Today, we bring you the MSI MAG 271QPX E2 review, showcasing one of MSI’s most compact QD-OLED models. This 27-inch gaming monitor showcases the best of QD-OLED technology, combining LEDs with quantum dots. It offers a high refresh rate, ultra-fast response time, infinite contrast, HDR support, and ClearMR 13000 certification.
MSI MAG 271QPX E2 Review
Unboxing
The QD-OLED technology monitor comes in a compact box measuring 810 x 185 x 500 mm. The gross weight exceeds 10 kg, and the box features hand slots on the sides for easy handling. The contents are securely packed in foam. The box includes the monitor, two video cables, a power cord, VESA mounts, and documentation. Notably, it comes with a DisplayPort cable, a welcome addition since many models no longer provide one, even though it remains a preferred connection method for many users.
Design
MSI MAG 271QPX QD-OLED belongs to the junior line of MSI Arsenal Gaming, which hints at some compromises compared to the senior models. Indeed, to reduce the price, the manufacturer chose a simplified packaging option and abandoned the backlight, KVM module, and powerful USB charging.
In my opinion, the loss is not good. If the buyer wants to get the most pumped-up monitor, he can pay attention to the more advanced (and, of course, more expensive) MSI MPG 271QRX with a refresh rate of 360 Hz.
In terms of design, the MSI MAG 271QPX E2 review unit features a sleek, minimalist look without bold color accents. The display has a subtle purple tint and produces noticeable glare in direct sunlight. A status LED sits below the MSI logo.
The panel is about 5 mm thick, with a thicker rear section housing a radiator and built-in power supply.
The back showcases a subtle pattern and a silver nameplate with the brand’s signature dragon logo. Before use, remove the protective stickers from the ventilation holes, as they are easy to miss when in a hurry.
The ports are positioned at the bottom of the case and include two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4a, and a USB Type-C port. The USB Type-C port supports video transmission via DP Alt Mode and delivers 15W of power for device charging. Firmware updates can be performed using a DP cable through the MSI firmware update utility, eliminating the need for a USB hub.
The MSI MAG 271QPX QD-OLED comes with a robust stand that offers height, tilt, and swivel adjustments. The 27-inch gaming monitor can also rotate into portrait mode when needed.
While the stand includes a small rectangular opening for cable management, it feels awkward and less convenient to use.
The base features a sturdy polygonal design that attaches easily with a dedicated screw. Rubber pads on the bottom protect surfaces from scratches and keep the monitor securely in place.
Menu
The display settings can be easily adjusted using a five-position joystick located behind the status LED. The menu features attractive blue-violet tones and offers a variety of options. Below is an overview of the main tabs and key settings.
The “GI” tab provides gaming-focused features like Smart Crosshair and Optix Scope. The “Gaming” tab includes various presets along with Night Vision, Adaptive-Sync, DSC, and other options.
In the “Professional” tab, you can choose usage scenarios and enable Low Blue Light mode. The “Image” section allows you to fine-tune key visual settings, including brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color temperature.
The “Input Source” tab activates the selected port, while the “PIP/PBP” tab offers access to the built-in Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture functions.
In the “Navi Key” section, you can assign specific actions to the joystick buttons. The “Settings” tab allows you to adjust basic settings, including language selection.
The final tab, “MSI OLED Care,” manages the panel protection system, which can automatically reduce the brightness of static elements, such as the taskbar or logos.
MSI MAG 271QPX QD-OLED E2 specifications
- Display: 26.5-inch QD-OLED panel, Anti-Reflection
- Active display area: 590.42(H) x 333.72(V)
- Resolution: 2560×1440 (WQHD)
- Pixel pitch: 0.2292(H) x 0.2292(V)
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- Brightness: 250 nits (SDR), 450 nits (HDR) (True Black 400 with 10% APL), 1000 nits (Peak 1000 with 3% APL)
- Contrast ratio: 150000:1 (Typ.)
- CDR: 100000000:1
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Response time: 0.03ms (GtG)
- Viewing angle: 178° (H) / 178° (V)
- Adobe RGB / DCI-P3 / sRGB: 98% / 99.1% / 138.4%
- Display colors: 1.07B,10 bits
- Features: AI Vision, Less Blue Light, Adaptive Sync, Premium Color mode, Delta E ≦2, Smart Cross Hair, Optix Scope, MSI OLED Care 2.0, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, VRR, ALLM, Kensington lock, Console mode, Frameless design, Graphene film with Custom Heatsink, Fan-less Design
- Ports: 1 x DisplayPort (1.4a), 2 x HDMI (2.1), 1 x Type-c (DP alt.) w/PD 15W, 1 x Headphone-out
- Stand: Tilt (-5° ~ 20°), Swivel (-30° ~ 30°), Pivot (-90° ~ 90°), Height adj. (0 ~ 110mm)
- VESA mount: 100 x 100 mm
- Dimensions: 609 x 242 x 416 mm (with stand)
- Weight: 8 kg (with stand)
MSI MAG 271QPX E2 review test
The MAG 271QPX features a third-generation QD-OLED panel with a triangular pixel structure, produced by Samsung Display. This high-refresh-rate display offers 10-bit color depth, delivering stunning visuals with over a billion shades and excellent viewing angles.
Contrast and Black Levels
The next indisputable advantage of QD-OLED is infinite contrast. The panel structure ensures deep, true black levels for the user. There are also no signs of overexposure or glow. Although, as they say, there is one nuance. In a sunny room, glare and reflections may be visible on a dark background.
Uniform Backlighting and White Balance
There are no issues with the white background. The display provides uniform backlighting, both visually and according to measurements. Testing based on ISO 14861:2015 standards confirmed that all areas fall within the green range.
Key Performance Metrics in USER Mode
Now, let’s examine the key performance metrics of the commonly used USER mode. The monitor reaches its rated brightness of 250 nits and shows a slight warmth, with a white point near 6100 K.
Graphically, the USER mode functions as follows:
The sRGB preset software emulates the standard color space but reduces coverage.
Adobe RGB introduces more green tones.
Display-P3 balances the addition of red and green tones more evenly.
The coverage and volume for the sRGB, Adobe RGB, and DCI-P3 color spaces are outlined below.
MSI’s QD-OLEDs come factory-calibrated, which is sufficient for most regular users. However, color professionals with a calibrator can further fine-tune the display to suit their specific needs.
Features for eSports Enthusiasts
As we know, this MSI MAG 271QPX E2 review model offers a 16:9 aspect ratio and QHD resolution, delivering sharp visuals with a pixel density of 110 ppi on its 27-inch screen. The resolution ensures scaling isn’t needed, with everything appearing crisp and well-proportioned right out of the box.
For most users, a high-end graphics card isn’t required for smooth performance. However, fully utilizing the 240 Hz refresh rate demands a powerful GPU. This makes the MSI MAG 271QPX E2 an ideal choice for competitive gamers seeking smooth, responsive gameplay without compromise.
The OSD menu interestingly includes an option to emulate a 24.5-inch panel, likely catering to the preferences of eSports enthusiasts, where QD-OLED technology has significant potential.
Colors and Brightness Levels
The display truly excels in low-light environments, producing vibrant, and at times overly saturated, colors that many modern users appreciate. After all, our perception of a display’s quality ultimately comes from what we see, not from measured data. For those who prefer a more natural look, switching to a different display mode easily adjusts the color output to match their preferences.
During the day, the situation is not so rosy. Dark scenes in movies and games fade slightly. Secondly, glare and reflections are visible despite the anti-glare coating.
Some might question the panel’s modest 250-nit brightness. However, since I usually operate within a 100 to 200-nit range, I don’t find this to be a significant limitation. In HDR mode, the brightness improves noticeably. The True Black 400 mode achieves 450 nits on 10% of the screen, while the Peak 1000 preset can reach 1000 nits, though only momentarily and limited to 3% of the display.
Unfortunately, the second option at 1000 nits is very straining for the eyes. By the way, I would advise HDR lovers to try the free Windows HDR Calibration utility from the Microsoft Store.
The MAG 271QPX QD-OLED excels across various game genres, whether shooters, fighting games, racing, or strategy titles. Gamers will appreciate its near-instant response time, eliminating issues like trailing, ghosting, and overshooting. Notably, the monitor does not include a response time adjustment, as it performs optimally without the need for one.
Improved Protection System
The protection system is much less intrusive than in earlier QD-OLED generations. Previously, update notifications appeared every four hours, but now they are less frequent. While the system cannot be disabled, it can be postponed for up to 16 hours.
For long gaming sessions, it’s best to initiate a forced cleaning beforehand. During the process, the display remains inactive, and the LED blinks orange before the monitor powers off. Additionally, you can run a multi-colored video from the MSI Center as needed, which takes just 30 seconds to complete, providing extra peace of mind.
Final line
OLED monitors are steadily gaining popularity each year, fueled by technological advancements that have enabled manufacturers to lower prices. Simultaneously, concerns about burn-in are easing as more effective protection systems improve the reliability of these displays. This blend of greater affordability and enhanced durability is making OLED technology more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.
The MSI MAG 271QPX QD-OLED E2 ranks among the top QD-OLED monitors of 2024, delivering excellent gaming performance and vibrant color accuracy at a competitive price. Its versatility makes it ideal not only for gaming but also for streaming movies and content creation.
The MSI MAG 271QPX E2 is now priced at $629.99 on Amazon.com, down from its original $699.99. On Amazon.co.uk, it is available for £748.99.