Gigabyte GIGABYTE 27" UHD 4k 160Hz IPS with AMD FreeSync Review
The Gigabyte GS27U packs a 4K 160Hz IPS panel into a budget-friendly frame. It's a specs monster for the price, but makes some expected compromises.
The 30-Second Version
The Gigabyte GS27U delivers high-refresh 4K gaming at a surprisingly affordable price. Its 160Hz IPS panel is a great performer, though HDR is lackluster. If your GPU can push the pixels, it's a solid buy.
Overview
The Gigabyte GS27U is a 27-inch 4K IPS monitor that tries to do it all: high resolution, high refresh rate, and solid color. It's a spec sheet dream, landing in the 92nd percentile for both performance and display quality in our database.
But specs aren't everything. The real question is whether cramming 4K and 160Hz into a 27-inch screen creates a compelling package, or if it's a jack-of-all-trades that makes some serious compromises to hit its price point.
Performance
This thing is fast. A 160Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT response time means motion looks crisp, and it feels responsive. The 4K resolution is sharp, and the IPS panel offers good viewing angles. The catch? HDR400 is basically a checkbox feature—it's there, but don't expect transformative HDR. Also, hitting that 160Hz at 4K requires a serious graphics card and the right cable (use the DisplayPort).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sharp 4K resolution on a 27-inch screen. 92th
- High 160Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming. 91th
- Includes both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 cables. 90th
- Solid 95% DCI-P3 color coverage for vibrant images. 84th
Cons
- HDR400 is underwhelming and barely noticeable. 29th
- Ergonomics are basic with tilt-only stand.
- Requires a powerful GPU to drive 4K at high frames.
- Panel uniformity and backlight bleed can be a lottery.
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Display
| Size | 27" |
| Resolution | 3840 (4K UHD) |
| Panel Type | IPS |
Performance
| Refresh Rate | 160 Hz |
| Response Time | 1 |
| Adaptive Sync | FreeSync |
Color & HDR
| HDR | HDR400 |
| HDR Support | HDR400 |
Connectivity
| HDMI Ports | 2 |
| DisplayPort | 1 |
| Speakers | No |
Ergonomics
| Height Adjustable | No |
| Tilt | Yes |
| Swivel | No |
| Pivot | No |
| VESA Mount | 100x100 |
Features
| Webcam | No |
Value & Pricing
If you find this around $250-$300, it's a strong value. You're getting a high-refresh 4K panel, which is a rare combo at this price. Just know you're paying for the core specs (the panel and refresh rate), not premium extras like great HDR, USB hubs, or a fancy stand.
vs Competition
It sits in a crowded field. Compared to a 1440p 240Hz monitor, you're trading raw speed for pixel density. Next to a proper 4K 144Hz monitor from ASUS or LG, you're saving money but losing out on better HDR, build quality, and often better tuning. The Samsung Odyssey G7 offers better contrast with its VA panel, but the Gigabyte has better viewing angles. It's a classic price/performance play.
| Spec | Gigabyte GIGABYTE 27" UHD 4k 160Hz IPS with AMD FreeSync | Samsung Odyssey Samsung - 57" Odyssey Neo G9 Dual 4K UHD Quantum | LG UltraGear LG UltraGear 45" WUHD DUAL MODE 4K 165Hz FHD 330Hz | ASUS ROG Swift ASUS Republic of Gamers Swift OLED PG27UCDM 26.5" | MSI MPG MSI 27 inch WQHD 2K 1440P 360Hz with AMD FreeSync | Dell UltraSharp Dell UltraSharp 27" 4K HDR 120 Hz Monitor (2-Pack) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 27 | 57 | 45 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 7680 x 2160 | 5120 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 | 2560 x 1440 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Panel Type | IPS | VA | OLED | OLED | OLED | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 160 | 240 | 165 | 240 | 360 | 120 |
| Response Time Ms | 1 | 1 | - | - | 0 | 5 |
| Adaptive Sync | FreeSync | FreeSync Premium Pro | G-Sync Compatible | G-Sync Compatible | FreeSync Premium Pro | - |
| Hdr | HDR400 | HDR10+ | HDR10 | HDR400 | HDR400 | HDR |
Common Questions
Q: Can my PC run games at 4K 160Hz on this monitor?
You'll need a very powerful GPU, like an RTX 4070 Ti or better, to hit high frame rates in modern games at native 4K. For less demanding titles or using upscaling, mid-range cards can work well.
Q: Does it work with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards?
Yes. AMD FreeSync Premium works with AMD cards, but the monitor is also G-Sync Compatible, so it will work with variable refresh rate on most modern NVIDIA GPUs without issue.
Q: Is the stand height adjustable?
No, the included stand only allows for tilt adjustment. For height, swivel, or pivot, you'll need to use the 100x100mm VESA mount to attach your own monitor arm.
Who Should Skip This
Skip this if you care about true HDR. The HDR400 certification is basically meaningless for a good experience. Also, if you need a monitor with great ergonomics out of the box, look at models from Dell or LG that include fully adjustable stands. This one is a panel-first product.
Verdict
Buy this if you have a powerful PC (think RTX 4070 or better) and want to experience high-framerate 4K gaming without spending $800+. It's a fantastic upgrade from 1440p or 60Hz 4K. Just go in knowing the HDR is weak and the stand is barebones.