with the series Optix MAG, MSI gets into that middle range of monitor da gaming full of proposals. In this review we will analyze the MSI’s new Optix MAG 274UPF and we will find out if it manages to stand out from the crowd, in terms of technical specifications, graphic performance and obviously, value for money.
But let’s start in order.
Our review of the MSI 274UPF Optix MAG monitor
The 27″ MSI Optix MAG monitor boasts a 4K resolution and a refresh rate of 144Hz. The monitor is designed for gaming but is also perfectly suited for multimedia use more generally. The IPS panel ensures wide color gamut and color accuracy, making it ideal for creative work, graphic design, video editing and so on.
Data sheet
- Dimensions: 242.2 x 196.5 x 399.2 mm
- Weight: 8KG
- Display: 27″ Rapid IPS yes 4K
- Resolution: 3840×2160 (UHD)
- Brightness: 400 Nits
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- G-Sync: compatible
- Porte: DisplayPort 1.4, 2 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB-A da 65 watt, 1 USB-Type C, 1 USB- Type B e un ingresso Jack
Design
The MSI Optix MAG monitor features a classic all-black design, with a solid rectangular base to support it. The style of the screen does not stand out for any particular elements other than a fascinating play of grooves and reliefs on the back where the MSI logo heads. Monitor and base provide an excellent feel robustness and elegancema without overdoing it.
The base supports the monitor perfectly and also allows us to adjust its height and rotate it up to a maximum of approximately 60°. This allows the monitor to easily adapt to the user’s environment and preferences, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.
On the back of the monitor we find the classic red “joystick” to adjust its settings (which can also be managed from MSI’s Game Intelligence app) and the various ports and connectors. Among these we find: 1 DisplayPort 1.4, 2 HDMI 2.1, 2 USB-A da 65 watt, 1 USB-Type C, 1 USB- Type B e un ingresso Jack
In addition to the monitor, inside the package we find the instruction manual, the power cable and an HDMI cable.
Technology
Certainly more particular than the body is the inside of the monitor. The 27″ display with very thin edges is equipped with a 4K Rapid IPS panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and a response time of 1ms GtG. This translates into a remarkable fluidity and sharpness of imagesimproving visual details and reducing annoying defects that affect video games such as Motion Blur.
The monitor is equipped with support for HDR technology capable of producing images with greater detail and a much wider color range. Added to this is the peak brightness of 400 Nits which although it does not represent excellence, guarantees excellent colors and darks.
The monitor offers several preset modes, optimized for different activities such as gaming, watching movies or graphics work, offering better customization of the viewing experience. The monitor already has modes specific to the genre of games such as FPS, RPG, RTS, Racing, etc. Each of them is obviously customizable for a truly unique experience suited to our needs.
Our test of MSI’s Optix MAG monitor
We had the 27″ MSI OPTIX MAG on test for about two weeks, during which it replaced our daily monitor.
At first glance the monitor looks good, without infamy or praise. Design and performance of the materials are in line with MSI and market standards, without particular note of merit. Assembling the monitor and base is really simple and the latter offers excellent stability to the monitor without taking up too much space on the desk.
The 27″ display offers everything we analyzed in the review. The 144Hz refresh rate delivers excellent fluidity and the 4K resolution is a pleasure for the eyes especially in single-player video games with brilliant atmospheres. Gaming, in fact, is certainly the field in which it gives its best. We have tried it with a large number of titles, from FPS to MOBAs to strategy games. In every situation the monitor returned excellent image quality, again in line with what is available on the market.
We particularly appreciated the great customization that can be given to the images and colors depending on the situation we find ourselves in. While the available presets have also been well thought out, you can choose things like brightness, FreeSync, dark rendering and much much more, for a truly unique experience suited to our tastes and eyes.
MSI’s OPTIX MAG review in brief
The MSI Optix MAG274UPF should be praised for its visual quality, image fluidity and versatility of connectivity options, offering an immersive viewing experience that is adaptable to user needs.
We are not sure that these characteristics, combined with the price of around €600 they will allow it to stand out from the crowd, but this does not mean that we are faced with an excellent monitor. A more than right choice if you are looking for a high-performance monitor, both for gaming and for everyday useoffering a combination of visual quality, fluidity and connectivity flexibility.