It's important (maybe obviously) to remember exactly what we're talking about when you're looking for one of the best G-Sync Compatible FreeSync monitors. Back in January, at CES, Nvidia announced its 'G-Sync Compatible' program. This saw the company set out to test "every async monitor the world has made," in order to get a handle on exactly what models would and can work in conjunction with its own G-Sync adaptive sync technology. After evaluating 400 monitors, 12 passed. All of them were FreeSync displays. However, as of right now, a little over 20 FreeSync monitors are now certified for G-Sync by Nvidia:
- Acer XV273K
- Acer ED273 Abidpx
- Acer XG270HU
- Acer XZ321Q
- Acer XG270HU
- Acer XZ321QU
- Acer XFA240
- Acer XF250Q Cbmiiprx
- Acer KG271 Bbmiipx
- Acer XF240H Bmjdpr
- Acer XF270H Bbmiiprx
- AOC G2590FX
- AOC AG241QX
- AOPEN 27HC1R Pbidpx
- Asus MG278Q
- Asus VG258QR
- Asus VG278Q
- Asus XG258Q
- Asus VG258Q
- Asus VG248QG
- Asus XG248Q
- BenQ XL2740
- BenQ XL2540-B
- Gigabyte Aorus AD27QD
Therefore, it is possible—on those monitors in particular—to enable the technology in the Nvidia Control Panel and make these the best G-Sync-compatible FreeSync monitors going. That way, whether you have one of the best graphics cards from Nvidia or AMD plugged into your rig, you don't have to rely on the software-based vertical sync, or v-sync, options which are often plagued by input lag and microstuttering.
Of course, as you may know already, you don't have to own a G-Sync certified FreeSync monitor in order to tick the 'Enable G-Sync, G-Sync Compatible' box against Nvidia's judgement. You could just do it and see what happens. In fact, Nvidia has intentionally given us the choice to 'enable G-Sync manually for your FreeSync monitor,' even if it hasn't been officially vetted. But once you do it, there's no telling what kind of instability will ensue. So, there's a warning.
And so your best bet is to aim for one of the best G-Sync Compatible FreeSync monitors out in wild that have are Nvidia-approved. Complete with specs, pricing and the crux of our impressions, read on to experience the luxuries of G-Sync minus the exorbitant cost of a native G-Sync panel.
1. AOC G2590FX
Nigh bezel-less beauty
Screen size: 24.5-inch | Panel type: TN | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Response time: 1ms | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Weight: 9.26 lbs
Although it does use a TN panel, notorious for its inferior viewing angles and color reproduction, the AOC G2590FX is an affordable path to high frame rate gaming on an almost borderless display. With a refresh rate of 144Hz and an agile 1ms response time, this 25-inch monitor can show off frames fast as your GPU can squeeze them out, no jaggies or input lag permitted.
2. BenQ Zowie XL2740
Behind closed doors
Screen size: 27-inch | Panel type: TN | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Response time: 1ms | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Weight: 19 lbs
It might look a little bizarre because of its removable "tactical shield" blinders on either side of the display, but rest assured, the BenQ Zowie XL2740 works like a dream for aspiring esports legends. Not only does it have a blisteringly fast 240Hz refresh rate, but it also eliminates much of the hassle of navigating menus by way of a remote 'S-Switch' mechanism.
3. Acer ED273 Abidpx
Keeping it curvy
Screen size: 27-inch | Panel type: VA | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Response time: 4ms | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Weight: 10.14 lbs
For those who prefer screen that take the shape of our peripheral vision, the Acer ED273 Abidpx leverages a fast and fluid vertical alignment, or VA, panel. So while its response times can't quite keep up with those of the aforementioned TN displays, its viewing angles are suited for the enhanced field of view ushered in by the advent of curvaceous frames.
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