The future is 5K (5120×2880) according to AOC, as the brand readies the AGP277KXM, a new gaming monitor sporting the lofty resolution in addition to other enticing specifications. Arriving with a Mini LED backlight, featuring 2,304 local dimming zones and capable of outputting 1,600nits, this LCD could make for a compelling alternative to high-end OLEDs in many respects.
AOC has listed the AGP277KXM on its Chinese subdomain, with a complete specifications sheet and gallery. There’s no word on pricing nor availability outside the region for the monitor. We hopefully shouldn’t have to wait long for an official word on wider launch plans, as the display is undeniably delectable on paper.
Measuring 27in, the Fast IPS should prove stunningly sharp. The combination of screen size and resolution nets a razor sharp 218 pixels per inch, a 33% bump in pixel density over 4K alternatives. However, we’re talking about a raw pixel count increase of 78%, requiring suitably powerful hardware á la the GeForce RTX 5090 to run, even at the monitor’s relatively low 165Hz refresh rate.
The screen’s dual mode feature will undoubtedly appeal to those aiming to prioritise motion smoothness, though, dropping the resolution to QHD (2560×1440) and 330Hz. AOC rates the AGP277KXM’s response times at 1ms (GtG), but we’ll need to see how this shapes up in real-world use. Regardless, as this pixel count divides neatly from 5K, we should expect sharpness comparable to native 1440p displays.
Typical SDR brightness looks strong at 450nits, but the HDR light output is all the more impressive. Rocking VESA DisplayHDR 1400 certification, we can expect results in the region of 1,200nits, stretching to 1,600nits at peak. Combine this with 2,304 local dimming zones for greater contrast, and this is as close as you can hope to get for a worthy alternative to OLED screens.
Gamut looks especially wide on this LCD too, with 98% coverage of both the DCI-P3 and Adobe RGB colour spaces. AOC also promises factory panel calibration that will keep average Delta E below 1 in sRGB, meaning SDR content will appear both rich and accurate to the eye. I’d expect similarly good accuracy in the other colour spaces.
In terms of display inputs, we have two HDMI 2.1 ports, a single DisplayPort 2.1 (UHBR20), and a USB-C with DP Alt Mode. All connection types will require Display Stream Compression to hit 5K/180Hz, but it’s great to see AOC providing high-speed options. For peripherals, there are three USB-A ports, which you can share across two systems via the built-in KVM switch.
We’ll keep our eyes out for more information on the AGP277KXM if and when AOC decides to debut the display across the world. In the meantime, check out our picks of the best gaming monitors you can buy today.
