The vast availability of monitors on the market makes itself felt, but MSI has decided to impress everyone with Optix MAG272CQR: a high quality product at an affordable price. Let's find out the details of this 1440p curved monitor together.
MSI Optix MAG272CQR review: an aesthetic that amazes
THEMSI Optix MAG272CQR is a curved gaming monitor with 27 ”VA panel and Quad HD resolution, that is 2560 × 1440 pixels, refresh rate at 165Hz e a response time of 1ms. According to what was declared by MSI, the panel allows a coverage of 100% of the sRGB range and 90% for the DCI-P3 one, as well as a contrast ratio of 3000: 1 and a maximum brightness of 300 nits.
Aesthetically, despite belonging to the gaming sector, it is not aggressive at all. Indeed, it presents one almost surprising simplicity: on the front we find very small frames and the small company logo. Even the pedestal, despite being very solid, is by no means bulky or flashy. It therefore adapts to any type of configuration and desk. The latter allows you to adjust the monitor height and tilt very easily. The monitor is also compatible with the VESA 100 × 100 mount and screws for installation are included in the package.
On the back we find the simplicity of the front, with a small touch of style that you will appreciate if you are a lover of RGB LEDs like us: there is in fact a customizable led strip using the Mystic Light software. You can choose predefined effects, create a customized configuration or synchronize the LEDs with those of components already in your possession. In the lower part of the back of the monitor there is a joystick to navigate between the various settings of the OSD menu. The great attention to aesthetics by MSI is not only noticeable by the cleanliness and elegance of this monitor, but also by the small details such as the removable support to hang your headphones when not in use.
To complete the equipment we find the following doors: one DisplayPort 1.2a, two HDMI 2.0b, two USB 2.0, one Type-C and the 3,5mm audio jack. In short, nothing is missing.
A fluid and versatile monitor
The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time allow for an extremely smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. Experience that improves further thanks to compatibility with FreeSync and G-Sync, which eliminate tearing. Through the settings, then, it is possible to modify some parameters according to the type of game: in fact, there are presets that facilitate you during FPS, strategic games or other genres. Furthermore, again through the OSD menu, you can activate the night vision or l 'anti motion blur which reduces flicker. All these settings - and many more - are accessible both via the joystick on the back of the monitor and in the software MSI Gaming OSD.
The colors are faithful and well calibrated. The MSI Optix MAG272CQR also features the technology HDR Ready which slightly enhances the contrast, but don't expect a wow effect. The brightness of 300 nits does not allow to reach high HDR standards.
But this monitor is not only dedicated to gaming: for this reason it is also available Cinema and Player modes. The former improves saturation and contrast to further raise the bar in the viewing experience. The second, on the other hand, facilitates reading by reducing the blue light through a warm filter, which allows you not to tire your eyes. It therefore lends itself to office work, including emails and documents.
MSI Optix MAG272CQR review: for us it is yes
MSI's Optix MAG272CQR is a great gaming monitor with a high refresh rate - above the much more popular 144Hz - a low response time and a visual quality that does not disappoint. As mentioned above, in fact, the gaming experience is very fluid and the colors are well balanced and very sharp. The design is very clean and elegant, interrupted by the LED strip that gives character and the much appreciated headphone holder.
Obviously it is not without flaws, such as HDR which does not lead to substantial improvements, and brightness. Despite this, however, the value for money is great, considering the price range in which it is placed. In fact, under € 450, it is not easy to find such a high refresh rate and other features such as USB Type-C.
MSI Optix MAG272CQR
Pro 
- 165Hz refresh rate
- Excellent visual quality
- Good quality / price ratio
Cons 
- HDR to improve
