Today, we are looking at an overview of the AOC AGM700 Gaming Mouse & AMM700 Mouse Mat. The gaming mouse is currently available for £9.26 on Amazon, whilst the mouse mat is available for £10.70 on Amazon.

The mouse features Omron switches, a detachable weight system, and a Pixart PMW 3389 gaming sensor. Both items are also compatible with AOC’s AGON G-Menu Software. The AOC AGM700 is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS.

SPECIFICATION – Mouse

• Palm, Claw Grip Style
• Omron Switches
• 8 Programmable Buttons
• 3 Memory Profiles
• 16.8 Million Colours/RGB
• 16,000 DPI
• 1000Hz, 1ms Polling Rate

PACKAGING AND ACCESSORIES

The majority of AOC’s packaging for its peripherals follows a similar Red & Black gamer orientated theme and the AGM700 and AM700 follow the same pattern. It has been clearly designed with gamers in mind. The front of the box the mouse illustrates and highlights the Pixart 3389 gaming sensor, LightFX compatibility, 50 million click lifespan, RGB Compatability with other AOC devices, as well as being All Key Programmable.

The mouse mat packaging also highlights the 16.8 million colours/customizable RGB, the anti-slip rubber base and the micro-texture cloth surface.

A CLOSER LOOK

One of the first things I liked about this mouse is the inclusion of the removable weights, it weighs 3.17 ounces without the removable weights and 4.09 ounces with the weights attached. It comes pre-installed with all 5 weights, but to me, it felt on the heavy side so I removed 2 of them and it felt so much more natural. Removing them is as simple as turning the mouse upside down, removing the bottom cover and then removing any of the unnecessary weights.

The mouse has 7 programmable buttons, including a dedicated DPI switch (the Red button), the AGM700 enables you to customize your gameplay by assigning various commands or macros to the buttons. This flexibility helps with reaction time in different gaming scenarios.

The mouse has RGB, although on a minimalistic level in terms of the scroll wheel illuminates, as does the AGON logo. The possibilities are endless in terms of how you’d like this set up on your system. But you will need to download and install AOC G-Menu to be able to customise it and any other AOC accessories to your liking.

Whilst we are on the subject of G-Menu, I’ve pre-installed this for a quick overview of just how much you can customize this device. The first screen you are welcomed with is to configure the buttons. To change any of them, you simply click the drop-down on the right-hand side which corresponds with the setting you’d like to change and you can adjust them easily. There is also a macro manager in the bottom right-hand section of the app. 

I was more interested in the Light FX Sync options to see how the RGB integrated with other AOC devices. I wanted both the mouse mat and the mouse to illuminate the same colours at the same time. It is as easy as clicking on Light FX Sync, selecting both devices and choosing the RGB pattern. This piece of software allows the same kind of customizability as higher-end devices. A very nice touch at this price point.

As you can now see, both the mat and the mouse itself are now following the same pattern that I set up. Not bad for accessories at such a cheap price. I’m genuinely impressed. With onboard memory, the AGM700 can store 3 profiles directly on the mouse. This means users can take their preferred settings with them wherever they go, without the need for additional software installations or configurations. Initially, this will need setting up via the software but another nice feature by AOC.

This gaming mouse is equipped with a high-precision optical sensor, typically offering a sensitivity range of up to 16,000 DPI (dots per inch). This allows for quick and accurate cursor movement, essential for precise targeting in fast-paced gaming situations. I took it for some practice in Guild Wars 2 and Fortnite and it didn’t let me down once. 

The red and black nylon cable features on both the mouse and the pad and looks stylish and will look great if you’re already using AOC peripherals. We recently reviewed the AOC GH401 Wireless Gaming Headset which would complement this set-up nicely. Although the headset was on the pricier side, you could bag all 3 peripherals for just over the £100 mark. Which makes it seem much better value for money.

I’ve been so impressed by this combo, that for now, I’ve decided to stick with them as my daily driver. I was torn between keeping the mouse at home or taking it into the office with me for work.

AMM700 Mouse Mat

Now if you’re buying such a cheap but feature-rich mouse, you may be in the market for a new Mouse Mat. The AMM700 will complement this just nicely given its compatibility with the G-Menu Software.

Optimal Grip and Stability: The AMM700 mouse mat features a non-slip rubber base that prevents it from sliding around during intense gaming sessions. The rubber base ensures that the mouse mat stays firmly in place, providing you with a stable surface for precision in those high-pressured gaming moments. Cleaning the AMM700 is easy. Its surface is resistant to stains and water, allowing for easy removal of dirt or spills with a simple wipe with a damp cloth. I wouldn’t intentionally go spilling anything over it though. 

The AOC AMM700 features a sleek and minimalist design, making it a visually appealing addition to any gaming or professional setup. Its clean black colour and subtle branding blend well with various aesthetics. The RGB on this isn’t overbearing either, it looks sleek when illuminated across all 4 edges of the pad. One thing I did notice though, on the mouse mat, the AGON logo in the top right-hand corner is slightly off-centre. The mat is on the larger side coming in at 36cm x 26cm. 

I found an extended gaming session on both peripherals comfortable and the mouse mat adds to this. So I’d definitely recommend picking up both if you’re in the market for a new mouse.

FINAL WORDS 

VALUE

AOC has presented both of these peripherals at an incredible price point. The mouse has more features than some costing double if not triple the price. I am really blown away as I was expecting something disappointing this cheap but boy was I wrong. It’s incredible value for money. I couldn’t get over the fact that the mouse mat costs more than the mouse. Yet the mouse is the most important aspect of this overview.

DESIGN & PERFORMANCE

The design of both devices is sleek and modern and the added RGB is a very nice touch. The packaging on both products is appealing. The removable weight system in the mouse is a very nice addition, especially at this price point. 

Both products just look great when paired together, and will fit into almost any gaming environment. The cable length is 1.8m which means you should have more than enough slack on the cable to plug it in at the back of your PC.

We’ve decided to award the AOC AGM700 the EnosTech Value award, given the insanely low price point for an impressive, configurable piece of hardware.

We would like to thank AOC for sending in this sample of the AGM700 and AMM700.

*As of 26/06/2023 these are now available for £69.10 VIA the Amazon link below.*

Today, we are taking a look at the AOC GH401 Wireless Gaming Headset. The headset is currently available on Amazon for £81.07 which prices it into the mid-range category. Although this is a wireless headset, it still has the option to be used with a 3.5mm audio jack. Otherwise, you need to use the included USB A adapter to benefit from the 2.4GHz wireless capability. The headset boasts compatibility with PC, Mobile and Console and boasts a detachable microphone as well as 50mm drivers. 

Specification

• Wireless Headset via 2.4GHz connection
• 3.55mm compatible with PC, Xbox and mobile
• Wireless compatible with the dongle on PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch as well as PC and Mac
• 50mm drivers
• 2.0 Stereo Sound
• 17-Hour Battery Life
• Detachable noise-cancelling microphone
• 2 Years Warranty

Packaging and Accessories

Taking a look at the box and packaging, it looks modern and sleek. It is clearly marketed towards gamers, the packaging again refers to the fact the headset is compatible with PC, Console and Mobile and highlights the microphone is both removable and noise-cancelling as well as metioning an impressive up to 16-hour battery life. The Black and Red colour scheme is apparent from the packaging and looks very well presented. 

On the reverse of the box, it repeats pretty similar information. Again it mentions that the headset is comfortable, the 2.4GHz wireless as well as the 50mm custom drivers and the noise cancelling microphone. Speaking of the drivers, on the AOC website, they are keen to mention the drivers are on the higher end of the spectrum, meaning the audio quality should be higher than other entry level headsets.

Inside the box is no frills, you can see a quick start guide, and a very short 3.5mm cable, same can be said for the USB A to C cable. Important to note early on, the USB C connection is for charging only and provides no other benefit. You cannot listen to audio via the USB-C cable which is a shame, the headset charged in around 45 minutes.

A closer look

The headset is both sleek and aesthetically pleasing, the top headband is an aluminium slider design, which means adjusting the headset is quick, and AOC guarantees the headset fits, even if you wear a hat or glasses. I wear glasses and indeed, found them comfortable for long-term wear. Something I have struggled with other headsets.I am also a fan of the red stitching on top of the headset (into the faux leather), it again adds aesthetic appeal to the headset. The stitching itself is of good quality with no loose threads. On top you can see the AOC logo. The faux leather boasts memory foam, adding to the comfort factor. Some headsets can be uncomfortable after a few hours of wear, but not these. I’ve put them through their paces and they remained comfortable.

On the side of the headset, you can see the USB-C port, volume slider, mic mute button, 3.5mm connection as well as the power button. When plugged into USB-C to charge, you have a small Red LED, when you turn the headset on, you’ll see a Green light too.  When you turn the headset on, you get an audio notification to state it has been powered on. Likewise when you switch it off.

Something I am not a fan of, although the microphone is removable, it felt very stiff to remove and I had to use quite a lot of force to pull it out. Bear this in mind if you are going to remove it, as you don’t want to end up damaging the headset or the port itself. Also, the quality of sound recorded seemed to vary, however, it’s still very useable. If you are going to be using a USB mic of some description then I wouldn’t worry too much. Using the dongle, I was able to move from one room to another with no real noticeable drop in quality. As I started to move upstairs it began cutting out. 

The stylish Red & Black continues on both sides of the headset and you can see the AOC logo printed on both sides. AOC want people to know you are using one of their headsets. It isn’t too overbearing and the logo blends in nicely.

The headset itself only features 2.0 stereo sound, so if you’re going to be playing fully immersive games then bear this in mind. However, the quality is respectable for a 2.0 headset. Both games and music were fine and sounded clear and reasonably loud. I didn’t use the volume wheel much as I tend to control my volume via the keyboard instead. The ability to quickly mute the microphone using the built-in button is a nice touch. Battery life for us was in excess of 13 hours, so that’s plenty for a gaming marathon, or if you want to use these on the go. I used them in the evening and took them into the office the following day and they didn’t run out of charge. They worked well with Microsoft Teams and I could be heard on various meetings throughout the day. 

Although the audio quality is perfectly acceptable for a 2.0 headset, I thought I’d also see if FXSound (A 3rd party software equalizer) could make these even better, and I was surprised with the results, it actually improved the volume further and made the bass sound slightly better. It made a Spotify music session, so much more enjoyable. FXSound is a free download from here. However, if you’re already using a high-end sound card or headset then it’s not necessary.

These are incredibly comfortable and the oversized padding helps remove exterior noise, allowing you to focus on the sound that is being produced. I am a glasses wearer and they didn’t squash the frame, as well as having a larger head so if you’re worried about whether these are going to fit or feel cramped, then it’s not going to be an issue. There’s a TV behind my desk and I couldn’t hear this whilst wearing the headset, so the noise cancelling has been well-designed and well-thought-out.

Final words 

Value

AOC is continuing to adapt and innovate as it continues the development of its peripherals. However, given the £81 price tag currently, it feels slightly on the steeper side considering what you get. There may be other headsets which have advanced feature sets in this range. It depends on exactly what you are looking for and how much you are prepared to spend. The battery life is certainly impressive so bear this in mind too. It’s nice to see USB-C for charging too. Finally, the world is moving away from micro/mini USB connections and AOC has taken note of this.

Design & Performance

I was surprised at how well this headset performs given it is only 2.0 stereo. The 50mm drivers certainly help with the audio quality, The headset looks stylish and the red and black colour scheme helps with this too. There’s no RGB with this one, but that isn’t a bad thing, it’s not really necessary. The design stands out for itself without needing flashing lights everywhere. Another thing in this headset’s favour it’s compatibility across multiple devices, being wireless too (via dongle) adds to its appeal, so you don’t need to be hugging your PC or console to be able to use them. The supplied 3.5mm cable was too short for me. It could have done with being longer. So I preferred to use this headset wireless. However, I did test on a 3.5mm connection and the audio sounded just as good.

One thing I wasn’t too keen on was the red wire above both earpieces. Having this exposed is a point of failure, particularly if you have kids or a pet that likes to chew things as it’s more likely to get broken or snagged on something. However, that’s me being particular about what I like in a headset. It’d look better if this wire was concealed into the headset band. Although these will not be used as my daily driver going forward, the children have been eyeing them up already. So no doubt they will end up with some heavy usage on the Xbox and on their computer.

These would be suited for someone taking their first voyage into gaming, or looking for a reliable, portable headset. If you’re someone who is reliant on immersion then it may be worth comparing against other headsets in the same price bracket. But otherwise, they are still perfectly respectable and useable. I took them to the office with me for a day and they sounded fine on Microsoft Teams with no drop in quality. I would like to have seen a longer USB-C cable as well as a longer 3.5mm audio cable. The ones that came with it were far too small in length. However, I am genuinely looking forward to seeing how AOC move forward with their next range of headsets and peripherals.

We would like to thank AOC for sending in this sample of the GH401 headset for review.

Widening horizons
Perfectly suited as a single monitor to replace clunky multi-monitor setups, the CU34P2C’s wide horizontal space (21:9 aspect ratio and 3440×1440 pixels) fits the needs of music producers, video editors, streamers and more, allowing them to fit the complete timeline of their work on a single display. The ultrawide display lets users by snapping two application windows on two sides, effectively reproducing a multi-monitor setup on a single, seamless frame. With the added bonus of USB-C connectivity, the CU34P2C can truly widen the horizon of creators and bridge the gap between mobile and desktop computing. With a single USB-C cable, a video editor or a music producer can simply connect their laptop, and start charging/powering it, using the CU34P2C as the main display, while accessing other USB-powered devices such as an external drive, webcam, or an audio device thanks to the monitor’s 4-port USB hub.

A great all-rounder
The CU34P2C features a VA panel that renders lively images with 3000:1 static contrast ratio for inky deep blacks and rich, saturated colours with a wide gamut area (120 % sRGB, 89 % AdobeRGB). With a peak brightness of 300 nits, the CU34P2C can handle bright ambient lighting and indirect sunlight, while its wide viewing angles (178°/178°) improve viewing comfort for another person looking at the screen at the same time.

Thanks to its 100 Hz refresh rate, Adaptive-Sync and 1 ms MPRT / 4 ms GtG response times, the CU34P2C is a competent gaming monitor, as well as a cinephile’s companion with rich contrast (3000:1) and a 21:9 canvas to enjoy when the work is done. Equipped with two 3W speakers and headphone jack, the CU34P2C completes the audio-visual experience.

Designed to fit modern offices and homes, the brushed aluminium finish of the CU34P2C’s stand beautifully complements its sleek 3-sides borderless design. The monitor comes with a fully ergonomic stand with generous 150 mm height adjustment as well as a wide range of swivel and tilt angles. The stand can also be fitted with AOC’s VESA-P2 bracket, this way the monitor can fit a miniPC such as Intel NUC’s directly on the stand itself, creating a unique, replaceable all-in-one system. With an internal power supply and cable management built into the stand, the CU34P2C helps users to create a sleek, clutter-free working space.

Reflecting AOC’s dedication to sustainability, the CU34P2C is certified with TCO 8.0, EnergyStar 8 and ECMA Eco Declaration. Its FlickerFree display ensures a comfortable usage by using DC to adjust brightness instead of PWM, while the LowBlue mode in the OSD reduces eye-strain.

The AOC CU34P2C will be available from May 2022 at the RRP of £479.99.

Gaming for everyone
The AGON by AOC portfolio offers a wide variety of options for different kinds of gamers. Casual gamers are best served with the flat IPS panels or curved VA panels from the G2 series, and the more aggressive 1000R curvature of the G3 series. Monitors such as the 24” (60.5 cm) 24G2U and its 27” (68.6 cm) sibling 27G2U are two of the best-selling gaming monitors on the market thanks to the exceptional value and high performance these models offer to ambitious and adventurous gamers. Both have been critically acclaimed and have received numerous awards such as “Best gaming monitor” by many reviewers worldwide.

Better, faster, stronger
AGON by AOC ups their hand and revamps these models with 165 Hz refresh rates. Launching from late March, the 24G2SPU and 27G2SPU will replace the 24G2U and 27G2U. Equipped with ergonomic stands allowing height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, these monitors can be positioned optimally for an improved gaming experience, also giving gamers the option to employ several displays in a multi-monitor setup. As the fully decked-out models from the bunch, the 24G2SPU and 27G2SPU feature an integrated 4-port USB hub, so gamers can connect keyboards and mice directly to the monitor, reducing clutter on their desks. Both these models are also equipped with two 2 W speakers.

The IPS panels used in all models offer crisp Full HD resolution, with which gamers can achieve high framerates without taxing their GPUs. The 165 Hz refresh rate produces a much smoother gaming experience than their counterparts’ 144 Hz, giving gamers the competitive edge when things get hot. A 1 ms MPRT response time practically eliminates ghosting for sharp, blur-free visuals, while the Adaptive-Sync support eliminates stutter and tear by using a variable refresh rate. The sleek, 3-sides frameless design of the models radiates “gaming” flair, fits modern battle stations perfectly, and enhances versatility of multi-monitor setups.

Users with multi-monitor setups might consider simpler monitors AGON by AOC offers the 24G2SPAE and 27G2SPAE as the pared-down options without a USB hub and with a simpler stand. Identical to the 24G2SPU and 27G2SPU in terms of panel but with a reduced feature-set, they are perfectly suited for dual/triple monitor setups or for users already equipped with monitor arms such as the AOC’s AD110D0 using the VESA mount option.

All four new models feature gaming specific settings, such as Game Color (to adjust saturation), Dial Point (crosshair overlay for accurate aiming), LowBlue Mode for longer gaming sessions during the night, and three gaming modes for different genres such as FPS, RTS, Racing as well three user customisable modes. The new, modern OSD software G-Menu makes adjusting fine display details a breeze.

The AOC GAMING 24G2SPU and 27G2SPU are already available from late March/April 2022 at the RRPs of £199.99 and £245.99 respectively.

The AOC GAMING 24G2SPAE and 27G2SPAE will be available from July 2022 at the RRPs of £179.99 and £224.99, correspondingly.

Gaming monitors are becoming more and more popular by the day and rightly so! Whether you are on a console or a PC, a good Gaming Monitor can make the difference between getting shot or getting the drop on your enemy! All games can benefit from such monitors but there are a good few titles that you can really notice the difference in. Games like Quake Live and CS:GO which are both available on Steam see a massively noticeable difference between standard monitors and gaming monitors such as the 24G2ZU that we are reviewing today! When it comes to choosing the right monitor for you, there are a lot of things to consider. Things like refresh rate, response time, and even the size of the monitor and resolution are all worth considering if you are considering getting a new monitor.

The 24G2ZU is a 24′ monitor that features a 1920x1080P resolution with a 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time! Now, this may sound like a bit of gibberish to some, but those in the know can appreciate that this monitor is going to be absolutely fantastic for FPS and MOBA games. While you will still notice a good difference in any game genre, the faster-paced the game is, the more of a difference you will notice! FPS is the main type of game I play and I have to say, even coming from a 144Hz monitor to this 240Hz, I could tell a big difference. AOC has really been making a name for themselves lately and while they have even started to branch out into other products like PC Gaming Peripherals, their monitors are some of the best out there when it comes to the performance for the value that they have to offer.

24G2ZU Specifications

Full specifications can be found on the PRODUCT PAGE

24G2ZU Closer Look

As with most everything we buy these days, the 24G2ZU needs to be set up. But worry not, as it is rather easy! The base/stand comes in two pieces, you simply insert the base into the stand and then there is a single thumbscrew to secure them together.

It should only take a couple of seconds to get the stand put together and then even less to add the monitor to it!

To keep things properly set up, simply insert the stand into the back of the monitor and make sure it clicks into place and is secure and that’s it, job done!

Once done it should look something like this and again, just make sure that it has fully clicked into place and is not lose as would hate for it to fall off on you when you go to use it.

Now comes the fun part. It’s time to get this bad boy on your desk and set up just how you want it. AOC has made this very easy as this monitor moves/tilts/turns and damn near swivels so you can get it at just the perfect angle.  The height adjustment is as easy as pushing the monitor down the stand or picking up, simple as that.

The ease of use is great as well as sometimes, depending on your monitor location you may need to adjust the height to avoid glare from the sun or similar. It will also make it so that you can get the monitor at the height you need no matter how high or low your desk is.

The AOC 24G2ZU also has a great tilt range to make sure you are getting the best viewing angle possible. Again, this can help with glare or if you just like your monitor slightly tilted, it’s not an issue.

A lot of monitors feature the tilt functions these days but it is still nice to see, especially on gaming monitors! Simply grab the screen and either lift the bottom a bit or push it back to the stand, depending on how you need it at the current moment. It really couldn’t be any easier than that.

The 24G2ZU comes with an inbuilt USB 3.2 hub that has four USB ports you can make use of. There is also an audio connection and three video inputs that consist of two HDMI 2.0 ports and a single DisplayPort 1.2. The inputs should be more than enough for most as this is a monitor specifically designed for gaming and this will allow you to connect up to two consoles and a PC at the same time.

Just below all the inputs and ports are the all-important label with model and serial numbers on them. Hopefully, you will never really need to use this but just in case, it is there for you. It will also confirm the full model number so you can be sure what you are looking at or buying.

You may or may not have noticed but there is also a small cutout in the stand. This is going to be used for managing the cables from it so they are not all over the place and rather, all corraled together in a nice and ordered fashion.

Using The 24G2ZU Gaming Monitor

While this is 100% a gaming monitor, I wouldn’t be doing it justice if I didn’t use it for normal tasks as well. This is where things get tricky though as personally, I am used to 27″+ 4K monitors for my daily work. I did manage to use it for a couple of days but I have to say, if you are used to a higher resolution, it is hard to go back to 1080P for day to day stuff. However, what I can say is that everything is smooth as can be thanks to that 240Hz refresh rate and if you think I am just talking nonsense, set your monitor to 60Hz and move your mouse. Next, set it to 240Hz and move the mouse again and you can see how much smoother it is. Personally, I have joined the elite and I could never go back to a 60Hz monitor, even for non-gaming tasks. The 24G2ZU is a great 1080P monitor but its main focus is gaming, so let’s get into that!

As mentioned the 24G2ZU comes with a 240Hz refresh rate and a 05m response time, making it one of the faster monitors out there for gaming. The fun doesn’t stop there, it also features a 1080P IPS panel and is even Freesync Premium compatible. The first game I had to load up was Quake Live as it is probably the fastest-paced game I play and will really put that 240Hz refresh rate to the test. Even coming from a 144Hz monitor, I could definitely tell the difference straight away. I play a lot of Clan Arena which is no self-damage so people are rocket jumping and bunny hopping all over the place at an incredibly fast pace. The 24G2ZU was well up to the challenge and I was thoroughly impressed with how smooth everything was and no word of a lie, it has me wanting to figure out how to add such a monitor to my setup strictly just for gaming! I did manage to play a few more games on such as CS:GO, Apex, COD:MW and even a game or two of Rocket League. The 24G2ZU was great in all titles I tested it in and I can 100% recommend this for a gaming monitor as it truly needs to be seen and played on in person to fully appreciate what it has to offer.

24G2ZU Final Thoughts

Value

Currently coming in at £269.99 (though out of stock) on Amazon UK, this makes the 24G2ZU an insanely affordable gaming monitor that will help take your game to the next level! It has all the features you will need in a gaming monitor and will no doubt give you the edge over your opponents, unless, of course, they have their very own 24G2ZU monitor or similar. Gaming monitors are becoming a bit more affordable and it will only be a matter of time before higher refresh rates become more normal. For the money, the 24G2ZU has a lot to offer such as a 240Hz refresh rate, 0.5ms response time, freesync, speakers and a very small bezel so can be used nicely in a multi-monitor setup.

Design and Performance

What can I say, I can not fault the 24G2ZU monitor at all! It offers almost everything a gamer would need in a monitor. The 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time when paired up with Freesync technologies offer an absolutely incredible gaming experience. This is, currently, the best gaming monitor I have personally had the chance to use! While I do prefer something bigger in size with a higher resolution for day to day stuff, for gaming, the 24G2ZU is great. This is the type of monitor we have come to know and love from the folks over at AOC and are always happy to test out. I mean, playing games on a monitor for testing? Surely this can’t be work, at least it doesn’t feel like it! When all is said and done AOC has come to the market with another great monitor that not only features a 240hz display, it also comes at a price that users will be able to afford.

Many thanks to AOC for sending in a sample of their 24G2ZU monitor for this review. 

AOC is really putting a big focus on their Gaming Monitors lately and it shows. They’ve gone as far as rebranding the line to AGON BY AOC and their new G3 lineup of monitors looks absolutely amazing.

AOC U28G2XU – 4K resolution, 144 Hz, 1 ms, all for £589

A new age
With the necessary GPU power now available on the market, PC gaming at 4K resolution and at high refresh rates is now here and available to the masses. In competitive titles, a 144 Hz refresh rate has become the bare minimum, so that gamers can make instant reactions. In higher resolutions such as 4K, gamers can appreciate how the visual fidelity on certain titles becomes almost indistinguishable from reality.

For gamers who do not limit themselves to specific game genres, a monitor with 4K resolution and a 144 Hz refresh rate could be the best combination of features the PC gaming scene has ever seen.
With 4K resolution, RTS gamers can see more of their game world at once and can plan their strategies more precisely. In RPG and action titles, the images and textures showcase neon-lit streets, awe-inspiring vistas and shiny metal armour with a life-like quality. Such rich content can be displayed with a fluid refresh rate of 144 Hz, and without any noticeable ghosting thanks to the 1 ms GtG response time, taking the “connected feel” to the next level. Today, with advanced GPU technologies such as DLSS, achieving higher than 60 frames per second at 4K is more accessible than ever. For PC gaming at its best, the AOC U28G2XU offers an undeniable proposition.

Future-proof and exceptional specs
The 71 cm (28”) AOC U28G2XU comes with subtle and sleek red accents and 3-side borderless design. It is equipped with an IPS panel in native 4K resolution (3840×2160). The 144 Hz refresh rate at 4K resolution is supported via its two DisplayPort (1.4) connections, while its two HDMI 2.0 ports support 4K @ 60 Hz. While the U28G2XU is designed for the PC gaming scene, new-gen consoles can also be used at a 120 Hz refresh rate and QHD resolution via the monitor’s HDMI 2.0 port.

Thanks to its IPS panel technology, the monitor offers 178/178° viewing angles, a wide gamut range and an optimal colour experience (98.8% DCI-P3 coverage). The U28G2XU’s brightness is measured at 370 nits and its contrast at 1000:1. The VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification also ensures a high dynamic range of bright explosions and dark corners.

Gamers are increasingly multi-tasking these days, playing, interacting with their mates, and livestreaming and commenting on their content. For such cases and more, the U28G2XU also supports Picture-by-Picture mode, so two image sources can be displayed side-by-side.

The AOC U28G2XU’s day-to-day flexibility and its potential for working from home are very high: the built-in 4-port USB 3.2 hub makes connecting peripherals such as keyboards, mice and webcams very easy and enables a clutter-free, clean gaming and working desk. While the monitor is equipped with two 3 W speakers, the headphone output can also be useful to connect external headsets such as AOC’s new GH200.

To cater to all gamers’ needs in terms of ergonomic posture, the U28G2XU’s stand is height-adjustable (130 mm) and offers wide tilt (-5/21.5°) and swivel (-32/32°) ranges. It also comes with a VESA 100 mm mount for attaching the display to a monitor arm. And when gaming sessions extend long into the night, the LowBlue Light mode reduces potentially harmful blue wavelengths, while the FlickerFree technology eliminates backlight-flicker.

Like the rest of AOC’s G2 line-up, the AOC U28G2XU also supports six game modes and features such as Dial Point (crosshair overlay), Game Colour (colour saturation) and Shadow Control so gamers can get the most out of their games and gain the upper edge against their opponents.

The AOC U28G2XU will be available from August 2021 at an RRP of £589.

Gamers know that to gain the upper hand in the competitive battlefield, not only skills but also the right equipment are crucial for success. AOC gaming monitors with high refresh rates and low response times deliver fast visual feedback so gamers can react swiftly. With the new additions to AOC’s portfolio, gamers will be able to build an almost complete gaming ecosystem, which allows them to be unhindered with their inputs and have their actions translated into the game world as accurately and as quickly as possible.

“Ever since AOC entered the realm of gaming, we have strived to create the best products on the market. Being #1 in gaming monitors, we are dedicated to expanding our success story even further. As such, we are excited to introduce highly customisable and proficient gaming accessories, perfectly aligned with the rest of AOC’s products,” says Stefan Sommer, Director Marketing & Business Management at AOC International Europe.

Superior gaming keyboards
The premium AGON keyboard AGK700 with 115 programmable keys is equipped with high-quality Cherry MX Blue/Red switches for better audible and tactile feedback, featuring n-key rollover (no limit on simultaneous key presses) and 100% anti-ghosting for an uninterrupted gaming experience. The aluminium body of the AGK700 is sturdy for high-energy competitions.

AOC 700 Series

Dedicated macro keys allow the keyboard to control the gaming modes (RTS, FPS, Racing) and RGB illumination on certain AGON monitors¹, bringing the whole AGON ecosystem together. The light synchronisation allows the whole set up, from the monitor to the mouse, keyboard and mouse pad, to pulse with colour in unison. The AGK700 also comes with a magnetic, detachable wrist rest with a leather finish for an extra premium feel. The USB pass-through feature adds an easily accessible USB port right on the desk for connecting other peripherals and devices.

The mid-tier GK500 with 104 programmable keys is equipped with Outemu Red/Blue mechanical switches, n-key rollover and 100% anti-ghosting. The GK500 is also compatible with AOC’s Light FX and can be synchronised with the monitors. Both the AGK700 and GK500 come with an extra set of W, A, S, D keys, and a braided USB cable with a gold-plated connector. For both models, keyboard profiles can be saved to the on-board memory using the G-Tools software, and changed directly on the keyboard later without using the software. Availability of the Blue or Red switch variants for the GK500 and AGK700 mechanical keyboards may vary depending on the country.

AOC 500 Series

The entry-level gaming keyboard GK200 is equipped with membrane switches providing a “mechanical keyboard” feel. It is spill-resistant, so gamers will feel safe if they accidentally tip over their favourite drink in the heat of a battle. The GK200 is also equipped with rainbow light effects for extra flair, and for increased comfort during long gaming sessions, it comes with a detachable wrist rest.

AOC 200 Series

High precision gaming mice
AOC’s new peripheral line-up also includes gaming mice in three variants, all boasting high-quality Pixart optical sensors. All three mice support a 1000 Hz sampling rate and 1 ms polling rate. Both the AGM700 and GM500 can also synchronise their RGB lighting with the 500/700 series keyboards and selected AGON monitors. Both mice come with a 1.8 m braided USB cable and gold-plated connector.

AOC’s premium AGM700 is a right-handed mouse with features that allow increased customisation. The Pixart 3389 sensor is capable of 16000 Real DPI resolution, 400 inches/sec tracking speed and 50 g acceleration to match competitive gamers’ swift movements. The weight of the mouse can be fine-tuned with five included weights (5 g per unit) to achieve optimal ergonomics. For increased durability, high-quality Omron switches with a 50 million keystroke lifetime are built into the left and right buttons.

The AOC GM500 is ambidextrous (suited for left or right-handed use) and features a Pixart 3325 sensor supporting 5000 Real DPI resolution, 100 inches/sec tracking speed and 20 g acceleration to be able to track accurate and fast movements. The GM500 also employs durable Omron switches. All eight buttons of the GM500 are programmable, thanks to the AOC G-Tools.

The AOC GM200 is a right-handed mouse with six buttons and Pixart 3519 sensor (4200 real DPI, 48 IPS and 10 g). For more precision, the DPI toggler button enables a quick switch between 800-1600-2400-4200 DPI.

A solid base
The AMM700 mouse pad accompanies the keyboards and mice of the AGON series and rounds up the whole package. The micro-textured cloth surface offers easy movement and provides an accurate tracking surface for the gaming mice to move on, while the anti-slip rubber base makes sure the mouse pad doesn’t move unintended. The surrounding RGB LEDs can be customised with 4 lighting effects, and can be synchronised with the other AOC peripherals/monitor via the G-Tools software.

With the new AOC gaming peripherals, AOC perfects its gaming ecosystem to create more complete and more aligned gaming set ups, while bringing the gaming experience to a whole new level. Keep your eyes open for even more exciting gaming products from AOC!

G-Tools
For mouse and keyboard button/keyboard customisation, macro recording and management, RGB effects customisation and inter-device light effects sync, AOC has developed its own software: G-Tools. This software will be available for the 500- and 700-series. Also, certain AGON models support this software.

All AOC gaming peripherals come with a 2-year warranty.

The headsets share the same sleek chassis, a comfortable and light structure with detachable microphone, and 50 mm drivers. Both models are equipped with braided cables that feature an in-line remote control and are presented with an eye-catching design (gunmetal finish for the GH200, red finish for the GH300). While the GH200 offers stereo sound with a 3.5 mm connector jack, the deluxe GH300 additionally provides 7.1 virtual surround sound (PC only), an USB connector and RGB light effects.

AOC GH300 with USB and virtual 7.1

Any gamer who has experience with multiplayer shooter titles will agree that sound is as important as the visuals. Spatial sound allows players to pinpoint opponents’ positions and identify what they are up to before even seeing them on screen. Nowadays, sound design has improved greatly, giving the player the necessary auditory feedback and completing the immersion created by the visuals. High quality sound is not only important in FPS titles but in every genre, for example in narrative-based action/RPG titles in order to enjoy the epic soundtracks and intelligible dialogues, and in racing or flight simulation games to hear the intricate details of each part of the vehicles.

To deliver what gamers need to level up their arsenal, AOC’s new headsets GH200 and GH300 are equipped with 50 mm neodymium drivers, offering a frequency range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz and running with an impedance of 32 Ω (±15%) for optimal sound quality.

Gamers will also appreciate the detachable boom microphone to communicate with their squads in-game or in VoIP software such as Discord/Teamspeak. The omnidirectional boom microphone can be optimally adjusted for comfort and audio levels. With the 100 Hz – 10 kHz frequency range, which corresponds to that of human speech, it filters out noise at both very low and very high frequencies to deliver clear audio and speech quality.

Thanks to the over-ear design any external sounds such as loud PC fans or street noise gets locked out, while the ear-cushions with leatherette protein and memory-foam ensure comfortable use over extended hours. The metal mesh external cover of the driver guarantees the headphones’ durability, whereas the adjustable steel slider headband increases flexibility for any head size and distributes the weight optimally.

AOC GH200 with 3.5mm jack

The AOC GH200 features a 2 m braided cable as well as a 3.5 mm jack and comes with a Y-splitter, enabling users to split mic and headphone outputs if needed. Thanks to its universally common 3.5 mm connector, this headset is a perfect match for PCs, consoles or mobile devices. The in-line remote offers volume and microphone on/off controls. Users are able to use Windows Sonic Spatial Sound for PC and Xbox. The subtle gun-metal finish perfectly blends in with other PC components and makes the headphones an attractive choice for remote work video calls or online classes.

The AOC GH300 instead comes with a 2 m USB cable. With its virtual 7.1 surround sound capability, gamers can pinpoint exactly where the sound is coming from in the game, increasing their chances to react appropriately – or to enjoy movies while feeling completely immersed in the story. In terms of sound quality, users will be able to reproduce studio quality audio at 24 bit/96 Khz and have the closest experience of the real audio of the game. For even more customisation, the metal mesh cover of the GH300 includes RGB lighting with 4 modes (breathing, cyclic, static, off), controllable via the in-line remote, which also houses volume controls and mic on/off switches. The detachable boom mic’s LED indicates when the mic is muted, which simplifies everyday use and helps to avoid unwanted muting.

And last but not least, the wired construction of the headsets enables a solid, lag-free audio connection without issues such as compression delay or compression artefacts.

The AOC GH200 and GH300 will be available from May 2021 at £39 and £49 respectively.

Introduction

Manufacturer: AOC
Product Page: Q27G2U
Purchase: £309.99 At the time of Review on Amazon UK

AOC has been kind enough to sponsor us with one of their Q27G2U Gaming Monitors. Today, I will be taking a look at it and letting you know just how I feel about it! I have been using this monitor for a couple of months now and coming from a 32″ 1440P 60Hz, I have to say it is quite the upgrade. While the size is a bit smaller than I am used to, this also makes it easier to focus on everything happening on screen at one time. The Q27G2U has a plethora of features that are going to help you take your gaming to the next level. The 144Hz refresh rate is probably going to be the one that sticks out the most. However, things such as Adaptive Sync, 1Ms response time and the QHD display are all going to make your gaming experience much more immense.

Specifications

Closer Look

If the box it comes in doesn’t give away the fact this is a gaming monitor, I don’t know what will! A real shame it doesn’t come with an included game that features the characters on the box, but that would just be asking too much now wouldn’t it? Either way, we can also see this monitor has a 144Hz refresh rate and adaptive sync technologies included.

Opening the box up and on the inner flaps, we have instructions on how to unpackaged and even assemble the monitor in the best way possible. The shown method will make sure it is done right and will also ensure there are no scratches or any damage to the monitor while inserting the stand.

There are also a couple of images on how to make sure it is set up and ready to be powered on. This also shows us it has a 130mm up/down movement and can be tilted from -5° to 23° for the best viewing angle possible.

Inside the box, we have a few cables the include, HDMI, DP and a power cable and power pack. There are also some instructions and a CD to make sure you can get this all up and running as easy as possible. The quicker the can get the Q27G2U up and running, the better!

The Q27G2U come in 3 main pieces and is quite easy to put together. Simply insert the arm into the base then you will insert the arm into the back of the monitor and you will be good to go. Remember you may want to keep the screen in the styrofoam packaging while doing this to help avoid causing any damage to it.

Once you have inserted the arm onto the base, there is a small thumbscrew on the base you need to tighten to make sure they stay connected.

The back of the monitor has some nice ventilation and red accenting. While you won’t see this area most of the time, it is still nice to see a bit of thought put into the design of it. While monitors don’t get overly hot, it is still nice to see a decent ventilation area to let out what heat does come from the Q27G2U.

On to the backside of the panel itself and we have the all-important serial number sticker. This also gives us the product/model No, manufactured date and some the power rating. While most will hopefully not need this, it’s always good to have handy just in case.

There are several ports on the Q27G2U monitor. There are 4x USB3.0 ports, 2x HDMI 2.0 and 1X DP 1.2 ports. This will allow you to connect many devices straight to the monitor so you can make the most of it.

There is also a headphone out jack and the port for the power cable.

Display settings aside, another one of the main features of the Q27G2U is it’s viewing angles. Not only does it feature a good range of motion to swivel and/or tilt the screen, but you can also adjust the height or even turn it completely to one side and put it in portrait mode. While most people won’t be looking to put a gaming panel into portrait mode, it is a handy feature for those who also use their gaming rig for work, or for those who want a multi-monitor setup and to use it as a secondary screen. All of these smalls movements will also mean that you can get the monitor into your exact desired position with ease.

Gaming

When it comes to gaming on the Q27G2U you are in for a treat! I personally try to primarily stick to FPS games and the Q27G2U was definitely up for the task. Coming from a 32″ 1440P 60Hz monitor, I could instantly tell the difference once I was in-game. The gameplay is much smoother and it even felt like my reaction time was quicker, which I know it wasn’t so must be down to the 144Hz display. If you’ve never tried a 144Hz monitor, I suggest you do and if you can, make sure it is the Q27G2U you try out! The smoothness really is something else and will have you questioning how you ever played on 60Hz. Alongside the 144Hz refresh rate, the 1MS response time really helps make this a great monitor and will help you feel like you’ve got the advantage over your opponent.

Final Thoughts

Performance and Design

AOC has really hit a home run with their Q27G2U monitor. The Q27G2U comes packed full of all the features that gamers need in a sleek, almost bezel-less offering. The 27″ QHD display features a widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio offering maximum viewing pleasure. Combine this with the gaming features (144Hz/1ms/FreeSync) and you have one heck of a monitor on your hands. When it comes to FPS gaming, the Q27G2U is brilliant and will have you wanting to game into the early hours of the morning. While your significant other may not appreciate what it has to offer, you will be quite pleased with the immersive gaming experience that it has to offer. To top things off, it not only performs well but also looks amazing. The minimalistic stand means it won’t take up too much of your desk area which is a bonus. Throw the ridiculously tiny bezel into the mix and you have one great looking piece of kit. If you’re after a monitor that looks as good as it performs, the Q27G2U is definitely one to check out.

Value

Coming in at around £310 at the time of the review, the Q27G2U offers great value for the money. A lot of similar monitors from other brands are a bit more expensive which works out well for AOC. AOC is one of the top names in the monitor industry so there is nothing to worry about if their monitors are a bit cheaper in price. For the £310 price tag, this monitor offers some great features including FreeSync, 144Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time amongst others. The 27″ screen size and almost non-existent bezel only help to make this one of the better monitors around the price on the market today.

“When all is said and done, the Q27G2U ticks all the boxes for us. It offers great performance and design at a reasonable price. If you are looking to take your gaming experience to the next level, this very well may just be the monitor you are looking for!”

Many thanks to AOC for sending in this sample of the Q27G2U 27 Inch Gaming Monitor for this review!

Leaders in design and gaming merge functionality with display technology 

Stuttgart/Amsterdam, 13 October 2020 – Porsche Design and AOC have entered a partnership that combines Porsche Design’s sophisticated and functional design philosophy with AOC’s state-of-the-art display technology. Together they will bring exceptional gaming monitors to the market, developed for gamers looking for the highest performance while keeping an eye on the progressive, yet stylish look of their gaming station. The first ever Porsche Design AOC AGON gaming monitor will be launched in autumn 2020.

The Porsche Design brand is synonymous with exclusive lifestyle products and stands for precision and perfection. The company’s pure design philosophy is to optimize form and function by discovering new and innovative solutions. AOC is a subsidiary of TPV Technology, the largest LCD monitor manufacturer in the world. Thanks to its excellent, high-performance and unique gaming displays from the AOC Gaming and the premium AGON lines, AOC holds the number one position in the global gaming monitor market.

The synergy of both companies, and their respective areas of expertise, will result in stellar products that shine in design as much as in functionality. The first ever Porsche Design and AOC gaming monitor will be launched worldwide in autumn 2020. With this strategic partnership, Porsche Design is entering a rapidly growing market segment – the global market volume of gaming monitors of 144Hz and above grew by 76% year over year at the end of 2019. The collaboration offers the exclusive lifestyle-brand access to a well-funded younger and more expansive target group with a strong community all over the world. Borrowing from an established history of motorsports, the monitors are a perfect transition from sports on the road to “sports” in the living room. For AOC it will be a stylish add-on to their broad history of design products, this time within the gaming portfolio.

“Porsche Design offers an exclusive range of consumer electronic products and gaming is one of the fastest growing markets in this sector. Gaming monitors perfectly fit into our portfolio of technically inspired lifestyle products and we are excited to collaborate with such a strong and well-established partner as AOC, one of the top global brands in the display market,” says Jan Becker, CEO of Porsche Design.

“We are proud and excited about collaborating with such a fantastic partner like Porsche Design. Their design heritage goes perfectly with our state-of-the-art display technology. We believe together, thanks to our terrific and completely unique monitors, we can provide gamers all over the world with an unrivalled gaming experience,” adds Nico Vernieuwe, SVP Branded Business at TPV Technology.

Further news about the upcoming Porsche Design monitors will be released in the near future.