27″ MSI OPTIX MAG271R Monitor Review: New favourite?

The 165Hz refresh VA LED panel found in 27” MSI Optix Mag271r gaming monitors panel,ms best in fast-paced game genres like first-person shooters, fighters, racing sims, real-time strategy, and sports.  Streaming, gaming, and listening to gaming, can all be done simultaneously. Spatt windows functionality is available in the windowOSD, enabling gamers to quickly rearrange their windows. In comparison to standard monitors, the Optix Series Gaming Monitor has at least 35% more gamut coverage. 

To maximize immersion, game colors and details will look more repushing and detailed.

Key Points

• 27″ flat, non glare LED panel, 165 Hz refresh rate, real smooth gaming.
• 1 ms response time—eliminate screen tearing and choppy frame rates.
• Gaming OSD App: Create the ultimate viewing settings for your game.
• Mystic Light—The ultimate gaming finish
• True colors: DCI-P3 92% and sRGB 118%.
• AMD FreeSync: prevent screen tearing.

Read: 27″ acer predator x27 4K Gaming Monitor Review

Product Features

AMD FreeSync makes it possible to sync the GPU’s frame rates with the monitor’s refresh rate. As a result, you get a variable refresh rate that, as long as your frame rate is within the monitor’s VRR range, in this case, 60-165 Hz/FPS, completely eliminates all screen tearing and stuttering. For smoother performance, LFC (Low Framerate Compensation), which engages below 60 FPS, forces the display to multiply the frame rate. 

For instance, at 50 frames per second, the refresh rate rises to 150 Hz. NVIDIA graphics cards are compatible with FreeSync even though they aren’t officially G-SYNC compatible. However, some users have reported brightness flickering when FreeSync or G-SYNC is activated. 

This only affects a select few monitor models, and the brightness flickering is usually present when your frame rate is less than 60 FPS or varies greatly. Unfortunately, this issue affects a lot of monitors with Samsung VA panels; hopefully, a GPU driver update will fix it eventually. Moving on, the MSI MAG271R 165Hz gaming display has a 5-way OSD joystick that is located at the back. 

The menu is very user-friendly and enables quick and easy OSD adjustments. Games can benefit from Game Mode’s calibrated picture presets (FPS, Racing, RTS, RPG, and User), Screen Assistance (custom crosshairs), and Night Vision, which primarily uses Black Tuner 2. When set to “A.I,” the Night Vision features enhance object visibility in the dark without overexposing the bright areas. 

Even when the OSD menu is not open, you can use the joystick as hotkeys for specific OSD operations. Pressing the joystick downward, for example, enables the Screen Assistance crosshair selection. 

You can also design your own unique shortcuts for these hotkeys. Additionally, you can download the MSI Gaming OSD app for your smartphone, which enables you to use your phone as a remote for OSD-related adjustments such as turning on or off the monitor, changing the input source, starting a game, etc.

INCREDIBLE SMOOTH VISUAL

The 165Hz refresh VA LED panel found in MSI gaming monitors performs best in fast-paced game genres like first-person shooters, fighters, racing sims, real-time strategy, and sports. These kinds of games demand extremely quick and accurate movements, so having an ultra-high refresh rate monitor will give you an advantage over your rivals.

EASY TO USE

Players can adjust the monitor setting using a keyboard and mouse thanks to gaming OSD support for keyboard and mouse control. Gamers can easily customize their monitors based on their needs thanks to Gaming OSD’s simple user interface.

AUTOMATICALLY LINK TO PROFILE

Players can save their monitor settings as presets that can be connected to games using the gaming OSD. The corresponding preset will automatically take effect when the game is launched the following time, providing players with the ideal gaming visual they desire.

IN GAME HOT-KEY

Often, the outcome is decided in a matter of milliseconds. Gaming OSD provides a hotkey function that enables users to quickly change monitor settings, such as activating the Crosshair and modifying the brightness and black tuner levels.

SPLIT WINDOWS

Streaming, gaming, and listening to music can all be done simultaneously. Split windows functionality is available in the gaming OSD, enabling gamers to quickly rearrange their windows.

REMOTE DISPLAY

You’re too lazy to get out of bed to turn off the monitor, aren’t you? Gamers can control the monitor using their smartphones thanks to the gaming OSD’s support for mobile control. All it takes is a simple tap on your smartphone to turn off the monitor, allowing you to relax.

NO BLUR, CLEAR GAMING PICTURE

The industry’s quickest 1ms response time is found in MSI gaming monitors. The MSI gaming monitor can still maintain a sharp and clear image quality even when the game scenes are changing quickly.

TRUE COLORS

In comparison to standard monitors, the Optix Series Gaming Monitor has at least 35% more gamut coverage. To maximize immersion, game colors and details will look more realistic and detailed.

FIT YOUR GAMING STYLE

Gamers can choose from a variety of game modes on MSI gaming monitors. For the best visual effects, gamers can select the mode based on the game’s style.

SEE CLEAR IN THE DARK

Before your adversaries even notice you, gain the upper hand. The Night Vision was designed with comfort in mind. You don’t have a fear of the dark, do you?

TEAR FREE, STUTTER FREE, FLUID GAMING

Playing video games shouldn’t require choosing between jerky frames or choppy gameplay. It doesn’t have to be with MSI Optix series gaming monitors. With AMD FreeSyncTM technology, enjoy smooth, artifact-free performance at almost any framerate.

165Hz high refresh rate

Enjoy fluid gaming with a lightning-fast 165Hz refresh rate that gives you the advantage in games with rapid-fire action.

1 ms fast response time

With a 1ms response time, screen tearing and jerky frame rates are eliminated.

Gaming OSD app

You can easily adjust and customize the best monitor modes using the keyboard and mouse.

FreeSync technology

As a result, gameplay will be incredibly smooth and lag-free thanks to AMD FreeSync.

Mystic Light

Make your physique appear ice-cold or on fire. You have the power. RGB LED allows you to customize colors and effects.

Adjustable stand

Make the most of your comfort and productivity with the adjustable stand.

Image Quality

The MSI Optix Mvertical alignment immersive image quality with deep blacks and lifelike colors thanks to VA (Vertical Alignment) panel with a static contrast ratio of 3,000:1, a peak luminance of 300 nits, and true 8-bit color depth with an extended color gamut (118% sRGB, 92% DCI-P3). Given its 27-inch screen size, its 1080p resolution isn’t ideal because it produces a pixel density of only 82 PPI, which is below average. 

Thus, while the image has some pixelation, it is tolerable. However, it suffices for leisure activities like watching videos and playing video games. In addition to the built-in low-blue light filter, the monitor’s backlight uses DC (Direct Current) to regulate brightness, eliminating flickering and ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. 

Additionally, the MSI MAG271R monitor has 178-degree wide viewing angles, so no matter what angle you view it from, the color, contrast, or brightness of the image won’t change.

Performance

There are no discernible lags between your actions and the screen’s response when using the MSI MAG271R because its input lag is only 4 ms. The standard gray-to-gray (GtG) pixel transition is not specified by MSI when it comes to the response time speed, which is the amount of pixels it takes to change from one color to another. 

The 1 ms MPRT (moving picture response time) speed, which is accomplished by backlight strobing, was the only speed that was specified. You can turn on the Anti Motion Blur feature or set the Response Time option to “fastest” in the OSD (On-Screen Display) menu to enable 1 ms MPRT. Both actions accomplish the same task, enabling backlight strobing, which lessens the apparent motion blur of moving objects. 

Although it is invisible to the human eye, screen flickering is introduced when 1 ms MPRT is enabled, and those who are sensitive to it may experience headaches after using the monitor for an extended period of time. 

Additionally, 1ms MPRT cannot be used in conjunction with FreeSync or VRR and reduces the maximum brightness of the screen while it is active (variable refresh rate). Thus, the MSI MAG271R’s actual response time speed when not using anti-motion blur technology is closer to 4 ms–5 ms (GtG), which is typical for VA panels. 

Overall, there is some visible trailing left behind moving objects, especially in darker scenes, but it is tolerable unless you’re a die-hard FPS player.

Design and Connectivity

The MSI MAG271R has a robust design with thin bezels, a matte anti-glare screen coating, and a matte black or dark gray finish. The screen can be tilted by -5°/20°, raised to a maximum height of 130mm, or mounted using a VESA 100x100mm pattern. A dual-USB 2.0 hub, a DisplayPort 1.2 port, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and a headphone jack are available for connectivity. AMD FreeSync is supported with a 60-165Hz VRR range over both DP and HDMI. The Mystic Light RGB lighting, which you can customize to glow in various colors and patterns, is located at the back of the monitor.

27″ MSI OPTIX MAG271R Specs

The monitor panel offers better contrast and colors than TN panels and has good viewing angles. The MSI Optix MAG271R’s excellent color depth of 8 bits for graphics results in smoother gradients and more accurate colors. 

The MSI Optix MAG271R’s maximum refresh rate is 165 Hz, which enables smoother gameplay at extremely high frame rates. The Display Port, which is necessary for NVIDIA cards to function with AMD FreeSync, is present on the MSI Optix MAG271R. 

The MSI Optix MAG271R’s 3000:1 contrast ratio is very good. A recent monitor is the MSI Optix MAG271R. The monitor is mounted via VESA. This monitor is compatible with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards thanks to AMD FreeSync support. The MSI Optix MAG271R has a lower brightness than other monitors. 

The MSI Optix MAG271R’s 5 ms minimum response time can result in ghosting effects. Games with high graphic demands may experience frame drops outside of the recommended refresh rate of 48 Hz. The MSI Optix MAG271R’s overall input lag of 16 ms is high compared to its rivals. 

It has a low pixel density of 81 pixels per inch, which causes pixelated text and image quality. The MSI Optix MAG271R’s 10 ms average response time results in motion blurring because of insufficient synchronization with the high refresh rate.

Compared To Other Monitors

Although the MSI Optix MAG271CQR is a fantastic gaming monitor with some helpful extra features, it competes with some fiercely priced models.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs Gigabyte M27Q

For the majority of uses, the Gigabyte M27Q is superior to the MSI Optix MAG271CQR. Dark smearing is absent from the Gigabyte, which has a quicker response time overall and during dark transitions. It has a higher refresh rate as well, though most people won’t really notice the slight increase. Wider viewing angles, HDR support, and additional features like picture-in-picture mode and USB-C input are all available on the Gigabyte. The MSI, however, has a much higher contrast ratio to produce deeper blacks, making it more suitable for rooms with low light levels.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs AOC CQ27G2

Overall, the MSI Optix MAG271CQR and the AOC CQ27G2 are very similar. Better ergonomics on the AOC make it simpler to position it for optimal viewing. The MSI, on the other hand, is much brighter and handles reflections better, making it a better option for a bright room.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs AOC AGON AG271QX

The MSI Optix MAG271CQR is marginally outperformed by the AOC AGON AG271QX. The AGON has superior handling of gradients, better black uniformity, and better ergonomics. An optional black frame insertion feature is available on the MSI Optix.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs LG 27GL850-B

Both the MSI Optix MAG271CQR and the LG 27GL850-B use various panel technologies, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. The LG has better viewing angles and supports HDR, but the MSI has better contrast and looks better in dimly lit environments. The Optix is better at handling reflections and has an optional black frame insertion feature.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs MSI Optix MPG27CQ

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.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs MSI Optix MAG273R

Both the MSI Optix MAG271CQR and MAG273R use different panel technologies, each with advantages and disadvantages of their own. In general, the MAG271CQR is a better option for office use or if you’re in a dark room because it has a higher resolution screen and a much better contrast ratio. The MAG273R, on the other hand, has wider viewing angles, much better gradient handling, and it supports HDR, though these features don’t significantly improve the picture.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs AOC CQ27G1

Compared to the AOC CQ27G1, the MSI Optix MAG271CQR is a marginally superior monitor. Both monitors are 144Hz, 1440p, but the MSI has a faster response time for gaming, more brightness, better handling of reflections, and wider viewing angles. The AOC, on the other hand, has much better out-of-the-box color accuracy, ergonomics, and black uniformity. The AOC performs better in low light environments, while the MSI is better in bright environments.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs Acer Nitro VG271UP PBMIIIPX

Both the MSI Optix MAG271CQR and the Acer Nitro VG271UP Pbmiipx use various panel technologies, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. In comparison to the VG271UP, the MAG271CQR handles contrast and reflections better. The Acer supports HDR, offers better viewing angles, and handles gradients much more effectively.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs Samsung C27RG5

The MSI Optix MAG271CQR is superior to the Samsung C27RG5 by a wide margin. Because of its much quicker response time, the MSI produces motion that is noticeably clearer. Additionally, the MSI has better ergonomics, a screen with a higher resolution, and an optional feature for inserting a black frame. Although this varies between units, the Samsung we tested has better black uniformity.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs Samsung CHG70

The MSI Optix MAG271CQR cannot compete with the Samsung CHG70. With a smaller swivel range and the ability to rotate it to a portrait orientation, the CHG70 has better ergonomics. Despite not adding much, the CHG70 supports HDR while the MAG271CQR does not.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs MSI Optix G27C

In comparison to the MSI Optix G27C, the MSI Optix MAG271CQR is much superior. The MAG271CQR is more ergonomic, has a faster response time, and a higher native resolution. A built-in USB hub and an optional black frame insertion feature are also features of the MAG271CQR.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs Dell S2719DGF

The MSI Optix MAG271CQR outperforms the Dell S2719DGF by a small margin. The MSI offers an optional black frame insertion feature and significantly improved contrast and gray uniformity. The Dell, on the other hand, has better ergonomics, so positioning it for optimal viewing is a little bit simpler.

MSI OPTIX MAG271R vs Gigabyte AORUS AD27QD

Both the MSI Optix MAG271CQR and the Gigabyte AORUS AD27QD use various panel technologies, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. The MSI has better contrast, making it more suitable for a dim environment. The AORUS supports HDR and has better ergonomics and viewing angles.

Read: Asus TUF FX705 Review (2023): My New Favourite Gaming Laptop

Conclusion

Overall, the MSI MAG271R is a superb gaming monitor with lifelike image quality, slick operation, and a ton of practical features. But alas, the cost is excessive when compared to the alternatives. But given that it’s a rather unusual model, some users might ignore it.