BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ gaming monitor review: Who is it for?

In an era where OLED displays are redefining visual quality, BenQ Zowie stands firm with the introduction of the XL2566X+. Our team at Business Today has thoroughly tested this monitor for various applications, from gaming reviews to everyday use, and here’s our comprehensive assessment. **Design** The BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ is crafted with a singular focus on the needs of professional esports players, eschewing trends like 4K resolution and OLED technology. Its design takes on a functional, industrial vibe, featuring a matte black finish and robust bezels. While it may not boast the sleekness of contemporary models, its ergonomic features shine through. The stand has been upgraded with industrial-grade bearings, allowing for exceptionally smooth height adjustments, complete with a reassuring click when locked in place. Importantly, it includes visible markers on the stand’s neck and base, essential for pro gamers who need to replicate their setups across various tournaments. The smaller base footprint also liberates desk space for expansive mouse movements and aggressive keyboard angles. **Display and Performance** The monitor showcases a 24.1-inch Fast TN panel with a native 1080p resolution. Contrary to the typical criticisms of TN panels regarding poor viewing angles and lackluster colors, the XL2566X+ features a newly engineered panel that offers significantly improved color vibrancy. We evaluated the monitor across a spectrum of competitive titles: - **Valorant:** The DyAc 2 technology (dual-backlight strobing) greatly enhances clarity, making it easier to track fast-moving characters like Jett or Neon. - **Halo Infinite:** The monitor’s impressive 400Hz refresh rate noticeably enhances fluidity during rapid multiplayer encounters, minimizing the ghosting effect. - **Halo: The Master Chief Collection:** For a more relaxed gaming experience, this monitor still delivers satisfying performance, though with a less intense atmosphere. - **FC26:** During fast-paced camera movements, the XL2566X+ maintained sharp visuals, keeping the ball, pitch, and players in clear focus. **Additional Features** Included with the monitor is the S-Switch remote, a user-friendly controller facilitating easy navigation through the on-screen display and allowing quick switching between three custom profiles. Additionally, the monitor is equipped with side shields to reduce ambient light and distractions from your surroundings. **Port Selection** Connectivity options emphasize high-bandwidth gaming. The monitor includes one DisplayPort and three HDMI 2.0 ports for connecting secondary devices, although these ports are limited to 240Hz on PC and 120Hz for consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. It also features a 3.5mm headphone jack for direct audio output and a dedicated port for the S-Switch remote. **Pros and Cons** **Pros:** - Exceptional motion clarity thanks to DyAc 2. - 400Hz refresh rate significantly enhances competitive gaming. - High-quality, sturdy stand with a compact base. - Convenient S-Switch for quick profile changes. **Cons:** - Viewing angles fall short compared to IPS or OLED alternatives. - 1080p resolution may seem outdated for non-competitive gaming. - HDMI ports limited to version 2.0, restricting 400Hz support. **Conclusion** The BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ is not designed for casual use. If your interests lie in watching films or playing cinematic RPGs, an OLED or IPS display may be more suitable. However, for dedicated competitive gamers, it stands out as an exceptional tool, prioritizing visual clarity and rapid response times. This monitor is a must-have for esports enthusiasts and those who thrive in fast-paced gaming environments. **Price:** Rs 54,990