Part of PC gaming is the neverending push for improved hardware specifications. It's also part of console gaming to a lesser degree, but PC gaming has no rest windows between console SKUs and generations. So as console game players consider upgrading to 60Hz television, or even picking up a TV supporting 120hz, PC game players are looking well beyond. Case in point this newly announced Acer Nitro XV2 monitor with an overclock option of a staggering 390Hz refresh rate.
The cutting edge of the cutting edge in monitors recently has pushed beyond what many would have thought necessary. These expensive monitors pushed up to a base of 360Hz, pushing 1.5x faster than the already more than impressive upper standard 240Hz displays. The Acer Nitro XV2XV242Q F is also a 360Hz monitor, but has taken a step that other monitors have yet to offer as of yet. The Nitro XV2 can unlock and overclock to 390Hz, which is believed to be the fastest option available.
Naturally, a 390Hz monitor isn't going to be as robustly featureful as others with a lower refresh rate. This is a monitor built for speed above all else. As such, this specific Acer Nitro XV2 model features a 1080p IPS panel that stretches to just 24.5 inches. Those wanting 4K resolution or wider monitors have other options, including a separate Acer Nitro XV2 offering 4K at 144Hz via HDMI2.1. This monitor, however, has the potential for speed in mind and nothing else.
That doesn't mean that the Nitro XV2 doesn't come with any other features, of course. It also supports AMD FreeSync Premium, ensuring that the refresh rate of the monitor synchronizes with the connected compatible graphics card. After all, if the aim is the best refresh available, lacking adaptive sync options would be a tremendous oversight.
The reveal of the Acer Nitro XV2 isn't entirely a surprise. The Nitro line of monitors from Acer is specifically build to reach these cutting-edge numbers and then taking them even further with overclocking. For example, the previous Nitro capped at 240Hz like other cutting-edge monitors but opened up to 270Hz with an overclock.
Overclocking monitors isn't for everyone, of course. It's not necessarily difficult, but it's largely a feature just for PC game players specifically purchasing hardware to push their computer's limits. A 390Hz refresh rate is going to demand an incredibly powerful graphics card, as well as incredibly well-optimized games, after all. Still, even then, at 390Hz hardcore FPS gamers may even be asking, "Is that really necessary?" Acer's response with the Nitro XV2, which has no current release window or pricing, is, "Yes, absolutely."
Source: PCGamer