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The layout of the onscreen interface is easy to follow, being split up into seven main sections, then the relevant subgroups on the right. The main ‘splendid' panel offers various modes to suit a variety of media. The settings optimise video performance and image fidelity by enhancing color, brightness, contrast, and sharpness. 6 preset video modes (Scenery, Theater, Game, Night View, sRGB and Standard) can be selected via a hotkey.
The Color panel allows the user to adjust the colour temperature of the screen, as well as brightness and contrast settings.
The image settings panel can be used to configure the aspect ratio, and sharpness settings, depending on the user mode.
The VE278Q has two onboard speakers rated at 3W each. The sound is fine for light use, but there is a complete lack of bass response meaning the sound is thin and rather gutless. That said, we wouldn't expect anyone to use the onboard sound of an LCD panel for serious gaming or media demands. Asus allow adjustments to bass, treble and balance, but they don't dramatically enhance the overall quality.
The VE278Q has a picture in picture (PIP) option, to allow the user to monitor a secondary source while using the primary. This is ideal if you have more than one computer attached and are running a time intensive task in the background. It can be used to monitor the other system, while you work in the foreground. The source, position and size can be changed to suit. This isn't a ‘must have' feature, but it is a worthwhile extra to include.
The input selection panel is self explanatory, allowing the user to switch between connected devices.
The System setup panel has options to control a DEMO mode, ideal for a retail store environment. The AI light can be enabled here to allow the screen to adjust the brightness of the screen automatically to suit the environmental conditions. The VE278Q can be reset to factory defaults here and the default language can be changed.
Only 1080p for this display? I found that disappointing. I like high resolutions, but don’t need the extra size. At 27″ I’d expect 2560×1440. Obviously that’d cost more, but if I went to 27″ I’d expect that. Let’s hope the trend of ultra high resolution panels coming soon to tablets will extend to desktops in the future. Otherwise it would look rather silly to have 2048×1536 or whatever at 10″ and 1920×1080 at 27″.
The Sony Z series has a 1920×1080 option on the 13 inch screen, thats pretty impressive, although it actually might to ‘too high’ for ease of reading unless you have eagle eye vision.
Looks ok, I prefer a 23-24 inch at this resolution as I think the screen is too big for the resolution and you can actually see the scanlines sometimes.