- Overall
The MSI G27C2 aims to bring the benefits of a curved screen and VA technology in an affordable package suited for all types of gamers. This model is one of the first forays of the firm into the display market, marking their attempt to dominate all aspects of a gaming computer build. For a reasonable price, you get high refresh rates mixed with a responsive performance that all enthusiasts and competitive gamers crave.
MSI G27C Specifications
- Screen Size: 27 Inches
- Resolution: 1080p FHD
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Panel Technology: Vertical Alignment (VA)
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 4ms
- Contrast Ratio:3000:1
- Brightness: 300 cd/m²
- Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI 1.4 x 1, DVI-DL x 1
- Speakers: No
- VESA: No
- Stand: Height – No
- Stand: Tilt – Yes (-5°/+15°)
- Stand: Swivel – No
- Dimensions: 24.37” x 17.76” x 9.41”
- Weight: 12.79lbs
Design and Features
The MSI G27C2 was originally a bundled monitor with the brand’s pre-built gaming desktops, so its no surprise that its aesthetics take cues from the black and red designs. The cabinet is predominantly matte black but is laden with red metallic accents in the right places. This model sports a clean aesthetic, but it doesn’t come off as just a hunk of plastic with a screen.
The rear of the chassis is pretty straightforward with its matte black surface and an embossed MSI logo in the middle. The build quality of the MSI G27C2 doesn’t give off that premium aura, but the product feels sturdy enough to withstand regular use for some years. Upon checking, we did not notice any creaking or unwanted seams which state that MSI did an excellent job in building this product.
The MSI G27C2 has a 1800r curvature to maximize the immersive effects of the slightly larger screen. Gamers and designers often say that 1800r strikes the perfect balance between good viewing angles and immersion to enhance the overall viewing experience. Frankly, 27-inch curved monitors feel just about right, although the benefits of this type of screen are magnified and better on larger screens.
One glaring downside of the MSI G27C2 is its stand which is aesthetically attractive, but lacking in the ergonomics department. Users can only tilt the monitor, leaving out the taller folk who could use a few inches of adjustment range for a comfortable view angle. Users are also stuck with this limited mechanism since the G27C2 isn’t VESA compatible, so you may need a monitor base or a few textbooks to raise the screen to your ideal line of sight.
The down-firing I/O of the MSI G27C2 includes three video inputs alone, without speakers or USB slots. Users get to choose between DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, and Dual-link DVI for 144Hz operation. While this layout is lacking a few additionals we normally see on other gaming monitors, the three video inputs should be enough for most users in a typical gaming setting at home.
Display and Performance
The MSI G27C2 includes a 27-inch VA panel with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, 4ms response time, and a 1800r curvature. Curved monitors start to maximize the immersive effects at this size, although we would recommend at least choosing a 32-inch or an ultrawide for a more engrossing experience. A contrast ratio of 3000:1 and a brightness maximum of 300cd/m2 are also specified with this model.
Out of the box, a colorimeter will reveal massive inaccuracies in both color and white balance, and a total gamut volume of 98% which doesn’t reach MSI’s specification. The Standard image preset presented a Delta E of 4.6 which means the unbalanced colors and cool hue of the screen at default will be noticeable to most users. You can choose the Picture Mode which presents a better color profile, but if you have a calibrator, the MSI G27C2 will look like a different display.
After tweaking with the settings, color Delta E for the MSI G27C2 improved to .90 and Gamma sat perfectly at 2.2 which helped to give warmth to the overly cool screen. This kind of performance enables the G27C2 to cater to professionals up to a certain degree or for those who only work in sRGB format.
Another excellent aspect of the MSI G27C2 is its extra high contrast ratio, which averages at 3500:1 to 3700:1 which is brilliant for its intended purpose. Games like Vermintide 2 and The Division shine on this excellent gaming monitor, thanks to its superb grayscale performance, deep blacks, and bright visibility. This monitor is highly suitable for titles with RPG elements or deep storylines which are further emphasized environmentally by the properties of VA technology.
Of course, that doesn’t mean that the MSI G27C2 is unsuitable for competitive titles such as Overwatch or CS:GO since it is a responsive monitor. Blurring which is highly associated with VA panels was kept to a minimum during our test. You can further clear the screen of these flaws by activating the Over Driver feature of the G27C2 which speeds up the pixel response time without adding any overshoot.
The MSI G27C2 combines these scores with an input lag rating of only 4.2ms at 144Hz operation which makes it suitable even for professional gaming. Playing Overwatch on this monitor was a fantastic experience since the screen’s color, and contrast outputs are great for cartoony environments, and we did not notice or experience any delays. The monitor also comes with FreeSync, so if in case you have an AMD GPU and need to turn up the in-game graphics settings due to the looser pixel density, you can still enjoy smooth visuals without tears or stuttering.
Thoughts on the MSI G27C2
The MSI G27C2 is an excellent gaming monitor if you take the time to calibrate it and look past its physical limitations. MSI definitely has shown potential with this model, so it isn’t surprising that they now have new and improved variants like the MAG series. If you also do a bit of editing or design work on the side, this could be a suitable option for you.
However, we do not recommend the MSI G27C2 for out of the box users, since it presented dismal accuracy when we first checked it. Calibration revealed scores that could rival some professional displays in the market, but they were achieved with the help of a colorimeter. The rigid tilt-only stand is also a deal breaker for us, although to be fair, something similar with ergonomics usually cost fifty bucks more.
Jaja says
Hi i have this unit. but when im watching movies on youtube the resolution sucks even its on 1080p.thanks
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Jaja! We did not experience this when we tested the MSI G27C2. It could be buffering or the low pixel pitch of the monitor which makes the video less clear for you.
Jeremy says
Hi, i just bought this monitor and some how i cannot use 144hz refresh rate. I have to use the hdmi cable instead of displayport because it was constantly stuttering. Im using a RX 580 gpu and i was tried every method but non works. Please help me figure this. Thank you
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Jeremy! You are going to need to use the DisplayPort 1.2 for 144Hz operation since the HDMI connector’s version (1.4) doesn’t support the full range. Try reinstalling your drivers or changing DP cables. Good luck!
Lee says
Hello! I So since I purchased this model based on this review, I thought I’d report back with my input having had the monitor for a few weeks now.
Firstly, I followed advice from Paolo Reva in the comments on good settings for a good viewing experience on this monitor As quoted:
“Try dropping your brightness to around 20% and set your contrast to 65. Also tweak the RGB color temp settings to 53-57-54 for best results. Cheers!”
This was dead accurate, the image is exponentially better than out of the box with his settings. The only deviation for me was the brightness.
I have poor eyesight especially when things are not brightly illuminated, so I keep my brightness at 50. For those like me who need that extra brightness, don’t fret. The image is not washed out at 50 brightness. There might be the tiniest, most minuscule bit of color loss from the brightness that one could stretch to characterize as washing out, but I’m of a discerning/nitpicky eye and I assure you it’s so subtle as to not be noticed unless I’m looking for it intentionally.
On the DSR feature. I did end up testing out DSR. As I expected, and as reviewers the internet over have echoed (including Paolo above), it sucks the big one. It could be useful if it was SIGNIFICANTLY toned down, but as it stands it washes colors out terribly. Do not use this feature, I’d be honestly surprised if it didn’t give you headaches, and it looks awful.
Sidenote! The “Overdrive” feature (which I assume is like an overclock to the response time?) locks the monitor at something like brightness 20. I don’t feel like this model ghosts/input lags AT ALL without the OD feature enabled though, so given that I need the extra brightness, I’ve kept this function off.
I haven’t noticed any outstanding backlight bleed.
Overall, considering my expectations of the model and the price point, I’m very happy with it. This review helped me solidify the decision, and this verbose comment is my way of giving back for that insightful nudge.
Brendon says
I’ve read some reviews stating that the monitor has a very unemersibe experience as it’s only 1920×1080 spread out onto 27” and has a problem where it ends up turning blue over time or something. is this true? Also how is the light bleed when displaying a fully black screen?
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Brendon! The immersive experience is pretty subjective, but we can say that 27-inch displays are the bare minimum for you to feel the benefits. We did not notice any bleeding or bluish tints during our time with the G27C2.
Felipe says
I have light bleeding in my G27C2.
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Felipe! Unfortunately, that’s a random flaw some units experience. Try applying for an RMA or an exchange.
Lee says
Just wanted to weigh in, even though I mentioned it in my other comment. I got mine something like two or two and a half weeks ago from the time of this comment.
I haven’t noticed any outstanding light bleed on mine. I use the term “outstanding” because if there is light bleed, it’s not been noticeable or distracting. To justify that statement, I’d point out that I play stealth action games like it’s my job so I experience lots of dark image spaces that would make light bleed obvious.
Paolo Reva says
Thank you for your kind words and trust, Lee! We’re glad that we were able to influence your shopping and gaming experience in a positive way. Enjoy!
Felipe says
How tweak this monitor? What the best configuration for him (in monitor or with programs)? (I have one)
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Felipe! Try dropping your brightness to around 20% and set your contrast to 65. Also tweak the RGB color temp settings to 53-57-54 for best results. Cheers!
Lee says
Thank you so much for this answer. I’m an advanced user in terms of computers but I’ve never had a colorimeter or a monitor calibrator and just ordered this monitor. I was worried I’d be stuck with crappy calibration upon finishing this review but your answer saved the day. Thanks!
Paolo Reva says
You are welcome, Lee!
Lee says
Do you suggest not using the DCR mode if I am concerned with color accuracy? I don’t need to do any image or video editting but I do want a good gaming experience and play lots of stealth action, therefore I need deep blacks and good contrast in general. Also, I am currently applying your suggested settings, you rock!
Paolo Reva says
Hi, Lee! We often don’t use DCR modes on any monitor since they affect the actual contrast ratio. They sometimes desaturate the blacks to the point of being grayish. Try it out and see how you like it!