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CONSOLE GAMING WITH A PC MONITOR: AGON BY AOC COMPATIBILITY GUIDE
There used to be a raging war between console and PC players about which was the superior platform.
There used to be a raging war between console and PC players about which was the superior platform. Nowadays we know: both are great for gaming! Over time, it has also become more and more common to use peripherals for various platforms interchangeably. This also works for monitors, as you can conveniently use traditional computer monitors for console gaming as well.
If you are looking for a display from AOC to upgrade your battle station, you have come to the right place. Our compatibility guide will explain what levels of performance you can achieve with the various models and which products will be the perfect fit for you.
Console gaming with a PC monitor - these values are important
First off: connecting the two devices will not be any issue at all. Most AOC monitors come with an HDMI port which means you can easily plug in your console, without the need for an adapter. With that said, how do you know what performance you will get with which monitor? There are two factors to consider: the power output of your console and the capabilities of your monitor which partially depend on the HDMI port. This means you first need to work out your console's maximum frame rate, as well as the maximum refresh rate and resolution of your monitor.
Frame rate, refresh rate and resolution
Let's examine the core values, the frame rate (FPS) and the refresh rate. These two factors are quite similar and often get mixed up. The frame rate is the number of frames a system is able to produce per second and the refresh rate refers to the number of times a monitor can show a new image per second.
With various generations and brands of consoles available, the power output levels change from version to version. Let's examine the two latest major releases, the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X. Both machines can reach up to 4K resolution with a stellar 120Hz. Therefore, it is now possible for console gamers to enjoy impeccable graphics and smooth images without any interference, just like PC users. The following specs can be achieved with the different models:
- XBOX X: UHD with 120Hz
- XBOX S: QHD with 120Hz
- PS5: UHD with 120Hz
The right HDMI port to connect your devices
This upgrade was made possible thanks to the newest HDMI 2.1, which has a larger bandwidth than previous HDMI versions. Older generations were only able to support 60 Hz at a 4K UHD resolution. HDMI cables connect the two devices, transmit audio-visual signals and support Variable Refresh Rates (VRR) through Adaptive Sync and AMD Freesync.
To unleash the maximum performance of a 4k resolution with 120 Hz, an HDMI 2.1 port is a must. A monitor with HDMI 2.0 on the other hand will only reach 60 Hz on 4k. However, traditionally TV screens are focused on high resolution whereas PC monitors are designed to boast the strongest and most consistent refresh rate, as they usually have smaller dimensions since you sit right in front of them. When plugging a console into a PC monitor, you definitely want to get the benefits of a reliable power output. PC monitors enable VRR via Adaptive Sync or AMD FreeSync. This feature eliminates screen tearing as it syncs up the rate at which the console delivers frames with the rate of the monitor showing new images. Low input lag further enables smooth gameplay, as the input you make through your controller will immediately show on the screen. If you press jump, your character jumps instantly without delay. PC monitors also are equipped with an anti-glare display for optimized sight. And of course, the refresh rate is higher than with traditional TVs which leads to the most fluent visuals without any visual artefacts.
Which AOC monitors work for console gaming?
Now for the monitors. Depending on what resolution you are aiming for, your monitor needs to be able to convert the console’s input accordingly. Therefore, the ideal monitor should come with the resolution you want your games to play in, and the refresh rate should match as well.
For those who are looking for the perfect AOC monitor to go with their console, you now know what you should bear in mind when making your decision. AOC products are not only tailored to bring the perfect experience for PC gaming, they are also compatible with consoles to achieve the best overall output. If you own one of the most recent consoles and want to play with the highest refresh rate possible, there are a plethora of different models to choose from. All of the products in the following series that come with a 16:9 aspect ratio are compatible with consoles which run on 120Hz: the G2 series, the G3 series and the AG4 series.
Let's take a look at an example: The AOC 24G2Z comes with a 24” IPS-panel and a resolution of 1920x1080. It features a refresh rate of 240Hz on your new next generation console, and a low response time of 1ms makes for even quicker action.
Additionally, there are brand new models waiting for you in line that bring the very highest numbers to the table: The AOC G4309VX/D sports a 43” 4K UHD resolution panel with 4K UHD resolution and a rapid 144Hz refresh rate. Adaptive Sync, a 1ms response time and HDR1000 make it a state-of-the-art choice for PC gaming. When plugged in to a next gen console, 120Hz at 4K UHD are guaranteed.
If you prefer a smaller surface for your display, check out the AOC AG274UXP. The monitor comes with a 27” Nano IPS display, and also features a stunning 4K resolution, 144 Hz refresh rate and HDR600. On top of that, the shadow shield guarantees perfect visibility no matter how the light hits the screen. Naturally, console users can enjoy 120Hz at 4K UHD with this model as well.
For those gamers with an XBOX Series S who are aiming for 120Hz and a QHD resolution: The AOC Q27G2S might be your newest addition to your setup. This 3-sided frameless monitor reaches up to 155 Hz, a 1ms response time and comes with G-sync Compatible. The IPS-panel is 27” and is waiting to open its doors to your next gaming adventure.