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Has AOC ushered in a new era of smart computer monitors? It isn’t the only company to incorporate streaming into a desktop display, but its use of Google TV makes it the frontrunner so far, in my experience. Previous examples of this genre have been capable products but with some confusion in that needed settings are found in multiple menus and picture modes.
The idea of an all-in-one display is intriguing, but it should not have been unforeseen. Today’s big screen TVs have Adaptive-Sync and 120 Hz refresh rates with some boasting 240 Hz in FHD mode. And computer monitors now include HDMI ports and internal speakers making them capable of showing video content from disc players and streaming boxes. It was only a matter of time before someone simply tied it all together with software. AOC and Google have done this neatly.
The Q27G4XY is equally capable for gaming, TV and productivity. It pairs solid video processing with a 180 Hz refresh rate and all the necessary image elements, wide gamut color, HDR and deep contrast, to create an excellent gaming experience with smooth motion and low input lag.
Google TV brings content from thousands of streaming platforms that is no further away than the press of the included remote’s Home button. From there, you can watch Netflix or any other mainstream app with HDR, extended color and 4K support. And when you want to tweak the image, the menu system integrates all display functions into one place. There’s no hunting for the right sub-menu here, it’s all very easy to find.
The AOC Q27G4XY is truly three displays in one. It’s an excellent personal TV, solid gaming monitor and accurate for productivity. It does everything well and only costs $250. Add a pair of headphones and you’ve got an awesome screen for small spaces.
