MSI MAG 274UPF Monitor Review
The MSI MAG 274UPF is a feature-packed gaming monitor that aims to offer an immersive and high-performance gaming experience. With its impressive specifications and innovative technologies, this monitor has both its strengths and weaknesses. The MSI MAG 274UPF monitor offers an impressive array of functions tailored to gamers and tech enthusiasts. With its rapid IPS panel technology, 4K UHD resolution, high refresh rate, and HDMI 2.1 support, it excels in providing immersive gaming experiences. The addition of the Gaming Intelligence app for personalized settings and the Less Blue Light PRO technology for reduced eye strain showcase MSI’s commitment to enhancing user comfort and convenience.
Taking into consideration the price tag of $600 for the 274UPF, MSI’s chosen physical design indicates a strategic allocation of resources within the Bill of Materials (BOM). The company has opted to prioritize performance over aesthetic elements, a common approach for entry-level gaming monitors. MSI’s investment in manufacturing costs is clearly directed towards enhancing the monitor’s performance capabilities.
This latest 4K gaming monitor from MSI offers all the fundamental specifications one would anticipate from a 4K gaming display. Buyers can expect the signature MSI monitor design that has been a hallmark of the company’s gaming monitor lineup for a considerable time. The 274UPF is encased in a black plastic shell featuring a textured, grainy finish. Notably, in contrast to previous MSI gaming monitors, the 274UPF abandons the RGB lighting on its rear, embracing a sleeker appearance that complements its 27-inch form factor.
In terms of connectivity options, MSI has equipped the MAG 274UPF with a comprehensive set of ports, including 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 2x HDMI 2.1 ports, 1x USB-C with 65W Power Delivery (PD) charging capability, 2x USB 2.0 Type-A ports, 1x USB 2.0 Type-B port, and 1x headphone out port. A notable departure is the absence of a dedicated power button, while the familiar multi-directional tool on the rear of the monitor has been retained for controlling the On Screen Display (OSD) settings.
While the monitor has some minor drawbacks, such as energy efficiency concerns and potential color accuracy variations, these factors may not significantly impact its target audience of gamers. The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 and the Console Mode make it an attractive option for console users looking to maximize their gaming setups.
Console Mode and HDMI 2.1 – The HDMI 2.1 support is a significant advantage for console gamers, as it allows seamless compatibility with the latest consoles. The ability to achieve 4K UHD at 120Hz (4:2:0) on consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X ensures a future-proof gaming experience.
Less Blue Light PRO – The inclusion of the Less Blue Light PRO technology is a thoughtful addition for users concerned about eye strain during extended gaming sessions. By reducing blue light emissions in the 415 to 455 nm wavelength range, the monitor aims to provide a more comfortable viewing experience.
Frameless Design and PIP/PBP Function – The frameless design enhances the monitor’s aesthetics, providing a sleek and modern appearance. The Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and Picture-by-Picture (PBP) functions add multitasking capabilities, allowing users to display content from multiple sources simultaneously.
MSI MAG 274UPF Pros:
Rapid IPS Panel with 1ms Response Time: The standout feature of the MSI MAG 274UPF is its Rapid IPS panel, which boasts an impressive 1ms GtG response time. This ensures minimal motion blur and eliminates screen tearing, delivering smoother gaming experiences.
4K UHD High Resolution: The monitor’s 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160) provides stunning visual clarity and detail, making games look even better and displaying more intricate textures and environments.
High Refresh Rate: With a 144Hz refresh rate, the monitor enables smoother motion and responsiveness, allowing gamers to react quickly and enjoy fluid gameplay.
HDMI 2.1 Support: The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 is a significant advantage, particularly for console gamers. It supports 4K resolution at 120Hz, making it an ideal choice for next-gen consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Gaming Intelligence app: The gaming intelligence app is a unique feature that lets users customize and optimize viewing settings for different games, ensuring the best possible visuals and performance. Gaming Intelligence app, a software designed to enhance user interactions with their monitors by enabling screen function adjustments through mouse-based operations, thereby replacing the need for physical buttons. This software is aimed at optimizing operational efficiency and streamlining firmware updates to provide users with an enhanced overall experience.
Gaming Intelligence app consolidates a wide range of functions within its interface. These encompass game monitoring, real-time in-game information displays, management of game-specific settings, system-level adjustments, customizable Hotkeys, joystick-based controls, and an array of supplementary features. Notably, it enables advanced functionalities like picture-in-picture mode on MSI monitors. Through this comprehensive software suite, MSI aims to offer users a more intuitive and user-friendly approach to monitor customization and control.
AMD Free-Sync Premium Technology: This technology minimizes screen tearing and stuttering, enhancing the fluidity of gameplay.
Adjustable Stand and VESA Mounting: The monitor’s adjustable stand and VESA mounting compatibility allow users to find the perfect ergonomic position for extended gaming sessions.
VESA DisplayHDR 400: The DisplayHDR 400 certification ensures improved contrast and shadow adjustments, leading to more vibrant and realistic visuals.
Night Vision: The smart black tuner enhances visibility in dark areas, making it easier to spot enemies or details in dimly lit game environments.
USB Type-C with 65W Power Delivery: The built-in USB Type-C port with power delivery simplifies device connectivity and charging.
MSI MAG 274UPF Cons:
Energy Efficiency: The monitor’s energy efficiency is rated as relatively low (Energy Efficiency Rating: F). This could potentially result in higher energy consumption over time.
Color Accuracy: While the monitor boasts high Adobe RGB, DCI-P3, and sRGB coverage percentages, the actual color accuracy may vary. Professional designers and content creators might require a more color-accurate display.
Off-mode Power Consumption: The off-mode power consumption of 0.3W is slightly higher than some energy-efficient monitors.
Audio Ports: The absence of built-in speakers might be a drawback for users who prefer not to use external audio devices.
Weight: With a weight of 6.05 kg (without stand), the monitor might be on the heavier side for some users who plan to frequently move or transport it.
The MSI MAG 274UPF is a compelling gaming monitor with a range of impressive features geared towards gamers and power users. Its rapid IPS panel, 4K UHD resolution, high refresh rate, and HDMI 2.1 support make it well-suited for both PC and console gaming. The adjustable stand and VESA mounting options enhance its ergonomic appeal, while the innovative Gaming Intelligence APP adds customization options for an optimized gaming experience. However, users should consider its energy efficiency and color accuracy for tasks beyond gaming. Overall, the MSI MAG 274UPF offers a blend of performance and features that cater to gamers seeking a visually captivating and responsive monitor.
MSI MAG 274UPF monitor specs:
| MSI MAG 274UPF | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panel Size | 27″ (69 cm) |
| Active Display Area (mm) | 596.736 (H) x 335.664 (V) |
| Curvature | Flat |
| Panel Type | Rapid IPS |
| Panel Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (UHD) |
| Pixel Pitch (H x V) | 0.1554 (H) x 0.1554 (V) |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Brightness (nits) | 400 (Typical) |
| 400 (HDR Peak) | |
| Contrast Ratio | 1000:1 |
| Dynamic Contrast Ratio (DCR) | 100000000:1 |
| Signal Frequency (Horizontal / Vertical) | 106.7~320 KHz(H) / 48~144 Hz(V) |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Response Time (Gray-to-Gray) | 1ms (GtG) |
| Dynamic Refresh Rate Technology | FreeSync Premium |
| HDR Support | VESA DisplayHDR 400 |
| Video Ports | 2x HDMI™ (HDMI 2.1), |
| 1x DisplayPort (DP 1.4a), | |
| 1x USB Type-C (DP alt. w/ PD Charging 65W) | |
| USB Ports | 2 x USB 2.0 Type A, |
| 1 x USB 2.0 Type B | |
| Audio Ports | 1 x Headphone Out |
| Viewing Angle (Horizontal / Vertical) | 178° (H) / 178° (V) |
| Color Gamut (Adobe RGB / DCI-P3 / sRGB) | 97% / 98% / 129% |
| Surface Treatment | Anti-glare |
| Display Colors | 1.07B (8-bit + FRC) |
| Power Type | External Adapter 19V 6.32A |
| Power Input | 100~240V, 50~60Hz |
| Tilt Adjustment | -5° ~ 20° |
| Swivel Adjustment | -45° ~ 45° |
| Pivot Adjustment | -90° ~ 90° |
| Height Adjustment | 0 ~ 130mm |
| Kensington Lock | Yes |
| Activated Refresh Rate Range | 48~144Hz |
| On-mode Power Consumption | 26 kWh/1000h |
| Standby-mode Power Consumption | 0.5W |
| Off-mode Power Consumption | 0.3W |
| Energy Efficiency Rating | F |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 613.5 x 196.5 x 402.1 mm (with stand), |
| 613.5 x 69.8 x 362.5 mm (without stand) | |
| Console Mode | HDMI 2.1 supports PS5 and Xbox Series X |
| 4K UHD@120Hz (4:2:0) | |
| Rapid IPS | 1ms GTG fast response time, |
| optimizes screen colors and brightness | |
| 4K 144Hz | 3840 x 2160 resolution at 144Hz |
| HDMI 2.1 | 4K 120Hz with HDMI™ interface |
| KVM | Control multiple devices via one set of |
| keyboard, mouse, and MSI gaming monitor | |
| Gaming Intelligence APP | Customize monitor modes with keyboard & |
| mouse in an easy way | |
| Less Blue Light PRO | Reduces blue-violet region light emission |
| VESA Certified DisplayHDR 400 | Enhanced contrast and shadows adjustment |
| Type-C 65W PD | USB Type-C connection with 65W power |
| delivery for device connectivity and charging | |
| Frameless Design | Sleek and modern appearance |
| PIP / PBP Function | Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture |
| VESA Mounting | 75 x 75 mm |
| Weight (Net / Gross) | 6.05 kg / 8.1 kg (with stand), |
| 4.05 kg (without stand) |
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