Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF Review: Portable Gaming Monitor with Stunning Performance
▼ Summary
– The Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF is a 27-inch portable monitor with gaming capabilities, featuring a 100Hz refresh rate, QHD resolution, and FreeSync/VRR support.
– It includes multiple mounting options such as an integrated fold-out stand, a high-quality C-clamp arm, and VESA compatibility, enhancing its versatility for different setups.
– The monitor delivers solid image quality with an IPS panel offering accurate colors and good off-axis viewing, though it lacks HDR and wide color gamut found in premium gaming displays.
– It supports USB-C connectivity for a single-cable solution with power and video, though brightness is limited to 85 nits in this mode, and includes built-in speakers with enhanced bass.
– Priced at $449, it stands out in the portable monitor market with no direct competitors, offering a balance of performance, portability, and build quality.
The Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF redefines what a portable monitor can offer, delivering impressive gaming performance and versatility in a sleek, travel-friendly design. This 27-inch display combines high resolution, smooth refresh rates, and thoughtful accessories to serve as both a secondary screen for on-the-go professionals and a capable gaming companion.
Portable monitors have traditionally prioritized convenience over performance, often featuring smaller screens with limited capabilities. Asus challenges that notion with the ZenScreen MB27ACF, offering a generous 27-inch IPS panel with QHD 2560×1440 resolution and a 100 Hz refresh rate. Despite its larger size, the monitor remains remarkably portable at just 6.57 pounds and 20mm thin, making it easy to transport without sacrificing screen real estate.
Gaming performance stands out as a highlight. The monitor supports FreeSync and VRR, ensuring smooth gameplay with minimal screen tearing for AMD GPU users and compatible consoles. While it lacks official G-Sync certification, the well-tuned overdrive and low input lag create a responsive experience that feels quicker than the specs might suggest. Motion handling is competent, with minimal blur during fast-paced action.
Color reproduction covers slightly more than the sRGB spectrum, providing accurate and vibrant visuals straight out of the box. The matte finish effectively reduces glare, while off-axis viewing remains consistent thanks to the IPS technology. Although it doesn’t support HDR or wide color gamuts found on premium desktop monitors, the image quality remains sharp and satisfying for both work and play.
Ergonomics and mounting options elevate the MB27ACF above typical portable displays. The package includes a fold-out stand that doubles as a carrying handle, along with a high-quality C-clamp arm for desk mounting. The arm features extensive adjustability, including height, tilt, swivel, and even portrait orientation. For alternative setups, a 75mm VESA mount and cubicle partition brackets offer additional flexibility.
Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI and USB-C inputs, the latter capable of handling both video and power when connected to a compatible device. Using USB-C alone limits brightness to 85 nits, but the external power adapter unlocks the full 300 nits capability. Audio options include a 3.5mm headphone jack and a 2.1-channel speaker system that delivers noticeably better bass response than most built-in monitor speakers.
The on-screen display mirrors Asus’ familiar interface, complete with gaming-focused features like the GamePlus suite with crosshairs, timers, and alignment tools. Creative professionals will appreciate the QuickFit utility for visualizing document layouts. Calibration options are comprehensive, though most users will find the default Standard mode perfectly adequate.
In practical use, the MB27ACF excels as both a portable and desktop display. Its lightweight design slips easily into bags, while the robust build quality inspires confidence. The included accessories, particularly the versatile mounting arm, add significant value, transforming this monitor into a legitimate primary display when needed.
Priced at $449, the ZenScreen MB27ACF occupies a unique position in the market. It offers substantially more screen area than typical portable monitors while maintaining the portability and features that make it useful beyond just gaming. For users seeking a large, high-resolution portable display with serious gaming capabilities, this model currently stands without direct competition.
(Source: Tom’s Hardware)
