G-Sync is a godsend for Nvidia users who want smooth, and tear-free gaming with next to zero penalties for the performance of the GPU. This proprietary hardware-based tech along with its cost-free rival, AMD’s FreeSync changed the display market substantially. The former is cost-effective because it does not command a premium, while Nvidia’s G-Sync costs an average of $200 for the licensing, exclusivity, and the module itself.
The market is about to see another evolution of Nvidia’s VRR solution in the form of G-Sync HDR. The new version is included with the highly-sought after Asus PG27UQ and Acer Predator X27 which include a 4K 144Hz screen, Quantum Dot tech, and VESA HDR1000 certification. Both monitors can now be pre-ordered from select retailers worldwide with an estimated delivery by August of this year.
Nvidia G-Sync HDR at $500 – Why is it VERY Expensive?
Asus PG27UQ
Both the Asus PG27UQ and Acer Predator X27 cost $2000 or more depending on your region. Conventional thinking and current knowledge suggest that the majority of that retail cost pays for the 4K 144Hz IPS panel plus all the other goodies such as Quantum Dot. But we recently got wind of news that the all-new G-Sync HDR module costs $500 each for the manufacturer, which in turn inflates the shelf price of the two beasts.
Now, before you start hating Nvidia for their widely-known practice of cashing in from the market for their VRR solution, let’s get a few facts straight first. PCPer recently released a detailed view of the Asus PG27UQ’s innards, including its G-Sync HDR module. The board is revealed to be based on the Intel Altera Arria 10 GX480 FPGA, which sells for a few grand depending on variants from some websites.
Acer Predator X27
The G-Sync HDR module also comes with a dedicated 3GB of DDR4 2400MHz memory module from Micron. We reckon the high price of the G-Sync HDR module is also affected by the absurd cost of DDR4 sticks due to the supply shortage. There is no actual calculation for the costing of the Intel Altera Arria FPGA and the built-in RAM, but PCPer’s article and their thorough analysis suggest the cost of the add-on to be at $500.
It’s freakishly amazing that these new flagship monitors have a built-in microcomputer of some sorts in the innards. We think G-Sync HDR monitors like the Asus PG27UQ or the Acer X27 along with future iterations will need the extra juice these Altera Arria FPGAs to maximize their capabilities. But what worries us the most is if the exorbitant price will persist, putting the next-gen G-Sync monitors out of the middle class’ reach.
Editor’s Notes on Nvidia G-Sync HDR’s Pricing
The added premium for G-Sync HDR monitors could also work two ways for Nvidia and their next-gen products. If the green team’s dominance of the GPU market continues into the next generation of products, enthusiasts will be obligated to pay up to enjoy G-Sync monitors. But on the other hand, if AMD pulls a rabbit out of the GPU making hat, the tide might turn in their favor.
FreeSync is cost-free after all, making related products more accessible to the masses whose goal is to play with smooth visuals. We are also certain that a FreeSync-compatible 4K 144Hz monitor will become available sooner or later which will steal a big chunk if Nvidia persists in keeping their pricing on the high side.
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