The 27″ MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ 16:9 Curved LCD Gaming Monitor from MSI offers a variety of gaming features, such as GameSense, Mystic Light, and the Gaming OSD App, allowing you to tailor your lighting setup and set up this monitor to meet your unique gaming needs. WQHD 2560 x 1440 resolution, 3000:1 contrast, 400 cd/m2 brightness, 1 ms response time, 144 Hz refresh rate, FreeSync technology, and support for up to 16.7 million colors are all included in the Optix MPG27CQ.
In order to ensure that the colors you see on the screen are accurate and detailed, this MSI monitor also covers 115% of the sRGB color space and 90% of the DCI-P3 color space. This display has one DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 inputs, a dedicated USB hub, and audio ports that let you connect headphones and USB-compatible peripherals directly to the monitor. This makes setup simple. To fully utilize the 178° horizontal and vertical viewing angles offered by this 1800R curved display, the monitor can be tilted, swiveled, and raised after configuration.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ General Features
Optix MPG27CQ Curved Gaming Monitor
Never lose track of your opponent and always keep an eye on your game status. With the MSI Optix MPG series monitors, the company wanted to guarantee that you always have access to the necessary data to challenge your adversaries. You can check your ammo, health, or power stats on your monitor thanks to built-in RGB LEDs on the front and support for SteelSeries GameSense. 144 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time ensure fluid gameplay. With MSI’s curved display, you can more fully immerse yourself in the game. and reduce eye fatigue for extended gaming sessions with anti-flicker and less blue light.
Size Matters
A 27″ curved VA display is housed in the Optix Gaming Monitor for better viewing. The Optix MPG27CQ offers 36% more screen space when compared to a 24″ and 21″ monitor, giving you more room for work and play.
From edge to edge
With a multi-monitor 180° setup and a super narrow bezel, you can experience better gaming immersion. Enjoy improved screen continuity while working, playing games, or using computers in general.
Curved for Your Viewing Pleasure
The curved display panel used in MSI gaming monitors has an 1800 r curvature rate, making it suitable for a variety of uses, from gaming to general computing. Additionally enhancing gameplay immersion and deepening your connection to the whole experience are curved panels.
Gaming OSD App
Setting up your gaming monitor is simple with the Gaming OSD (on-screen display) app. Use your keyboard and mouse to configure your monitor instead of using the monitor’s buttons or navigating through all the menus. Even hotkey options are provided by the app, making it simple to switch settings between games.
MSI Remote Display
Using the MSI Remote Display app on your Android smartphone, you can manage your curved gaming monitor. You can do this to control the brightness, black equalizer, contrast ratio, and more directly from your Android phone.
Steelseries GameSense
RGB LEDs with Steelseries GameSense will enhance your gameplay in addition to serving as a stylish decoration. It can display important game information through the LED effects by synchronizing with your in-game actions. You’ll quickly gain a complete understanding of your game and your most crucial stats if you do it that way.
144 Hz Refresh Rate and 1 ms Response Time
The 144 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time VA LED panel found in MSI gaming monitors are most advantageous in fast-paced game genres like first-person shooters, fighters, racing sims, real-time strategy, and sports. A high refresh rate and quick response time monitor can accommodate the quick and precise movements needed for these kinds of games.
“Beauty in the Details”
The 27″ WQHD (2560 x 1440) resolution of the MSI Optix series gaming monitor enables even finer details to be seen while playing games or watching movies or videos. For a more realistic experience, the Optix series gaming monitor will upgrade the environments, characters, and textures in your games.
178° viewing angles
The MSI gaming monitors have more room to move around in your setup without sacrificing a good viewing experience thanks to their wide viewing angles. Compared to other monitors that have fewer viewing angles, the colors and details will remain clear at more viewing angles.
Blue Light Reduction
To ensure that you can play for longer stretches of time without getting tired, MSI gaming monitors are optimized to lessen the strain on your eyes by reducing the total amount of blue light displayed by the monitor.
Anti-Flicker Technology
Generic monitors typically have a 200-second flicker rate, which is undetectable to the unaided eye but can wear you out over time. By minimizing flicker, MSI Anti-Flicker Technology offers a very comfortable viewing experience.
True Color
According to CIE1976 test standards, the Optix Series Gaming Monitor has at least 35% more gamut coverage than standard monitors. Colors and details in the gameplay will appear more realistic and polished, increasing the level of immersion.
FPS Front Sight Toggle
A FPS front sight overlay can be enabled through the OSD on the Optix series gaming monitor to aid your overall aim, particularly in games where the crosshairs may be small or nonexistent.
FreeSync
Your gaming experience has fluid visuals thanks to FreeSync technology. In order to accomplish this, FreeSync will synchronize the refresh rate of your monitor with that of your AMD GPU, thereby reducing screen tearing and stuttering. Enjoy the game’s smooth, lag-free visuals the way it was intended to be enjoyed.
Note: Adaptive Sync requires a compatible AMD GPU to be enabled.
Tailored for a Good Fit
The MSI Optix Gaming monitor is designed to improve the comfort of your gaming sessions. You can easily change the position of the gaming monitor for better ergonomics and a better viewing experience by tilting, swiveling, and raising it.
Design
With RGB lighting and a stylized design, the Optix errs on the side of being glitzy and possibly garish, like many gaming monitors do. However, unlike many gaming monitors, not all of it is unnecessary flash. Using the included SteelSeries GameSense software, you can customize the row of RGB lighting along the bottom of the display to display different in-game details, such as the status of your health bar or timer alerts.
The software itself only supports a small selection of games and applications, such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Discord, but it does offer some general features and extensive customization for those who know a little about coding. A glowing pattern of RGB-lit markings that resembles both circuitry and the Peruvian Nazca Lines runs along the back of the device. Additionally, this lighting can be changed.
The 27-inch curved screen on the Optix has an 1800R radius, translating to a very slight curve that places the entire screen at an equal distance from the eye. Even though the 27-inch display is the smallest you could possibly want for a curved monitor, it still has better visibility. The curve should provide a decent level of immersion if you intend to purchase two or three of the monitors and use them side by side.
The monitor itself has dimensions of 24.1 x 21.9 x 14.9 inches, which means it will occupy a sizable amount of desk space. The monitor’s Y-shaped, three-point base, on the other hand, provides good stability while still leaving space for cables to run freely. The device weighs 23.4 pounds, which should still be manageable for moving when necessary.
You can adjust the stand’s ergonomic features, including the height (from 0 to 120 millimeters), side-to-side swivel (40 degrees in either direction), and screen angle (between minus 5 degrees and 20 degrees). Additionally, the monitor’s back will accept a 100 mm x 100 mm VESA mount if you want even more adaptability. This will allow you to mount the monitor to a wall bracket or an articulated monitor arm.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ Ports and Interface
The Optix MPG27CQ provides ample video and audio connectivity in addition to USB ports for additional peripherals. One DisplayPort and two HDMI inputs, as well as a PC to monitor the audio connection, are located on the back of the cabinet. You can connect to either a desktop computer or a gaming console thanks to those HDMI ports (or even both). A USB Type A port is also present for connecting to your PC.
Although it is a little awkward that the rear ports are all downward facing, most users only experience this once. Two USB 3.1 ports and two 3.5 mm audio jacks—one for audio and the other for a microphone—can be found on the left side of the monitor. In order to plug in flash drives and headphones, the side-mounted ports must be positioned about 3 inches from the monitor chassis’ edge.
The MPG27CQ’s physical design is the only real issue I have with it. When using a monitor in a public setting, such as an office or a gaming event, a Kensington lock slot allows you to physically lock down the monitor for increased security. A five-way clickable joystick is included with the Optix MPG27CQ for changing display modes and monitor settings. Since the joystick allows you to quickly move up and down the menus and click to select individual items, navigating the on-screen display is quick and simple. Beyond the standard monitor settings you can access through your PC, the monitor has a number of options.
The two main picture modes are professional and gaming. Several game genres, including first-person shooters, real-time strategy games, and racing games, can each have their own gaming mode that is tailored to the specifics of that genre. Additionally, you can toggle the “Zero Latency” feature on or off to lessen lag, activate the “Anti-Motion Blur” feature for sharper, faster action, change the refresh rate, and customize the black levels to your preferences. The on-screen reticle and FreeSync anti-tearing are additional gaming features.
There are three professional modes: Reader, Cinema, and Designer. In each of these modes, the settings are adjusted to lessen blue light, improve contrast with HDCR, and preserve color accuracy. You can customize the bottom row of RGB lighting on the display to display different game information, such as the status of your health bar or timer alerts.
Additional image settings include screen size, which alters the aspect ratio used on the display, as well as brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color temperature. You can choose the video source from additional menu options, view two video inputs simultaneously using picture-in-picture (PIP) and picture-by-picture (PBP) modes, and change the menu language, transparency, and other menu-related menu settings.
The RGB lighting of the monitor can also be turned on and off. Use Steel Series’ GameSense software to access additional features and modify the RGB lighting on the display’s front and back.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ Performance
With a 2560 x 1440 resolution and 144 Hz refresh rate, the MSI Optix MPG27CQ is a good choice for gaming. A VA (vertical alignment) panel is used for the curved display due to its higher refresh rate, superior contrast to IPS, and robust color performance. In our lab testing, it performed admirably. Whether it was the sunny beaches of coastal Italy or the gloomy back alleys of Gotham, we saw clear color in our gaming tests using Hitman and Batman:
Arkham Knight. The Optix produced 140 percent of the sRGB color gamut in our testing. On a DCI-P3 monitor, which exceeds sRGB standards, that outcome is expected. Additionally, it is consistent with what we’ve observed in other wide-gamut monitors like the Samsung CHG70 and LG 34UC89G (126 percent) (154.1 percent). With the help of our Klein K-10A colorimeter, we were able to determine the actual color accuracy, which had a Delta-E rating of 1.02 and was slightly better than the LG 34UC89G but not quite as good as the Samsung CHG70 (0.09). (1.08).
These are all respectable outcomes for uncalibrated, arbitrary results. Since the joystick allows you to quickly move up and down the menus and click to select individual items, navigating the on-screen display is quick and simple. Also a little less bright than anticipated. Despite MSI’s claims that the display will produce up to 400 nits, our testing found that the brightness averaged 288.6 nits with 333 nits in the center. The overall brightness starts to look pretty good when compared to the Asus VG245H (252.6 nits), Samsung CFG70 (266 nits), and LG 34UC89G (292 nits).
The screen has a subtle but effective anti-glare finish that reduces reflections from windows and overhead lighting. There are 178 degrees of clear viewing, which is a nice wide angle. This is especially useful when using a curved monitor because even when seated directly in front of the screen, narrow viewing angles can result in unsightly distortion. At almost any angle, the MSI Optix MPG27CQ provided distortion-free visibility.
Read: 27″ MSI OPTIX MAG271R Monitor Review: New favourite?
Compared To Other Monitors
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q
Each of the different panel types used by the ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q and the MSI Optix MPG27CQ has advantages and disadvantages. The ASUS has much better viewing angles and appears better in brighter environments. Only when you’re seated directly in front of the MSI does it appear better in a dark environment. The better option for gaming somewhat depends on your hardware. The MSI works best with an AMD graphics card or Xbox One, whereas the ASUS performs best when paired with an NVIDIA graphics card.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs MSI Optix MAG271CQR
Overall, there are many similarities between the MSI Optix MPG27CQ and MSI Optix MAG271CQR. Although the MPG27CQ we tested has worse viewing angles, it also has better ergonomics and more consistent black levels. There is a two port USB hub built into the MAG271CQR.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs ASUS TUF VG32VQ
For the majority of applications, the MSI Optix MPG27CQ is slightly superior to the ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQ, but the ASUS is marginally better for gaming. With much better gradient handling and almost no discernible banding in areas of similar color, the ASUS supports HDR. However, the MSI has a significantly quicker response time, making gaming motion clearer with less blur behind moving objects.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs Gigabyte AORUS AD27QD
The MSI Optix MPG27CQ and the Gigabyte AORUS AD27QD both use different panel technologies, but the AD27QD performs significantly better overall and marginally better for gaming. Wide viewing angles and a marginally quicker response time are features of the IPS panel on the AD27QD. The MPG27CQ has a VA panel, which looks much better in a dark room if viewing angles aren’t important. The MSI does not support HDR, in contrast to the AORUS, but this does not significantly improve the AORUS.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs Samsung CHG70
For the majority of uses, the Samsung CHG70 is superior to the MSI Optix MPG27CQ. The CHG70 supports HDR and has a stand that is a little more adjustable and can rotate to portrait mode. The contrast ratio and response time of the MPG27CQ are just slightly better.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs Samsung JG50
The MSI Optix MPG27CQ outperforms the Samsung JG50 by a wide margin. Because it has an optional black frame insertion feature, a much higher refresh rate, and a quicker response time, the MSI has better ergonomics and is significantly better for gaming.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs MSI Optix G27C
In comparison to the MSI Optix G27C, the MSI Optix MPG27CQ is much superior. The MPG27CQ has a better stand with better ergonomics, a higher native resolution, and better black uniformity. Additionally, the MPG27CQ offers an optional black frame insertion feature for even clearer motion and a significantly faster response time. The MPG27CQ also features an excellent RGB bias lighting system.
27 MSI OPTIX MPG27CQ vs Dell S2417DG
For the majority of uses, the Dell S2417DG is marginally superior to the MSI Optix MPG27CQ. A slightly better stand with the ability to rotate to a portrait orientation is found on the S2417DG. Due to its superior native contrast and RGB bias lighting feature, the MPG27CQ appears better in dimly lit environments. The MPG27CQ supports AMD’s FreeSync technology, whereas the S2417DG supports G-SYNC.
Bottom Line
A decent 27″ 1440p monitor with deep blacks and great gaming features is the MSI Optix MPG27CQ. It supports FreeSync and has exceptional response times and low input lag, even when connected to a modern NVIDIA graphics card. This monitor has a fantastic design, a great build quality, an adjustable stand, and a fantastic RGB lighting system. Unfortunately, the image washes out quickly when viewed at an angle, as with most VA monitors, and its accuracy is disappointing right out of the box.
Thanks to its curved display panel and comprehensive set of gaming-specific features, the MSI Optix MPG27CQ is a respectable gaming monitor. With a 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support, it provides fluid, tear-free gameplay that is compatible with even low-end graphics cards. Additionally, the programmable RGB lighting adds a dash of eye candy that should be appealing to gamers. The MSI Optix MPG27CQ, which costs less than $500, is a good substitute for more expensive models like the Samsung CHG70 ($599). But it does so by omitting HDR support entirely and providing a smaller field of view than models with wider screens.
For mixed usage
The MSI Optix MPG27CQ is an adequate monitor for the majority of uses overall. It’s a fantastic gaming monitor with low input lag, quick response times, and FreeSync support for almost tear-free gaming. The large screen makes this a good monitor for working in an office or creating media, but it’s not ideal because an angle causes the image to degrade. The MPG27CQ is not HDR-capable.
For office use
overall good monitor for office use. Longer viewing sessions don’t cause as much eye fatigue thanks to the flicker-free backlight and the 27″ 1440p resolution, which is excellent for multitasking. The stand can be tilted, swiveled, and raised to a good degree, but it cannot be turned into a portrait position. Unfortunately, this monitor has poor viewing angles, and moving off-center quickly washes out the image.
For gaming
This monitor is excellent for video games. Even when connected via DisplayPort to a current NVIDIA graphics card, it supports FreeSync and has a fantastic response time and extremely low input lag. It is a good option for late-night gaming in a dim environment because it also has a great contrast ratio.
For multimedia
This monitor works well for multimedia. Although the 1440p, 27″ screen is excellent for watching videos, the poor viewing angles make it unsuitable for watching the most recent viral videos with friends. When watching movies in a dark room, it delivers deep blacks thanks to its excellent contrast ratio, but there can be some noticeable clouding in extremely dark scenes. Additionally, this monitor has a fast response time that produces clear motion with little blur behind moving objects.
For media creation
a good monitor for making media. You won’t need to zoom or scroll as much because of the 27″ display’s large screen area and native 1440p resolution. While SDR content can be displayed on this monitor with excellent color gamut, HDR is not supported. Additionally, it has excellent reflection handling, a great contrast ratio, and very good peak brightness, making it a versatile option for almost any room.
