MSI MAG274QRF-QD 165Hz WQHD IPS model
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made using the “Buy” button at the bottom of this post. Where possible, you'll be redirected to your nearest store. Further information on supporting our work.An extensive range of 2560 x 1440 (WQHD) models are now available with high refresh rates. They’re amongst the most popular models discussed on our forum in threads like this one (and the multitude of other threads linked to there). The MSI MAG274QRF-QD of the Optix series is one such offering, with the usual associated simple and understated styling. The bottom bezel is medium-dark grey with a black MSI logo centrally. The stand base and neck is also composed of dark matte plastics. The top and side bezels are dual-stage, with a slender panel border that’s flush with the rest of the screen plus a slim hard plastic outer component. The OSD (On Screen Display) is controlled by a red joystick at the rear of the monitor, towards the right side as viewed from the front.
The screen uses a 27″ 2560 x 1440 (WQHD) IPS-type panel with 165Hz refresh rate. More specifically an AU Optronics AHVA (Advanced Hyper-Viewing Angle) panel, the M270DAN08.2. Adaptive-Sync is also supported, including AMD FreeSync and Nvidia’s ‘G-SYNC Compatible Mode’, with a VRR range of 48 – 165Hz. Other aspects of note include the use of a light matte anti-glare screen surface, a 1000:1 static contrast ratio and 178° horizontal and vertical viewing angles. 10-bit colour is supported (8-bits + FRC dithering), whilst a Quantum Dot LED backlight (Quantum Dots + blue LED) is used. This provides a colour gamut of 97% DCI-P3 (147%) for an extra dose of vibrancy and saturation, whilst a maximum luminance of 300 cd/m² is also specified. The backlight is marketed as ‘anti-flicker’ by MSI, whilst Low Blue Light (LBL) settings are included to further enhance viewing comfort. The monitor responds to HDR10 content, allowing 10-bit colour processing to be used and the generous DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage to be put to good use. The luminance level is very limited for HDR and no local dimming is specified, though, so this is only rudimentary HDR support.
A 1ms grey to grey response time is specified, but as usual take this with a pinch of salt. The rear of the monitor has a more adventurous design than the front. Your wall will love it! The left side has a triangular brushed matte black plastic area with silver and red MSI dragon and shield logo. The rest of the screen is largely plain black mate plastic, aside from a glossy area above the stand attachment point. There is also a strip of ‘Mystic Light’ RGB LEDs which can be controlled through the OSD or using the Mystic Light app on PC or smartphone. The included stand attaches centrally, offering full ergonomic flexibility. It can be removed and replaced with an alternative 100 x 100mm VESA compatible solution if preferred. The ports face downwards and include; DC power input (external ‘power brick’), DP 1.4, 2 HDMI 2.0 ports, USB-C (DP Alt Mode, 15W PD), 2 USB 2.0 ports (plus upstream) and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Further information can be found on the manufacturer’s website. The monitor is listed for $450.
