A good monitor with decent picture quality and excellent gaming performance is the 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx. It has a fantastic 4K resolution screen that clearly shows all of your game’s details, a very low input lag, supports G-SYNC, and has a very quick response time that produces sharp motion. A bright room would benefit from its wide color gamut and ability to get fairly bright in SDR. For video games, HDR brightness is acceptable, but not ideal for HDR movie viewing. Unfortunately, the monitor has an IPS panel, which reduces its performance in dark environments because blacks appear gray. Additionally, although still better than most VA panel monitors, the viewing angles on our unit weren’t as good as those on other IPS monitors.

Differences Between Sizes And Variants

A 4k IPS gaming monitor from Acer called the Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx was put to the test. The table below lists a few of the additional Predator models available, all of which support G-SYNC but differ in terms of size, panel type, resolution, and refresh rate. Please let us know if you come across a different type of panel or if your 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx differs from our review so we can update the review. Keep in mind that results from some tests, like the gray uniformity, may differ from unit to unit.

Model	Size	Panel Type	Resolution	Native Refresh
XB273K Pbmiphzx	27″	IPS	4k	120Hz
XB271HU bmiprz	27″	IPS	1440p	144Hz
XB271HU Abmiprz	27″	TN	1440p	144Hz
X27	27″	IPS	4k	240Hz
Z35P	35″	VA	3440×1440	100Hz

Compared To Other Monitors

Although the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is a fantastic gaming monitor, there are more effective alternatives.

Acer Predator XB273K VS ASUS ROG Strix XG27UQ

Overall, the 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is inferior to the ASUS ROG Strix XG27UQ. The ASUS has superior ergonomics, greater peak brightness in SDR and HDR, and much less overshoot despite having a slower response time. The Acer has two speakers, more USB ports, and better handling of reflections. While the Acer is a native G-SYNC monitor, the ASUS has native Adaptive-Sync support and is compatible with FreeSync and G-SYNC.

Acer Predator XB273K VS LG 27GN950-B

The LG 27GN950-B and 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx are monitors with comparable performance. The LG has native FreeSync support; at 60 Hz, it becomes much brighter, responds much more quickly, and has less input lag. The Acer, on the other hand, has built-in speakers, better ergonomics, native G-SYNC support, and significantly better handling of reflections.

Acer Predator XB273K VS Acer Predator X27 bmiphzx

Compared to the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx, the Acer Predator X27 performs marginally better. Wider viewing angles and a local dimming feature on the X27 improve performance in dark environments. Additionally, the X27 has greater Adobe RGB space coverage, which is significant for those working in the media and publishing industries. For gamers, the XB273K Pbmiphzx’s lower input lag is fantastic.

Acer Predator XB273K VS Acer Predator XB271HU Bmiprz

In comparison to the Acer Predator XB271HU Bmiprz, the 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx performs marginally better. The XB273K supports HDR and has a higher resolution to show more details on your screen, making it ideal for HDR gaming. The XB271HU has better ergonomics to help position it comfortably, a higher refresh rate, and a BFI feature that helps improve the appearance of motion.

Acer Predator XB273K VS Acer Nitro XV273 Xbmiiprzx

Better than the 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is the Acer Nitro XV273 Xbmiiprzx. The Nitro XV273 Xbmiiprzx has a better contrast ratio, noticeably better black uniformity, and better viewing angles despite the fact that they both have an IPS panel. The XB273K Pbmiphzx, on the other hand, has a 4K resolution and is excellent for multitasking. Wide color gamut support is provided by the XB273K Pbmiiprzx, but it is not as bright as the Nitro XV273 Xbmiiprzx.

Acer Predator XB273K VS ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q

27″ Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is barely outperformed by the ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q in terms of performance. The ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q’s improved ergonomic adjustments allow you to position it more comfortably on your desk. For those who frequently share their screen, it has slightly wider viewing angles than the Acer. It also has an optional black frame insertion feature to aid in sharpening motion. The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx, on the other hand, has full 4K resolution and supports HDR, enabling you to play the newest HDR games.

Acer Predator XB273K VS BenQ EL2870U

Different panels on the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx and the BenQ EL2870U each have benefits and drawbacks. But in this instance, the Acer is superior in the majority of ways. The Acer is easier to position to your preferences and has a faster native refresh rate, better viewing angles, and a faster response time that produces crisper motion. The BenQ is a tiny bit bigger.

Acer Predator XB273K VS Gigabyte AORUS AD27QD

Comparatively speaking, the Gigabyte AORUS AD27QD outperforms the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx. The AORUS supports FreeSync, has a BFI feature to enhance the appearance of motion, and has better ergonomics so you can easily position it in a comfortable position. It also has a higher refresh rate. On the other hand, the Acer has a higher resolution and can show more game information on the screen. G-SYNC is also natively supported.

Acer Predator XB273K Specs

Panel Type & Backlight	IPS with Advanced Hyper Viewing Angle (AHVA), Quantum Dot LED, edge array
Screen Size / Aspect Ratio	27 inches / 16:9
Max Resolution & Refresh Rate	3840×2160 @ 144Hz; G-Sync: 24-144Hz
Native Color Depth & Gamut	10-bit (8-bit+FRC) / DCI-P3, HDR10, DisplayHDR 400
Response Time (GTG)	4ms
Brightness	SDR – 350 nits; HDR – 400 nits
Contrast	SDR: 1,000:1; HDR: 4,000:1
Speakers	2x 4w
Video Inputs	1x DisplayPort 1.4; 1x HDMI 2.0
Audio	3.5mm headphone output
USB	3.0: 1x up, 4x down
Power Consumption	43w, brightness @ 200 nits
Panel Dimensions(WxHxD with base)	24.8 x 17.4-21.3 x 12.1 inches / 630 x 442-541 x 307mm
Panel Thickness	3.4 inches / 86mm
Bezel Width	Top/sides: 0.6 inches / 15mm; Bottom: 0.9 inches / 23mm
Weight	15.9 pounds / 7.3kg
Extra	Removable light-blocking hood
Warranty	3 years

A 27-inch IPS panel with the designation “AHVA” has been given the name “XB273K.” Advanced Hyper Viewing Angle (not vertical alignment) is what this acronym stands for. Not to be confused with AMVA, which provides significantly higher native contrast.

Better off-axis image quality is supposed to be associated with AHVA, and in some instances, but not always, that is true. It is identical to other IPS panels in all other respects, including strong color performance, impressive viewing angles, and a typical 4ms gray-to-gray response time. Quantum dot film is used in the backlight to increase the color gamut to a claimed 90% of the DCI-P3 specification.

A 400-nit peak white level and this make the XB273K a top choice for HDR10 content. Acer has designed a useful variable dimming feature that quadruples the monitor’s contrast ratio, though it won’t have the same impact as a full-array backlit model. The fact that you can use that option with both SDR and HDR content is what makes this so impressive. Aside from HDR, gamers will value the addition of the dependable 144Hz overclock and G-Sync running at 24-144Hz.

Additionally, you get an effective overdrive, aiming points, and a framerate counter. Only ULMB (ultra-low motion blur) is missing, but we don’t think that will be a deal-breaker for many.

Acer Predator XB273K Design

Stand

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx’s stand is big and does a good job of supporting the monitor. You can place small items in front of the monitor thanks to the thin legs.

Height Adjustment

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx has average ergonomics. You can position it in a comfortable position with a little effort thanks to its good height adjustment and excellent tilt range.

The back is made of plastic and is plain. The stand pole’s bottom hole is used for cable management, and the inputs are covered with plastic to conceal them. Additionally, there is a tiny plastic clip that opens when you click it and can hold your headphones near the top of the stand pole. On the back of the monitor, there is a fan that works similarly to the one in the Acer Predator X27 bmiphzx and aids in heat dissipation. Although it runs constantly, it is very quiet.

Borders

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx’s borders are average in thickness, and they are flush with the screen. Without the blinder screens, the borders were measured.

Thickness

The monitor cannot be placed close to a wall because it is quite thick when on its stand. It won’t stick out much if you mount it using VESA. Because of the angle at which the height is adjusted, the actual thickness varies. The measurement being reported is looking down. The thickness, when measured from the bottom, is 7.7 inches.

Build Quality

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx has good build quality. The monitor feels very sturdy and has no gaps or frayed edges.

Acer Predator XB273K Picture Quality

Image Retention

There are no indications of image retention on the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx. After 2 minutes of rest and again after 6 minutes of rest, our test shows some very faint image retention. The following images demonstrate that this is noise from our test rather than image retention. Additionally, because it penalizes for the noise it found, our scoring is incorrect. We’ll update this test in the upcoming test bench update.

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx, Acer VG271UP, and Gigabyte Aorus AD27QD all have respectable handling of reflections. However, avoiding direct light is advised, and the built-in blinders can help cut down on glare from side sources.

Refresh Rate

For a nearly tear-free gaming experience, the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx has a great refresh rate and supports G-SYNC. For as long as you use the DisplayPort, the VRR range is excellent. Due to bandwidth restrictions, the HDMI VRR range at 1080p is 24Hz to 98Hz, and the 4k VRR maximum is 60Hz if you use the HDMI port. The ASUS ROG Strix XG27UQ is a similar monitor that supports FreeSync if you need one.

Response Time

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx has a very quick response time, and motion is clear with only a slight blur trail behind quickly moving content. There are three settings for the overdrive level: “Off,” “Normal,” and “Extreme.” The ‘Extreme’ setting has severe overshoot in some transitions, especially in dark scenes, so we advise using the ‘Normal’ setting instead. The table above contains the charts and moving pictures for the three levels.

Acer Predator XB273K Inputs

Input Lag

Input lag on the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is remarkably low. For competitive gamers, where every millisecond counts, this is excellent news. The bad news for those planning to use it with consoles is that the input lag at 60Hz is a little bit high. Check out the LG 27GN950-B if you prefer something with less input lag at 60Hz. We ran our HDR test at 98 Hz because that was the highest refresh rate the monitor could support for HDR 10-bit on DisplayPort 1.4.

Resolution and Size

A 27-inch 4K monitor with great screen space and superb detail for your work or games is the Acer Predator XB273 Pbmiphzx. It is a practical choice for multitasking.

Acer Predator XB273K Features

The XB273K comes completely put together. You only need to lift it out to get started rocking. Unless, of course, you want to install the light-blocking hood designed for professional artists. Yes, a professional-grade hood that attaches to the panel’s provided fittings is included.

A factory calibration report is also included. Although Acer does not promote it as a professional product, our testing shows that it is fully capable of handling color-critical applications. The accessory package is completed by USB and DisplayPort cables as well as a brick for an external power source. To conceal any unsightly wiring and aid in cable organization, a cover that snaps over the input panel on the back is available.

RGB Illumination

Speakers and HDR 10 support are the only additional features the Acer Predator XB273 Pbmiphzx has.

As you can see, it has some lovely LED bias lighting. There are two zones, one at the bottom and one at the top of the screen, and you can select between red, blue, orange, and off. A “breathing” or fixed type of LED flash is also an option.
You can display a crosshair in any game to help your aim
It supports OSD lock.
You can reassign the hotkeys found on the back next to the joystick.

Controls

On the right side, behind the monitor, are the controls. The menus can be easily accessed thanks to the joystick control. The controls are difficult to access when the blinders are on.

In The Box

Manual
DisplayPort cable
USB-B type cable
Power cable
Power adapter
VESA adapter

Final Verdict

Mixed Usage

The Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is an excellent display for a variety of uses. It has a 4K resolution that favors multitasking and displays a lot of detail. The monitor feels very responsive, has very little input lag, and supports G-SYNC, which is great for gamers. Unfortunately, the performance in dark rooms suffers due to the low contrast ratio. While its HDR brightness is respectable and it can get fairly bright in SDR, it is unable to make bright highlights stand out in HDR movies.

PROS

very low input lag, great for gaming.
excellent 4K resolution.

CONS

low contrast ratio and bad black uniformity.

Office

For use in an office setting, the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is a good monitor. You can easily multitask thanks to the 27″ screen and 4k resolution. Even though the viewing angles are not as good as those of other IPS monitors, you can still easily share your work with your colleagues. It has decent ergonomics and a good gray uniformity, which is great for web browsing, so you won’t have any trouble placing it comfortably.

Gaming

A great monitor for gaming is the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx. It is excellent for even competitive gamers because of its low input lag and high responsiveness. Although it supports G-SYNC for almost tear-free gaming, the input lag is higher at 60Hz, which may disappoint console owners. When watching fast-moving content, the response time is very quick, motion appears clear without much motion blur, and the 4k resolution can show more of your gaming area’s details.

Multimedia

For watching multimedia, the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is a good monitor. Although it has a stunning 4K resolution and can show 4K movies in their original format, the low contrast makes viewing in a dark room difficult. Other IPS monitors perform better, but the viewing angles are still good for side viewing. The monitor works best in bright rooms because it has a low input lag, good reflection handling, and can get fairly bright for the size.

Media Creation

For creating media, the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx is a good monitor. You can put more of your work on it because it has a good-sized screen with excellent resolution. Although the viewing angles are not as good as those of other IPS monitors, you can still share your screen with clients or coworkers thanks to its respectable ergonomics.

HDR Gaming

A good monitor for HDR gaming is the Acer Predator XB273K Pbmiphzx. Low contrast and poor black uniformity are its limitations, but HDR allows for some decent brightness. With its nearly tear-free G-SYNC support and extremely low input lag, it is incredibly responsive. The 4k resolution will also allow you to see more of your game on the screen.

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