ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR in Review: Strong Contrast and Curved Appeal

While ASUS distributes high-end gaming notebooks, motherboards, and screens under the “ROG” (Republic of Gamers) label, the “TUF” series (The Ultimate Force) serves the entry-level and mid-range segments. The affiliation with the latter group is evident in the price of the ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR, which, at the time of testing, was a mere 309 euros. COMPUTER BILD has determined whether this purchase is worthwhile.

On the desk, the ASUS presents itself admirably. Apart from the distinctive red ring at the base of the monitor, around which the stand and screen pivot, the VG32VQR is almost entirely black. The ergonomics are impressive as well. The monitor tilts, swivels, and adjusts in height. When lowered, it sits flush on its stand, appearing almost like a small smart TV. With its expansive 32-inch size (equivalent to an 80-centimeter diagonal), movies and series are truly enjoyable.

ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR Technical Specifications

Sharp Contrast and Bright Display

This is thanks not only to the display size but also to the vivid colors ASUS conjures onto the panel, boasting a high color gamut coverage of 99.3 percent (in the sRGB range). Skin tones are very natural due to its good color fidelity (96.9 percent). The VG32VQR employs a VA panel, delivering a delightful contrast ratio of 4,147:1.

The monitor is also quite bright, reaching a maximum brightness of 536 nits in the test—a commendable value for an LCD with conventional LED backlighting. Even at its factory setting (brightness level 20 out of 100), the monitor shines brightly enough, even in well-lit rooms. This also contributes to its low power consumption: under normal operation, the ASUS consumes merely 29 watts.

Also Read: ASUS VIVOBOOK S 15 OLED (K5504) LAPTOP REVIEW

WQHD Saves the Wallet

The most crucial aspect of a gaming monitor? Its gaming suitability. And here, there are both positives and negatives. The monitor’s 1800R curvature is excellent for gaming. If one were to line up monitors with the same curvature to form a circle, it would have a radius of 1.8 meters. In-game, this curvature allows gamers to immerse themselves deeper into the action, reducing the distance to the eye and bringing players closer to the screen’s action.

There are no complaints about image sharpness. With a resolution of 2560×1440 pixels in WQHD, ASUS strikes a balance between hardware demands and frames per second (fps). Even mid-range graphics cards like an RTX 3060 Ti can churn out more than 100 frames per second, provided you tweak details in hardware-demanding games a bit.

ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR  Suitable for Buyers from Both Camps

This should be the expectation of interested buyers because the ASUS boasts a refresh rate of 165 Hertz. If there’s a significant difference between the images rendered by the graphics card and the monitor’s refresh rate, it can cause tearing in the image. The VG32VQR counters this with FreeSync or Adaptive Sync, functioning well in the test with both AMD and Nvidia GeForce graphics cards.

The Issue with Response Time

Not as impressive, however, was the display’s performance during fast movements. Although the average pixel response time in the test was 12.5 milliseconds, the maximum value reached 31 milliseconds. During frantic movements, this occasionally resulted in smearing on the screen—a common issue with VA monitors (exception: the Samsung Odyssey Neo G8). To shorten the response times and minimize smearing, the manufacturer equipped the VG32VQR with a six-level Overdrive mode. With Overdrive enabled, the monitor doesn’t smear anymore, but objects leave a visible trail (known as Inverse Ghosting or Overshoot). Testers found the best balance between response time and moderate overshoot in the second-highest Overdrive setting (Trace Free 80).

No Hub, but Speakers

Another gaming feature present is the so-called Shadow Boost, which brightens dark areas of the screen, making it easier to spot opponents lurking in the shadows. Great news: Both gaming features and regular picture settings like contrast and brightness are easily adjustable via accessible menu buttons at the back of the monitor, where the ports are also located. While the ASUS lacks a USB hub, it does possess the crucial DisplayPort input (required for achieving 165 Hertz) along with dual HDMI inputs. Uncommon for gaming screens and therefore pleasantly surprising: the VG32VQR comes with speakers. Though slightly tinny, they suffice for YouTube videos.

Read Also: ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16 2023 Gaming Laptop Review

Pros and Cons of ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR

Pros

• High refresh rate
• Great contrast
• Good color reproduction

Cons

• Partial streaking
• No USB hub

ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR in Review: Conclusion

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQR impresses with its large screen size at an affordable price. Gamers will appreciate the high refresh rate and excellent contrast that make games appear more vivid. However, the display performance during fast movements may not be optimal. Nevertheless, for those not exclusively focused on online shooters or racing games, this monitor remains a solid choice.

Read Also: Review of ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 (RTX 4080)