Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU Review: Is It Worth It?
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU gaming monitor. If you're on the hunt for a new display that balances performance, features, and price, you've probably heard of this one. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its specifications and design to its gaming capabilities and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!
First Impressions and Build Quality
Okay, let's talk first impressions. The Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU doesn't scream "gamer" with flashy RGB lighting or an overly aggressive design. Instead, it opts for a more understated and professional look, making it suitable for both gaming and work environments. The matte black finish and slim bezels give it a modern aesthetic that should fit seamlessly into most setups. Build quality feels solid; the monitor doesn't creak or wobble excessively, and the stand provides decent stability. The stand offers tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments, which is fantastic for finding the perfect viewing angle and promoting ergonomic comfort during those long gaming sessions or workdays. This adjustability is a huge plus, as many budget-friendly monitors often skimp on these features. The OSD (On-Screen Display) buttons are located on the bottom bezel and are fairly easy to navigate, although some users might prefer a joystick control for quicker adjustments. Overall, the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU gives off a vibe of quiet competence. It's not trying to be the flashiest monitor on the market, but it's well-built and thoughtfully designed for practical use.
Display Quality and Performance
Now for the meat of the review: display quality. The Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU features a 23.8-inch VA panel with a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution. While some might consider 1080p a bit low for modern gaming, especially on larger screens, it's a sweet spot for balancing visual fidelity and performance, especially if you're running a mid-range gaming PC. The VA panel technology delivers excellent contrast ratios, resulting in deep blacks and vibrant colors. This makes games and movies look more immersive and engaging. Color accuracy is also decent out of the box, but you might want to calibrate the monitor for optimal results, especially if you're doing color-sensitive work. Viewing angles are good, but as with most VA panels, there can be some slight color shifting when viewed from extreme angles. The monitor boasts a 165Hz refresh rate and a 1ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time), making it well-suited for fast-paced gaming. The high refresh rate ensures smooth and fluid motion, while the low response time minimizes ghosting and blur, giving you a competitive edge in fast-paced games. AMD FreeSync Premium is also supported, which helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering when paired with a compatible AMD graphics card. This technology synchronizes the monitor's refresh rate with the GPU's output, resulting in a smoother and more responsive gaming experience. Overall, the display quality of the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU is impressive for its price point, offering a good balance of color, contrast, and responsiveness.
Gaming Experience
Alright, let's get to the good stuff: gaming! The Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU truly shines as a gaming monitor, providing a smooth and responsive experience that enhances immersion and competitiveness. The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT work together to deliver incredibly fluid motion and minimize motion blur, making fast-paced games feel incredibly crisp and responsive. Whether you're playing first-person shooters, racing games, or MOBAs, the monitor keeps up with the action, allowing you to react quickly and accurately. AMD FreeSync Premium further enhances the gaming experience by eliminating screen tearing and stuttering, ensuring a consistently smooth and enjoyable experience. I tested the monitor with a variety of games, including Cyberpunk 2077, Valorant, and Forza Horizon 5, and was consistently impressed with its performance. In Valorant, the high refresh rate and low response time gave me a noticeable edge, allowing me to track targets more easily and react more quickly. Cyberpunk 2077 looked stunning, with the VA panel's excellent contrast ratio bringing the game's vibrant world to life. Even in fast-paced racing games like Forza Horizon 5, the monitor kept up with the action, delivering smooth and blur-free visuals. The Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU also features several gaming-specific features, such as a Black Tuner, which allows you to adjust the black levels to improve visibility in dark areas, and a selection of pre-set gaming modes optimized for different game genres. These features can be helpful for fine-tuning the monitor's settings to your specific preferences.
Features and Connectivity
Beyond its core performance, the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU offers a range of features and connectivity options that enhance its versatility. It includes built-in speakers, which are decent for casual use but won't replace a dedicated sound system. It also has a headphone jack for private listening. Connectivity options include HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, allowing you to connect to a variety of devices, including PCs, consoles, and laptops. A USB hub with two USB 3.0 ports is also included, providing convenient access for connecting peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and storage devices. The monitor also features a low blue light mode, which reduces the amount of blue light emitted by the screen, helping to minimize eye strain during long gaming sessions or workdays. This feature can be particularly useful for those who are sensitive to blue light or who spend a lot of time in front of a screen. The OSD menu is relatively easy to navigate, although some users might find it a bit clunky compared to monitors with joystick controls. However, it provides access to a wide range of settings, allowing you to customize the monitor's performance to your specific preferences.
Is the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU Worth It?
So, the big question: is the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU worth your money? In my opinion, absolutely! It strikes an excellent balance between performance, features, and price, making it a great option for gamers on a budget. The 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms MPRT, and AMD FreeSync Premium provide a smooth and responsive gaming experience, while the VA panel delivers excellent contrast and decent color accuracy. The adjustable stand, built-in speakers, and USB hub add to its versatility, making it suitable for both gaming and work. Of course, there are some compromises. The 1080p resolution might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with high-end gaming PCs or those who prefer larger screens. The OSD menu could be more user-friendly, and the built-in speakers aren't the best. However, considering its price point, the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU offers exceptional value for money. It's a great choice for gamers who are looking for a fast and responsive monitor without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons
To recap, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- High 165Hz refresh rate.
- Fast 1ms MPRT response time.
- AMD FreeSync Premium support.
- Excellent contrast ratio.
- Adjustable stand.
- Built-in speakers and USB hub.
- Affordable price.
Cons:
- 1080p resolution might be limiting for some.
- OSD menu could be more user-friendly.
- Built-in speakers are not the best quality.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Iiyama G-Master GB2470HSU is a fantastic gaming monitor that offers a lot of value for its price. If you're looking for a smooth, responsive, and affordable display, this one should definitely be on your shortlist. It's a solid all-around performer that won't disappoint! Well done, Iiyama!