MSI are no stranger to the world of high performance, e-sports orientated monitors, so it was inevitable that they'd be releasing what could be another strong contender for our best HDMI 2.1 monitor list, the MSI Optix MAG281URF.
Here's everything we know so far, and by the looks of it this is going to be another great choice for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.
MSI Optix-MAG281URF Release Date
The MSI Optix MAG281URF is now available to purchase from Amazon but only in the US, Canada and a couple of other places. It hasn't been released in the UK as yet.
We'll update you when we hear more on a UK release date, but let's take a closer look at the monitor itself.
MSI Optix MAG281URF Design
The design strikes the perfect balance between RGB and minimal aesthetics.
From the front, it's pretty simple and features narrow bezels alongside a fairly small stand, which should work well to preserve valuable desk real estate.
From the back, it reminds us a little of Gigabyte's Aorus HDMI 2.1 monitor. It's angular, futuristic, and the small touch of lighting goes a long way without being overkill.
MSI Optix MAG281URF Specs
This monitor shares a few parallels to most of the available HDMI 2.1 displays on the market at the moment.
You're getting 4K resolution, 144hz, 1m response time (GtG) and it's G-Sync compatible. This should add up to a predictably smooth, tear-free gaming experience, and one we can't wait to see first-hand.
It features a rapid IPS display too, which has all the benefits of wider viewing angles and better colour. In fact, this screen boasts an impressive 95% DCI-P3 / 124% SRGB, plus a solid 300 nit brightness too.
It's even got an anti-glare coating, that from our experience is a must-have especially if you're gaming next to a window or in a well-lit room.
When it comes to the RGB itself, MSI's Mystic Light can be adjusted and synced with any other MSI Mystic Light equipment. You can either go for 'echo' or let it sync with any music playing on your computer.
For competitive gaming, there is one feature we think stood out from the crowd, and that's the Smart Crosshair. This automatically changes the brightness of the crosshair depending on the background, so if you're shooting something in the dark it's still clear as day.
You can get a full breakdown of the specs by heading over to the MSI Optix MAG281URF product page here.
MSI Optix-MAG281URF Price
The Optix MAG281URF is retailing for $699.99 on Amazon, which is actually a little bit lower than some existing HDMI 2.1 monitors which go for anything between $800-$1000.
Most of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors appear to hover around this price range at the moment, so it's nice to see MSI is offering something a little more affordable.
Where To Buy The MSI Optix-MAG281URF
While we're not seeing anything in the UK just yet, it's available to buy in the USA from the likes of Amazon and Newegg.
Read More: Best Gaming Monitors - Our Top Picks