ASRock PG27FRS1A: 27-inch FHD curved gaming monitor showcased with 280Hz refresh rate and 127% sRGB coverage

ASRock’s PG27FRS1A has entered a crowded market of high-refresh-rate monitors. With a 27-inch Full HD 1500R curved VA panel, it has the essential specs for fast-paced gameplay but stops just short of pushing the boundaries of innovation.

The monitor's 280Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT response time will catch the eye of esports players looking for responsiveness and fluid visuals. These specs, combined with AMD FreeSync Premium, should reduce motion blur and screen tearing. However, at a time when higher resolutions are becoming more common even in competitive gaming, the choice of 1080p resolution could feel limiting for gamers seeking sharper visuals.

One highlight is its 93% DCI-P3 and 127% sRGB coverage, which promises more vibrant colors compared to standard gaming monitors. Paired with a 4000:1 contrast ratio, the VA panel offers good depth in darker scenes. Still, the relatively low 300-nit brightness means the PG27FRS1A isn’t built for HDR performance or well-lit environments.

The ergonomic design is functional, with tilt (-7° to +20°) and swivel (-20° to +20°) adjustments, but lacks height adjustment—an oversight at this price point. Connectivity is straightforward, with two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and a headphone jack, which should be pretty sufficient. Built-in speakers are included, though they're unlikely to impress audiophiles.

ASRock's inclusion of Low Blue Light Technology and flicker-free support shows a welcome focus on eye comfort, making this monitor viable for marathon gaming sessions. The 1500R curvature, while immersive for certain genres like racing or simulation games, may not appeal to all players, especially those who prefer flat panels for competitive shooters.

The PG27FRS1A ticks most of the right boxes for an entry-level competitive gaming monitor. In a world where high refresh rates are increasingly standard, it faces stiff competition from monitors that offer higher resolutions, better HDR, or more versatile ergonomics. Regional availability is limited, so potential buyers should verify local stock before making a purchase.