Gaming Monitors Outpace Expectations at Computex 2025

Three gaming monitors unveiled at Computex are pushing the boundaries of refresh rates, with the fastest being the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG. This 1080p display boasts an astonishing 610Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, both MSI and Acer have introduced 1440p monitors with 500Hz refresh rates, specs that challenge even the capabilities of an RTX 5090 paired with multi-frame generation technology.

Acer's model, the Predator X27U F5, not only offers high speed but also features a QD-OLED display, ensuring exceptional color accuracy. This monitor is initially launching in Europe and China, starting at €899. Acer has confirmed plans to bring it to the US, though pricing remains undisclosed due to ongoing tariff negotiations. They plan to announce the US price closer to the launch, but given the rising costs of tech products, affordability may be a concern.

MSI's entry, the 27-inch MPG 271QR X50, also utilizes a QD-OLED panel. While pricing details were not disclosed, the monitor introduces an innovative AI feature. It includes a sensor at the bottom of the display that detects when you move away, triggering the display to turn off and initiate burn-in protection. This AI-driven approach to burn-in prevention, though slightly unnerving, is a step up from traditional methods that might interrupt usage.

Do Gaming Monitors Need to Be This Fast?

It's remarkable to see monitors with such high refresh rates, with the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG leading the pack. A 610Hz refresh rate at 1080p is exceptionally fast, especially in an era where Nvidia's multi-frame generation technology is pushing frame rates to new heights. Achieving this frame rate in games like Marvel Rivals would necessitate an RTX 5090 and multi-frame generation, which can introduce latency and is generally not recommended for competitive play.

To truly leverage these high refresh rates, a powerful CPU is essential. At such high frame rates, the CPU must efficiently supply data to the graphics card. While technologies like Nvidia Reflex and frame generation help, a robust CPU is crucial to maintain performance around 600 fps.

The advantage of such high frame rates is significantly reduced render latency, which is critical in competitive gaming. Players of games like Counter-Strike 2 opt for the lowest settings to maximize frame rates and minimize input lag, highlighting the importance of low latency in competitive environments. Whether the potential benefits justify the likely high cost of these monitors remains to be seen.