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If you’ve been lusting after the high contrast and saturated color offered by OLED technology, but also want high light output and value, Mini LED is more than happy to satisfy. Once premium tech, it has become a great alternative that delivers 90% of the goodness for a third the cost.
AOC’s Q27G40XMN is selling for a relatively low $270 at this writing. For that, you get a 180 Hz panel with a terrific overdrive that contributes to a nearly blur-free experience with input lag low enough to be competition worthy. It’s brighter than any OLED with over 1,300 nits available in HDR mode and more than 500 for SDR content. Color volume is over 104% of DCI-P3 thanks to Quantum Dot tech, something more often seen on more expensive screens.
My only complaint is about SDR color accuracy. It isn’t strictly to spec, though not too far off, but in practice, the image is pleasing and sharply detailed. And creatives needing sRGB will find a very usable option that nails its parameters with precision.
The only things missing here are USB ports and speakers, not unusual for a budget display. The stand is simple, but AOC includes the usual VESA mount with fasteners if you want to employ an arm. And the price is low enough to make two or three Q27G40XMNs a viable option.
If you’ve been lusting after OLED contrast, color and performance but only have $300 to spend on a 27-inch gaming monitor, the AOC Q27G40XMN is a great choice for budget-minded gamers.
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