Asus rog strix monitor. Asus rog strix monitor

Asus gaming monitors now include an insane 540 Hz display

During CES 2023 Asus revealed a number of new gaming monitors including the Swift Pro PG248QP which it claims is the world’s fastest esports gaming monitor.

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During CES 2023 Asus revealed a number of new gaming monitors including one that it claims is the world’s fastest esports gaming monitor.

The line-up for 2023 includes a number of different monitors to suit all tastes, whether you’re after a massive 49-inch super ultrawide display or a tiny but punchy pro-grade monitor, Asus seemingly has it all.

Asus ROG Swift Pro PG248QP. 540 hz refresh rate insanity

The 24.1-inch Asus ROG Swift Pro PG248QP is a 1080p monitor that’s designed for pro gamers.

Overclocked this monitor promises an insane, record-breaking 540 Hz refresh rate that should give you the edge over the competition. Ideal if you enjoy competitive shooters like CS:Go, Valorant or Rainbow Six Siege where low latency and a fast refresh rate can make all the difference.

This screen features a built-in Nvidia G-Sync processor but also an Nvidia Reflex Analyser so you can check system latency and optimise your setup for the best performance. It also has a retractable “claw” base that leaves plenty of room on your desk for your keyboard and mouse.

Asus ROG Strix XG49WCR. glorious super ultrawide

For those that think bigger is better, the ROG Strix XG49WCR is 49-inch super ultrawide that boasts a 5120 x 1440 resolution, 32:9 aspect ratio and 165Hz refresh rate. Now Asus has a valid alternative to the Samsung Odyssey G9 it seems.

Though this monitor also features other highlights that include a 125% sRGB professional colour gamut, DisplayHDR 400, tear-free gaming with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and built-in FreeSync Premium tech too. Connectivity includes DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, USB-C with 65-watt power delivery as well as an RJ45 port so you can dock laptops to the monitor with ease.

Asus ROG Swift PG32UQXR. the first with Display Port 2.1

This monitor seems to have a healthy mix of all the things that will delight. It’s a 32-inch 4K mini LED gaming monitor that boasts a 160 Hz refresh rate, but more importantly, has DisplayPort 2.1 connectivity. That connection should make you can make the most of the 4K visuals without worrying about compression.

Meanwhile, the Swift PG32UQXR also has Full Array Local Dimming (FALD) backlighting with 576 separate LED zones and 1,000 nits peak brightness. This means you can make the most of DisplayHDR 1000 for superb gaming visuals along with a 95% DCI-P3 colour gamut.

Asus ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM. 1440p OLED greatness

The Swift PG27AQDM is a 27-inch OLED gaming monitor that boasts some serious specs for superfast gaming. Those include a 1440p resolution with a 240 Hz refresh rate and 0.03 ms response time. It’s also built with a custom heatsink to ensure it runs well with good airflow and excellent heat dissipation to help with the longevity of the OLED screen.

Asus says this setup ensures “astonishing” HDR performance with a peak 1000 nits brightness, along with the darkest blacks and brightest whites. This monitor also offers 99% DCI-P3 gamut and Delta E 2 colour accuracy resulting in lifelike colours and an immersive gaming experience.

See more of what was announced by Asus at CES by watching the full stream here:

Adrian has been a tech enthusiast since the 90s with a particular passion for gaming that developed thanks to his first gaming outings on Pong, Zork and Space Invaders.

In the years that followed he dabbled in various games consoles and personal computers starting with the humble Commodore 64 before moving to Sega Mega Drive, Dreamcast, Nintendo 64, Playstation 2 and then into the world of PC gaming. His gaming outings online in the days of dial-up modems included Command and Conquer and Battlefield 2 before he found the joys of gaming communities and started Enemy Boat Spotted over 10 years ago.

Over the years, Adrian’s passion for technology has grown. He has built multiple gaming PCs by hand, and equipped his home with a variety of Smart devices. He has been writing about tech and gadgets for the last few years and enjoys sharing that passion with anyone that will listen.

Adrian is currently obsessed with Virtual Reality and is excited to see the future that holds for all of us.

Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ Review – 4K 160Hz Gaming Monitor with HDMI 2.1 – Highly Recomended 6 min read

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ offers a 160Hz-capable 4K gaming monitor package for both PCs and the latest console gamers. Frankly, there aren’t enough 32-inch 4K variants in the market, so we know many have their eyes set on a monitor like this. Let’s find out if it’s a must-buy or if you should go with strong competitors like the BenQ EX3210U or the value-oriented Gigabyte M32U.

Design and Features

What initially separates the Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ from its TUF Gaming counterparts is its unique, gamer-centric aesthetic. The monitor has a matte black finish but has the distinctive ROG eye LED at the back and the helix design stand. It has a bezel-free design, but you will still see thin panel borders on those edges if you look close enough.

32-inch monitors aren’t giants, but this particular variant is dimensionally bigger than its closest competitors. That’s because of its stand, which makes it need almost a food of depth from your desk. It’s not too heavy at 19.62 pounds, so it’s still easy to move around for most people.

You can expect excellent build quality from any Asus monitor, whether from their budget line or the top-end models. The plastics used in this offering are thick and sturdy, with no signs of weaknesses or cosmetic defects. The stand is incredibly stable and firm, so the large screen won’t shake or sag while in use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ has an OSD joystick that’s accompanied by a few hotkeys for your convenience. It’s at the back, so you can’t see them, but they are near the right side edge when facing the monitor, so you can easily reach them.

The included stand offers tilt, swivel, and height adjustments for comfort and convenience. Pivoting wasn’t included since this model was not designed to be used as a secondary portrait display. You can use VESA mounts if you need more flexibility, but that’s not always necessary.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ has a DisplayPort 1.4 DSC slot for its 4K 160Hz mode, but it also has two HDMI 2.1 ports for 4K 120Hz operation with the latest consoles. You also get two USB 3.2 ports and a 3.5mm jack for accessories. We’d like to see a capable USB-C port with monitors at this price range since adding it will make the product more flexible.

There are no speakers with this monitor, but that’s okay since Asus isn’t well-known when it comes to installing excellent audio equipment on their monitors. This model will be better served by gaming headsets anyway since they are better for immersion and FOCUS.

Display and Performance

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ boasts a 32-inch IPS panel with a 3840 x 2160 resolution, a 160Hz overclocked refresh rate, and a 1ms boosted response time. The backlight has a 450 cd/m2 output and a 600 cd/m2 peak. This model is HDR 600-certified, but it only has edge-lit local dimming, unlike the PG32UQX.

4K at 32 inches looks easier on the eyes since visibility and legibility don’t go down with the higher pixel count. It’s not too sharp like the smaller variants, but images are still detailed and crisp compared to 1440p and 1080p screens. The only downside with it is the high GPU requirements, especially if you want to reach that 160Hz limit consistently.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ covers more than 100% sRGB and 94% DCI-P3 for stunning colors in games and movies. It was factory-calibrated, so the out-of-the-box deltaE average is only at 1.39. That’s excellent for a gaming monitor, so most users won’t need to tweak it before use.

Calibrating the display reduced that dE average to 0.89 for excellent performance in color-critical work. The downside is that you will need a colorimeter to achieve this kind of result. No amount of ICC profile swaps or copying settings can guarantee it, although we can only recommend the extra purchase if you need absolute accuracy to make money.

Its backlight reached 519 cd/m2 in SDR and peaked at 605 cd/m2 when it’s HDR mode was active. However, its contrast was limited to 1103:1 at 50% brightness and didn’t expand considerably in HDR. The screen gets very bright, but its limited backlight cannot produce the desired HDR effects.

Panel uniformity for the test sample had some minor backlight leaks at the top edge of the panel. There’s also some variance in the backlight’s spread, but it is not as noticeable as the bleeding. It’s mostly visible in dark scenes, but getting a better monitor is possible if you are lucky.

One of the best things about the Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ is its excellent pixel response time. You don’t need to maximize the overdrive since setting it beyond level 3 will induce overshoot. The monitor also has ELMB for better blur reduction, but the best thing about it is it doesn’t lock some of the monitor’s important settings out.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ is compatible with FreeSync and G-Sync, protecting you from tearing and stuttering. Dual compatibility is necessary since the GPU market can get crazy with skyrocketing and low supply. Input lag sits at 4ms at 160Hz, so the monitor is highly suitable even for competitive play.

Thoughts on the Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ is an excellent 4K monitor for both immersive and fast-paced gaming. Its gorgeous IPS panel produces excellent color quality and responsiveness. It’s designed quite well, and we like how the ROG design has matured compared to the old flashy aesthetic with orange or red accents.

The only weaknesses we see on this monitor are its limited HDR capability and lack of a USB-C port despite the price. However, that’s still understandable since true HDR still costs over a thousand dollars now. We think it’s an excellent buy, especially if you consider how reliable ROG monitors are in the long run.

  • Excellent Color Performance
  • Fast and Responsive
  • Attractive and Robust Design
  • Great for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X

About the Author: Paolo has been a gaming veteran since the golden days of Doom and Warcraft and has been building gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues since junior high. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations; he believes that every citizen’s right to enjoy one. He has gone through several pieces of hardware in pursuit of every bit of performance gain, much to the dismay of his wallet. He now works with Monitornerds to scrutinize the latest gear to create reviews that accentuate the seldom explained aspects of a PC monitor.

You may also like:

The Best Adobe RGB Monitors for Editing – Buying Guide 2022 Adobe RGB monitors are a staple for designers and studios who want a wide gamut-screen that is beneficial for creating…

Asus VG248QE Review – Cheap 144Hz Monitor (EDITORS’ CHOICE) 2019 Check Latest Price The Asus VG248QE paved the way for gaming monitors as a staple in the display market with…

The Best and Cheapest G-Sync Monitors – Buying Guide Cheapest G-Sync monitors is a term that somewhat contradicting or fictitious because these brilliant products are more expensive than their counterparts.…

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Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ Review – 4K 160Hz Gaming Monitor with HDMI 2.1 – Highly Recomended 6 min read

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ offers a 160Hz-capable 4K gaming monitor package for both PCs and the latest console gamers. Frankly, there aren’t enough 32-inch 4K variants in the market, so we know many have their eyes set on a monitor like this. Let’s find out if it’s a must-buy or if you should go with strong competitors like the BenQ EX3210U or the value-oriented Gigabyte M32U.

Design and Features

What initially separates the Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ from its TUF Gaming counterparts is its unique, gamer-centric aesthetic. The monitor has a matte black finish but has the distinctive ROG eye LED at the back and the helix design stand. It has a bezel-free design, but you will still see thin panel borders on those edges if you look close enough.

32-inch monitors aren’t giants, but this particular variant is dimensionally bigger than its closest competitors. That’s because of its stand, which makes it need almost a food of depth from your desk. It’s not too heavy at 19.62 pounds, so it’s still easy to move around for most people.

You can expect excellent build quality from any Asus monitor, whether from their budget line or the top-end models. The plastics used in this offering are thick and sturdy, with no signs of weaknesses or cosmetic defects. The stand is incredibly stable and firm, so the large screen won’t shake or sag while in use.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ has an OSD joystick that’s accompanied by a few hotkeys for your convenience. It’s at the back, so you can’t see them, but they are near the right side edge when facing the monitor, so you can easily reach them.

The included stand offers tilt, swivel, and height adjustments for comfort and convenience. Pivoting wasn’t included since this model was not designed to be used as a secondary portrait display. You can use VESA mounts if you need more flexibility, but that’s not always necessary.

asus, strix, monitor

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ has a DisplayPort 1.4 DSC slot for its 4K 160Hz mode, but it also has two HDMI 2.1 ports for 4K 120Hz operation with the latest consoles. You also get two USB 3.2 ports and a 3.5mm jack for accessories. We’d like to see a capable USB-C port with monitors at this price range since adding it will make the product more flexible.

There are no speakers with this monitor, but that’s okay since Asus isn’t well-known when it comes to installing excellent audio equipment on their monitors. This model will be better served by gaming headsets anyway since they are better for immersion and FOCUS.

Display and Performance

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ boasts a 32-inch IPS panel with a 3840 x 2160 resolution, a 160Hz overclocked refresh rate, and a 1ms boosted response time. The backlight has a 450 cd/m2 output and a 600 cd/m2 peak. This model is HDR 600-certified, but it only has edge-lit local dimming, unlike the PG32UQX.

asus, strix, monitor

4K at 32 inches looks easier on the eyes since visibility and legibility don’t go down with the higher pixel count. It’s not too sharp like the smaller variants, but images are still detailed and crisp compared to 1440p and 1080p screens. The only downside with it is the high GPU requirements, especially if you want to reach that 160Hz limit consistently.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ covers more than 100% sRGB and 94% DCI-P3 for stunning colors in games and movies. It was factory-calibrated, so the out-of-the-box deltaE average is only at 1.39. That’s excellent for a gaming monitor, so most users won’t need to tweak it before use.

Calibrating the display reduced that dE average to 0.89 for excellent performance in color-critical work. The downside is that you will need a colorimeter to achieve this kind of result. No amount of ICC profile swaps or copying settings can guarantee it, although we can only recommend the extra purchase if you need absolute accuracy to make money.

Its backlight reached 519 cd/m2 in SDR and peaked at 605 cd/m2 when it’s HDR mode was active. However, its contrast was limited to 1103:1 at 50% brightness and didn’t expand considerably in HDR. The screen gets very bright, but its limited backlight cannot produce the desired HDR effects.

Panel uniformity for the test sample had some minor backlight leaks at the top edge of the panel. There’s also some variance in the backlight’s spread, but it is not as noticeable as the bleeding. It’s mostly visible in dark scenes, but getting a better monitor is possible if you are lucky.

One of the best things about the Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ is its excellent pixel response time. You don’t need to maximize the overdrive since setting it beyond level 3 will induce overshoot. The monitor also has ELMB for better blur reduction, but the best thing about it is it doesn’t lock some of the monitor’s important settings out.

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ is compatible with FreeSync and G-Sync, protecting you from tearing and stuttering. Dual compatibility is necessary since the GPU market can get crazy with skyrocketing and low supply. Input lag sits at 4ms at 160Hz, so the monitor is highly suitable even for competitive play.

Thoughts on the Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ

The Asus ROG Strix XG32UQ is an excellent 4K monitor for both immersive and fast-paced gaming. Its gorgeous IPS panel produces excellent color quality and responsiveness. It’s designed quite well, and we like how the ROG design has matured compared to the old flashy aesthetic with orange or red accents.

The only weaknesses we see on this monitor are its limited HDR capability and lack of a USB-C port despite the price. However, that’s still understandable since true HDR still costs over a thousand dollars now. We think it’s an excellent buy, especially if you consider how reliable ROG monitors are in the long run.

  • Excellent Color Performance
  • Fast and Responsive
  • Attractive and Robust Design
  • Great for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X

About the Author: Paolo has been a gaming veteran since the golden days of Doom and Warcraft and has been building gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues since junior high. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations; he believes that every citizen’s right to enjoy one. He has gone through several pieces of hardware in pursuit of every bit of performance gain, much to the dismay of his wallet. He now works with Monitornerds to scrutinize the latest gear to create reviews that accentuate the seldom explained aspects of a PC monitor.

You may also like:

The Best Adobe RGB Monitors for Editing – Buying Guide 2022 Adobe RGB monitors are a staple for designers and studios who want a wide gamut-screen that is beneficial for creating…

Asus VG248QE Review – Cheap 144Hz Monitor (EDITORS’ CHOICE) 2019 Check Latest Price The Asus VG248QE paved the way for gaming monitors as a staple in the display market with…

The Best and Cheapest G-Sync Monitors – Buying Guide Cheapest G-Sync monitors is a term that somewhat contradicting or fictitious because these brilliant products are more expensive than their counterparts.…

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Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor Review

At some point, gamers would want to upgrade their computer to a better one, including their gaming monitor. If you’re one of them, our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review will discuss this product’s essentials.

The brand and company have always been a huge player in the gaming market. Plus, they always appear on the top of our gaming monitor list.

Today, Asus is offering its ROG Strix XG32VQR gaming monitor. It’s an arched HDR monitor that gives you the excellent balance of immersive and seamless gameplay with extremely detailed contrast.

The ROG Strix XG32VQR gaming monitor is technically the upgraded version of the already notable XG32VQ. However, this new model introduces two notable features. This is the support for the FreeSync2 HDR technology and the VESA Display-HDR 400 rating.

You can expect to get smoother gaming syncing technology coming from AMD, as well as support for your HDR gaming.

Sounds like something that you’d want to have for your gaming rig? If that’s the case, continue reading our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review to know more about it.

Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor Packaging

Our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review will start off with its packaging and contents.

The XG32VQR came in a nicely-designed package where an image of the monitor is displayed in front. Instead of exhibiting the monitor’s front, the image displays the monitor’s rear. The reason for this is to show off the bling lighting at the back that also projects from the base.

ROG’s logo is found on the upper-left corner of the package. The name of the monitor is written on the left of the image.

The package they utilised for the monitor is tough, so you don’t need to worry about damages while in transit. This is something we greatly appreciate when it comes to the packaging of ROG products.

Inside, you will find the ROG Strix XG32VQR neatly and carefully packed. The package contents vary depending on the region where you purchase the monitor.

For the cables, these may include a power adaptor, power cord, HDMI cable, DisplayPort cable, and USB 3.0 cable. Other items are a support CD and acrylic LED light covers.

For the documentation, these are a quick start guide and a warranty card.

Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor Review – Design and Functionality

The ROG Strix XG32VQR is an upgrade from the XG32VQ which still continues to be a popular model until today. When looking at the style of the ROG Strix XG32VQR, it maintains the Strix screen’s DNA featuring asymmetric motifs. It’s a design that’s quite noticeable when using the stand.

Its arch is 1800-R, which is quite standard for monitors that have screens of this size. The entire aesthetics of this ROG gaming monitor is sleek and cool. Mostly, the design revolves around black shades with vibrant hints of red on its stand. Also, it makes use of the company’s Aura Sync ambient lighting for added bling.

1800-R Curvature

The 1800-R curvature of the Strix XG32VQR is a notable addition to the monitor. Not only that, but it’s growing to become a must-have feature for 32”-screen monitors. It’s because the arch adds to your viewing immersion, and it’s something that you can get used to easily.

Boosting the peripheral details and edge is essential when gaming, and adding adequate visual details lets you experience the change.

Generally, going for a curved-display for gaming may all depend on your personal taste. Yet compared to curved screens for TV, using this type of monitor for gaming is more convenient. This is because it allows you to immediately enjoy its features and benefits.

Rear – Ports, Buttons. And LED

For its buttons and ports, the ROG Strix XG32VQR comes with two HDMI 2.0 inputs and one DisplayPort. However, note that there aren’t any USB-C or legacy video connectivity available.

You’ll find one USB 3.0 hub plus two ports, but there are no integrated speakers here. Despite that, you’ll find a mini-jack for routing digital audio coming from digital video connections to your speakers/headphones.

On its rear, there are the quick select menu buttons that are chunky and easy to use. For its directional stick, it helps you navigate through the available menu.

Tripod Stand

The Strix XG32VQR is supported by a stand that appears like a tripod. You can swivel, tilt, and vertically adjust it based on your preference and needs.

The rear of the monitor features ROG’s gaming aesthetics. Plus, it hosts the rounded and programmable LED to alter its colours. The tripod stand sports an ROG logo which is projected on your table’s surface.

You’ll find a hole close to the base. Its presence lets you neatly arrange all your wires to prevent any mess, which can be an eyesore.

The ROG logo at the base can be configured and altered to any logo of your choice. However, it isn’t software-based, and you need to detach it and change it to your preferred design. Also, note that you cannot alter the LED’s red colour to something else.

asus, strix, monitor

After discussing its design and functions in our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review, let’s check out its features.

Asus XG27AQ Review. Premium or Overpriced?

Key Features of the Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor

HDR Technology with DisplayHDR 400 and DCI-P3 94%

The ROG Strix XG32VQR supports HDR technology, so it delivers higher contrast and a wider colour range, unlike conventional monitors. The darkest blacks and brightest whites display details like never before. Additionally, this gaming monitor delivers DCI-P3 94% colour gamut, meeting the demands for DisplayHDR 400 certification.

FreeSync 2 HDR for Extreme Responsiveness

With FreeSync 2 HDR technology, the ROG Strix XG32VQR delivers impressively smooth visuals with better brightness contrast and low latency. This technology demands low-latency processing for both HDR and SDR content to remove input lag linked with HDR content.

Since it supports both HDR and adaptive sync, it provides superior gaming experiences.

FreeSync 2 is a certification from AMD that is implemented into HDR-producing monitors. It’s the standard of everything you want in a gaming monitor.

Shadow Boost Technology

Shadow Boost technology from Asus clears dark areas in a game without making bright areas overexposed. It improves your overall view while making it easier to find your enemies in dark, hidden areas.

Multiple HDR Modes

You can select from multiple HDR modes to adjust your monitor’s HDR performance based on the scenario. DisplayHDR is best for games, while Asus HDR is for watching and creating video or other multimedia content.

For accurate HDR standard, choose FreeSync 2 HDR.

Connectivity Options

The ROG Strix XG32VQR comes with a lot of connectivity options. These include Displayport 1.2, two USB 3.0 ports, and two HDMI ports.

Ultra-low Blue Light Technology

The Ultra-low Blue Light technology used by ROG Strix XG32VQR keeps your eyes protected. Also, it prevents strain caused by the harmful blue light.

The monitor offers four filter settings, which you can change in the OSD menu or utilising the five-way joystick.

Reduces Flicker

When using the ROG Strix XG32VQR, you’ll have a better and more comfortable gaming experience. It minimises on-screen flicker to reduce eye strain.

Ergonomic Design

The ergonomic tripod stand of the ROG Strix XG32VQR allows extensive tolt, swivel, and height adjustments. With that, you can achieve your ideal viewing angle.

AURA SYNC Lighting

Asus’ exclusive AURA SYNC technology provides ambient lighting for your monitor. Also, you can synchronise it with your other AURA-compatible peripherals and components.

For the perfect synchronisation, connect your ROG Strix XG32VQR to other peripherals, then install AURA SYNC software on your computer. This software allows you to have the coolest backdrop for your gaming rig.

ROG Light Signature

Another feature that we’re discussing in our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review is the ROG Light Signature.

The ROG Light Signature kit allows creating and customising light effects for the ROG Strix XG32VQR. It includes two covers with ROG’s logo plus one blank cover, which you can utilise to create custom, unique lighting.

Specifications

This time, our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review will FOCUS on the specifications of the Strix XG32VQR.

The gaming monitor’s display viewing area measures 697.344 x 392.256mm, and its screen is 31.5”. It comes with a non-glare display surface, with display colours of 16.7M.

This gaming monitor’s native resolution is 2,560 x 1,440. It also comes with a refresh rate of 144Hz – AMD FreeSync 2. The typical contrast ratio is 3,000:1 while its brightness is 450 cd/m2.

The Strix XG32VQR’s panel is the VA type and comes with a LED backlight for added bling. For its response time, it is 4ms GTG (Grey-to-Grey) and comes with HDR10 for its HDR support. The monitor has two HDMI 2.0 DisplayPorts for its display inputs and has two USB 3.0 hubs available.

You can tilt it 5-degrees forward and 20-degrees backward. Raising it is possible at 100mm while swivelling is possible at 50-degrees left and right.

Dimensions

With the stand, the Strix XG32VQR measures 713.4 x 590 x 296.1mm (WxHxD) and weighs 9.5kg. Without it, it’s 713.4 x 425.7 x 111.2mm and weighs 5.9kg.

Hands-on with the Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor

Our Asus ROG Strix XG32VQR Gaming Monitor review won’t be complete without getting hands-on with the monitor. So, let’s first see how its on-screen display menu is.

On-Screen Display Menu

At first, we thought that the function buttons looked a bit mysterious, that is, until you press one of them. When looking at the menu, it’s user-friendly since it displays an icon next to each while showing what they do.

The one at the bottom controls the power, while the next button is for the GameVisual preset menu. This is the area that allows you to navigate using the joystick. Available modes include Cinema, Racing, Scenery, MOBA, RGB, RTS/RPG, FPS, and an option you can configure.

The third button from the top gives you access to the GamePlus options. It superimposes a variety of options on-screen like the timer, crosshair, FPS counter, and a couple of guidelines. The latter will ensure that your configuration for multi-screen is adequately aligned.

Then, there’s the joystick. Pressing that will bring you the main menu, while the GameVisual menu is the initial entry. Do note that it displays the same options that are present on the quick version.

Blue Light Filter

We also checked out the Blue Light Filter, which helps decrease eye strain while in use. This is done by removing the blue hues from the image, and it does work even when gaming for long periods.

This ROG-branded monitor is perfect for Switch owners, but if you plan to buy a screen for both productivity and leisure, it’s a terrific option.

The Asus ROG Strix XG16 costs more than average portable monitors, but then you are paying the extra cash for a 144Hz refresh rate, excellent build quality, and the ROG logo. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

For many people purchasing an iPhone that costs the bulk of their salary that month, or, saving up for a gaming laptop is common practice. What was a niche a few years ago is now more mainstream, and brands are doubling down on products that carry a premium price.

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Asus, of course, has played more in the affluent end of the market with its ROG brand. I like how Asus is taking risks with designs or at least creating a new segment that may not be mainstream yet but has the cool factor to it. Its ROG Strix XG16AHP-W (the name sounds so uncool…uh) belongs to a genre of experimental devices that command a high price for something you really don’t know you want.

It’s a portable monitor with more power and features you need…and a steep price that puts this device in a luxury category. But this portable monitor is a different beast, for many reasons.

Here is my review of Asus’ top-end portable monitor.

Why I wanted a portable monitor

I am a bit choosy about the devices I use and the workspace environment. During the pandemic, I realised that the boundary between personal and professional space has collapsed, for good reason. Given I still work from home, I wanted a well-thought-about workplace that is less taxing on my health but at the same time more productive. That’s where I feel external portable monitors naturally fit in your workplace, offering you extra screen space. They are usually underrated, despite being plug-and-play via USB-C and run-on batteries, the convenience they offer and how easily fit in your work area. It’s a personal choice to use a portable monitor but in my case, it simply works.

The ROG Strix XG16 portable monitor is paired with my M1 MacBook Air. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

A refreshing design with Sci-fi elements

Asus is lately killing it when it comes to experimenting with its products, especially ROG-branded gaming laptops and smartphones. It can clearly be seen on the ROG Strix XG16AHP-W (XG16 for short) too. To start, the XG16 is made up of an all-white chassis, which is refreshing to look at. It has a crisp, clean look that very few portable monitors offer. The ‘gamer’ aesthetic is there but it’s not over-the-top, meaning the monitor can be used anywhere– even in the office environment. I don’t mind taking this monitor to a cafe or a co-working space. The build quality feels solid. And I am not complaining one bit.

The monitor weighs around 900 grams and is 11.8mm thick. Because it’s lightweight, I would want to put it in a backpack or the bundled sleeve and carry it around. The high-quality sleeve comes complete with padding, front and back s, and a carrying strap.

It has an integrated kickstand that holds the device sturdy, and on a desk or a table, the angle is satisfactory. I can open the kickstand with confidence, and use the monitor in both portrait and landscape orientation. But what is different about the XG16 is the bundled tripod that turns it into a mini 15.6-inch monitor. The tripod offers height adjustment and can swivel 360 degrees on its axis. I found this setup professional-looking, something no other portable monitor currently offers. Also, the tripod is foldable and can then pack in the sleeve.

Think of the ROG Strix XG16 as a mini 15.6-inch TV. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

On the lower left-hand edge of the monitor are two USB-C ports (one for powering your laptop, the other for DisplayPort over USB), a micro HDMI port—the device comes with a micro HDMI to HDMI cable as well as one with USB-C connectors on both ends—and a headphone jack.

Beautiful display

Moving on to its display, its 15.6-inch IPS screen has fairly narrow bezels with a backlit Asus ROG logo at the back. It’s not an OLED or mini-LED type, but the standard 1080p IPS display is one of the best I’ve ever used on a portable monitor. It represents colours beautifully and everything feels sharp and snappy thanks to a high pixel density and 144Hz refresh rate. The high-refresh-rate screen elevates the experience, whether you are gaming or watching a movie. When I connected my Nintendo Switch to the monitor to play Metroid Dread and Kirby and the Forgotten Land, I saw stunning visuals and the colour depth was amazing.

I have had a terrific time playing Switch games on this portable monitor. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

The 144Hz refresh rate, 3 ms GtG response time, and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility (you need to have a PC with an Nvidia GPU) may seem like overkill, but they are there. The XG16 is a delight to use if you own a Nintendo Switch. I think the XG16 can be the ultimate Switch travel accessory; a portable monitor light enough to be carried in your backpack, but one which offers a crisp 1080p image and does not need to be plugged in for power. This ROG-branded monitor is perfect for Switch owners, but if you plan to buy a screen for both productivity and leisure, it’s a terrific option. The monitor is also factory calibrated and comes with a colour calibration coverage (97.1% sRGB colour space).

The monitor’s pair of 1 W speakers are pretty average. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)

On the downside, I didn’t like the built-in speakers. They are tiny and soft and barely offer a detailed soundscape across games and movies. The monitor’s on-screen display (OSD) is similar to the ones I’ve seen on Asus monitors. The settings also include gaming features like OverDrive, ShadowBoost and an FPS counter. You will also find specific display profiles for different game genres, like RTS and RPG.

Built-in battery

The XG16 can run without being plugged in for power and that’s the whole point of getting a portable monitor. While Asus claims the 7800 mAh battery lasts for up to three hours, I used the monitor at max brightness and it lasted for 2 hours and 30 minutes before I plugged the charger in. Impressive.