msi msi G273CQ, 27" Gaming Monitor, 2560 x 1440 (QHD), Review

The MSI G273CQ is a value-focused 1440p gaming monitor with a great 170Hz refresh rate and a immersive curve. Its color and ergonomics are average, but its gaming performance and price are standout. You can find it for as low as $173, which makes it a top pick for budget-conscious gamers who want to upgrade from 1080p.

Let's talk about the MSI G273CQ. It's a 27-inch curved gaming monitor that's trying to do a lot of things at a very reasonable price. You get a 1440p resolution, a 170Hz refresh rate, and FreeSync Premium, all wrapped in a 1500R curve that MSI says is for 'the best gameplay immersion.' This is a monitor built specifically for gamers who want a step up from 1080p without diving into the expensive world of 4K. It's interesting because it's a strong middle-ground contender, offering features that punch above its price bracket in some areas, while making clear compromises in others.

The 170Hz refresh rate is the headline spec here, and it's solid. In our database, this refresh rate lands in the 73rd percentile for performance, meaning it's well above average. For gaming, that translates to smooth, fluid motion, especially when paired with FreeSync Premium to handle variable frame rates. The 1ms response time claim helps minimize ghosting, making fast-paced games feel more responsive. The real-world implication is clear: this monitor will handle most modern games beautifully, keeping you competitive in shooters and immersed in action titles.

This is where the G273CQ shines. For a 1440p, 170Hz monitor, the price range of $173 to $423 is aggressive. If you can snag it near the $173 mark, it's an absolute steal. Even at the higher end, it's competitive. You're trading some premium features like full ergonomics and top-tier color for raw gaming performance at a budget. Compared to other brands at this spec level, MSI is often the most affordable option, which explains its stellar social proof scores. People feel they got a great deal.

The obvious competitors are other 27-inch 1440p high-refresh monitors. The ASUS ROG Swift 27" 4K 240Hz is a different beast, aiming for premium 4K. It's much more expensive. The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 and LG UltraGear models are larger, ultrawide, or OLED screens, commanding a significantly higher price for their niche formats. For a direct 27-inch 1440p comparison, you might look at other VA panels from brands like Gigabyte or AOC. The trade-off is usually this: the G273CQ will likely have a better price, but you might sacrifice a bit on color accuracy or build quality. If you want better colors and ergonomics, an IPS panel from Dell or LG will cost more.

Skip this monitor if you're a graphic designer, photographer, or anyone who needs precise, accurate colors. Its color performance is middle of the pack, and the VA panel's viewing angles aren't ideal for color-critical work. Also, if you need a flexible setup, the lack of height and swivel adjustment is a real drawback. For those users, look towards IPS panels from brands like Dell UltraSharp or LG, even if they cost a bit more. And if you're all about the latest tech and want true HDR or OLED perfection, this isn't your screen. It's a practical gaming tool, not a premium showcase.

If you're a gamer looking for a smooth, immersive 1440p experience and your budget is tight, this monitor is a fantastic choice. Prioritize finding it at the lower end of its price range. The high refresh rate, curvature, and generally positive user experience make it a safe bet. However, if you're a content creator who needs accurate colors, or if you want a monitor you can adjust perfectly to your posture, you should skip this. The limited ergonomics and middling color scores mean it's not built for that. For pure gaming value, it's a strong recommendation.