Positioned behind the monitor are two top-firing 2-watt speakers along with an analog stick designed for managing the onscreen display (OSD). Located above the stick is a button dedicated to the built-in keyboard/video/mouse (KVM) feature, enabling users to control multiple connected devices using a single mouse and keyboard. In order to utilize this function, simply connect your mouse and keyboard to the monitor and then link a compatible second PC or device using a USB-C cable. (Please note that the device must be capable of supporting DisplayPort over USB-C.) By pressing the KVM button, you can seamlessly switch between which computer is displayed on the screen and redirect the input devices accordingly.

The KVM may be the star of the show when it comes to unique features, but the I/O hub at the back has many noteworthy elements. All the necessary components are present: a DisplayPort jack, two HDMI 2.0 ports, an earphone jack, three USB 3.0 ports (two downstream, one upstream), and one USB-C port. Although there is no HDMI 2.1 port, the high-bit-rate 3 (HBR3) DisplayPort jack provides ample bandwidth to achieve the monitor’s maximum refresh rate, full color depth, and HDR simultaneously.

The most notable aspect of this situation is that the Gigabyte M27Q X is frequently available for significantly less than its retail price. There have been instances where it has been priced closer to, making it a budget-friendly option for a monitor, albeit just barely.

Evaluating the Gigabyte M27Q X: High Refresh Rates, Low Contrast Ratios.

The Gigabyte M27Q X is a strong competitor for gamers who value the visual output of their video card’s high frame rates. To comprehensively evaluate its performance against other monitors in the market, we will subject it to our standard gaming monitor tests using Datacolor’s SpyderX Elite tool and its corresponding software. Initially, we will assess the display in its default picture mode with an SDR signal. In this scenario, the Gigabyte M27Q X achieved a brightness of 210 nits and a black level of 0.93, resulting in a contrast ratio of 230:1, falling short of the advertised 1,000:1 ratio.

A monitor’s ability to produce deep blacks and bright whites is directly related to its contrast ratio. This is particularly important for enhancing picture quality, especially in dark scenes during gameplay. With the standard contrast ratio for IPS panels set at 1,000:1, a ratio of 230:1 can be quite challenging to accept.

Please be aware that we thoroughly test all our monitors right after unboxing them, using the default factory settings. However, this doesn’t imply that there are no methods to enhance the brightness level. One way to achieve this is by switching to the Movie mode on the monitor, which resulted in a notable improvement, measuring 430 nits of brightness in SDR mode. Additionally, it is crucial to take into account your viewing environment. A lower brightness reading might be advantageous for users situated in well-lit rooms, for instance.

Transitioning to HDR mode yielded improved outcomes, albeit only marginally. The luminance increased significantly from the standard SDR configuration, reaching 408 nits, meeting the specified DisplayHDR 400 requirements, resulting in a contrast ratio of 600:1.

Conversely, despite the low contrast, the color gamut performance was quite impressive on the Gigabyte M27Q X, achieving full coverage of 100% sRGB, 96% Adobe RGB, and 93% DCI-P3. These results surpass those of certain other QHD monitors we have assessed, such as the Razer Raptor 27.

The color accuracy performed quite satisfactorily, achieving an average Delta E result of 1.66. A higher Delta E number indicates that common colors may deviate from their purest form, while a rating below 1 is considered ideal for accurate color representation. This aspect is particularly crucial for individuals using content creation tools, whereas it holds less significance for the average gamer. Those who prioritize color accuracy should consider exploring monitors designed specifically for photo editing purposes.

Media and Gaming Performance.

If you have previously read our monitor reviews, you will already be acquainted with the following information: Response time and input lag are two distinct concepts. Input lag refers to the duration it takes for the monitor to show a signal, whereas response time pertains to the time it takes for pixels to transition from one color to another.

The duration for a pixel to shift from one gray level to another is known as gray-to-gray or GTG. However, it is not a universally standardized measure as different vendors employ varying methods to measure these levels. This also holds true for other measurements such as black-white-black (BWB) and white-black-white (WBW).

Rather than evaluating response time, we assess input lag by utilizing the HDFury Diva Matrix. The Gigabyte M27Q X exhibited an impressive input lag of 1.6 milliseconds in this particular scenario. As you may have anticipated, a smaller value indicates superior performance in terms of input lag. Although certain monitors like the Corsair Xeneon 32QHD165 do measure below 1 millisecond, the disparity in this aspect would likely go unnoticed, except in rare instances during highly competitive esports matches.

The non-gaming viewing experience was exceptional, as there was no glare observed from any viewing angle. Additionally, the gaming performance was impressive, with no noticeable ghosting while playing Halo Infinite or Guardians of the Galaxy.

Strike a balance between Refresh Rate and Resolution.

The Gigabyte M27Q X is a monitor that hits the sweet spot, boasting a 240Hz refresh rate and QHD resolution. While its contrast and brightness fall short when compared to the Gigabyte Aorus FI32Q, it remains a solid choice for gamers seeking high frame rates without breaking the bank. This value-priced 1440p monitor deserves recognition for its performance.

The Gigabyte M27Q X is positioned as a sweet-spot monitor, offering a 240Hz refresh rate and QHD resolution. Although it falls behind in terms of contrast and brightness when compared to the Gigabyte Aorus FI32Q, it is still a great option for gamers aiming for high frame rates without spending a fortune. This affordable 1440p monitor is definitely deserving of praise.