OLED gaming monitors have become a staple in 2024, offering stunning visuals and impressive performance. The MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED stands out not just for its excellent display, but also its incredibly competitive price, undercutting rivals by a significant margin. But does this affordability come at the cost of quality? Let’s dive into this comprehensive review to find out.
Design and Stand
MSI logo on the MPG 321URX monitor.Image: The MSI logo subtly graces the MPG 321URX’s sleek design.
While the MPG 321URX’s design might be considered somewhat understated, with a plastic shell resembling other 32-inch monitors, the glossy finish complements the OLED panel beautifully. The back of the monitor features a faux brushed metal accent around the heat sink and a subtle, customizable MSI dragon logo. The real star of the show, however, is the excellent stand. It offers a convenient cable routing channel, a stable square base, and a remarkable range of adjustments, including over four inches of height, 20 degrees of tilt and pivot, and a generous 60 degrees of swivel. A VESA mount option is also available for those seeking even more flexibility.
The stand on the MSI MPG 321URX monitor.Image: The robust and versatile stand of the MPG 321URX offers extensive adjustability.
Features and Connectivity
An HDR demo on the MSI MPG 321URX monitor.Image: Experience vibrant colors and breathtaking detail with HDR content on the MPG 321URX.
The MPG 321URX boasts a 90-watt power delivery USB-C port integrated with a KVM switch, enabling seamless peripheral sharing between two sources. However, the USB-A ports are limited to USB 2.0, restricting their use for bandwidth-intensive devices. While it lacks Black Frame Insertion (BFI), a feature present in the competing Asus ROG PG32UCDM, it offers power delivery and a KVM switch, which are absent in Alienware’s pricier alternative. MSI’s comprehensive OLED prevention features are a notable advantage.
User Interface and Ports
On-screen display on the MSI MPG321URX.Image: The intuitive on-screen display provides easy access to a plethora of customization options.
The MPG 321URX offers a user-friendly experience with its large, high-resolution on-screen display (OSD) controlled by a centrally located joystick. Mouse control is also possible via the USB-B connection. The OSD provides a wide range of options, including six gaming-tailored color modes, eight picture modes with various color gamut clamping options, and two HDR modes.
Ports on the MSI MPG 321URX monitor.Image: A comprehensive selection of ports ensures compatibility with various devices.
Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4a port (requiring Display Stream Compression for full 4K 240Hz), and the aforementioned USB-C port. The HDMI ports support VRR and downscaling, making them ideal for console gaming.
Image Quality and Performance
An OLED demo running on the MSI MPG 321URX.Image: Witness the true potential of OLED technology with deep blacks and vibrant colors.
The MPG 321URX’s image quality is truly impressive, rivaling other monitors using the same Samsung Display third-gen QD-OLED panel. Out-of-the-box color accuracy is excellent, with various color gamut clamping modes offering even greater precision. HDR performance is stunning, although color accuracy is slightly reduced due to dynamic brightness adjustments. Peak HDR brightness reaches nearly 1000 nits, while SDR brightness is a bit lower than some competitors, topping out around 238 nits.
Forza Horizon 5 running on the MSI MPG 321URX.Image: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Forza Horizon 5 with stunning 4K visuals.
Gaming Experience
Alan Wake 2 running on the MSI MPG 321URX.Image: Experience the atmospheric horror of Alan Wake 2 with incredible detail and clarity.
With DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, Adaptive Sync, 4K resolution, and a 240Hz refresh rate, the MPG 321URX delivers a premium gaming experience. Its ClearMR 13,000 certification further validates its exceptional motion clarity. While a powerful PC is recommended to fully utilize its capabilities, console gamers can also enjoy a fantastic experience with 120Hz and 1440p downscaling support.
The Last of Us Part One running on the MSI MPG 321URX.Image: Relive the emotional journey of The Last of Us Part One with breathtaking 4K clarity.
Warranty and Burn-in Protection
OLED prevention features on the MSI MPG 321URX.Image: MSI’s comprehensive OLED Care 2.0 suite protects against burn-in and ensures long-term panel health.
MSI offers a three-year warranty covering burn-in, alongside a robust suite of prevention features called OLED Care 2.0. These include a pixel refresh cycle, pixel shifting, and automatic dimming of static elements like game HUDs, the Windows taskbar, and window boundaries. While the long-term effectiveness of these features remains to be seen, the comprehensive warranty provides added peace of mind.
Conclusion
Deep Rock Galactic Survivor running on the MSI MPG 321URX.Image: Delve into the depths of Deep Rock Galactic with stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
The MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED defies expectations, offering a premium OLED gaming experience at an incredibly competitive price. While it lacks a few features found in pricier alternatives, the compromises are minimal given the significant cost savings. With excellent image quality, a robust warranty, and comprehensive burn-in protection, the MPG 321URX is arguably the best value OLED gaming monitor on the market in 2024.
