MSI has announced its MD272UPSW monitor boasting smart TV features, including Google TV, Google Cast, and Google Assistant. Part of the brand’s Modern series, this display comes equipped with all you need to get going, from integrated speakers with Dolby Audio to a remote control to browse movie streaming apps.
The MD272UPSW is powered by a 27in 3840×2160 IPS panel rated for 300nits of brightness and a typical 1,000:1 contrast. Unfortunately for gamers wanting such a screen, this model is limited to 60Hz which is slow by today’s standards. MSI should have gone with at least a 120Hz panel in this writer’s opinion. Pixel response time is also slightly slower at 4ms GtG, but the gamut coverage is ample with 94% of Adobe RGB, 98% of DCI-P3, and 127% of sRGB.
What it lacks in raw performance it more than makes up for in features. MD272UPSW comes equipped with Google TV offering more than 400,000 movies and TV shows across multiple streaming services. You also get access to more than 10,000 apps and 800 free live TV channels, all organised in one place.
MD272UPSW comes with built-in Google Cast, allowing you to stream content directly from your phone. You can also seamlessly stream live content on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook. Add to that Multi Control, KVM functions, plus Google Assistant for voice commands, and you get a versatile solution for both entertainment and work. The brand lists HDR support, but there are no dimming zones to speak of, so temper your expectations.
Lastly, on the connectivity side, you will find one DisplayPort, one HDMI, one USB Type-C with DP alt mode plus 65W power delivery, two 5Gbps USB Type-A, a 3.5mm headphone jack, a LAN Port, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5. As for ergonomics, you get -5° to 20° tilt, 30° swivel, 90° pivot, and 110mm height adjustments, not to forget the handy 75x75mm VESA arm mount.
According to TFT Central, MSI plans to launch the Modern MD272UPSW in Q1 2025 at $449 / €399. That said, somehow, Newegg is listing it on backorder for only $309.99, putting it against AOC’s Q27G4XY Smart monitor. $309.99 is a nice price, but at $449 it starts to encroach on Smart TV territories, which offer larger sizes better suited for movie watching.
