BenQ offers some great Esports gaming monitors that feature high-speed refresh rates. We got to try out the new ZOWIE XL2731 144Hz 27-inch Esports gaming monitor.
Design and Features
The BenQ ZOWIE XL2731 gaming monitor features a 27-inch display with a TN panel. The screen has a display area of 597.60 x 336.15. BenQ opted to use FHD screen resolution and the monitor also has support for refresh rates up to 144Hz. Users will be able to increases the brightness up to 320cd/m2. The contrast ratio of the monitor is 1000:1, and the dynamic contrast ratio is 12M:1.
As for gaming consoles, BenQ does mention that the ZOWIE XL2731 is capable of offering 1080p gaming at a 120Hz refresh rate, but only for the Microsoft Xbox Series X via the HDMI port. Users will need to manually adjust the refresh rate to 120Hz on the Xbox Series X. BenQ has left instructions on how to do the adjustments on the product page. And even if BenQ does not mention compatibility with the Sony PS5, we had connected our console and found that the 120Hz option was there but it will automatically be enabled when play games that support 120fps gaming. Sony had rolled out a firmware update to enable 1080p at 120Hz some time ago.
The design of the monitor features a dimension of 549.37 (Highest) / 424.89 (Lowest) x 632.5 x 227.35. And when using the wall-mount, the dimensions are 373.8 x 632.5 x 63.5. Unlike conventional monitors, the new XL-series comes with a screen frame that has far less light reflection from the main screen panel so gamers can focus on the game without any distractions.
Instead of letting users fiddle with the monitor for the perfect viewing angles, BenQ has made it easy for users to adjust the height of the display with the Height Adjustable Stand. You will only need to adjust the display with only one finger to the position that suits your viewing experience and maximum comfort. The display can be tilted between -5~20 degrees and the height can be adjusted up to 140mm. The screen can also be adjusted to the Pivot 90 degree angle.
On the rear side, you get connectivity options such as DVI-DL, two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.2, and a headphone jack. There is also a reflective area on the rear side that is perhaps done as a part of the design. BenQ also added a handle on the rear side so you will be able to help carry the monitor to online tournaments if needed.
We should also mention that the base of the monitor is quite heavy by itself and acts as a support when you try to adjust the viewing angles. The weight of the monitor is 9.5kg.
BenQ has implemented some of its best stuff that enhances the gaming experiences. There is the Black eQualizer that basically brightens the dark area of the gameplay without the need for overexposing the areas that are already bright. This helps to maintain the visuals while gamers will be able to view enemies hidden in the dark areas. Then comes the Color Vibrance that allows gamers to fine-tune the color grading. You get to choose between 20 levels of Color Vibrance settings to adjust the visuals that suit your preferences. We should also add the fact that the ZOWIE XL2731 has support for FreeSync Premium that delivers smooth gameplay.
The buttons of the monitor are located on the bottom left of the display. There are five buttons placed in a row next to the power button. The first button is meant to get quick access to the picture modes, the second one is to get access to the Color Vibrance feature, the third is for Black the Black eQualizer, and the fourth is for the main OSD menu.
For viewing comfort and safety of the eyes, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2731 features Flicker-free technology that gets rid of the harmful flicker seen on conventional displays. BenQ also did not skip on the reduction of the blue light effect with its Low Blue Light capability.
Verdict
If you are looking for a good 27-inch gaming monitor and don’t mind the viewing angles, then the BenQ ZOWIE XL2731 is a good choice to think about. The TN monitor features a native FHD screen resolution and the refresh rate goes up to 144Hz. The monitor also has support for the latest game consoles to play at 120Hz. The non-reflective frame of the monitor helps to avoid distractions and the viewing angles of the screen can be easily adjusted.
The monitor also has enough connectivity options to connect your consoles and your PC. There is also a handle on the back to easily transport the montior. The display also has support for AMD FreeSync Premium and other gaming features such as Black eQualizer and Color Variance to enhance the visuals of the gameplay.