresh rate.

In terms of criticisms, I echo the point I made in my 321URX review that the included stand does feel a bit plasticky considering the price point, though it's still solid enough.

Speaking of pricing however, actually brings us onto my biggest issue with this display. Once more, UK buyers are getting the short end of the stick as the 271QRX retails for £899 here in the UK, while it's listed for $799 in the USA. That does grate somewhat, and matters are made worse for MSI as a couple of competitor models from the likes of Alienware and Gigabyte, which use the exact same panel, are a good chunk cheaper for UK buyers – the Alienware in particular is currently priced a couple hundred quid below the 271QRX!

There's no doubt the product itself is excellent if you are looking for a high refresh-rate OLED experience, but I do think MSI needs to adjust pricing to keep up with the competition.

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Pros

• Very wide gamut.
• Effectively infinite contrast ratio.
• Very fast response times.
• 360Hz refresh rate offers incredibly good motion clarity.
• HDR hits 1000 nits and is accurate.
• Great sRGB emulation mode.
• 2x HDMI 2.1.

Cons

• Metal stand would have been nice.
• UK buyers are paying a fair bit more than those in the US.
• Alienware's competing model (which uses the same panel) is less than £700 right now.

KitGuru says: The 271QRX is a great screen, especially for those who play competitive titles, but the pricing could be more competitive.

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