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The Asus VA32AQ offers a WQHD IPS panel complemented with an array of accessories such as a fast-charging USB port for your productive convenience. This monitor is perfect for you if you want to jump from 1080p into 1440p without spending too much to upgrade your visual experience. The reasonably priced Asus VA32AQ and its attractive minimalist aesthetics are easy to own, but is it a valid value per dollar monitor or are there better options out there?
Asus VA32AQ Specifications
- Screen Size: 32 Inches
- Resolution:1440p QHD
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Panel Technology: In-Plane Switching (IPS)
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Response Time:5ms
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
- Brightness: 250 cd/m²
- Built-in Speakers: Yes (2 x 4 Watts)
- Stand: Height – No
- Stand: Tilt – Yes (-3.5°/+10°)
- Stand: Swivel – No
- Stand: Pivot – No
- VESA Compatibility: Yes
- Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI x 1, D-Sub x 1, USB x 1, 3.5mm Jack
- Dimensions With Stand(WxHxD): 28.48″ x 19.15″ x 7.09″
- Weight: 11.46lbs
Design and Features
The Asus VA32AQ employs a fairly simple design which is likable to both gamers and professionals while being able to fit in any setting. The front of the monitor uses a dual-stage frame design which comprises a thin outer layer and a minimal panel border on each side. The appearance is almost fully similar to the Asus PG monitors where these thin bezels do not pose as distractions when viewing the widescreen.
The slim chassis of the Asus VA32AQ only has a slight curving bulge that shouldn’t interfere with mounting options via the VESA bolt pattern readily visible on the back. The textured matte black finish adds a nice touch while adding dirt and smudge resistance to the product. The downside to this form is users will have to deal with an external power brick that can sometimes complicate your placement.
It’s also a good thing that the Asus VA32AQ is VESA-friendly since you are stuck with a tilt-only stand. The good news is it is easily removable if you favor mounting, although it doesn’t wobble and provides a lot of stability. The seven inches of depth takes up less space so most can push this monitor further into a desk to maximize the view.
The Asus VA32AQ’s I/O layout is straightforward, offering every connector you will need for day to day use. There is a slot each for DisplayPort, HDMI, and VGA for video input which allows you to connect a PC and a gaming console at the same time. There is also a USB slot on the left side with fast charging for mobile phones, plus a pair of 4-watt speakers with sufficient power for essential listening and entertainment.
Display and Performance
The Asus VA32AQ utilizes a 32-inch IPS panel with a 2560 x 1440 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, and 5ms response time. These specs, of course, aren’t indicative of gaming performance but from our experience, we can say that it will suffice for casual situations. Upon turning it on, the images appear vibrant and alive thanks to the 100% sRGB coverage of the screen.
This monitor requires only minor tweaking to maximize its potential in image quality and clarity. This model includes several splendid modes for different scenarios, such as sRGB for increased vibrancy and Dark Room for low-lit environments. Setting brightness to comfortable levels is usually enough for day to day use, but more advanced users might want to check out upmarket options if you want the best in accuracy.
However, the Asus VA32AQ has one glaring issue in the form of fuzziness or interlacing when viewing text or heavily detailed images. This flaw is caused by the Vivid Pixel feature which aims to sharpen the image which is already turned on in the OSD upon shipment. To avoid any viewing issues, we suggest leaving this setting disabled, especially if you are extra sensitive to visual defects.
Gamers will also get some mileage with this device due to its excellent responsiveness and GamePlus features. Just like the ROG variants, you can apply crosshair and timer overlays on the screen for added accuracy in FPS games or to help keep track of challenges and objectives. The Asus VA32AQ only clocks it at 10ms in latency, so control inputs and on-screen events feel in tune with each other.
However, the 5ms pixel response time is profoundly apparent in fast-paced action, with blurring and ghosting happening from time to time. You can’t expect more from a 60Hz monitor, but casuals usually don’t notice these issues. To reduce this image flaw, try tinkering with the Trace-Free overdrive setting in the OSD to your liking, although, be warned that applying too much will induce reverse ghosting.
Thoughts on the Asus VA32AQ
The Asus VA32AQ has some merits in its own right, but it falls in a pricing category where there are newer and better models out there. For around the same amount, you can opt for the HP Omen 32 or the AOC Q3279VWF which are both VA monitors but have 75Hz refresh rate and FreeSync. The market has become too competitive for this type of device, so if it were us looking for a competitive sub-$400 display, we’d look elsewhere.
However, if you can get the Asus VA32AQ at prices closer to the $300 mark, it becomes an instant entry for your shopping shortlist. It’s hard to argue with an affordable 32-inch monitor that performs decently for games, movies, and productivity for your home or office. The minimalist design and slim proportions are visually appealing, just like its PG series cousins.
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