Asus PB279Q 27-inch Monitor Combines 4K Resolution with 10-bit Color

[[Coi] Mr.CLuBBeR]

A 4K monitor for gamers and professionals

Though the 4K Ultra HD revolution is happening faster than most probably anticipated, the number of 4K monitors actually worth owning are surprisingly low. That's because of early growing pains -- low refresh rates (like 30Hz) without Multi-Stream Transport (MST) support, TN panels, and other undesirables have held the category back. That's why we're cautiously optimistic about the new Asus PB279Q, a 27-inch 4K monitor with an IPS panel.
At 4K, the PB279Q is beaming content at 3840x2160 (163 pixels per inch) with a rated 5ms gray-to-gray response time, 100,000,000:1 Asus Smart Contrast Ratio (ASCR), and 300 cd/m2 brightness. More importantly, it boasts 100 percent coverage of the sRGB color space with 10-bit color -- a nice deviation from the 8-bit and 6-bit+FRC seen on some other panels. It's also the reason why Asus is pitching this as being suitable for professionals.
As for gamers, the 5ms response time is pretty good for an IPS panel, albeit we always take the rated specs with a grain of sea salt. However, it does support a 4K resolution at a 60Hz refresh rate, provided you use the DisplayPort or mini DisplayPort. If you use an HDMI cable in one of the four HDMI ports, the refresh rate will be 30Hz.
The monitor can simultaneously display multiple 4K inputs via Picture-in-Picture or Picture-by-Picture. It also features built-in speakers, 3.5mm audio in, 3.5mm earphone out, and a stand that supports height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments.
Asus says the PB279Q will be available in mid-December in Taiwan, Asia Pacific, and Europe for $799. No word on when it will land on U.S. shores.
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