27-inch monitors often get overlooked in favor of larger displays, but they offer a sweet spot for many users. MSI’s Modern MD271UL is a prime example, offering a compelling combination of features and affordability. This 27-inch 4K IPS monitor promises excellent color accuracy for creators, and our testing reveals it delivers – with the right settings. At $300, the Modern MD271UL is a strong contender for anyone seeking a sharp, vibrant display for creative tasks, productivity, or general use.
MSI Modern MD271UL monitor front view showing monitor and laptop.Image: The MSI Modern MD271UL alongside a laptop, showcasing its slim bezels and modern design.
Design and Connectivity: Simple and Functional
The Modern MD271UL boasts a clean aesthetic with slim bezels and a subtle silver-gray finish. Its plastic construction is expected at this price point, but the monitor feels sturdy overall, thanks in part to the metal stand. Assembly is quick and easy, and the monitor is relatively lightweight at 16 pounds. While it offers only tilt adjustment and a fixed height, its compact footprint makes it suitable for most desks.
MSI Modern MD271UL monitor rear view showing ports.Image: Rear view of the Modern MD271UL displaying its various ports.
Connectivity is straightforward, featuring one DisplayPort 1.2a, two HDMI 2.0b ports, and a USB-C port with 65W power delivery. This USB-C port can charge most laptops, though it might not suffice for high-power workstations. An audio jack is also included, but the monitor lacks built-in speakers. Cable management is limited, with cables simply protruding from the back.
On-Screen Display and Controls: A Minor Inconvenience
The on-screen display (OSD) is controlled by hidden buttons along the bottom right edge. These buttons can be tricky to navigate initially, and the small labels don’t help.
MSI Modern MD271UL monitor bottom view showing buttons.Image: Close-up of the OSD control buttons located on the bottom right of the monitor.
MSI Modern MD271UL monitor front view showing OSD.Image: The on-screen display (OSD) of the Modern MD271UL, showing basic image adjustment options.
The OSD itself is fairly intuitive once mastered, offering access to various image presets, response time adjustments, refresh rate settings, and standard image controls like brightness, sharpness, and color temperature. However, these controls are geared towards general users, lacking the granular adjustments professional calibrators might expect.
Color Performance: Unlocking the Potential
MSI emphasizes the Modern MD271UL’s wide color gamut, a crucial feature for creators. While it does deliver impressive color performance, achieving optimal results requires selecting the correct preset.
MSI Modern MD271UL monitor front view showing display.Image: The Modern MD271UL displaying a vibrant image, showcasing its color capabilities when properly configured.
Our testing with a Datacolor SpyderX Elite colorimeter revealed that the “User” preset unlocks the monitor’s full potential. With this setting, the MD271UL achieved 100% sRGB, 89% AdobeRGB, and 97% DCI-P3 coverage, along with an exceptional DeltaE of 0.93. This level of color accuracy is more than sufficient for most creative professionals. Other presets like “Eco” and “Office” produced less satisfactory results, highlighting the importance of choosing the right setting. The monitor also boasts a respectable contrast ratio of 1,030:1 and a peak brightness of 376 nits.
Verdict: A Budget-Friendly 4K Monitor with Strong Color Performance
The MSI Modern MD271UL is a compelling option for budget-conscious users seeking a 4K monitor with accurate colors. While its OSD controls could be improved and the optimal color settings aren’t immediately apparent, the “User” preset delivers excellent color accuracy and wide gamut coverage. For creators, productivity users, and general consumers who prioritize image quality without breaking the bank, the Modern MD271UL is a worthy contender.
