Monoprice has been offering value-priced displays for some years now, and we’ve reviewed a number of them. Each one is just a little better than those that came before. The Monoprice Dark Matter 27-inch 240 Hz Monitor we covered a few months ago impressed us with its snappy 240 Hz refresh rate and solid contrast. The 42892 is even better in every way that counts.
With QHD resolution and 109ppi pixel density, it hits that sweet spot between image clarity and speed. Maxing frame rates at 165 or 180 Hz is a cinch with many graphics cards. It’s faster than even the best 4K gaming monitor currently available, and when the action moves quickly, motion resolution is the important element. The 42892 keeps things rock solid and clear, no matter how quickly you move the mouse or how intensely the bullets fly.
Image quality is easily above the 42892’s price class. With over 94% coverage of DCI-P3, it ranks near the top of all the extended color monitors we’ve reviewed, though it comes up a little short in red.
The IGZO panel contributes to excellent contrast as well. Most IPS displays do well to hit 1,000:1, but the 42892 tops 1,300:1, no small feat. Plus, calibration isn’t required but makes a small improvement. That’s something else we rarely say about budget monitors.
For $350, the Dark Matter by Monoprice 27-Inch Gaming Monitor (42892) delivers everything needed for quality gaming. Speed, responsiveness, clarity and saturation are nicely balanced. If you’re looking for a standout 27-inch QHD gaming monitor in the $350 price range, this is definitely worth checking out.
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