MSI has launched a 4K 160Hz gaming monitor offering dual-mode for the first time a curved design. Whether you like higher resolution or fast-paced competitive games, this display has you covered.
It’s been somewhat of a slow adoption since LG OLED panels debuted dual-mode tech back in March, letting you swap between higher resolutions for more detail and higher refresh rates for a competitive advantage. Now, joining Asus’s less expensive IPS solution, MSI marks its entry into the club with MAG 321CUPDF.
With a click of a button, you can switch between its full 3840×2160 resolution at 160Hz and a lower but much faster 1920×1080 at 320Hz. Alongisde its full 31.5in, selecting the faster mode gives you the option to choose between 27in or 24.5in formats, probably to avoid a blurry image. Understandable since a 1080p resolution would otherwise result in 70 pixels per inch.
321CUPDF is also the world’s first dual-mode gaming monitor rocking a 1,500R curve – a perfect fit for its large size to fill the user’s field of view. MSI claims that this VA-based monitor can cover 136% of the sRGB colour gamut and 97% of DCI-P3, which is great for most games and content. These specs are complemented by several ports, comprised of one DisplayPort 1.4a, two HDMI 2.1, and one USB Type-C with DP alt mode and 15W power delivery.
MSI advertises a 0.5ms GtG pixel response time alongside a typical 3000:1 contrast ratio and 350nits of brightness. DisplayHDR 400 certification is also mentioned but the lack of local dimming will limit its effect. While unfortunate, concessions result in a rather attractive ¥2,999 ($412/£324) price point. That said, MAG 321CUPDF is expected to launch in the US at $499 and in Europe at €649.
All in all, a well-rounded product assuming MSI prices it adequately. Anything above $500 would make it less attractive since basic 4K 160Hz monitors sit at $350/€370, with equivalent dual-mode models at $499. For now, simply wait and see.