Gaming Monitors Outpace Expectations at Computex 2025

Three gaming monitors pushing the boundaries of refresh rates were unveiled at Computex, with the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG leading the pack. This 1080p display boasts an astonishing 610Hz refresh rate, setting a new standard for speed. Meanwhile, both MSI and Acer have introduced 1440p monitors with 500Hz refresh rates, a feat that's challenging to achieve even with top-tier hardware like the RTX 5090 and multi-frame generation technology.

Acer's Predator X27U F5 stands out not only for its speed but also for its QD-OLED display, promising exceptional color accuracy. Initially launching in Europe and China at a starting price of €899, Acer plans to bring this model to the US market, though pricing details are pending due to ongoing tariff negotiations. The company aims to reveal the US price as the product approaches retail availability, but given current market trends, affordability might be a concern.

MSI's entry, the 27-inch MPG 271QR X50, also features a QD-OLED panel and introduces an intriguing AI feature. A small sensor at the bottom of the display detects when the user moves away, triggering the monitor to turn off and activate its burn-in protection. This AI-driven approach to burn-in prevention, while slightly unsettling, is a proactive step in preserving the longevity of the OLED display.

The question arises: do gaming monitors really need to be this fast? The Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, with its 610Hz refresh rate, is undeniably impressive, yet achieving such high frame rates even in games like Marvel Rivals would necessitate an RTX 5090 and possibly multi-frame generation, which isn't ideal for competitive play due to added latency.

To fully leverage these high refresh rates, a powerful CPU is essential alongside a robust GPU. Technologies like Nvidia Reflex and frame generation help, but at around 600 fps, a formidable CPU is still required to keep the graphics card supplied with data.

The advantage of such high frame rates lies in the significantly reduced render latency, crucial for competitive gaming. In games like Counter-Strike 2, where every millisecond counts, higher frame rates can mean the difference between victory and defeat. However, whether the potential performance gains justify the likely high cost of these cutting-edge monitors remains a pertinent question for most gamers.