Conclusion
With so many cutting-edge display technologies available today, it’s hard to find a monitor that does it all at a reasonable price. Premium monitors like the Acer Predator X27 and Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ deliver stunning images but have a price comparable to an entire gaming PC. Fortunately, there are alternatives. If you’re willing to sacrifice resolution and a full-array zone-dimming backlight, there are great deals to be had in high-performance gaming monitors.
The Aorus CV27F is a perfect example at $290 (at the time of writing). It delivers a reliable 165 Hz, FreeSync 2 and HDR that we’ve tested to work with both AMD and Nvidia graphics cards (the later unofficially).DCI-P3 color gamut coverage boosts image quality.
You have to give up is resolution, but that isn’t necessarily a downside. With lower pixel density comes higher frame rates and the elimination of the need for an expensive graphics card. Budget PCs can drive the CV27F at 100 fps with game detail maxed and enjoy the smooth motion and fast response that come with fast refresh rates. Additionally, the CV27F’s HDR worked reliably with both FreeSync and G-Sync systems
Our only gripe is a slightly elevated black level in HDR mode. Otherwise, the CV27F makes good use of its high-contrast VA panel. We also haven’t talked much about the Aorus’ curve because besides providing a subtle wraparound effect, it wasn’t a factor. 1500R sounds like a tight radius, but in a 16:9 format, it’s not.
The Aorus CV27F is a great budget screen for users wanting to try HDR gaming without investing in premium hardware. Highly recommended.
Image Credits: Acer, Tom's Hardware
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