Get insider access
Preferred store
Your browser is not supported or outdated so some features of the site might not be available.
We've recently released Test Bench 2.0 for Monitors! Read our new VRR Flicker R&D Article and Pursuit Photo R&D Article to learn more.

ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM Monitor Review

Tested using Methodology v2.0
Review updated Mar 29, 2024 at 01:44 pm
Latest change: Writing modified Oct 09, 2024 at 02:26 pm
ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM Picture
9.0
PC Gaming
8.3
Console Gaming
7.4
Office
8.7
Editing
7.3
Brightness
9.9
Response Time
8.8
HDR Picture
9.9
SDR Picture
9.0
Color Accuracy

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM is a 27-inch, 1440p gaming monitor. Along with the Corsair XENEON 27QHD240, this monitor is the main competitor to the LG 27GR95QE-B, as all three monitors use the same OLED panel with a 240Hz refresh rate. It features FreeSync variable refresh rate (VRR) support with G-SYNC compatibility, so it can reduce screen tearing with any type of graphics card. However, because it's limited to HDMI 2.0 bandwidth, HDMI 2.1 sources, like current-gen gaming consoles, can't make full use of the monitor. It's advertised to use heatsink technology that's supposed to make the screen brighter than other monitors with the same panel, and it has features to help reduce the risk of permanent burn-in, like pixel cleaning and screen move options.

Note: We originally tested this monitor with firmware MCM102, as we couldn't update to any of the newer firmware, MCM103 or MCM104. We tried four different PCs, with Windows 10 and 11, and couldn't update the firmware using the ASUS installer. We looked into why none of those PCs worked, but we couldn't find anything unusual. Other people have noticed this online, as you can read more about it here and here. This issue is caused by the firmware installer not working with certain PCs, but we couldn't find any common aspects about the configurations of the first four PCs we tried that would explain this problem. Because it's an issue related to the installer, we would have experienced the same thing even with another unit of this monitor.

Finally, we could update the firmware with a fifth PC, a basic desktop PC with Windows 11. However, on July 11, 2023, ASUS released an updated version of firmware MCM104 that you can install via USB. If you're having trouble updating the firmware with the installer, you can try updating it with a USB instead.

Our Verdict

9.0 PC Gaming

The ASUS PG27AQDM is incredible for PC gaming. It has a near-instantaneous response time, resulting in sharp motion without any inverse ghosting or blur trail behind fast-moving objects. It also has VRR support to reduce screen tearing and a fast 240Hz refresh rate. It even has low input lag for a responsive feel, as long as the monitor is updated to the latest firmware. Unfortunately, it has noticeable VRR flicker with changing frame rates, which is distracting in dark scenes. On the plus side, it's great for dark room gaming as it displays perfect blacks, and there isn't any blooming around bright objects.

Pros
  • 240Hz refresh rate with VRR support.
  • Near-instantaneous response time.
  • Near-infinite contrast ratio.
  • Perfect black uniformity.
Cons
  • Limited to HDMI 2.0 bandwidth.
  • Distracting VRR flicker.
8.3 Console Gaming

The ASUS PG27AQDM is great for console gaming. It delivers a smooth gaming feel thanks to its low input lag and near-instantaneous response time for sharp motion. That said, it lacks HDMI 2.1 bandwidth to take full advantage of the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, and it's limited to a 1440p resolution. Luckily, it delivers exceptional picture quality in both SDR and HDR, with deep and inky blacks and no blooming around bright objects.

Pros
  • Near-instantaneous response time.
  • Near-infinite contrast ratio.
  • Perfect black uniformity.
Cons
  • Limited to HDMI 2.0 bandwidth.
7.4 Office

The ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDM is decent for office use, but it's mainly limited by its issues with text clarity. Because computer operating systems don't render text well with the display's RWBG subpixel layout, text isn't as sharp as on other displays with the same pixel density. OLEDs are also prone to burn-in with constant exposure to the same static elements over time, like if you have a taskbar on the screen all day. It doesn't get bright enough to fight a ton of glare either, which is disappointing if you want to use it in a well-lit office, but it has fantastic reflection handling. It also has really wide viewing angles, which are useful if you constantly need to share the screen with someone else.

Pros
  • Fantastic reflection handling.
  • Wide viewing angles.
  • Amazing ergonomics.
Cons
  • OLEDs are prone to burn-in.
  • Not bright enough for well-lit rooms.
  • Text clarity issues.
8.7 Editing

The ASUS PG27AQDM is excellent for content creators but has some limitations. It has amazing accuracy in its sRGB mode, and it also displays a wide range of colors. The amazing ergonomics and wide viewing angles are also ideal if you constantly need to share the screen with someone else. However, it has text clarity issues caused by its subpixel layout, so text elements in your editing programs don't look sharp. OLEDs like this one are also prone to burn-in with constant exposure to the same static elements over time, like if you work with the same editing program open all day.

Pros
  • Fantastic reflection handling.
  • Wide viewing angles.
  • Amazing ergonomics.
  • Amazing image accuracy in sRGB mode.
Cons
  • OLEDs are prone to burn-in.
  • Not bright enough for well-lit rooms.
  • Text clarity issues.
7.3 Brightness

The ASUS PG27AQDM has decent brightness. While it has okay SDR brightness and is bright enough for rooms with a few dim lights around, it isn't bright enough to fight intense glare. Luckily, it gets brighter in HDR as small highlights really pop, but the screen gets dimmer with larger highlights.

Pros
  • Bright enough for small highlights to pop.
Cons
  • Not bright enough for well-lit rooms.
9.9 Response Time

The ASUS PG27AQDM has a near-instantaneous response time, leading to exceptionally sharp motion.

Pros
  • Near-instantaneous response time.
  • Outstanding refresh rate compliance.
Cons
8.8 HDR Picture

The ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDM is incredible for HDR, but you must update it to the latest firmware for the best performance. It displays deep blacks and has perfect black uniformity, meaning it performs extremely well in dark rooms. It has good peak brightness, enough to make colors look vivid, but it has limited coverage of the Rec. 2020 color space, so not all content looks as it should.

Pros
  • Near-infinite contrast ratio.
  • Perfect black uniformity.
  • Bright enough for small highlights to pop.
Cons
  • Aggressive ABL in HDR.
9.9 SDR Picture

The ASUS PG27AQDM has exceptional picture quality in SDR. It displays deep and inky blacks without any blooming, and it also displays a wide range of colors.

Pros
  • Near-infinite contrast ratio.
  • Perfect black uniformity.
Cons
9.0 Color Accuracy

The ASUS PG27AQDM has fantastic color accuracy. It has an extremely accurate sRGB picture mode, but you can still get the best accuracy with a full calibration. Luckily, it has excellent gray uniformity, so the accurate image remains consistent across the entire screen.

Pros
  • Amazing image accuracy in sRGB mode.
Cons
  • 9.0 PC Gaming
  • 8.3 Console Gaming
  • 7.4 Office
  • 8.7 Editing

Performance Usages

  • 7.3 Brightness
  • 9.9 Response Time
  • 8.8 HDR Picture
  • 9.9 SDR Picture
  • 9.0 Color Accuracy
  1. Updated Oct 09, 2024: Added that there's a Variant called the PG27AQDM-R that comes with a monitor arm instead of a stand.
  2. Updated Aug 02, 2024: Added that the ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG has much better SDR Brightness.
  3. Updated Jun 03, 2024: Added that the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM is an alternative if you want something that can take full advantage of the Xbox Series X|S.
  4. Updated May 28, 2024: Updated firmware to MCM106, which adds an OLED Anti-Flicker setting. Enabling it reduces VRR Flicker by a lot, but also introduces stutter. The VRR Flicker results are still with the setting disabled after the firmware update.
  5. Updated May 08, 2024: Updated it to firmware MCM105 and retested the HDR Brightness, HDR Color Gamut, and HDR Color Volume. The update slightly changes the HDR performance.
  6. Updated Apr 17, 2024: Updated text throughout the review according to Test Bench 2.0, mainly in the Verdict and Motion sections.
  7. Updated Apr 17, 2024: We've converted this review to Test Bench 2.0. This includes new tests for VRR Motion Performance, Refresh Rate Compliance, Cumulative Absolute Deviation (CAD), and VRR Flicker. You can read the full changelog here.
  8. Updated Oct 19, 2023: Added that the Acer Predator X27U bmiipruzx is another option that has a USB-C port.
  9. Updated Aug 21, 2023: Added in the Intro that the Corsair XENEON 27QHD240 is one of this monitor's main competitors.
  10. Updated Jul 28, 2023: Added that the Corsair XENEON FLEX 45WQHD240 is a bigger alternative with a 45-inch OLED screen in Resolution and Size.
  11. Updated Jul 24, 2023: Retested the Input Lag with VRR enabled, which improves the input lag. Also corrected an error that said the monitor has built-in speakers.
  12. Updated Jul 12, 2023: Updated the firmware to MCM104 and retested the HDR Brightness, HDR Color Gamut, and Input Lag. The firmware update significantly improves the performance in those areas, and the entire review has been updated to reflect those changes.
  13. Updated Jul 05, 2023: We added links to examples of people experiencing the same issue as us when trying to update the firmware in HDR Brightness, HDR Color Gamut, and Input Lag.
  14. Updated Jul 04, 2023: Review published.
  15. Updated Jun 28, 2023: Early access published.
  16. Updated Jun 16, 2023: Our testers have started testing this product.
  17. Updated Jun 09, 2023: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
  18. Updated May 03, 2023: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.

Differences Between Sizes And Variants

We tested the 27-inch ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM, the only size available for this monitor. There's also a PG27AQDM-R variant that comes with a monitor arm instead of a stand, but it performs the same.

ModelIncluded Stand
PG27AQDMStandard
PG27AQDM-RMonitor Arm

Our unit was manufactured in February 2023; you can see the label here. These results are with firmware MCM105 and MCM106, as there are some HDR issues with firmware MCM102, so if you experience issues in HDR, try updating to the latest firmware.

Compared To Other Monitors

The ASUS PG27AQDM is an incredible PC gaming monitor that combines a fast 240Hz refresh rate with an OLED panel, making it a great choice for gamers who crave high refresh rates and good picture quality. There are known HDR issues with its original firmware, but as long as you can update it to its latest firmware, it's a nice upgrade over the LG 27GR95QE-B, which uses the same panel, but the ASUS gets much brighter in HDR and has less overshoot. However, it has a more aggressive ABL than the LG, so there are some distracting changes in brightness in HDR content, even while gaming. Of course, it doesn't deliver the same vivid colors as QD-OLEDs like the Dell Alienware AW2725DF, so if you want the best picture quality, it's better to go for the Dell.

See our recommendations for the best 240Hz monitors, the best 27-inch monitors, and the best 1440p gaming monitors.

ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG

The ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG is a newer generation of 27-inch OLED monitor than the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM. Some of the changes with the XG27AQDMG include a much brighter screen in SDR, a glossy finish, and the ability to display a wider range of colors in HDR, making it the better choice for most gamers. However, if you prefer a matte display and don't mind the reduced brightness, you won't be disappointed by the older PG27AQDM.

LG 27GR95QE-B

The LG 27GR95QE-B and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM use the same panel, but there are some differences in performance. The ASUS gets much brighter in HDR, making smaller highlights pop more, but you also need to make sure to update it to the latest firmware to get the best HDR performance. The ASUS also has an advantage with motion handling as it has less overshoot. One area where the LG has an advantage is that it has HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, letting it take full advantage of gaming consoles and high-end graphics cards. The LG also has a less aggressive ABL, so there aren't as many distracting changes in brightness in HDR.

Dell Alienware AW2725DF

The Dell Alienware AW2725DF and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are 27-inch OLED displays with fantastic gaming performance and image quality. The Dell has a QD-OLED display, while the ASUS has a WOLED. The Dell performs better, with more vivid colors, a brighter display, and a higher refresh rate. However, the Dell monitor's display appears slightly purple in a brighter environment, while the ASUS' doesn't.

MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED

The MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are premium 27-inch gaming monitors. If connectivity and colors are important to you, the MSI is the better choice, as it has a KVM switch and a USB-C port, which provides 90W of power delivery. The MSI also has far more vibrant HDR colors.

ASUS ROG Swift 360Hz PG27AQN

Despite sharing similar names, the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM and the ASUS ROG Swift 360Hz PG27AQN are different types of monitors. The PG27AQDM has an OLED panel that results in deeper blacks and less blooming, and it also has better motion handling at lower refresh rates. On the other hand, the PG27AQN has a higher 360Hz refresh rate, making it a better choice for competitive gaming. It also gets brighter, has better text clarity, and doesn't risk permanent burn-in like on the PG27AQDM.

Corsair XENEON 27QHD240

The Corsair XENEON 27QHD240 and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM use the same panel, but there are a few differences. The ASUS gets much brighter, especially in HDR, and colors look more vivid thanks to its improved color volume, so its overall picture quality is better. However, the Corsair has a few extra features that the ASUS doesn't have, like HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, USB-C ports, and a KVM switch. These can be useful if you want to connect multiple devices.

Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

The Dell Alienware AW3423DWF and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are different types of OLED displays. The Dell is an ultrawide monitor with a larger screen, and it uses extra quantum dot technology to display a wider range of colors that are brighter and more vivid than on the ASUS. However, the ASUS still gets brighter, so small highlights pop more. The ASUS also has a higher 240Hz refresh rate, which makes it ideal for competitive gamers.

LG 27GS95QE-B

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM and the LG 27GS95QE-B are both 27-inch OLED gaming monitors. The LG is a better choice if you're gaming in a brighter room, as it gets brighter in SDR. However, the ASUS has advantages in a darker room, as it can reach higher HDR brightness in small parts of its screen and has more vibrant HDR colors.

Dell Alienware AW3225QF

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM and the Dell Alienware AW3225QF are both OLED gaming monitors with a few differences. The Dell delivers better overall picture quality thanks to its QD-OLED panel, which displays more vivid colors and brighter highlights. It also delivers more detail thanks to its 4k resolution. The Dell can also take full advantage of gaming consoles and HDMI 2.1 graphics cards thanks to its HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. One advantage of the ASUS is that it maintains its perfect black levels even in bright rooms, as black levels rise with ambient light on the Dell.

ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are different types of OLED displays. The PG32UCDM has a QD-OLED panel, resulting in brighter and more vivid colors, while the PG27AQDM has a W-OLED panel that can display perfect blacks even in bright rooms. Overall, the PG32UCDM is the better choice for most gamers, especially if you want something for console gaming, as it has a higher 4k resolution for more detailed images, and it can take full advantage of the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, but the lower input lag on the PG27AQDM results in a more responsive feel.

Samsung Odyssey OLED G8/G85SB S34BG85

The Samsung Odyssey OLED G8/G85SB S34BG85 and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are different types of OLED displays. The Samsung is an ultrawide monitor with a larger screen, and it uses extra quantum dot technology to display a wider range of colors that are brighter and more vivid than on the ASUS. The Samsung also has a built-in smart system, making it easier to stream your favorite content without the need for a PC. The ASUS also gets brighter in HDR, so small highlights pop more. The ASUS also has a higher 240Hz refresh rate, which makes it ideal for competitive gamers.

ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are OLED gaming displays with a 240Hz refresh rate. However, the PG34WCDM is significantly wider than the PG27AQDM, so if immersion is important, you may find its wider screen creates a more immersive gaming experience. Both are fantastic for gaming and watching HDR content. The PG27AQDM works better for console gaming and is the better choice if more vivid HDR colors are important to you. However, the PG34WCDM's brighter display is a better choice if you're gaming in a room with more ambient light.

Acer Predator X27U bmiipruzx

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM and the Acer Predator X27U bmiipruzx use the same panel but have a few differences. The ASUS gets brighter in HDR and also has an improved color volume for more vivid colors. The ASUS also has lower input lag for a more responsive feel, but only after a firmware update. On the other hand, the Acer has a few extra features, like a KVM switch and a USB-C port, making it easier to connect multiple devices. It also has a more ergonomic stand, so it's easier to adjust.

Dell Alienware AW3423DW

The Dell Alienware AW3423DW and the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM are different types of OLED displays. The Dell is an ultrawide monitor with a larger screen, and it uses extra quantum dot technology to display a wider range of colors that are brighter and more vivid than on the ASUS. However, the ASUS still gets brighter, so small highlights pop more. The ASUS also has a higher 240Hz refresh rate, which makes it ideal for competitive gamers.

+ Show more

Test Results

perceptual testing image
Design
Design
Style
Curved
No
Curve Radius
Not Curved

The ASUS PG27AQDM has a gamer-oriented design with thin bezels and a tripod stand. It features RGB lighting in the form of Republic of Gamers (ROG) logos with a down-facing light on the stand, and it comes with extra covers so that you can change the design of the light. There's more lighting on the back too.

9.0
Design
Build Quality

The build quality is excellent. The housing of the display is plastic which feels sturdy, and there aren't any obvious issues with how it's put together. The bezels are properly attached to the screen throughout, as you can see here. The metal stand is also solid as it holds the screen well, and even the feet are grippy, so it doesn't easily slide on the desk. The one downside is that the bottom piece for the RGB lighting can come off if you're holding it there and you aren't careful, but it's meant to come off anyways.

8.7
Design
Ergonomics
Min Height To Top Of Panel
16.9" (42.8 cm)
Height Adjustment
4.3" (10.8 cm)
Tilt Range
-17.5° to 5°
Rotate Portrait/Landscape
Yes, Both Ways
Swivel Range
-30° to 30°
Wall Mount
VESA 100x100

The ASUS PG27AQDM has amazing ergonomics; you can adjust it in several ways. The stand also offers cable management, but because the inputs are down-facing, they can be hard to reach at times. The back of the monitor features robust housing for the inputs, but the panel itself is thin. There are also vents on the housing, as you can see here. It comes with a mounting bracket if you want to mount the monitor.

Design
Stand
Base Width
21.2" (53.9 cm)
Base Depth
10.4" (26.5 cm)
Thickness (With Display)
9.0" (22.8 cm)
Weight (With Display)
15.2 lbs (6.9 kg)

The tripod stand holds the screen well, and because the feet are grippy, it doesn't easily slide on the desk. However, this can also be a downside, as you would need to lift the entire monitor to move it.

Design
Display
Size
27"
Housing Width
23.8" (60.5 cm)
Housing Height
13.9" (35.2 cm)
Thickness (Without Stand)
2.0" (5.0 cm)
Weight (Without Stand)
9.2 lbs (4.2 kg)
Borders Size (Bezels)
0.3" (0.7 cm)
Design
Controls

There's a joystick and two buttons to control the on-screen menu.

Design
In The Box
Power Supply
External Brick

  • DisplayPort cable
  • HDMI cable
  • Power supply and cable
  • USB-B to USB-A cable
  • Mounting bracket (100x100)
  • Down-facing light accessories
  • Accessories bag
  • ROG sticker set (see here)
  • User documentation, including calibration report

Picture Quality
10
Picture Quality
Contrast
Native Contrast
Inf : 1
Contrast With Local Dimming
Inf : 1

The ASUS PG27AQDM has a perfect native contrast ratio, displaying deep and inky blacks next to bright highlights thanks to its OLED panel.

10
Picture Quality
Local Dimming
Local Dimming
No
Backlight
No Backlight

OLED panels like this one don't have a backlight, so they don't require a local dimming feature. However, with a near-infinite contrast ratio, there isn't any blooming around bright objects, and it's the equivalent of a perfect local dimming feature. We still film these videos on the monitor so you can see how the screen performs and compare it with a monitor that has local dimming.

6.6
Picture Quality
SDR Brightness
Real Scene
238 cd/m²
Peak 2% Window
240 cd/m²
Peak 10% Window
244 cd/m²
Peak 25% Window
247 cd/m²
Peak 50% Window
228 cd/m²
Peak 100% Window
163 cd/m²
Sustained 2% Window
230 cd/m²
Sustained 10% Window
242 cd/m²
Sustained 25% Window
246 cd/m²
Sustained 50% Window
227 cd/m²
Sustained 100% Window
162 cd/m²
Automatic Brightness Limiting (ABL)
0.028
Minimum Brightness
13 cd/m²

The ASUS PG27AQDM has okay SDR brightness but isn't nearly as bright as the advertised 450 cd/m². While it's brighter than the LG 27GR95QE-B, it still isn't bright enough to fight glare in a very bright room, so visibility can be an issue. If you're looking for a monitor that gets much brighter, check out the ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG. These results are from after calibration in 'User Mode' GameVisual, which is the name for the picture mode, with the Brightness at its max and Uniform Brightness disabled. This setting helps reduce the Automatic Brightness Limiter (ABL), but it also keeps the brightness the same across different scenes, and the screen is dimmer, which you can see here:

  • Real Scene 149 cd/m²
  • Peak 2% Window 148 cd/m²
  • Peak 10% Window 151 cd/m²
  • Peak 25% Window 152 cd/m²
  • Peak 50% Window 152 cd/m²
  • Peak 100% Window 152 cd/m²
  • Sustained 2% Window 141 cd/m²
  • Sustained 10% Window 150 cd/m²
  • Sustained 25% Window 151 cd/m²
  • Sustained 50% Window 152 cd/m²
  • Sustained 100% Window 152 cd/m²
  • ABL 0.002
  • Minimum Brightness 13 cd/m²

7.8
Picture Quality
HDR Brightness
VESA DisplayHDR Certification
No Certification
Real Scene
739 cd/m²
Peak 2% Window
904 cd/m²
Peak 10% Window
923 cd/m²
Peak 25% Window
480 cd/m²
Peak 50% Window
200 cd/m²
Peak 100% Window
197 cd/m²
Sustained 2% Window
878 cd/m²
Sustained 10% Window
904 cd/m²
Sustained 25% Window
476 cd/m²
Sustained 50% Window
199 cd/m²
Sustained 100% Window
196 cd/m²
Automatic Brightness Limiting (ABL)
0.109

The ASUS PG27AQDM has good HDR brightness with firmware MCM104 and newer. These results are in 'ASUS Gaming HDR' HDR Setting with Adjustable Brightness off, Brightness locked to its max, and the Color Temp set to '6500K'. As of firmware MCM105, there aren't any issues when setting Color Temp to '8200K', as doing so resulted in an orange tint and dim image on older firmware. That said, once you update to the latest firmware, it gets brighter with the '8200K' setting. However, the image is less accurate than with the '6500K' setting.

As of firmware MCM104, small highlights get extremely bright, but there's an aggressive ABL, and the changes in brightness can be noticeable even while gaming. That said, updating it to firmware MCM105 makes larger highlights a bit brighter and the ABL is a bit less aggressive.

Lastly, it follows the target PQ curve perfectly until there's a sharp cut-off at the peak brightness, meaning it gets the brightest it can before letting your PC do any tone mapping, but you need to update it to the latest firmware for the best performance.

Unlike in SDR, there's a setting in HDR called Adjustable Brightness that lets you change the Brightness setting if you want something with less aggressive ABL, but it also makes the screen dimmer. When enabling this setting and leaving the Brightness at its max, the brightness of the display is the same as leaving Adjustable Brightness off.

While the manufacturer advertises this monitor as using heatsink technology, it doesn't dissipate heat well. As you can see here, heat is concentrated towards the bottom. For reference, you can also see what the LG 27GR95QE-B looks like here, and on this monitor, heat is concentrated more towards the center.

9.8
Picture Quality
Horizontal Viewing Angle
Color Washout From Left
70°
Color Washout From Right
70°
Color Shift From Left
51°
Color Shift From Right
70°
Brightness Loss From Left
70°
Brightness Loss From Right
70°
Black Level Raise From Left
70°
Black Level Raise From Right
70°
Gamma Shift From Left
70°
Gamma Shift From Right
70°

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM has a fantastic horizontal viewing angle. While it isn't perfect, you won't notice any inconsistencies when viewing from the sides, making this a great choice for co-op gaming.

9.9
Picture Quality
Vertical Viewing Angle
Color Washout From Below
70°
Color Washout From Above
70°
Color Shift From Below
61°
Color Shift From Above
70°
Brightness Loss From Below
70°
Brightness Loss From Above
70°
Black Level Raise From Below
70°
Black Level Raise From Above
70°
Gamma Shift From Below
70°
Gamma Shift From Above
70°

The vertical viewing angle is remarkable. The image looks the same even if you're standing up and looking down on it or have it mounted above eye level.

8.8
Picture Quality
Gray Uniformity
50% Std. Dev.
1.261%
50% DSE
0.120%

The gray uniformity is excellent. Colors are uniform throughout, and there aren't any dark areas. Like any OLED screen, there are thin vertical lines in near-dark scenes, but they're hard to notice unless you look for them.

10
Picture Quality
Black Uniformity
Native Std. Dev.
0.186%
Std. Dev. w/ L.D.
N/A

The ASUS PG27AQDM has perfect black uniformity as its OLED panel can turn individual pixels on and off, so there isn't any blooming.

8.9
Picture Quality
Color Accuracy (Pre-Calibration)
Picture Mode
sRGB
sRGB Gamut Area xy
101.4%
White Balance dE (Avg.)
1.89
Color Temperature (Avg.)
6,544 K
Gamma (Avg.)
2.04
Color dE (Avg.)
2.05
Contrast Setting
N/A
RGB Settings
Default
Gamma Setting
2.2
Brightness Setting
100
Measured Brightness
255 cd/m²
Brightness Locked
No

The accuracy in the sRGB mode before calibration is amazing. The sRGB mode locks colors well to the sRGB color space, and even the white balance and color temperature are great. However, gamma is off as it seems to follow a 2.0 target instead of sRGB, meaning most scenes are too bright. Unfortunately, using the sRGB mode disables many settings, including Uniform Brightness, so there's a somewhat aggressive ABL that causes full-screen windows to be dimmer than smaller windows. If you do want to use those locked-out settings, the 'User Mode' has a similar color temperature and white balance, but colors are oversaturated, and gamma is the same, as you can see here.

8.9
Picture Quality
Color Accuracy (Post-Calibration)
Picture Mode
User Mode
sRGB Gamut Area xy
106.8%
White Balance dE (Avg.)
0.56
Color Temperature (Avg.)
6,528 K
Gamma (Avg.)
2.18
Color dE (Avg.)
1.16
Contrast Setting
60
RGB Settings
98-93-79
Gamma Setting
2.2
Brightness Setting
46
Measured Brightness
100 cd/m²
ICC Profile
Download

The accuracy after calibration is amazing. Even though calibrating it only slightly improves the color accuracy, white balance, and color temperature, it fixes gamma a lot more. Also, by calibrating it, you can adjust settings that are locked out in the sRGB mode, like Uniform Brightness.

9.7
Picture Quality
SDR Color Gamut
sRGB Coverage xy
100.0%
sRGB Picture Mode
User Mode
Adobe RGB Coverage xy
90.6%
Adobe RGB Picture Mode
User Mode

The SDR color gamut is fantastic. It has near-perfect coverage of the sRGB color space used in most web content. It's also excellent with the Adobe RGB color space used in some professional content creation, but it oversaturates reds and undersaturates greens.

8.5
Picture Quality
HDR Color Gamut
Wide Color Gamut
Yes
DCI-P3 Coverage xy
93.8%
DCI-P3 Picture Mode
Asus Gaming HDR
Rec. 2020 Coverage xy
67.3%
Rec. 2020 Picture Mode
Asus Gaming HDR

The ASUS PG27AQDM has an excellent color gamut with firmware MCM105. With Color Temp set to '6500K', it displays colors accurately, and there aren't any obvious issues. However, you need to update it to the latest firmware for the best performance. There was a red tint issue with firmware MCM102, and the monitor didn't tone map well. The same thing happened when setting the Color Temp setting to '8200K' on older firmware, but updating it to firmware MCM105 fixes this issue.

7.8
Picture Quality
HDR Color Volume
1,000 cd/m² DCI-P3 Coverage ICtCp
75.9%
DCI-P3 Picture Mode
Asus Gaming HDR
10,000 cd/m² Rec. 2020 Coverage ICtCp
32.6%
Rec. 2020 Picture Mode
Asus Gaming HDR

The HDR color volume is good. It displays bright and dark colors well, but its incomplete color gamut limits it, and it doesn't display colors as bright as on QD-OLEDs like the Dell Alienware AW3423DWF. These results are with Color Temp set to '6500K' with firmware MCM105.

6.5
Picture Quality
Text Clarity
Pixel Type
OLED
Subpixel Layout
RWBG

The text clarity is okay, but it's worse than LED-backlit LCD monitors because computer programs don't render text well with its RWBG subpixel layout. As you can see, with Windows ClearType enabled (top photo), there's color fringing, so if that bothers you, you'd have to disable ClearType. The same issue exists with Windows 11, as you can see with ClearType on and with ClearType off. On top of its text rendering issues, the aggressive matte coating makes text look hazy.

Due to the RWBG subpixel layout, all four pixels are never on simultaneously. You can see additional photos of the pixels on the LG 27GR95QE-B below, as it uses the same panel:

9.0
Picture Quality
Reflections
Screen Finish
Matte
Total Reflections
2.0%
Indirect Reflections
1.0%
Calculated Direct Reflections
1.0%

The reflection handling is fantastic. It has the same aggressive matte coating as the LG 27GR95QE-B, so it reduces glare well, but that also introduces haziness to images. Despite this fantastic reflection handling, visibility can still be a problem in bright rooms due to its low peak brightness.

9.6
Picture Quality
Gradient
Color Depth
10 Bit

The gradient handling is remarkable, as you won't see any banding in scenes with shades of similar colors, like a sunset.

Motion
8.0
Motion
Refresh Rate
Native Refresh Rate
240 Hz
Max Refresh Rate
240 Hz
Max Refresh Rate Over DP
240 Hz
Max Refresh Rate Over HDMI
120 Hz
Max Refresh Rate Over DP @ 10-bit
240 Hz
Max Refresh Rate Over HDMI @ 10-Bit
60 Hz

You can reach the ASUS PG27AQDM's max refresh rate over DisplayPort, and to reach 10-bit signals, your graphics card needs to support Display Stream Compression (DSC), which any NVIDIA 16 Series or AMD RX 5000 Series and newer graphics card supports. Sadly, you can't reach its max refresh rate over HDMI because it's limited to HDMI 2.0 bandwidth.

Motion
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
Variable Refresh Rate
Yes
FreeSync
Yes
G-SYNC
Compatible (Tested)
VRR Maximum
240 Hz
VRR Minimum
< 20 Hz
VRR Supported Connectors
DisplayPort, HDMI

NVIDIAVRR MinVRR Max
DisplayPort<20Hz240Hz
HDMI<20Hz120Hz
AMDVRR MinVRR Max
DisplayPort<20Hz240Hz
HDMI<20Hz120Hz

On top of supporting FreeSync and G-SYNC compatibility, it supports HDMI Forum VRR.

9.9
Motion
VRR Motion Performance
Recommended VRR OD Setting
No OD Mode
Variable Overdrive Advertised
No
Avg. CAD
7
Best CAD
7
Worst CAD
7

Frame RateCAD HeatmapRT ChartPursuit Photo
239HeatmapChartPhoto
165HeatmapChartPhoto
144HeatmapChartPhoto
120HeatmapChartPhoto
100HeatmapChartPhoto
80HeatmapChartPhoto
60HeatmapChartPhoto

The ASUS PG27AQDM has outstanding motion handling across its entire refresh rate range with VRR enabled. CAD remains low throughout and there's minimal blur with fast-moving objects.

9.7
Motion
Refresh Rate Compliance
Compliance @ Max Hz
94%
Compliance @ 120 FPS
96%
Compliance @ 60 FPS
97%

The refresh rate compliance is outstanding. As it has a near-instantaneous response time, it can keep up with fast frame rates really well, and it makes full color transitions before drawing the next frame.

9.9
Motion
CAD @ Max Refresh Rate
OD Transition Max Refresh Rate
Recommended Overdrive Setting
No OD Mode
Avg. CAD
7
Best 10% CAD
3
Worst 10% CAD
12

Overdrive ModeCAD HeatmapRT ChartPursuit Photo
No Overdrive, and motion is extremely sharp. There isn't any inverse ghosting,ChartPhoto

The CAD at the maximum refresh rate is outstanding. It displays fast-moving objects as intended, and motion is extremely sharp. There isn't any inverse ghosting, either.

Motion
Response Time @ Max Refresh Rate
Recommended Overdrive Setting
No OD Mode
First Response Time
0.2 ms
Total Response Time
0.2 ms
RGB Overshoot
0 RGB
Worst 10% First Response Time
0.3 ms
Worst 10% Total Response Time
0.3 ms
Worst 10% RGB Overshoot
0 RGB

Overdrive ModeFirst Response HeatmapTotal Response HeatmapRGB Overshoot Heatmap
No OverdriveHeatmapHeatmapHeatmap

9.9
Motion
CAD @ 120Hz
OD Transition 120Hz
Recommended Overdrive Setting
No OD Mode
Avg. CAD
9
Best 10% CAD
4
Worst 10% CAD
14

Overdrive ModeCAD HeatmapRT ChartPursuit Photo
No OverdriveHeatmapChartPhoto

The CAD at 120Hz is outstanding. Pixels transition to their target RGB level almost instantly, so there isn't any blur trail behind fast-moving objects.

Motion
Response Time @ 120Hz
Recommended Overdrive Setting
No OD Mode
First Response Time
0.2 ms
Total Response Time
0.2 ms
RGB Overshoot
0 RGB
Worst 10% First Response Time
0.4 ms
Worst 10% Total Response Time
0.4 ms
Worst 10% RGB Overshoot
0 RGB

Overdrive ModeFirst Response HeatmapTotal Response HeatmapRGB Overshoot Heatmap
No OverdriveHeatmapHeatmapHeatmap

9.9
Motion
CAD @ 60Hz
OD Transition 60Hz
Recommended Overdrive Setting
No OD Mode
Avg. CAD
16
Best 10% CAD
7
Worst 10% CAD
23

Overdrive ModeCAD HeatmapRT ChartPursuit Photo
No OverdriveHeatmapChartPhoto

The CAD at 60Hz is outstanding. Pixels transition colors almost perfectly, and any noticeable blur is persistence.

Motion
Response Time @ 60Hz
Recommended Overdrive Setting
No OD Mode
First Response Time
0.3 ms
Total Response Time
0.3 ms
RGB Overshoot
0 RGB
Worst 10% First Response Time
0.6 ms
Worst 10% Total Response Time
0.6 ms
Worst 10% RGB Overshoot
0 RGB

Overdrive ModeFirst Response HeatmapTotal Response HeatmapRGB Overshoot Heatmap
No OverdriveHeatmapHeatmapHeatmap

Motion
Backlight Strobing (BFI)
Backlight Strobing (BFI)
No BFI
Maximum Frequency
N/A
Minimum Frequency
N/A
Longest Pulse Width Brightness
N/A
Shortest Pulse Width Brightness
N/A
Pulse Width Control
No BFI
Pulse Phase Control
No BFI
Pulse Amplitude Control
No BFI
VRR At The Same Time
No BFI

The ASUS PG27AQDM doesn't have an optional black frame insertion feature to reduce persistence blur.

5.3
Motion
VRR Flicker
Dark Gray Flicker
6.1 RGB
Middle Gray Flicker
1.7 RGB
Light Gray Flicker
0.8 RGB

The ASUS PG27AQDM has noticeable VRR flicker with changing frame rates, particularly in dark scenes. This can get bothersome, especially if you're sensitive to it. While it isn't as visible in bright scenes, you can still see it in dark areas, like shadows. However, it isn't an issue with consistent frame rates.

ASUS released a firmware update, MCM106, in May 2024 to add a setting called OLED Anti-Flicker. Using it greatly reduces the flicker to the point where you won't notice it, as you can see with it on 'Medium' here and on 'Strong' here. However, using this setting also introduces stutter as the frame rate and the refresh rate don't match up, so you're reducing one issue and introducing another. The results in the review are with OLED Anti-Flicker disabled, but enable it if the VRR flicker bothers you and the stutter doesn't. That said, the best way to avoid any of these issues is to set a frame cap to get a more consistent frame rate.

10
Motion
Image Flicker
Flicker-Free
No
PWM Dimming Frequency
0 Hz

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM technically isn't flicker-free because there's a slight dip in brightness that corresponds to the 240Hz refresh rate. However, it isn't the same as pulse width modulation because it isn't a full screen on and off, and you won't notice this flicker.

Inputs
9.1
Inputs
Input Lag
Native Resolution @ Max Hz
2.5 ms
Native Resolution @ 120Hz
4.4 ms
Native Resolution @ 60Hz
8.8 ms
Backlight Strobing (BFI)
N/A

The ASUS PG27AQDM has low input lag for a responsive feel with firmware MCM104. The input lag is lowest with VRR enabled, which is what we tested it with. The input lag is a bit higher with a fixed signal, as you can see here:

  • Native Resolution @ Max Hz: 2.8 ms
  • Native Resolution @ 120Hz: 6.9 ms
  • Native Resolution @ 60Hz: 15.1 ms

Additionally, these results are with firmware MCM104, as the input lag is much higher at 120Hz and 60Hz with firmware MCM102, which is something other people have reported online, as you can read here. These are the results with firmware MCM102:

  • Native Resolution @ Max Hz: 8.8 ms
  • Native Resolution @ 120Hz: 16.7 ms
  • Native Resolution @ 60Hz: 33.6 ms

7.5
Inputs
Resolution
Native Resolution
2560 x 1440
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Megapixels
3.7 MP
Pixel Density
109 PPI

The 27-inch screen may seem small to some, so if you want something bigger with an OLED panel, you can also consider the Corsair XENEON FLEX 45WQHD240, but it has a lower pixel density.

7.1
Inputs
PS5 Compatibility
4k @ 120Hz
No
4k @ 60Hz
Yes
1440p @ 120Hz
Yes
1440p @ 60Hz
Yes
1080p @ 120Hz
Yes
1080p @ 60Hz
Yes

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM works as expected with the PS5, but can't take full advantage of it due to the lack of HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. Unfortunately, HDR looks very bad with a red tint and dim screen, which you can see here.

7.1
Inputs
Xbox Series X|S Compatibility
4k @ 120Hz
No
4k @ 60Hz
Yes
1440p @ 120Hz
Yes
1440p @ 60Hz
Yes
1080p @ 120Hz
Yes
1080p @ 60Hz
Yes

The ASUS PG27AQDM works well with the Xbox Series X|S, but without HDMI 2.1 bandwidth, it doesn't take full advantage of it. It downscales 4k signals, and the main advantage of that is that it supports HDR with the console, as the Xbox doesn't support HDR with 1080p and 1440p signals. If you want a monitor with a 4k resolution and HDMI 2.1 bandwidth to take full advantage of the Xbox Series X|S, look into the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM instead.

Inputs
Inputs Photos
Inputs
Video And Audio Ports
DisplayPort
1 (DP 1.4)
Mini DisplayPort
No
HDMI
2 (HDMI 2.0)
HDMI 2.1 Rated Speed
No HDMI 2.1
DVI
No
VGA
No
Daisy Chaining
No
3.5mm Audio Out
1
3.5mm Audio In
No
HDR10
Yes
3.5mm Microphone In
No
Inputs
USB
USB-A Ports
2
USB-A Rated Speed
5Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1)
USB-B Upstream Port
Yes
USB-C Ports
0
USB-C Upstream
No USB-C Ports
USB-C Rated Speed
No USB-C Ports
USB-C Power Delivery
No USB-C Ports
USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode
No USB-C Ports
Thunderbolt
No

You need to connect the USB-B to USB-A cable to your computer for the USB ports to work. It doesn't have a USB-C port, but if you want something that does, then look into the Acer Predator X27U bmiipruzx.

Inputs
macOS Compatibility

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM is compatible with macOS, but there are some issues. You can only get a 60Hz or 120Hz refresh rate over HDMI as VRR doesn't work at all, and if you're using a MacBook, windows return to their original position after closing and reopening the lid or when putting the MacBook to sleep.

It supports VRR when using a DisplayPort to USB-C cable, but it doesn't properly connect at first. The first time we connected it, we had to change DisplayPort Stream from '1.4' to '1.2' for it to work, then the second time we connected it, we had to unplug and replug the cable, and set DisplayPort Stream back to '1.4' for it to work.

Features
Features
Additional Features
Speakers
No
RGB Illumination
Controllable
Multiple Input Display
No
KVM Switch
No

The ASUS PG27AQDM has a few extra features, including:

  • Aspect Control: You can change the aspect ratio of the image to its original size, a 1:1 ratio, or 16:9, but with a 25-inch screen size.
  • Aura RGB: Controls the RGB lighting on the back of the monitor and on the stand.
  • Blue Light Filter: Removes blue light to help reduce eye strain.
  • GamePlus: Includes different gaming features like an FPS counter, crosshairs, sniper mode, stopwatch, and timer.
  • Shadow Boost: Adjusts gamma so that you can see opponents better in dark scenes.
  • Power Saving Mode: Limits the power consumption but also disables many settings.

While the settings menu has options to adjust the volume and mute, it's for external speakers, as the monitor itself doesn't have any speakers.

Like most OLED displays, there are also a few settings to help reduce the risk of burn-in, which you can find in the Screen Protection section of the OSD:

  • Adjust Logo Brightness: Dims static logos that are on the screen, like if you're watching TV.
  • Pixel Cleaning: This feature corrects any individual pixels that may be broken. It happens after you turn off the screen and takes about six minutes to finish. There's also a setting to remind you to turn off the monitor so it can perform the cycle.
  • Screen Move: Moves the image by a few pixels to one side to help reduce the risk of burn-in.
  • Screen Saver: Automatically dims the screen when there's inactivity.

Burn-in can occur with constant exposure to the same static elements over time, so the best ways to reduce the risk of burn-in is by watching varied content, hiding the taskbar, using a black background, and taking advantage of these settings. You can learn about our current longevity and burn-in test here.

Features
On-Screen Display (OSD)

While you can use the on-screen display to change the settings, you can also download ASUS Display Widget Center if you want to adjust the settings with your mouse, which needs to be connected to the monitor.