AOC has announced its first dual-mode gaming monitor, offering users a choice between fast and clear motion or high-quality visuals at moderate refresh rates. This new display will surely attract many gamers thanks to its versatile specs and aggressive pricing.
AOC Gaming U27G4R joins the brand’s G4 series, featuring a dual-refresh IPS panel that allows you to seamlessly switch between an ultra-sharp UHD (3840×2160) resolution at 160Hz or a super-fast 320Hz refresh rate at a lower (1920×1080) FHD. This makes it a one-stop shop for both competitive esports players and those looking for sharp images suited for story-driven titles, eliminating the need to choose between two different monitors.
While 320Hz isn’t the fastest, as models like Agon Pro AG246FK push nearly double that at 540Hz, it is enough for most users, especially those just dipping their toes into esports gaming. Better yet, you won’t be locked into the low FHD resolution offered by the faster solutions. You can always easily switch back to the higher UHD resolution when playing non-competitive games to take advantage of the 163 pixels-per-inch sharpness.
Due to its IPS nature, the pixel response time is advertised at 1ms GtG and 0.3ms MPRT at FHD, putting it between VA panels and the lightning-fast OLEDs. Note that the 0.3ms rating is achievable using the Motion Blur Reduction (MBR) setting.
But speed and sharpness aren’t the only things this monitor packs. To ensure proper image reproduction, U27G4R covers 124.7% of the sRGB colour gamut and 95.9% of DCI-P3. It also includes a DisplayHDR 400 certification, though the lack of dimming zones will limit its effectiveness. Furthermore, while enough for SDR content, the 400nits of brightness and 1000:1 contrast will fall short in high-dynamic range (HDR). That said, this isn’t a high-end monitor, so these specs are perfectly fine. Add to that features such as Picture-in-Picture plus a USB hub, and you get more than most alternatives offer at this range.
For connectivity, U27G4R houses two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, one audio jack, plus the aforementioned four-port USB 3.1 hub. The stand provides a complete set of adjustments, including 3.5°/21.5° tilt, 90° pivot, 30° swivel, and 130mm height control.
Design-wise, this model follows the aesthetics of the G4 series, with a space-efficient esports-inspired base that maintains stability while reducing desk footprint. Its matte black finish with subtle red accents allows it to fit in different setups, even though gamers are its target.
Lastly, U27G4R includes AOC’s usual suite of gaming features, from low input lag modes to shadow control and crosshair overlays. These can be adjusted via the brand’s G-Menu software if you don’t like using the physical controls.
AOC U27G4R will be available from May 2025 at £299 MSRP, backed by a three-year warranty. This slots it among the cheapest 160Hz UHD monitors currently available, all while offering the alternative 320Hz FHD mode as a bonus. If you were ever torn between a fast refresh display and a high-resolution one, U27G4R is a great solution.
