The INNOCN 27M2V aims to drive the specialized monitor pricing down by offering specifications that cost well beyond a thousand bucks. For around 700 bucks, you get an 4L panel that’s backed by a 1152-zone mini-LED array. That’s a main ingredient for fantastic HDR performance, so let’s see if it’s up to the task.
INNOCN 27M2V Specifications
- Screen Size: 27 Inches
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 4K UHD
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Panel Technology: In-Plane Switching (IPS)
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
- Brightness: 600 cd/m2 (1200 cd/m2 Peak)
- Speakers: Yes (2 x 2 Watts)
- Stand: Height – Yes
- Stand: Tilt – Yes
- Stand: Swivel – Yes
- Stand: Pivot – Yes
- VESA Compatibility: Yes (100 x 100)
- Connectivity DisplayPort 1.4 DSC x 1, HDMI 2.1 x 2, USB-C PD90W x 1, USB 3.0 x 2, 3.5mm Jack x 1
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 24” x 14” x 2.6”
Design and Features
The INNOCN 27M2V has a futuristic aesthetic that wouldn’t look out of place in a sci-fi flick. The monitor has a silver finish which matches most premium devices, plus it has RGB lighting at the back for themed effects. The screen is bezel-free on three sides, although it still has inner borders like any regular display product.
It is nice that it doesn’t take up space, although its cabinet is bulkier or thicker due to its special backlight. It needs less than 10 inches of desktop depth, so it won’t offset your other peripherals if the desk is narrow. It’s also not that heavy for its size, so you can easily carry it around in case your setup needs some rearranging.
We’re impressed with how well these new budget monitors are made compared to the past, mostly flimsy releases. It’s not as solid-feeling as the Asus or LG monitors, but there were no cosmetic defects that indicate poor manufacturing processes. The included stand is also firm and stable, so the screen doesn’t wobble or sag unless you hit it accidentally.
One downside of the INNOCN 27M2V is it uses four buttons instead of a tactile joystick for its OSD. It’s a minor inconvenience, but getting to a specific setting can take longer since the buttons are quite clunky. However, this is forgivable considering the monitor’s low price, although it’s something to improve for future INNOCN products.
The stand offers tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments for your convenience. It is easy to get a comfortable view, so most users will be happy with its default setup. Those who need more flexibility can opt for VESA mounts, but it’s only necessary in select cases.
Another impressive characteristic of this monitor is its well-equipped I/O layout. It has DisplayPort 1.4 DSC for PCs and two HDMI 2.1 ports for the PS5 and Xbox Series X. It even has a 90-watt USB-c slot which you can use for premium laptops like the MacBook Pro.
You also get two USB 3.0 ports for accessories, a 3.5mm jack for headphones, and a pair of built-in speakers. The latter only has 2-watts of power, so most users will probably just avoid them for the monitor’s main purpose. However, it’s always nice to have an extra set, especially with a budget model like this.
Display and Performance
The INNOCN 27M2V sports a 27-inch IPS panel with a 3840 x 2160 resolution, a 160Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms response time. The backlight has a 600 cd/m2 output and a 1200 cd/m2 peak, while the contrast is listed at 1000:1. This model is HDR 1000 certified, just like the Cooler master Tempest GP27U which sports the same specifications and a higher refresh rate.
27-inch 4K monitors are great for games and movies because they are sharp and detailed compared to the 1440p models. The tighter pixel density can make reading and visibility a struggle for some, but that can be solved easily. Note that you will need a very powerful GPU if you want to reach stable framerates.
The INNOCN 27M2V covers 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 for stunning color in games and movies. Its default accuracy isn’t the best, with a deltaE average of 2.45, but it is still great for a monitor with extended gamut coverage. Most gamers won’t feel the need to calibrate this monitor, so it’s good to go with only a few monitor tweaks.
Calibrating the monitor reduced the dE average to 1.23, which is considerably better and suitable for editing and content creation. The downside is that you will need a colorimeter to achieve this, and buying one will offset the savings you get from this product. It is impractical if you are only using the monitor for entertainment, so we can only recommend it if you use the 27M2V for work.
The INNOCN 27M2V’s backlight reached 579 cd/m2 in SDR, and it peaked at 1189 cd/m2 when its HDR mode was active. The monitor’s contrast reached 1104:1 at 50% brightness but can expand exponentially if the FALD unit kicks in. The monitor isn’t capable of OLED-grade black luminance, but its HDR performance is still fantastic.
Panel uniformity for the test sample did not have any major issues like backlight leaks. However, there were some minor haloing in some instances, although they are quite difficult to catch while gaming or watching movies. This model has more zones and better dimming and illumination control over the Tempest GP27U.
The INNOCN 27M2V’s pixel response time is excellent for a 60Hz IPS monitor. Some blurring can still happen in heavily contrasting transitions, but they are not as bad as it is on some VA models. An improved overdrive feature can take care of that, but we don’t think it will be a deal breaker for 99% of the user base.
The INNOCN 27M2V is incompatible with FreeSync and G-Sync for tear and stutter-free performance. It’s a shame, but its understandable since its a prosumer display. Input lag sits at 8ms at 160Hz, so there is no sluggish feel or delays while enjoying your favorite games.
Thoughts on the INNOCN 27M2V
The INNOCN 27M2V is a great buy because of what it offers at a very reasonable price point. You get a vibrant 160Hz panel with excellent HDR capabilities, plus a new and improved design with all the right features. Premium brands might have to let go of some profit margin to compete with it, so we think it can positively affect our high-end monitor purchasing power in the near future.
There are some minor limitations, but we know many will likely overlook them since the 27M2V is such a good deal. However, there is very little room for design errors in the high-end market since consumers are very picky at this level. But overall, it’s an excellent buy for those who want to upgrade their HDR gaming experience.
Pros:
- Excellent Color and HDR Performance
- More Affordable Price
- USB-C and HDMI 2.1 Connectivity
Cons:
- Limited Availability
- OSD Buttons
About the Author: 
Paolo has been a gaming veteran since the golden days of Doom and Warcraft and has been building gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues since junior high. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations; he believes that every citizen’s right to enjoy one. He has gone through several pieces of hardware in pursuit of every bit of performance gain, much to the dismay of his wallet. He now works with Monitornerds to scrutinize the latest gear to create reviews that accentuate the seldom explained aspects of a PC monitor.
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