The MSI MAG301CR is a smaller 21:9 ultrawide with a 30-inch 2560 x 1080 lightning-fast screen that goes up to 200Hz. This model uses a new AU Optronics VA panel with deep contrast levels and comprehensive color coverage for the best possible gaming visuals. The monitor lists up to 98% DCI-P3 or around 127% sRGB coverage which will provide lush colors and deep black levels.
The first question regarding the MSI MAG301CR is probably its size which many would consider to be old or backwards. 30-inch models are actually popular in Asian markets for their affordability, but it’s mostly lesser-known brands that offer them. The resolution is less than ideal in today’s PC monitor trends, but it still provides an expanded view space that is great for both gaming and productivity all around.
Some of the specs listed for the MSI MAG301CR includes a 300 cd/m2 backlight and a 3000:1 contrast ratio. The kind of color coverage it advertises is already sufficient for HDR, but the monitor can only respond to HDR signals and try to represent it as best it could. There is no mention of VESA HDR certification, while there is no special backlight feature such as local dimming with this option.
The MSI MAG301CR also mentions a 48Hz to 200Hz adaptive sync capability or FreeSync, and possibly, G-Sync Compatible Mode. The monitor also includes an Anti-Motion Blur or backlight strobing feature which could help in boosting the response time to match the framerate of the monitor. It’s a very well-rounded gaming monitor that is enhanced by the novelty of the narrow but wider screen.
The design of the MSI MAG301CR shows improvement compared to the brand’s first few releases, biasing towards a more subtle approach instead of looking gaudy or aggressive. The monitor has a matte black aesthetic with a classy stand that offers full adjustability. You will also find RGB lighting that works with MSI’s Mystic Light at the back to complete which works best for themed builds.
Another interesting characteristic of the MSI MAG301CR is it includes a USB-C port that supports DP Alt Mode. This allows users to instantly connect USB-C laptops like the MacBook Pro, but the charging power is limited to only 15 watts. However, the latter supports the full 200Hz refresh of the monitor, along with the DisplayPort 1.2 slot.
The MSI MAG301CR is already listed on Amazon and MSI’s official site. Keep checking this page for the latest news and updates which we will add once they become available.
About the Author:
Paolo is a gaming veteran since the golden days of Doom and Warcraft and has been building gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues since his junior high years. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations and he believes that it’s 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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