Asus has released the ROG Strix XG27JCG, a 27in monitor pushing resolution to new highs for gaming displays. Thanks to its 5K (5120×2880) IPS panel, this beast can display ultra-sharp images at 180Hz, assuming your PC can handle it. It even features a dual-mode refresh for those who prefer a smoother experience, allowing it to reach 330Hz at QHD (2560×1440) resolution.
Unfortunately, those planning on getting one better have an RTX 50 Series inside their machines, since Asus specifically requires one, or at minimum an RX 7600 on the AMD side. If you are wondering why, well, this could be a matter of video-output bandwidth limitation or an incompatibility with the DSC (Display Stream Compression) / FRL (Fixed Rate Link) supported by older cards. Or simply that Asus didn’t bother validating the monitor on RTX 40 Series, which is unlikely.
Because the ROG Strix XG27JCG comes equipped with two HDMI 2.1, one DisplayPort 1.4, plus one USB Type-C with DP Alt Mode, i.e. the same as RTX 40 Series, the logical assumption is that there is some limitation in the way the video compression is negotiated between the display and GPU. Furthermore, this restriction only applies to the 5K 180Hz mode, meaning the QHD 330Hz mode has no issues with older cards. What is certain is that the RTX 50 Series’ upgraded display outputs can drive ultra-high resolutions/refresh rates without needing higher compression ratios.
Since Asus specifically mentions the 180Hz refresh when talking about RTX 50 Series compatibility, lower refresh rates may still be possible on older cards. For example, connecting a 360Hz 1440p monitor using HDMI 2.0 limits its speed to 240Hz, but other than this, it works just fine. So, unless there is some firmware incompatibility or specific design choice, you should be able to enjoy the XG27JCG’s fantastic 218 PPI pixel density, just at a lower refresh rate.
Besides, even if you own the latest and greatest GPU, you are unlikely to reach 180fps in modern AAA titles anyway, at least not using max graphics. As a reminder, the XG27JCG’s 5120×2880 resolution is 77% higher than 4K, and 4K is already extremely hard to run. Upscaling will definitely be required to boost performance.
Limitations aside, the XG27JCG is truly built for gamers, offering G-Sync, FreeSync, and variable refresh rate (VRR) support, plus ELMB 2 (Extreme Low Motion Blur 2) backlight strobing, which can run alongside VRR. Asus also advertises 0.3ms GtG response time and DisplayHDR 600 certification, meaning clearer and brighter images. Note, however, that there is only a basic backlight system with two LED strips and ten light zones, so don’t expect to be blown away by the HDR experience.
Pricing-wise, the XG27JCG has yet to be launched globally, but Asian listings put it at 6,500 HK$, which is around £624. We can expect more information at CES 2026.
