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It is hard to overemphasize the capabilities of the finest OLED gaming displays operating at 240 Hz. You not only receive a breathtaking image with vivid colors and profound contrast but they also provide impeccable motion clarity with seamless gameplay and minimal input lag.
Although this category remains at the upper end of the pricing spectrum, it is feasible to acquire a 27-inch QHD OLED screen for under $600 provided it is from AOC’s Agon Pro series. Last year, I examined the AG276QZD, and now I have its successor, the AG276QZD2, for assessment. It incorporates a Quantum Dot layer for enhanced color, and in my evaluations, it was found to be somewhat quicker. Let’s delve in.
Specifications of AOC Agon Pro AG276QZD2
| Panel Type / Backlight | Quantum Dot Organic Light Emitting Diode (QD-OLED) |
| Screen Size / Aspect Ratio | 27 inches / 16:9 |
| Max Resolution and Refresh Rate | 2560×1440 @ 240 Hz |
| Row 3 – Cell 0 | FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible |
| Native Color Depth and Gamut | 10-bit / Adobe RGB |
| Row 5 – Cell 0 | HDR10, DisplayHDR 400 |
| Response Time (GTG) | 0.03ms |
| Brightness (mfr) | 250 nits |
| Contrast | Unmeasurable |
| Speakers | 2x 5w |
| Video Inputs | 1x DisplayPort 1.4 |
| Row 11 – Cell 0 | 2x HDMI 2.0 |
| Audio | 3.5mm headphone output |
| USB 3.2 | 1x up, 2x down |
| Power Usage | 33.6w, brightness @ 200 nits |
| Panel Dimensions WxHxD with base | 24 x 15.6-20.7 x 9 inches (609 x 396-526 x 229mm) |
| Panel Thickness | 2.9 inches (74mm) |
| Bezel Width | Top: 0.4 inch (9mm) |
| Row 18 – Cell 0 | Sides: 0.5 inch (12mm) |
| Row 19 – Cell 0 | Bottom: 0.8 inch (21mm) |
| Weight | 14.7 pounds (6.7kg) |
| Warranty | 3 years |
With the majority of 27-inch 240 Hz OLEDs priced over $800, the AG276QZD2 signifies a pricing breakthrough. It may not be a transformative change, but advancements are being made. The resolution is QHD, 2560×1440 pixels, equating to 109ppi, which is an ideal pixel density for crisp visuals and high refresh rates. When it comes to OLED displays, aiming for at least 150 fps is essential to eradicate motion blur. Beyond 200 fps, motion blur is absent, and QHD allows compatibility with a broader range of graphics cards.
The main enhancement of the AG276QZD2 compared to the AG276QZD is the incorporation of Quantum Dot color technology. In fact, the color gamut has expanded by 14% when compared to its predecessor. This is easily noticeable when viewed side by side. It also enhances the experience for HDR content and SDR if you opt to utilize the native color space consistently. The AG276QZD2 guarantees and provides precision with a unique factory calibration for every unit. I validated the data sheet provided during my evaluation. Calibration isn’t compulsory; however, I noted a slight improvement after making a few adjustments to the color settings. You’ll also find a precise sRGB mode available if required for photography and graphic design tasks.
Gaming performance is precisely what I anticipated from a high-speed OLED display. At the peak 240 fps, visual motion is extraordinarily fluid, and input lag is imperceptible. The AG276QZD2 boasts certifications for FreeSync and G-Sync from AMD and Nvidia. There is no extra strobe function, yet it’s certainly unnecessary in this case.
Is there a caveat, though? After all, nothing comes without trade-offs; in the realm of value, something has to give. Indeed, one aspect is lacking: high brightness. The AG276QZD2 functions at a consistent brightness level, meaning peak brightness is somewhat diminished. It is rated for DisplayHDR 400, but this level is only achieved in minor highlight areas. Additionally, SDR brightness peaks at a measured 251 nits. This doesn’t compromise contrast; the deep blacks typical of all OLEDs remain intact. However, if you require a display that is exceptionally bright, this one may not meet your needs. I will elaborate on this in my testing notes later.
The AG276QZD2 does not neglect additional features. It comes equipped with dual internal speakers, USB ports, LED lighting, gaming enhancements, and a robust build quality with a stylish design. Ultimately, the value proposition is very high, and once you start gaming on it, you’ll find it hard to step away.
Assembly and Accessories
A vibrantly designed clamshell box opens to unveil the three main components of the AG276QZD2, carefully packed in molded pulp rather than fragile foam. They connect with a captive bolt and a snap to create a robust package that radiates the premium quality expected from AOC’s Agon Pro series. An additional box contains the external power supply, along with USB, HDMI, and DisplayPort cables. A stamped steel adapter with fasteners is included for compatibility with arms that adhere to the 100mm VESA mount standard.
Product 360
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The Agon Pro series of displays are characterized by a distinct design, which the AG276QZD2 implements in its base, OSD button, and rear panel. It showcases an angular configuration where each side varies in length. This unique design is not found elsewhere, adding to its appeal. The all-metal foundation is slim with a dark silver matte finish, extending to the column and trim. The connection point is encircled by LED lighting that emits a soft glow in various hues and effects. The rear is structured with facets displaying an Agon logo in the same dark silver tone.
The stand includes a handle on top and a cable management clip at the bottom. It offers full ergonomics with 5/25 degrees tilt, a 28-degree swivel, a height adjustment of 5.1 inches (130mm), and a 90-degree portrait mode. The movements provide an appropriately high-quality feel that is smooth and confident.
The AG276QZD2’s profile utilizes OLED thinness to create a striking taper towards the upper edge. The screen features comparable reflection management to other glossy OLEDs, necessitating careful placement. The bezel is slim and flush, adorned with a 21mm trim strip at the bottom, along with an LED that illuminates white when powered on and orange during standby.
Located centrally at the bottom, the input panel consists of two each of DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0. The USB port is of version 3.2, featuring one upstream and two downstream connections. The internal speakers function clearly with five watts of power each, and there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack with volume control accessible via the OSD.
OSD Features
The OSD of the AG276QZD2 activates when you push the hexagonal joystick located at the back right. I noted a minor complaint about this shape as it causes clicks to feel less responsive if you press the stick too casually. At times, I would either miss a control input or inadvertently perform a double-click.
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AOC retains a menu layout distinctive to the Agon Pro series featuring a vertical format that showcases “Agon” at its peak. This layout is surrounded by red graphics and partitioned into eight segments.
Game Settings feature six gaming modes alongside seven Eco picture modes. This multitude of options can induce confusion due to the numerous possible combinations. My recommendation would be to disable Game Mode and set Eco to Standard. This allows for a comprehensive calibration and presents a choice of color gamuts, with three gamma presets and three color temperatures. You can also activate RGB sliders for a meticulous outcome devoid of visual discrepancies. HDR content introduces four additional modes, and you may apply one of three HDR emulations when dealing with SDR content.
Game enhancements comprise two aim points, one of which is dynamic as it alternates between black and red for optimal contrast. There’s additionally a sniper mode, frame counter, and shadow…
“`control, enhancing visibility in dark scenes.
To observe two sources simultaneously, you can activate PIP or PBP with total control over window dimensions and placement. Additionally, you can switch sides and choose which source emits the audio stream.
Within the color menu lies a low blue mode for reading as well as a gamut selector (DCI-P3, sRGB, or Native) and the color temperature presets. The RGB sliders commence at the midpoint, allowing for intuitive adjustments of the grayscale tracking.
Light FX pertains to the LED ring at the rear and can be customized for various colors and effects. You can manage the brightness or disable it completely if desired.
The AG276QZD2 offers multiple panel care features including a pixel orbiter, refresh cycle, corner logo dimming, boundary dimming, and taskbar dimming. I opted to keep these off during testing, but when activated, their impact on the image is minimal.
AOC Agon Pro AG276QZD2 Calibration Settings
The AG276QZD2 can be utilized without calibration at its default configurations. I suggest keeping Game Mode off since it does not enhance image fidelity. The Standard Eco mode adheres to industry standards for a D65 white point, DCI-P3 color space, and 2.2 gamma. I managed to squeeze out a slight improvement in grayscale tracking utilizing the RGB sliders along with the User color temperature setting. Below are my SDR settings.
In HDR mode, four configurations are provided. Movie and Picture settings feature significant edge enhancement, which detracts from the already crisp image quality. The Display option is the most precise. 1000 Max doesn’t offer increased brightness and tends to severely diminish shadow detail.
| Picture Mode | Standard |
| Brightness 200 nits | 83 |
| Brightness 120 nits | 47 |
| Brightness 100 nits | 38 |
| Brightness 80 nits | 29 |
| Brightness 50 nits | 15 (min. 17 nits) |
| Contrast | 50 |
| Gamma | 1 |
| Color Temp User | Red 46, Green 48, Blue 50 |
Gaming and Hands-on
Subsequently, you will find my thoughts regarding the AG276QZD2’s brightness and color saturation during HDR, but throughout my gaming sessions and practical experiences, I felt nothing but admiration. It offers all the reasons to invest in an OLED, featuring exemplary blacks, vivid colors, remarkable depth, and unparalleled contrast.
Gaming is likewise an eye-opener, unless you have previously engaged with a fast OLED. In that instance, it will feel just as spectacular as you recall. The AG276QZD2’s QHD resolution strikes an excellent balance for frame rates, and I managed to achieve 240fps in Doom Eternal with maximum detail settings. The display is incredibly sharp and filled with intricate textures and highlights. While it may lack the intensity of brighter screens I have reviewed such as the ViewSonic XG272-2K, it holds its ground admirably. I would recommend steering clear of direct sunlight but otherwise, it remains a visual delight.
Video processing matches the standard of every 240 Hz OLED I’ve assessed. There is absolutely no motion blur, and input delay is effectively nonexistent. Accurate aiming and movement are simpler compared to LCDs operating at equivalent frame rates. I confirmed the flawless functioning of both FreeSync and G-Sync without any frame tearing.
The expansive color gamut enriched daily tasks with deep reds, vibrant greens, and brilliant blues. Editing photos is always enjoyable on an OLED as colors are so lively. It’s akin to gazing at a high-quality photo print with textures and details that leap off the display creating a three-dimensional sensation. With a pixel density of 109ppi, there are no jagged edges or rough text outlines to grapple with. Minor elements are rendered sharply and smoothly. The AG276QZD2’s dimensions, shape, and configuration are optimal for any task performed on a computer, from work to entertainment.
Takeaway: The AG276QZD2 offers gaming performance that aligns with all the 240 Hz and higher OLED monitors I’ve evaluated. It stands comparison with significantly pricier displays, establishing itself as a leader in value. Although I noted reduced brightness compared to competitors, it did not detract from my enjoyment during gaming or work sessions. Furthermore, the broader color gamut warrants an upgrade from last year’s AG276QZD.
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