Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6: Gaming Monitor Review

by Jhon Lennon 43 views

Are you guys on the hunt for a new gaming monitor that won't break the bank but still delivers a solid experience? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6. This monitor aims to strike that sweet spot between affordability and performance, and we're here to see if it hits the mark. So, let’s get started and explore what makes this monitor tick and whether it’s the right choice for your gaming setup.

First Impressions and Design

When you first unbox the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6, you'll notice its sleek and understated design. It’s not flashy, which some might appreciate. The bezels are reasonably thin, giving you more screen real estate and making it a decent option for multi-monitor setups. The stand is sturdy and offers tilt, swivel, and height adjustments, allowing you to find the perfect viewing angle for those long gaming sessions. The build quality feels solid, reassuring you that this monitor can withstand some wear and tear. While it might not win any awards for groundbreaking aesthetics, the GB2470HSU-W6 focuses on functionality, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any gaming environment. The matte finish on the screen is a practical touch, minimizing reflections and distractions so you can stay focused on the game. In a world of over-the-top designs, Iiyama opts for a more pragmatic approach, prioritizing user experience and durability. For gamers who prefer a clean and minimalist look, this monitor is a definite contender. Plus, the easy-to-navigate on-screen display (OSD) makes tweaking settings a breeze, so you can quickly adjust brightness, contrast, and color profiles without any hassle. It’s a no-nonsense design that gets the job done, making it a great choice for gamers who value substance over style.

Display Quality: Visuals That Pop?

The display quality of the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 is where things get interesting. It features a 23.8-inch Full HD (1920x1080) VA panel. Now, some of you might be thinking, "Full HD in this day and age?" But hear me out. For a monitor of this size, Full HD resolution is perfectly adequate, providing a sharp and clear image without straining your GPU. The VA panel offers excellent contrast, resulting in deep blacks and vibrant colors, which is particularly noticeable in darker game environments. The color accuracy is decent right out of the box, but with a little calibration, you can achieve even better results. Viewing angles are also good, ensuring that the picture doesn't distort when viewed from different positions. However, VA panels are known for their slower response times compared to TN panels, which can lead to some ghosting in fast-paced games. But Iiyama has implemented its overdrive technology to minimize this issue, and for the most part, it does a commendable job. Overall, the GB2470HSU-W6 delivers a visually pleasing experience, making your games look immersive and engaging. Whether you're exploring vast open worlds or engaging in intense firefights, the monitor's display quality holds up well, providing a balanced and enjoyable visual experience. The combination of good contrast, decent color accuracy, and wide viewing angles makes it a versatile choice for both gaming and everyday use. Plus, the anti-glare coating ensures that you can game comfortably even in brightly lit rooms, reducing eye strain and keeping you focused on the action.

Gaming Performance: Does It Keep Up?

Alright, let's get to the heart of the matter: gaming performance. The Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 boasts a 165Hz refresh rate and a 1ms MPRT response time. This combination is crucial for smooth and responsive gameplay. The high refresh rate ensures that motion is fluid, reducing blur and making it easier to track fast-moving objects. The 1ms response time further minimizes ghosting, providing a clear and sharp image even during intense action sequences. The monitor also supports AMD FreeSync, which eliminates screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the monitor's refresh rate with your graphics card's output. This results in a smoother and more immersive gaming experience, especially in graphically demanding games. I tested the GB2470HSU-W6 with a variety of games, from fast-paced shooters to cinematic RPGs, and it performed admirably. The responsiveness was noticeable, making aiming and movement feel more precise. While some hardcore gamers might prefer a higher resolution or a faster panel, the GB2470HSU-W6 offers a great balance of speed and visual quality for the price. It’s a solid performer that will satisfy the needs of most gamers, providing a competitive edge without breaking the bank. The overdrive settings allow you to fine-tune the response time to your liking, ensuring that you get the best possible performance for your specific games. Whether you're a casual gamer or a competitive player, the GB2470HSU-W6 delivers a responsive and enjoyable gaming experience.

Features and Connectivity

The Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 comes packed with a range of features and connectivity options that enhance its versatility. It includes built-in speakers, which are decent for casual listening but not ideal for immersive gaming experiences. For serious gamers, a good headset or external speakers are still recommended. The monitor also features a headphone jack, allowing you to easily connect your headphones for private listening. In terms of connectivity, the GB2470HSU-W6 offers HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. It also has a USB hub with two USB 3.0 ports, allowing you to connect peripherals directly to the monitor. This is a convenient feature for keeping your desk clutter-free. The monitor also includes Iiyama's Blue Light Reducer technology, which reduces the amount of blue light emitted by the screen, helping to prevent eye strain during long gaming sessions. The flicker-free technology further enhances eye comfort by eliminating screen flicker. These features make the GB2470HSU-W6 a comfortable and user-friendly monitor for both gaming and everyday use. The on-screen display (OSD) is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing you to quickly adjust settings such as brightness, contrast, and color profiles. Overall, the GB2470HSU-W6 offers a comprehensive set of features and connectivity options that add value to its overall package, making it a practical and versatile choice for gamers.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Before you make a decision, let's break down the pros and cons of the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6:

Pros:

  • Affordable Price: One of the most attractive aspects of this monitor is its budget-friendly price tag.
  • High Refresh Rate: The 165Hz refresh rate provides smooth and fluid gameplay.
  • Fast Response Time: The 1ms MPRT response time minimizes ghosting and blurring.
  • AMD FreeSync Support: Eliminates screen tearing and stuttering for a smoother gaming experience.
  • Adjustable Stand: Offers tilt, swivel, and height adjustments for optimal viewing comfort.
  • Good Color Accuracy: Delivers vibrant and accurate colors for an immersive visual experience.
  • Versatile Connectivity: Includes HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB ports for connecting various devices.

Cons:

  • Full HD Resolution: Some users may prefer a higher resolution for sharper visuals.
  • VA Panel Ghosting: VA panels are prone to some ghosting, although Iiyama's overdrive technology helps minimize this issue.
  • Built-in Speakers: The built-in speakers are adequate but not ideal for serious gaming.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, the big question: is the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 worth your money? In my opinion, absolutely. This monitor offers an excellent balance of performance, features, and affordability. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it delivers a solid gaming experience that will satisfy most gamers. The high refresh rate, fast response time, and AMD FreeSync support ensure smooth and responsive gameplay, while the adjustable stand and eye-care features provide comfort during long gaming sessions. If you're on a budget and looking for a reliable gaming monitor, the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 is definitely worth considering. It’s a great entry-level option that punches above its weight, providing a competitive edge without breaking the bank. For gamers who prioritize performance and value, this monitor is a winner. It proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy a high-quality gaming experience. The GB2470HSU-W6 is a testament to Iiyama's commitment to delivering affordable and reliable gaming monitors that cater to a wide range of users.

Who Is This Monitor For?

The Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 is particularly well-suited for:

  • Budget-conscious gamers: Those looking for a high-performance gaming monitor without breaking the bank.
  • Entry-level gamers: Individuals who are new to PC gaming and want a reliable monitor to start with.
  • Casual gamers: Players who enjoy gaming but don't require the most advanced features or highest resolutions.
  • Multi-monitor setups: Users who want to create a seamless multi-monitor gaming or productivity setup.
  • Students and home users: Individuals who need a versatile monitor for both gaming and everyday tasks.

If you fall into any of these categories, the Iiyama GB2470HSU-W6 is a great option to consider. It offers a balanced set of features and performance that will enhance your gaming experience without emptying your wallet. Whether you're battling it out in competitive esports titles or exploring immersive open-world environments, this monitor will provide a smooth and enjoyable visual experience. Plus, its ergonomic design and eye-care features make it a comfortable choice for long gaming sessions.