Predator XB27K V5 Review

It’s Using Da Trees

The Predator brand is ubiquitous now in gaming and synonymous with reliability and good tech. The XB27K V5 utilises an IPS panel for vibrant colours and we found its contrast on par with some of the best TV panels out there, such as LG and Samsung's more modern NEO range, which again helps for the ‘cinematic’ stuff Acer is spruiking with the model. Nothing looked crushed to us and the anti-glare wide viewing angle component means no matter where you place it, you’re going to get a fairly clear picture. In 4K we get 163 PPI (pixels per square inch), which translates to sharp imagery, but where elements such as text in UI components display smooth and edgeless, which is a massive boon. There’s also 0.5ms pixel response time, so scene-to-scene everything is seamless to the point of ignorance of the impressive number. And whether utilising HDR or not, we found even the factory settings on-point, though playing with everything was also easy meaning you can set it all up to your personal preferences.

"It’s a pretty seamless switch, which we kind of weren’t expecting - this is essentially two panels in one..."

For the competitive side of things, while we do drop to 1080p, the pickup in Hz is worth it allowing for high frame-rates with no screen-tearing, smearing or ghosting (also thanks to the aforementioned pixel response time). And it’s a pretty seamless switch, which we kind of weren’t expecting -- this is essentially two panels in one, which makes that talked-up price-point all the more impressive. You even get a neat little remote with it so, again, for Netflix and chill, or homebody nights to binge TV outside of games, this is a pretty great option for bedrooms or small living spaces, or if you want to watch something your household doesn’t, just retire to your gaming den but leave the mouse or controller on your desk, sit back and enjoy.

Mumbo Jumbo 

In Aussies dollarydoos you’re in for roughly $700, but as we mentioned throughout, this is effectively two panels in one, and at 27” it’s a great option for small spaces. But more importantly, with both of those ‘two-in-one’ offerings, you get the best of two worlds: a panel that can go through your favourite single-player titles regardless of platform thanks to the two HDMI 2.1 slots at the back, as well as streaming options, while the switch to its competitive mode might sound like a leap down at 1080p, you won’t be complaining when you see how well it keeps up with some of the higher-end screens out there, while affording you an even playing field in terms of Hz and frame-rate. Colour us VESA DisplayHDR 400 impressed. 

"The anti-glare wide-viewing element is also something worth giving an extra shout to..."

If the numbers dropped throughout don’t mean a lot to you, however, just know that this is an easy purchase from a plug-and-play perspective and one that you won’t need to replace any time soon. Its factory settings are fine across the board, but should you take the deeper leap into panel customisation, it’s also very easy to navigate and play with in that respect. 

The anti-glare wide-viewing element is also something worth giving an extra shout to, while its overall design is fine if you’re into the angular ‘PC MR’ world of flex, or don’t mind sharp edges. We didn't and were sad when it had to be sent back to be handed over to the next reviewer. If we were in the market for a new panel on a budget to fit spatial and lifestyle needs, this would be where we’d go.