Gone are the days when the only monitors with ultra-fast response times were those using twisted nematic (TN) screens. Now, monitor manufacturers are using increasingly faster and more responsive in-plane switching (IPS) panels, such as MSI's new Optix MAG273 and MAG273R displays. [The only difference between the two is that the MAG273R is height adjustable (0-130 mm) while the MAG273 is not.

Otherwise, both models have:

A wider color gamut is standard for IPS and vertically oriented (VA) screens compared to TN panels. Viewing angle flexibility is similar, with a wider viewing angle sweet spot (TN panels tend to be difficult to see unless you are sitting directly in front of the screen). In this case, the claimed color gamut is comparable to premium monitors.

I have not seen these in person, but I would recommend not reading too much into the designation HDR-ready. It simply means that these monitors can accept HDR10 signals. How they look depends on how bright these LED-backlit displays are, but MSI does not provide that information. Furthermore, there is no evidence to indicate that either is DisplayHDR certified (the minimum requirement for qualification is the ability to achieve a brightness level of 400 nits).

Otherwise, however, the specifications of these models look good. The combination of speed and estimated image quality is a selling point; MSI is pushing the esports aspect, but anyone looking for a fast display should look into this when it is released.

On a related note, MSI has yet to announce a release date or pricing information (for reference, the Asus VG279Q offers similar specs and features for $299.99 on Newegg). If you need a new panel, see our summary of the best gaming monitors.