MSI MAG 274URFW 27" specifications and in-depth review

MSI MAG 274URFW 27"

Manufacturer: MSI

The MSI MAG 274URFW is a 27-inch IPS gaming monitor that brings together a high-resolution 4K panel and a fast refresh rate in a slim, anti-glare form factor. Its standout characteristic is a 3840x2160 resolution at 163 ppi, delivering a noticeably sharp image across the 27-inch screen. The stand supports tilt and swivel, and the display is VESA mount compatible, giving users flexibility in how they position it on their desk.

The panel operates at 160Hz with a 0.5ms response time and AMD FreeSync Premium for adaptive sync. Color output is handled by a 10-bit panel covering 93% Adobe RGB and 133% sRGB, with 1.07 billion colors and a typical brightness of 400 nits. Color calibration is supported, which adds precision for users who need accurate color output. Connectivity is built around two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort output, and a 3.5mm audio jack — there are no USB ports, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or USB Type-C. Operating power consumption is rated at 65W.

Pros
  • The 3840x2160 resolution at 163 ppi delivers a noticeably sharp image across the 27-inch panel, benefiting both gaming and detail-oriented work
  • Two HDMI 2.1 ports support high-bandwidth connections suitable for the display's 4K resolution and 160Hz refresh rate
  • Color calibration is supported alongside a 10-bit panel with 93% Adobe RGB and 133% sRGB coverage, making it useful for users who need verified color accuracy
  • The stand supports both tilt and swivel, and VESA mount compatibility adds further flexibility in positioning
  • A typical brightness of 400 nits provides reasonable visibility in well-lit environments
Cons
  • There are no USB ports of any kind, making this display unsuitable for users who need a peripheral hub
  • The absence of USB Type-C and Thunderbolt limits compatibility with modern laptops that rely on single-cable connections
  • Portrait mode is not supported, restricting display orientation options
  • No stereo speakers are included, requiring users to rely on external audio equipment or the 3.5mm jack
  • The 1000:1 contrast ratio is relatively modest for content where deep blacks and shadow separation are important
Who is this for?

This monitor is well-suited for gamers and content creators who want a single display that handles both fast-paced gaming and color-sensitive work without compromise. The 4K resolution at 163 ppi makes it a strong choice for users who prioritize sharp, detailed visuals, while the 160Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium keep gameplay smooth and responsive. The 10-bit panel with color calibration support and 93% Adobe RGB coverage also makes it a practical option for photographers or designers who need a verified, wide color output within a gaming-oriented setup.

Who is this NOT for?

Users who depend on a monitor as a connectivity hub will find this display limiting, as it offers no USB ports, no USB Type-C, and no Ethernet or wireless connectivity. Those who work in dark environments or value strong contrast for cinematic content will be constrained by the 1000:1 contrast ratio, which does not produce the deep blacks associated with higher-contrast panel types. The lack of portrait mode support and built-in speakers further narrows its appeal for users who need flexible orientation or self-contained audio without additional peripherals.

Display:

Display type IPS
response time 0.5 ms
screen size 27"
resolution 3840 x 2160 px
pixel density 163 ppi
Adaptive synchronization AMD FreeSync Premium
has anti-glare coating
refresh rate 160Hz
maximum horizontal viewing angle 178º
maximum vertical viewing angle 178º
has a matte panel
has a glossy panel
has a touch screen

This 27-inch IPS panel delivers a 3840x2160 resolution at 163 ppi, with a 160Hz refresh rate, 0.5ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium for adaptive sync. Both horizontal and vertical viewing angles reach 178 degrees, and an anti-glare coating is present. The panel is neither classified as matte nor glossy, and touch input is not supported.

General info:

Type Gaming
supports total tilt
Has a swivel stand
Supports VESA mount
height 362 mm
width 613 mm
thickness 69 mm
weight 6400 g
supports portrait mode
volume 15311.514 cm³

This gaming monitor measures 613mm wide, 362mm tall, and 69mm deep, with a weight of 6,400g and a total volume of 15,311.514 cm³. The stand supports both tilt and swivel adjustments, and the display is compatible with VESA mounting for alternative positioning solutions. Portrait mode is not supported.

Colors:

brightness (typical) 400 nits
supports color calibration
display colors 1070 million
bit depth 10-bit
contrast ratio 1000:1
Adobe RGB coverage 93%
sRGB coverage 133%

The panel offers a typical brightness of 400 nits and a contrast ratio of 1000:1, with a 10-bit color depth capable of displaying 1.07 billion colors. Color space coverage is listed at 93% Adobe RGB and 133% sRGB. Color calibration is supported, allowing for more precise color output when accuracy is a priority.

Connectivity:

HDMI ports 2
supports Thunderbolt
DisplayPort outputs 1
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack
has a DVI connector
USB ports 0
Has USB Type-C
HDMI version HDMI 2.1
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 output for video input, along with a 3.5mm audio jack. There are no USB ports of any type, and USB Type-C, DVI, VGA, mini DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay are all absent.

Power:

operating power consumption 65W

The monitor's rated operating power consumption is 65W.

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 feature set on this monitor is minimal by design — there are no built-in speakers, no Picture-in-Picture support, and no remote control. Smart TV functionality, an ambient light sensor, and a front camera are all absent, as are audio format support options including Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS Surround.

Final Verdict

The MSI MAG 274URFW is a 27-inch gaming monitor that makes a compelling case for users who want sharp visuals and color accuracy in a single display, anchored by its 4K resolution, 10-bit panel, and color calibration support. The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 ports, a 160Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync Premium, and a stand with both tilt and swivel adjustments round out a well-considered feature set for gaming and creative use alike. Its connectivity limitations — particularly the absence of USB ports and USB Type-C — mean it works best as a dedicated display rather than a desk hub. For users whose priorities align with image resolution, color depth, and fluid gaming performance, the MAG 274URFW delivers a focused and capable package.

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