Looking for a new game-focused monitor for your beastly gaming desktop? Asus has released three new solutions that should meet your expectations: the 23.6-inch MG248Q, the 23.6-inch MG24UQ, and the 28-inch MG28UQ. In short, the two “UQ” models provide really high resolutions of 3,840 x 2,160 (4K UHD) while the single “8Q” model has a generous resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 (Full HD).
The specs provided by Asus show that the 28-inch MG28UQ supposedly has a super-high contrast ratio (1M:1), a decent maximum brightness (300cd/m2), a quick response time of one millisecond for motion blur-free viewing, and a picture that can seemingly be viewed at almost every angle (170/160). Included are two built-in 2-watt speakers along with a handful of ports: one DisplayPort 1.2 port, one newer HDMI 2.0 port, two older HDMI 1.4 ports, and two USB 3.0 ports, one of which can be used to charge a mobile device.
Next in line is the 23.6-inch MG24UQ. This model has the same viewing angles, contrast ratio, and brightness as the MG28UQ. However, the response time is a longer four milliseconds (upping the chance for motion blurring), and there are no built-in USB 3.0 ports, leaving merely the DisplayPort 1.2 port, the HDMI 2.0 port, and the two HDMI 1.4 ports. This model sports two built-in two-watt speakers as well.
Finally, we have the 23.6-inch MG248Q with the Full HD resolution. This model has the same viewing angles and contrast ratio as the previous two models, but features a higher level of brightness (350cd/m2). This display also has a quick one millisecond response time and dual built-in 2-watt speakers, but rips out the HDMI 2.0 port for a Dual Link DVI-D port, which joins a DisplayPort 1.2 and HDMI 1.4 ports.
Additionally, the MG248Q is compatible with Nvidia’s 3D Vision 2 kit, which adds 3D to gaming on a desktop with a compatible Nvidia graphics card. This version improves on the previous kit by offering bigger and brighter 3D effects, and better fitting glasses. Games that support 3D include Crysis 2, L.A. Noire, and Batman: Arkham City.
“MG248Q, MG28UQ and MG24UQ are specially designed for marathon gaming sessions,” the company says. “All three monitors have ergonomically designed stands with full tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment so gamers can find their preferred comfortable viewing position. MG24UQ and MG28UQ can be easily detached from their stands thanks to a quick-release latch, and all models can be VESA wall-mounted to save on desktop space.”
All three displays include the Asus-exclusive GamePlus hotkey that allows users to enable a crosshair overlay while gaming, offering four different crosshair options. The hotkey can even track the game’s frame rate (FPS) and enable the user to align the screen correctly thanks to three alignment lines on all four corners.
Asus says the displays support its new DisplayWidget software utility for the PC to quickly adjust the Ultra-Low Blue Light, App Sync, and GameVisual settings without having to use the built-in On Screen Display menu. GameVisual simply provides six preset display modes, while App Sync can be used to assign specific GameVisual modes to individual applications. Adjusting the blue light level can reduce eye strain while playing in a dimly lit room.
The Asus MG28UQ display can be found on Newegg for $550 although the other available panel currently is not listed. However, B&H has both the Asus MG24UQ up for grabs at $400 and the Asus MG28UQ for $550 as well. The Asus MG248Q won’t be made available until sometime later this month.
