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MSI MAG 242C 24" specifications and in-depth review

MSI MAG 242C 24"

Manufacturer: MSI

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ is a gaming monitor designed with a curved display to enhance immersive experiences. It features a 180Hz refresh rate and is built for those looking for a high-performance monitor with fast response times and smooth visuals.

This model offers a 1ms response time and a 1920 x 1080 resolution, ensuring sharp, clear images. It supports VESA Adaptive Sync technology, has a matte panel, and boasts a 178º horizontal and vertical viewing angle for comfortable viewing from various positions.

Pros
  • The 180Hz refresh rate offers smooth and fluid visuals, ideal for gaming and fast-paced content.
  • The 1ms response time minimizes motion blur, enhancing the gaming experience with quick reaction times.
  • Supports VESA mounting, providing flexible installation options for different setups.
  • The monitor's 178º viewing angle ensures consistent image quality from various positions, whether you're sitting directly in front or off to the side.
  • Matte panel and anti-glare coating reduce reflections, making it more comfortable to use in bright environments.
Cons
  • The lack of a swivel stand limits adjustment flexibility for optimal viewing angles.
  • No built-in stereo speakers, requiring external audio solutions for sound.
  • Lacks support for USB ports, limiting the ability to connect peripheral devices directly to the monitor.
  • Does not support Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Thunderbolt, restricting certain connectivity options.
  • The absence of features like PiP, remote control, and smart TV functions limits versatility for multimedia use.
Who is this for?

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ is ideal for gamers and users who prioritize fast-paced, immersive experiences. With its 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, it excels in delivering smooth and responsive visuals, making it well-suited for competitive gaming. The VESA mounting support also makes it a good choice for users who need flexible monitor placement in various setups. Additionally, the anti-glare coating and matte panel make it a strong option for environments with ambient light.

Who is this NOT for?

This monitor may not be the best choice for users looking for a versatile multimedia or productivity device. It lacks stereo speakers, USB ports, and does not support Wi-Fi or Ethernet, limiting its functionality for general office tasks or media consumption without external devices. Furthermore, its lack of swivel and minimal ergonomic adjustments may be an issue for users who need highly customizable viewing angles for long hours of use.

Display:

Display type LED-backlit, LCD, VA
response time 1 ms
screen size 23.6"
resolution 1920 x 1080 px
pixel density 93 ppi
Adaptive synchronization VESA Adaptive Sync
has anti-glare coating ✓
refresh rate 180Hz
maximum horizontal viewing angle 178º
maximum vertical viewing angle 178º
has a matte panel ✓
has a glossy panel ✕
has a touch screen ✕

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ monitor features a 23.6″ LED-backlit LCD VA display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution for clear visuals. It offers a 180Hz refresh rate and a 1 ms response time, ensuring smooth performance, especially in fast-paced gaming. The display also has VESA Adaptive Sync for tear-free gaming and supports a 178º horizontal and vertical viewing angle. Additionally, the anti-glare coating and matte panel help reduce reflections, making it suitable for various lighting conditions.

General info:

Type Gaming, Curved
release date February 2025
supports total tilt ✓
Has a swivel stand ✕
Supports VESA mount ✓
height 319 mm
width 539 mm
thickness 70 mm
weight 3000 g
supports portrait mode ✓
volume 12035.87 cm³

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ is a gaming, curved monitor with a height of 319 mm and width of 539 mm. It supports VESA mounting for flexible installation options and offers portrait mode capability for vertical viewing. While it features total tilt adjustment, it does not support a swivel stand. The monitor weighs 3000 g and has a thickness of 70 mm, with a total volume of 12035.87 cm³.

Colors:

brightness (typical) 300 nits
supports color calibration ✓
display colors 1070 million
bit depth 10-bit
contrast ratio 3000:1
Adobe RGB coverage 89.9%
sRGB coverage 115.8%

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ monitor features a 3000:1 contrast ratio for deeper blacks and brighter whites, delivering vibrant images. With 10-bit color depth, it supports 1070 million display colors for smooth color gradients and accurate tones. The monitor also offers 89.9% Adobe RGB coverage and 115.8% sRGB coverage, making it a solid choice for users seeking rich, precise color reproduction.

Connectivity:

HDMI ports 1
supports Thunderbolt ✕
DisplayPort outputs 1
DisplayPort version DisplayPort 1.2
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack ✓
has a DVI connector ✕
USB ports 0
Has USB Type-C ✕
HDMI version HDMI 2.0b
supports Ethernet ✕
supports Wi-Fi ✕
has AirPlay ✕
mini DisplayPort outputs 0
has a VGA connector ✕

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ offers a range of connectivity options, including 1 HDMI port with HDMI 2.0b support and 1 DisplayPort 1.2 output. It also features a 3.5mm audio jack for headset connection, though it does not include USB ports or support for Thunderbolt, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. The monitor lacks other common ports such as DVI, VGA, or USB Type-C.

Power:

Features:

has PiP ✕
has stereo speakers ✕
has built-in smart TV ✕
has a remote control ✕
supports Dolby Digital ✕
supports Dolby Digital Plus ✕
has DTS Surround ✕
has an ambient light sensor ✕
has a front camera ✕

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ monitor does not include features like PiP (Picture-in-Picture), stereo speakers, or a built-in smart TV. It also lacks Dolby Digital or DTS Surround support and does not come with a remote control or ambient light sensor. Additionally, there is no front camera included with this model.

Final Verdict

The MSI MAG 242C 24″ is a strong option for gamers seeking a fast and responsive display with a 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. Its VESA mounting support and anti-glare coating make it suitable for flexible setups and bright environments. However, the monitor's lack of built-in audio, USB ports, and advanced connectivity options may limit its appeal for general productivity or multimedia use. Overall, it's a solid choice for gamers who prioritize performance but may not be the best fit for those seeking broader versatility.