Acer Predator X27U OLED 27" Monitor: A Comprehensive Review
The Acer Predator X27U stands out in the crowded market of high-end OLED gaming monitors. It shares its 27-inch LG WOLED panel with other notable models like the LG 27GR95QE, Asus PG27AQDM, and Corsair 27QHD240, but offers unique features and design elements. This review delves into the Acer Predator X27U's performance and design, assessing its value in the competitive gaming monitor market.
Dec 15, 2023 - 11:45
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Design and Appearance
The Acer Predator X27U sports a familiar design for those acquainted with its contemporaries. It features a sleek OLED screen with thin bezels, providing an immersive gaming experience. The rear design adopts a 'central box' style typical of OLED monitors, with the thin panel extending from a black plastic box with texture highlights. Notably, Acer's design eschews RGB LED lighting, favoring a more understated look.
A distinguishing feature of the Acer Predator X27U is its stand, combining metal legs with a smooth finish and a plastic pillar. While the metal legs impart a premium feel, the plastic pillar seems less impressive, slightly diminishing the overall aesthetic. Despite this, the stand offers excellent ergonomic support, including height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, making it versatile for various desk setups.
Connectivity and Inputs
The monitor is equipped with a DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and a USB Type-C input supporting DP Alt-Mode and 90W power delivery. The choice of HDMI 2.0, limited to 144Hz, is a bit disappointing as HDMI 2.1 would allow full utilization of the monitor's 240Hz capability. Additionally, the monitor includes a built-in KVM switch compatible with the USB ports, enhancing its versatility.
On-Screen Display (OSD) and Gaming Features
The OSD, controlled via a directional toggle, offers a range of gaming-centric features like a crosshair, FPS counter, timer, sniper mode, and black boosting. While some features, such as the crosshair, might pose a burn-in risk on OLED screens, they are included for occasional use. The OSD also provides various color controls and settings, catering to different user preferences.
Screen Coating and Subpixel Layout
The Predator X27U uses a matte anti-glare coating similar to other variants in this OLED category. This coating, though heavier and potentially not favored by those averse to coating grain, effectively reduces reflections and preserves the deep blacks characteristic of OLED displays.
Burn-In Considerations
Like its counterparts, the Acer model incorporates technology to mitigate the risk of burn-in, a concern for OLED screens. Users should be aware of this potential issue, especially when using static images or certain OSD features over extended periods.
Overall Assessment of the Acer Predator X27U
The Acer Predator X27U OLED offers a high-quality gaming experience, with its impressive panel and ergonomic stand design. While the use of HDMI 2.0 ports and the plastic component of the stand could be seen as drawbacks, the monitor's performance, OSD features, and effective anti-glare coating make it a strong contender in the high-end gaming monitor segment.
Conclusion: Is the Acer Predator X27U Worth It?
In conclusion, the Acer Predator X27U OLED is a solid choice for gamers seeking a premium OLED experience, balancing performance with design. Its strengths lie in its ergonomic versatility, screen quality, and gaming-oriented features. However, potential buyers should consider the limitations in connectivity options and the mixed materials in its construction. The Predator X27U stands as a testament to Acer's commitment to providing high-quality gaming monitors, despite some areas for improvement.
