Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A 27" specifications and in-depth review

Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A 27"

Manufacturer: Asus

The Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A is a 27-inch monitor built around an IPS panel with LED backlighting, targeting users who need both sharp visuals and smooth motion. Its 300Hz refresh rate stands out as one of the headline specifications, paired with a 1ms response time that keeps fast-moving content looking clean and precise. The display carries a matte, anti-glare coating and supports portrait mode along with full tilt, swivel, and VESA mounting options, giving it a reasonable degree of physical flexibility for different desk setups.

Running at a native resolution of 2560x1440 pixels across a 27-inch screen, the panel reaches a pixel density of 108 ppi and delivers up to 300 nits of brightness alongside a contrast ratio of 1300:1 and a 16.7 million color range. Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4 output, a USB Type-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack, with stereo speakers rated at 2x2W built in. Adaptive sync is handled via VESA Adaptive Sync, and the monitor draws 33W during normal operation with a standby consumption of 0.5W.

Pros
  • The 300Hz refresh rate paired with a 1ms response time ensures very smooth rendering for fast-paced content
  • Wide 178-degree viewing angles both horizontally and vertically keep image quality consistent across a broad range of viewing positions
  • The stand supports tilt, swivel, and portrait mode rotation, offering meaningful ergonomic flexibility for different workspace setups
  • VESA mount support allows the display to be used with third-party arms or wall brackets
  • HDMI 2.1 ports provide two high-bandwidth video inputs alongside a DisplayPort 1.4 output and a USB Type-C port
  • Color calibration support gives users control over color accuracy for more demanding visual tasks
Cons
  • No Thunderbolt support limits connectivity options for users who rely on that interface
  • The monitor lacks an ambient light sensor, so brightness cannot adjust automatically based on room lighting
  • Picture-in-Picture is not supported, restricting multi-source display flexibility
  • Built-in speakers are limited to 2x2W with no support for Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, or DTS Surround
  • Only one USB port is available, which may feel restrictive for users needing to connect multiple peripherals
Who is this for?

This monitor suits users who need a display capable of handling fast-moving content without visual lag, thanks to its 300Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. The wide 178-degree viewing angles and IPS panel make it a practical choice for those who spend extended hours in front of a screen, while the adjustable stand with tilt, swivel, and portrait mode support works well for anyone who values ergonomic flexibility at their workstation. The inclusion of color calibration support also makes it a reasonable fit for users who need consistent, adjustable color output for visually demanding tasks.

Who is this NOT for?

Users who require a highly immersive viewing experience may find the contrast ratio of 1300:1 and 300 nits brightness limiting, particularly in environments with significant ambient light or for content that benefits from deeper blacks. Those who depend on advanced audio without external speakers will likely find the 2x2W stereo output with no Dolby or DTS support inadequate for their needs. Additionally, users who rely on Thunderbolt connectivity or need to connect multiple USB peripherals simultaneously will encounter clear limitations given the single USB port and absence of Thunderbolt support.

Display:

Display type LED-backlit, LCD, IPS
response time 1 ms
screen size 27"
resolution 2560 x 1440 px
pixel density 108 ppi
Adaptive synchronization VESA Adaptive Sync
has anti-glare coating
refresh rate 300Hz
maximum horizontal viewing angle 178º
maximum vertical viewing angle 178º
has a matte panel
has a glossy panel
has a touch screen

The display uses an IPS panel with LED backlighting across a 27-inch screen, rendering content at a resolution of 2560x1440 pixels and a pixel density of 108 ppi. Its 300Hz refresh rate combines with a 1ms response time to keep motion rendering sharp, while VESA Adaptive Sync helps reduce screen tearing during variable frame rate output. Both the horizontal and vertical viewing angles reach 178 degrees, and the matte panel with anti-glare coating limits reflections without introducing a glossy surface. The display does not support touch input.

General info:

Type Standard
supports total tilt
Has a swivel stand
Supports VESA mount
height 367 mm
width 615 mm
thickness 54 mm
weight 4600 g
supports portrait mode
volume 12188.07 cm³

This is a standard-type monitor measuring 615mm wide, 367mm tall, and 54mm thick, with a total weight of 4600g and a volume of 12188.07 cm³. It offers a solid range of physical adjustments, including tilt, swivel, and portrait mode support, allowing the screen to be repositioned both horizontally and vertically or rotated into a vertical orientation. VESA mount compatibility is also included, making it possible to attach the display to third-party arms or wall brackets.

Colors:

brightness (typical) 300 nits
supports color calibration
display colors 16.7 million
contrast ratio 1300:1

The display produces up to 16.7 million colors with a typical brightness of 300 nits and a contrast ratio of 1300:1, giving it a reasonable depth between its darkest and lightest output levels. Color calibration is supported, allowing users to adjust the color output to meet specific accuracy requirements.

Connectivity:

HDMI ports 2
supports Thunderbolt
DisplayPort outputs 1
DisplayPort version DisplayPort 1.4
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack
has a DVI connector
USB ports 1
Has USB Type-C
HDMI version HDMI 2.1
supports Ethernet
supports Wi-Fi
has AirPlay
mini DisplayPort outputs 0
has a VGA connector

The monitor provides two HDMI 2.1 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4 output for video input, alongside a USB Type-C port and one additional USB port. A 3.5mm headset jack is also present for audio passthrough. There are no DVI, VGA, or mini DisplayPort connectors, and the monitor does not support Thunderbolt, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or AirPlay.

Power:

operating power consumption 33W
standby power consumption 0.5W

During normal use, the monitor draws 33W of power, while in standby mode that figure drops to just 0.5W.

Features:

has PiP
has stereo speakers
has built-in smart TV
audio output power 2 x 2W
has a remote control
supports Dolby Digital
supports Dolby Digital Plus
has DTS Surround
has an ambient light sensor
has a front camera

The monitor includes built-in stereo speakers rated at 2x2W, providing basic audio output without the need for external speakers. It does not support Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, or DTS Surround, and there is no remote control, ambient light sensor, front camera, or Picture-in-Picture functionality. Smart TV capabilities are also absent.

Final Verdict

The Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A is a 27-inch IPS monitor that makes a clear case for users who prioritize smooth, fast display output, with its 300Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time forming the core of its appeal. The ergonomic stand, broad viewing angles, HDMI 2.1 connectivity, and color calibration support round out a well-equipped feature set for its category. Where it falls short — limited audio output, a modest contrast ratio, and restricted USB connectivity — reflects trade-offs that are largely consistent with its focused design. For users whose primary concern is fluid, responsive visuals at a QHD resolution with solid connectivity options, this monitor delivers a coherent and capable package.