Three cutting-edge gaming monitors were unveiled at Computex, each pushing the boundaries of refresh rates. The fastest among them is the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, a 1080p display boasting an astonishing 610Hz refresh rate. Both MSI and Acer have introduced 1440p monitors with 500Hz refresh rates, specs that challenge even the capabilities of an RTX 5090 paired with 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 has confirmed that it will eventually bring the monitor to the US, though pricing remains undisclosed due to ongoing tariff negotiations with retailers. Given the rising costs of tech products in the US, affordability may be a concern.

MSI's entry, the 27-inch MPG 271QR X50, also features a QD-OLED panel but includes a unique AI-driven feature. As reported by PC Gamer, the monitor is equipped with a sensor that detects when you step away, triggering an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) to automatically turn off the display as a measure against burn-in. This burn-in protection is crucial for OLED displays, especially in gaming monitors where static images are common. While the AI aspect may seem a bit unsettling, it's preferable to the display's protection feature activating during gameplay.

Do Gaming Monitors Need to Be This Fast?

The emergence of these ultra-fast monitors raises the question of necessity. The Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, with its 610Hz refresh rate at 1080p, is remarkably swift, even in an era where Nvidia's multi-frame generation technology pushes frame rates to new heights. Achieving such high frame rates in games like Marvel Rivals would require not just an RTX 5090 but also multi-frame generation, which can introduce latency issues, making it less ideal for competitive play.

To fully leverage these high refresh rates, a robust CPU is essential, as it must continuously feed the graphics card with data. While technologies like Nvidia Reflex and frame generation help, reaching frame rates around 600 fps demands a powerful CPU. The advantage of such high frame rates lies in significantly reduced render latency, a critical factor in competitive gaming where even minimal input lag can determine the outcome of a match. However, the high cost of these monitors may make them a niche product, catering primarily to professional gamers and enthusiasts willing to invest in the ultimate gaming experience.