ViewSonic XG2401
A more affordable high Hz option.
While G-Sync tech and 2,560 x 1,440 resolutions are undeniably great, not everyone has a PC capable of using all that potential. So instead, the ViewSonic XG2401 winds things back a little, while still appealing to higher-end gamers.
For a start, it’s a 24-inch TN panel with a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. This means it has an excellent 1ms response time, yet can still be driven at a high framerate by a more modest PC. To ensure the fun is not ruined by tearing or stutter, the screen also supports FreeSync. At this stage, that means you will only get the full benefit of the screen with an AMD GPU.
As far as TN panels go, the XG2401 has decent enough viewing angles, and colour reproduction. The backlighting is also very even, with no real bleed. The real wow factor doesn’t come until you start gaming at 144Hz, where the screen is very fast, smooth and totally tear free. Enabling the game modes can help adjust the settings for a particular play style, but it’s well worth delving in and tweaking it yourself. The monitor also has a handy black stabilisation feature that makes it easier to spot foes hiding in the shadows.
At first glance, the XG2401 is somewhat plain, but it does have a very slick stand, with full height, pivot, swivel and tilt adjustments, and a cable organiser on the back.
Handily, the screen includes dual HDMI inputs, as well as DisplayPort (needed for adaptive sync) as well as two USB ports.
Verdict
Smooth high refresh rate gaming without having to blow out the budget.