【Review】EX-GDQ271JA is a versatile, cost-effective monitor that enhances both work and gaming
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EX-GDQ271JA is a versatile, cost-effective monitor that enhances both work and gaming
A cost-effective monitor with everything above average
Giga Crysta is a gaming monitor brand from IO DATA, a Japanese manufacturer.
Gaming Monitor "GigaCrysta" Series | I-O DATA DEVICE, INC.
When looking for cost-effective devices, I always search among gaming devices.
The reason is that they are "products for people who know about devices."
While there are many low cost-performance products on the market aimed at people who aren't tech-savvy, gaming products tend to be good because they won't sell if they have poor cost-performance.
I was looking for a 27-inch monitor for work use, planning to place it prominently in the center as shown in the image below, with a mobile monitor (for portability) positioned underneath on my desk setup, when I found this one.
I purchased it on Amazon for 43,800 yen. It seems to be discounted by a few percent during sales.
Basic Specifications
Key points extracted from official information
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 27 inches |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 |
| Panel | AHVA |
| Contrast Ratio | 1000 : 1 |
| Refresh Rate | 180 Hz |
| Refresh Rate by Connection | HDMI 2.1 : up to 144 Hz / DP 1.4 : up to 180 Hz |
| Response Time | 0.2 ms (G2G) |
| Surface | Non-glare |
| VESA Mount | 100 x 100 mm |
| Ergonomics | Height adjustment: 130 mm Forward/backward tilt: +25° to -5° Left/right swivel: 45° Pivot: 90° |
| Main Features | Night Clear Vision Enhanced Color Clear AIM Overdrive Super Resolution |
| Sync Technology | VESA AdaptiveSync HDMI 2.1 VRR ※G-SYNC Compatible certified model |
| Display Technology | Display HDR400 |
| Speakers | 2 W + 2 W |
| Headphone Jack | 3.5 mm |
| Main Accessories | HDMI cable DisplayPort cable USB cable Remote control Screws (4 pieces) Cable holder Power cable Manual |
| Dimensions | 615 x 533 x 211 mm |
| Weight | 4.2 kg (panel only) 6.6 kg (with stand) |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Specification Explanations
I'd like to explain the technical terms related to the device.
AHVA Panel
An IPS panel with fast response time and high image quality.
Other manufacturers call it SS IPS or Fast IPS.
Resolution 2560 x 1440
This is what's called WQHD resolution.
It's also written as 1440P.
It's higher quality than FHD (1920 x 1080) and one step up.
It's also one step below 4K (3840 x 2160), but currently 4K benefits are mainly for large-screen "movie watching" or "PS5," with limited benefits for PC gaming.
For gaming on a 27-inch screen, WQHD is just right.
Refresh Rate
This is basically the frame rate.
180 Hz means the screen refreshes 180 times per second, and the higher the number, the smoother the motion.
HDMI 2.1
With HDMI connection, you can use G-Sync (GPU and display synchronization, preventing lag) and PS5 VRR (variable refresh rate).
※Can also be used with DisplayPort connection.
Response Time (G2G)
The speed of switching from mid-tone to mid-tone (Gray to Gray).
The smaller the number, the faster the response time and the less ghosting.
HDR400
A standard for how clearly dark areas can be displayed in bright scenes.
HDR is technology that enhances the expression of light and dark colors, and 400 is the lowest standard, basically the minimum, but most monitors are 400.
The reason is that it's difficult to go higher when using backlights.
Flicker-Free Design
Eliminates backlight flickering and reduces eye strain.
This is really appreciated when using it for work.
Freely Adjustable Monitor Angles "Ergonomics"
Even when using a monitor stand, it's easy to use the monitor vertically or adjust angles.
Easy-to-Use, Convenient Remote Control
The remote control is surprisingly satisfying.
I have a Mac and Windows PC connected, and sometimes connect a Switch or PlayStation when I want to play games, so being able to easily switch inputs with the remote is appreciated.
By the way, the remote's response and input switching are smooth and stress-free.
Overall Specification Assessment
It's rare to find a monitor with all these features for 43,000 yen.
Everything is above average spec with no shortcomings - I think it's a very cost-effective product.
As a bonus, it's from a Japanese manufacturer with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
There's warranty coverage for backlight issues and panel problems too.
By the way, the EX- in the product number indicates it's an e-commerce model.
Warranty periods seem to vary depending on the sales channel.
IO DATA Monitor Model Number Differences
Points to Note
The prominently advertised "180Hz refresh rate" is when using DisplayPort
In my case, since my Mac mini connection is USB-C, I don't benefit from this refresh rate.
However, 144Hz is sufficient.
When asked if high refresh rates are necessary for work, it's debatable, but once you get used to this comfort, there's no going back.
"0.2ms response time" is "at 180Hz/Overdrive Level 3, Clear AIM Level 3 settings"
This is written on the official site.
Overdrive is a function that speeds up response time. In actual use, up to Level 2 feels practical, and Level 3 starts to feel unnatural.
Clear AIM is technology that reduces ghosting, but as you increase the numbers, it gets progressively darker. This is also practical up to Level 2, and Level 3 becomes quite dark.
Items That Work Well Together
Monitor Arm
Using a monitor arm makes the desk very clean and allows you to move the monitor to use the desk more spaciously.
Height and angle adjustments become completely free, so it's highly recommended for people who want to make detailed adjustments that built-in stands can't handle.
I use it for fine-tuning positioning so that mobile monitors placed in front of the main monitor don't interfere with the screen.
Once you use a monitor arm, you can't go back to stands.
When choosing a monitor arm, pay attention to the mounting method with the desk, stability, and monitor stability (whether it wobbles).
Cheap ones will wobble even from keyboard vibrations, which becomes stressful.
I use this Elecom one and think it has sufficient performance.
Actual Usage Impressions
This was absolutely the right choice. No complaints. Thank you, IO DATA.
It's very easy to see, and I feel like eye strain has decreased.
Since I'm constantly looking at displays for work, I really notice the difference.
The interval from pressing a key to seeing the character displayed has also gotten faster, which feels good.
When gaming, the difference is even more noticeable, and you can experience smooth movement.
The image shows DisplayPort connection, Monster Hunter Wilds benchmark at 1440P with "Medium" quality settings.
I regret benchmarking with such a heavy game.
I can never go back to my previous monitor.
Even people who think "gaming monitors are just for nerds" should definitely give this a try.
