Best 27-Inch Gaming Monitors for PC in 2019

The AOC AGON AG273Q is the latest third-gen monitor from AOC, packing new technologies, enhanced features, and even some RGB lighting for those who enjoy a little light show. It's also an affordable choice, allowing you to spare more of your budget for PC components and other upgrades.

AOC AGON AG273Q

The perfect upgrade for your non-gaming PC display

Who should buy this PC monitor

Why you can trust Windows Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

You should buy this monitor if you need a display to keep up with your GPU, thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate and synchronization support for AMD and NVIDIA cards. The display itself also looks good and can be mounted on an arm of your choosing if the included stand isn't quite what you need.

Is it a good time to buy this PC monitor?

Now is a perfect time to buy the AG273Q since it's part of AOC's 2019 model lineup. You'll be able to get many years out of this model before a successor is released. The latest tech is also included in this display.

Gorgeous visuals on a solid monitor

AOC displays are understated when it comes to design, but I view that as a highlight since we're not having to overlook aggressive styling on the chassis. The AG273 looks smart and premium. Interestingly, this display is curved, unlike the majority of AOC's mainstream gaming monitor series.

Specifications-wise, we're looking at a response time of just one millisecond, 144Hz refresh rate, HDR support (only on the FreeSync 2 model) and a maximum brightness of around 400 cd/m². For ports, there are plenty to choose from, including two DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0, four USB 3.0, Mini-USB (fast-charging), and finally two 1.5mm audio jacks.

AOC's AG273 is the go-to monitor for PC gamers wanting to play at 1440p.

Compared to older AOC panels and even some competitor models, the on-screen controls are vastly improved. It's much easier to navigate through available settings, make some changes and then get back to the game in a few seconds. Everything is controlled using a small joystick underneath the monitor, which also serves as the on and off switch.

You'll want to play around with the settings a little as the monitor (like other AOC displays) isn't calibrated too well from the factory. You could enhance games quickly by switching to "gamma 2" using the OSD and making sure the low blue light setting is toggled off. After that, it's a fantastic 1440p QHD gaming monitor.

Alternatives to the AOC AGON AG273Q

The AGON AG273Q is a stunning display with everything you need to play PC games, but it might not be perfect for everyone. Here are some noteworthy alternatives.

Dell Gaming S2716DGR

Go all out with Dell and G-Sync

Reasons to buy

+
FreeSync 2 or G-Sync
+
HDR10 (Freesync 2 only)
+
144Hz refresh rate
+
Solid design
+
VESA

Reasons to avoid

-
HDR isn't perfect
-
RGB lighting is weak

Should you have a compatible NVIDIA GPU, the company's G-Sync technology will be able to work alongside the graphics card to reduce screen tearing, input lag and synchronize everything. With a native refresh rate of 144Hz, the 1440p panel will allow for some smooth gaming indeed. Connectivity includes a DisplayPort 1.2a, HDMI 1.4 and a few USB 3.0 ports for good measure. While it's only a 1440p display, G-Sync adds some cost, which needs to be considered.

ASUS MG278Q

ASUS makes great monitors

Native resolution on this monitor is 2,560 x 1,440, and its aspect ratio is a standard 16:9. It has a TN panel, meaning you get the incredible response time with less power draw but suffer from some wide-angle color distortions. This shouldn't be a problem, though, since you're generally seated directly in front of your monitor. Your eyes will thank you during marathon gaming sessions, thanks to ASUS's Ultra-Low blue light filter and flicker-free technology. Connections are versatile; the monitor has two HDMI ports and single ports for DVI-DL. DisplayPort, and USB 3.0.

Acer ED273

When on a tight budget, Acer has a great monitor for you

Native resolution on this monitor is 1920 x 1080. Being a VA panel, you can enjoy a solid response time of just four milliseconds and a refresh rate of 144Hz. Multiple connectors are at hand for hooking up your PC and other devices, including ports for HDMI, DVI-DL, and DisplayPort.

Bottom line

When checking out the catalog of 27-inch gaming displays, AOC tops our list with the AGON AG273Q, which can be purchased with support for FreeSync 2 or G-Sync.

AOC AGON AG273Q

The perfect upgrade for your non-gaming PC display.
Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.