The PB278Q is a 27in IPS monitor with a large 2,560x1,440 resolution, and is very similar in specification to Viewsonic's VP2770-LED. It's another highly-adjustable screen with excellent picture quality, and is ideal for working on multiple documents or with complicated applications such as video...

Initially, an unedited version of this review was posted on Hardware Canucks. The article has since been updated. We apologize for any misunderstanding this may have caused. ASUS has never been one to shy away from pushing the envelope when it comes to development of their monitors.

The ASUS PB278Q is a 27-inch computer monitor with a high-end panel and few unnecessary frills. It's targeted at professionals - who want its factory-preset colour accuracy and wide-gamut PLS panel - and gamers - who want its low latency and super-detailed 2560x1440 pixel resolution.

Excellent picture quality pre- and post-calibration; Excellent adjustability; Integrated speaker

Dynamic contrast isn't useful; Menu controls aren't great; Occasional backlight flicker

This 27in monitor is blessed with a range of connectors – supporting 2560 x 1440 resolution via HDMI, DisplayPort or Dual-link DVI inputs, along with 1920 x 1080 via a D-sub input. The monitor also features two built-in 3-watt speakers, along with 3.5mm audio line-in and line-out.

Good price; lots of inputs

Contrast could be better

There are very few monitor companies here that sell panels that go beyond full HD resolution. Considering we are already starting to see 4K monitors abroad, it is high time the 2560×1440 pixel resolution started getting more love in this part of the world.

ASUS PB278Q

My first ASUS had a single line about an inch from the top that failed - and I replaced it with a new one...and purchased a second one. So I have a horizontal monitor on my left and a vertical one on my right. The color is beautiful. Very sharp and clear.

Extremely dense pixel count and very high resolution. Even the speakers aren't too bad. Lets you hook up HDMI and export the audio through 3.5 jack to your own speaker system. Highly recommend this monitor, even for the price.

In the world of extreme-definition monitors, the Asus PB278Q almost perfectly hits a happy medium between features and value. I reviewed the HP ZR2740w earlier in 2012, and while that monitor offered great performance at a reasonable price, aside from brightness, customization features were nowhere to be found.

Well-priced and powerful, the Asus PB278Q is the best entry point for those seeking an extreme-definition monitor at a not-so-extreme price.

The Asus PB278Q offers a sharp extreme-definition screen; rich color; accurate presets; and useful ergonomic options at a good price.

The monitor lacks USB inputs and its swivel mechanism is poorly implemented.

Fewer extras than the competition, but excellent high-resolution images out of the box