Gaming Monitors Break Speed Record at Computex 2025

Computex unveiled three gaming monitors that are pushing refresh rate boundaries to new extremes. The fastest model showcased at Taipei's massive computing trade show is the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG, a 1080p display boasting a staggering 610Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, both MSI and Acer introduced 1440p displays with 500Hz refresh rates - specifications that would challenge even an RTX 5090 with multi-frame generation to fully utilize.

Acer's Predator X27U F5 combines blazing speed with a QD-OLED panel, delivering exceptional color accuracy. Currently, this monitor is launching exclusively in Europe and China starting at €899. When contacted, Acer confirmed the monitor will eventually reach the US market but declined to share pricing details. The company attributes the delayed pricing announcement to tariff negotiations, stating they're actively working with retailers to finalize costs. While Acer plans to announce US pricing closer to the X27U F5's shelf date, given current tech pricing trends, affordability seems uncertain.

MSI joins the QD-OLED race with its 27-inch MPG 271QR X50, though pricing remains undisclosed. Beyond the fast, vibrant display, the monitor features an innovative AI capability. According to PC Gamer's hands-on report, a tiny sensor at the screen's bottom detects when users step away, triggering an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) to automatically engage the display's burn-in protection by turning it off.

Burn-in protection is standard for OLED displays, particularly gaming monitors where static interface elements remain visible for extended periods. These protective mechanisms periodically refresh pixels to prevent image retention. While AI implementation might raise eyebrows, it's certainly preferable to protection features activating during critical gameplay moments.

Do Gaming Monitors Need to Be This Fast?

The arrival of three ultra-fast monitors is remarkable, with the Asus ROG Strix Ace XG248QSG clearly leading the pack. Even at 1080p resolution, a 610Hz refresh rate represents extraordinary speed in an era where Nvidia's multi-frame generation already pushes frame rates to unprecedented levels. Achieving such performance in titles like Marvel Rivals would require an RTX 5090 with multi-frame generation - generally discouraged in competitive gaming due to added latency.

Harnessing such refresh rates demands more than just a powerful graphics card; it requires an equally capable CPU. At these extreme frame rates, the processor must efficiently supply data to the GPU. Technologies like Nvidia Reflex and frame generation provide some relief, but sustaining around 600 fps inevitably demands substantial CPU power.

Nevertheless, achieving such rendering speeds - particularly without frame generation - results in exceptionally low render latency, a crucial advantage in competitive gaming. This explains why professional Counter-Strike 2 players prioritize maximum frame rates over visual fidelity, often using minimal settings. Higher frame rates directly translate to reduced input lag, creating meaningful competitive advantages. Whether this justifies the undoubtedly premium pricing for most consumers remains debatable.