ASUS ROG Strix 27” 4K HDR400 USB-C Gaming Monitor(XG27UCS)–UHD (3840 x 2160), 160Hz, 1ms, Fast IPS,130% sRGB,Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync, G-Sync Compatible, DisplayWidget, Tripod socket, 3yr warranty
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AI Verdict
This 27-inch 4K UHD 160Hz 1ms Fast IPS monitor with USB-C is for gamers demanding high resolution and speed without top-tier HDR.
This monitor is a strong contender for gamers prioritizing a 4K 160Hz IPS panel with fast response times and comprehensive ergonomic adjustments. However, its HDR400 performance and lack of a robust USB hub mean it's not a universal recommendation for all users, especially those expecting a true HDR experience or extensive connectivity.
If HDR is a priority, look for monitors with DisplayHDR 600 or higher certification; for more USB connectivity, seek models with multiple USB-A downstream ports.
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Pros
- The 3840 x 2160 4K resolution paired with a 160Hz refresh rate delivers sharp, fluid visuals for gaming.
- ASUS Fast IPS technology enables a 1ms response time (GTG) for clear motion in fast-paced games.
- It covers 95% DCI-P3 and 130% sRGB color gamuts, ensuring rich and accurate colors.
- ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync (ELMB SYNC) technology works with variable refresh rates to eliminate ghosting and tearing.
- The USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and delivers 15W of power, simplifying connectivity for compatible devices.
- The ergonomic stand offers tilt, swivel, pivot, and 120mm height adjustment, plus VESA 100x100mm compatibility.
Cons
- HDR400 certification means a limited HDR experience, with users reporting washed-out or overly dark scenes.
- The monitor lacks built-in speakers, requiring external audio solutions.
- There are no additional USB-A ports, preventing its use as a peripheral hub.
- Some users have reported a grainy matte coating that can be distracting.
- Specific user complaints mention bottom corner washout, appearing grey instead of black.
Dimension Scores
The 4K UHD resolution on a 27-inch Fast IPS panel with 95% DCI-P3 color gamut provides sharp images and accurate colors, though HDR400 limits its dynamic range.
With a 160Hz refresh rate and 1ms GTG response time, combined with ELMB Sync, it offers exceptionally smooth and blur-free gaming visuals.
It includes essential HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C with DP Alt Mode, but the 15W power delivery and absence of additional USB-A ports limit its hub functionality.
The stand provides full tilt, swivel, pivot, and 120mm height adjustments, plus VESA 100x100mm compatibility, offering extensive positioning flexibility.
Best For
- PC gamers with powerful GPUs targeting 4K resolution at 160 frames per second.
- Console gamers (PS5, Xbox Series X) seeking 4K 120Hz gameplay with HDMI 2.1 support.
- Users who need a single USB-C cable for video output and charging a laptop with 15W power delivery.
- Competitive gamers who prioritize low motion blur and fast response times with ELMB Sync.
Not Recommended For
- Users expecting a premium, impactful HDR experience beyond basic HDR400 capabilities.
- Anyone needing a monitor with integrated speakers for basic audio.
- Users who rely on their monitor to act as a multi-port USB hub for peripherals.
Watch Out For
- The HDR400 implementation is often described as underwhelming, with reports of HDR content appearing washed out or too dark on Windows and consoles.
- A noticeable grainy matte coating has been a dealbreaker for some users, making the display feel less clear.
- The monitor lacks any USB-A ports, meaning you can't connect a mouse, keyboard, or other peripherals directly to it.
- Some units exhibit backlight issues, specifically washed-out or grey areas in the bottom corners.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0CV236YSW |
| Brand | ASUS |
| Color | BLACK |
| Series | XG27UCS |
| Resolution | 4K UHD 2160p |
| Item Weight | 14.5 pounds |
| Screen Size | 27 Inches |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Manufacturer | ASUS |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Item model number | XG27UCS |
| Screen Resolution | 3840x2160 |
| Product Dimensions | 8.6 x 24.2 x 20.19 inches |
| Graphics Coprocessor | AMD Radeon R5 |
| Max Screen Resolution | 3840 x 2160 Pixels |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 8.6 x 24.2 x 20.19 inches |
| Number of USB 2.0 Ports | 1 |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 1 |
| Screen Surface Description | Matte |
| Standing screen display size | 27 Inches |
What Buyers Say
Users are consistently impressed by the monitor's sharp 4K visuals and the smooth, responsive gameplay at 160Hz. Many highlight the vibrant colors and the effectiveness of ELMB Sync in reducing motion blur. However, the HDR400 implementation is a recurring point of disappointment, often described as making content look worse than SDR. Some buyers also noted a grainy matte screen coating and a lack of additional USB ports.
“Look, the 4K 160Hz is sick for gaming, seriously, but don't even bother with the HDR, it just makes everything look weird and washed out. I just leave it off.”
Common Praise
- The 4K resolution delivers incredibly clear and sharp images.
- Gameplay is exceptionally smooth at 160Hz, even on consoles at 120Hz.
- Colors are vibrant and accurate, with 95% DCI-P3 coverage.
- ELMB Sync effectively eliminates ghosting and tearing for sharp visuals.
- The stand is sturdy and offers extensive ergonomic adjustments.
Common Complaints
- HDR quality is poor, making content look washed out or too dark, leading users to disable it.
- The matte screen coating can appear grainy, which some found distracting.
- There are no extra USB-A ports for connecting peripherals directly to the monitor.
- Some units show noticeable backlight bleed or greyish washout in the bottom corners.
- The 15W power delivery via USB-C is insufficient for many power-hungry laptops.
Ownership Tips
- The DisplayWidget Center software makes adjusting settings much easier than using the physical OSD joystick.
- The phone holder on the stand is a small but convenient addition for keeping your device nearby.
- While the USB-C port handles video and some charging, you'll still need a separate USB hub for most peripherals.
- The monitor's compact footprint helps save desk space.
- The OSD menu is well-laid out and easy to navigate with the joystick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this monitor have built-in speakers?
No, the ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCS does not include built-in speakers. You will need external speakers or headphones for audio.
Is this monitor compatible with G-Sync and FreeSync?
Yes, the monitor is G-Sync Compatible and supports AMD FreeSync Premium, which helps eliminate screen tearing and stuttering with compatible graphics cards.
Can I mount this monitor on a VESA arm?
Yes, the ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCS is VESA compatible with a 100x100mm mounting pattern, allowing you to use a monitor arm or wall mount.
What kind of USB-C functionality does it have?
The USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode for video signal and can deliver up to 15W of power to charge connected devices like laptops.
How is the HDR performance?
The monitor features HDR400, which is a basic level of HDR. User feedback indicates that the HDR experience can be underwhelming, sometimes appearing washed out or too dark, leading some to prefer using it with HDR turned off.
Buying Guide
When looking at a monitor like this, you're balancing pixel density with refresh rate. 4K on 27 inches means incredibly sharp images, but you need a powerful graphics card to hit 160Hz in games at that resolution. HDR400 is a basic entry point for High Dynamic Range; don't expect the deep blacks and bright highlights of more premium HDR displays. Pay attention to the port selection, especially if you plan to connect multiple devices or need a monitor to act as a USB hub.
4K UHD (3840 x 2160) Resolution
This means four times the pixels of a 1080p display, resulting in incredibly sharp text and detailed game worlds, making everything look crisp like a high-resolution photo.
160Hz Refresh Rate
This is how many times the screen updates per second. A 160Hz rate means smoother motion than standard 60Hz monitors, making fast-paced games feel more fluid and responsive, like watching a high-frame-rate movie.
1ms (GTG) Response Time
This measures how quickly pixels can change color. A 1ms response time minimizes motion blur and ghosting, ensuring that fast-moving objects in games appear clear and distinct, like a perfectly focused camera shot.
HDR400
This is a certification for High Dynamic Range. It means the monitor can display a wider range of brightness and colors than standard displays, but it's the entry-level tier, so don't expect the dramatic contrast and vibrant highlights of higher-tier HDR monitors.
Alternatives
If you need a more impactful HDR experience, search for monitors with DisplayHDR 600 or DisplayHDR 1000 certifications. For extensive peripheral connectivity, look for models that include a dedicated USB hub with multiple USB-A downstream ports.
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