Three gaming monitors announced at Computex are pushing the boundaries of refresh rates. The standout is the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, boasting a 1080p resolution with an astonishing 610Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, both MSI and Acer have unveiled 1440p displays that clock in at 500Hz, a spec that's challenging to achieve even with an RTX 5090 and multi-frame generation technology.

Acer's Predator X27U F5 not only offers a high refresh rate but also features a QD-OLED display, ensuring exceptional color accuracy. Initially launching in Europe and China at €899, Acer plans to bring this monitor to the US market, though pricing remains undisclosed due to ongoing tariff negotiations. Given the rising cost of tech products in the US, affordability may be a concern.

MSI's 27-inch MPG 271QR X50 also sports a QD-OLED panel, but it's the inclusion of an AI feature that catches the eye. According to PC Gamer's hands-on report, the monitor uses a sensor to detect when you step away, triggering an NPU to turn off the display and activate burn-in protection. This AI-driven approach to preventing burn-in, a common issue with OLED displays, is innovative, though some might find it unsettling.

Do Gaming Monitors Need to Be This Fast?

The introduction of monitors with refresh rates as high as 610Hz, like the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, raises questions about necessity. Even at 1080p, achieving such high frame rates demands an RTX 5090 and possibly multi-frame generation, which is typically avoided in competitive gaming due to added latency.

To fully leverage these high refresh rates, a powerful CPU is essential. It must supply the graphics card with data quickly enough to maintain these super-high frame rates. While technologies like Nvidia Reflex and frame generation help, a robust CPU is still crucial for frame rates nearing 600 fps.

The advantage of such high refresh rates lies in reduced render latency, critical for competitive gaming. For instance, players of Counter-Strike 2 prioritize high frame rates over graphics settings to minimize input lag, which can be the deciding factor in intense matches. However, the cost of these cutting-edge monitors may outweigh the benefits for many gamers.